Later this month, an exciting new drama production will take place at the University, T. S. Eliot’s “Murder in the Cathedral”. The play is set in the year 1170, and focuses on the martyrdom of Thomas à Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. The play is an exploration of many of the themes central to Christianity — suffering and sacrifice, the Eucharist, the role of the Church, and the difficulties of temptation. The play explores both issues of religion and politics, and examines the deepest questions of human existence.

The first half of the play closes with the sermon Thomas à Becket actually gave on Christmas Day 1170, in which he predicted his death four days later. The second part of the play begins by tracing the liturgical events of the days following Christmas. The peace and calm of the Cathedral is shattered by the arrival of four Knights, who claim to have been sent by King Henry to challenge Thomas. In a battle of words, and eventually brawn, the Knights murder Thomas whilst he is praying before the altar. The play closes with the cast praising God for the martyrdom of Thomas, who is eventually recognised as a sign of hope, as well as of despair, in a typical Christian paradox.

The inspiration behind this production was ultimately the play itself. It is a timeless story, that will be portrayed in a contemporary backdrop. It raises many interesting questions, such as “What is the relationship between Church and State?”, “In what ways are priests at the altar like actors on the stage?”, “What’s the difference between an audience in the theatre and a congregation in church?”

Because the play has a spiritual message (though it is not a ‘Christian production’ as such), it seems appropriate to perform it in Heslington Church, with the kind permission of the University Chaplains. We also wanted the production to unite the abilities and resources of Pro Deo (the society on campus for Christians in the Arts), Drama Soc, and several of the Christian Societies, including Christis. The cast contains Christians and non-Christians, and will unite many groups and individuals in a large-scale project, raising money for the St. Leonard’s Hospice in York.

Johan Bergström-Allen