Lincoln Cathedral to host performances of The Hunchback Of Notre Dame
The spectacular nave of Lincoln Cathedral will double as Notre Dame for a new production being staged at the church.
More than 200 performers and a live orchestra will perform The Hunchback of Notre Dame from May 23 to June 4.
Ben Poole, creative director of the Starring Lincoln Theatre Company, said: “For many years I’ve wanted to stage Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame in Lincoln Cathedral.
“From its vast and monumental interior to the medieval faces carved into the stone, every detail, component, and character within this breath-taking building is made for hosting the spectacular.
“We know that the scale and the spirit of inclusivity in the production is also matched by its quality.”
“Many people who have seen West End and Broadway shows have also come to Lincoln for these major events and told us they are unforgettable experiences that offer a scale, energy and unique atmosphere even shows in London and New York cannot match.”
Leading the show as the hunchback — Quasimodo — is Andre Buhagiar, 20, a performing arts student at the University of Lincoln.
Andre, 20, Malta, is in the second year of his studies.
The self-confessed ‘musical theatre geek’ shone through during the audition process and is excited to be taking on the role in such an iconic location.
Speaking at rehearsals, Andre said: “To be performing the lead role in a musical of this scale is incredible.
"It could be described as terrifying but I’m hugely excited. Rehearsals are well under way and I’m so pleased to be performing alongside so many extremely talented people.
"Lincoln Cathedral has to be the most fitting venue for this performance — second only to Notre Dame itself — it’s one of the world’s most stunning buildings, with its own gargoyles and brilliant, haunting features, not least the bells!”
Indrija Kustov will play Esmerelda, Ben Goode is taking on the part of dashing Captain Phoebus De Martin, and Ben Poole will portray Dom Claude Frollo, the Archdeacon of Notre Dame.
