It was a vibrant week at Castle Rushen, as open air dramatics, theatrical tours and musical performances made up the Unlocked weekend at one of the Isle of Man’s most historic and iconic structures.
From Wednesday to Saturday were nightly performances of the TNT Theatre and Manx National Heritage production The Ghost of Illiam Dhone, re-igniting the ‘patriot or traitor’ debate of the politician in the 350th anniversary year of his execution.
Throughout the weekend were the History in Action Group’s Labyrinth Tours of the passageways and spiral staircases of the castle keep, as actors played out the historic tales of the fortress, which has a past including spells as a prison and the seat of Manx political power.
The multi-period Living History Village in the castle grounds included starring roles from Vikings of Mann, the Isle of Man Homeguard Re-enactment Society, Play People and performances of The Buggane from Mhelliah Musical Theatre, and Unlocked all ended on Sunday night with a 10-act concert organised by Soundcheck, featuring Full Moon Fallout, Mae Challis, Azariah, The Same, Exit Left, Alice Dudley, Bring Out Your Dead, Mark McCabe, Jake Orritt and ROC Vannin.
