An original, site-specific outdoor production in Coppermill Fields, Walthamstow Marches, celebrating the mysteries of the marshes. A watercress seller, a dragon-slayer and UFOs all played their part in this magical day of music, pageantry and wonder.
We met our guide outside the Coppermill Pub at 2:30 and along with a number of others we headed towards the marsh. Along the way we were met by an accordion player who accompanied us on our journey. You can just go straight to the marsh, but the procession down Coppermill lane adds something special to the event. As we walked I realised that the accordion has such a unique sound, especially as it drifts through the trees and brambles on the way to the marsh. Arriving on Coppermill Field we had a short wait before being led to the edge of the short grass and herded in to a semicircle. A gentlemen in costume appeared from the grass and started talking to us, before long he was joined by three other characters. This opening scene of The Walthamstow Mysteries is true feast for the senses, music, laughter, shouting and a feeling of uncertainty, wondering what’s going to happen next.
