Atmospheric Beowulf
The first day’s performances of Viv Wilkes’ adaptation of Beowulf at the Middle Earth Weekend were certainly atmospheric - in both senses! Braving the elements in Moseley Bog as well as the monsters the stalwart cast of Hall Green’s Shire Productions delivered three energetic performances, which were ‘warmly’ appreciated by the equally determined spectators.
Shire Production’s youth drama group (the Moskeetos) who operated the large-scale puppet monsters were marvellous and a great credit to young people today. The two following pictures show Andy Rowley as the younger Beowulf (who also won the pre-performance spear throwing contest!) and Michael Wilkes as Beowulf a few decades on!
“The perils of Moseley Bog braved and nine monsters slain - not bad for a days work said a rather bedraggled Beowulf. But I have to admit dying three times myself so it wasn’t all one way!”
There are three more performances to be given on Sunday 18th when we are hoping for a warm atmosphere - in both respects.
The first day’s crowd at the main site for the Middle Earth Weekend at Sarehole Mill was excellent, despite the elements, boding well for the second day of Birmingham’s unique traditional (and free) festival on Sunday. See you there along with the sun!
