St Mary’s local C of E primary school are celebrating the Coronation of Richard III on Wednesday 6th July with a premiere performance in church of a brand-new musical ‘Lord of the North’ written by St Mary’s Musical Director Annette Lowson, and Kim Harding, chair of the local Northern Dales Richard III Group.
“Coronation Day” finale to Barney’s own Richard III musical
It’s fantastic that St Mary’s has such a huge connection to King Richard III, and on July 6th – the anniversary of Richard’s coronation – children from Green Lane CE Primary School will be performing a brand-new musical all about Barnard Castle’s very own King. Written by Annette Lowson and Kim Harding, ‘Lord of the North’ explores Richard’s life from earliest childhood to his final battle and the legacy he left as a man and as a king.
As lyricist Kim has drawn on 40 years as a Ricardian and a background in music, writing and primary education. She is chair of the Northern Dales Richard III Group and also wife to St Mary’s vicar! Previously a musician in H.M. Forces, Annette studied at the London College of Music, and pursued teaching, composing, concert management and music administration. Now our Director of Music at St Mary’s Barnard Castle, Annette has composed an easy-to-learn, atmospheric musical score.
The seven songs will be sung by Year 5 children alongside two soloists and instrumentalists from St Mary’s Community Orchestra. Not only will the music be performed under the 15th century sculpted head of Richard himself in St Mary’s – which he funded to become a Collegiate Church – but it will also be a Royal Command performance in front of King Richard from Time Will Tell Theatre!