THE LOST WARRIOR

By Neil Duffield

Winner of the Arts Council of England Children's Award 2006

Premiere production:  The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster (2004)

Minimum cast 6. Original songs.

What the press said....

‘A winning combination of faerie magic, Celtic legend and a fantastical story has given the Dukes an absolute gem for Christmas. Woven around ancient Irish tales, Neil Duffield's play tells the story of a love between Aideen and Oisin that spans several thousand years. Aideen, a 21st century teenager, and Oisin, a Celtic warrior, are brought together and torn apart by the dark magic of the Morrigan....An audience mainly of youngsters was spellbound as the story unfolded’  LANCASHIRE EVENING POST

 ‘Neil Duffield has fused a wondrous tale of Celtic myths with a story of everyday growing up in modern-era Ireland. By the finale, this joyous production takes on the atmosphere of hoolie, with fiddles, tin whistles and even a harp to get us in the mood.’ LANCASTER GUARDIAN

‘The audience is transported into a world of myth and magic via stunning scenery, haunting music and a fierce battle scene that would satisfy even the most ardent Lord of the Rings fan......a refreshing blend of traditional storytelling and modern theatre, guaranteed to fuel the imaginations of both children and adults alike.’ WESTMORLAND GAZETTE

‘It was wonderful!.....There was so much energy and power coming from the production and the story that the audience was kept spellbound.'  VIRTUAL LANCASTER

‘Magic, mythology and romance combine in the Dukes' spell-binding production....Parents and older children have more than enough intrigue and spectacle to engage them throughout. And the younger ones - though they may not fully appreciate the twists and turns of the plot - have plenty of goblins, puppets and funny sprites and druids to keep them goggle-eyes with glee.......genuine high quality, thought provoking AND thoroughly enjoyable festive season family fare. It comes to you highly recommended.’  THE VISITOR

‘Eileen Murphy's production mixes fine ensemble work, persuasive animal puppetry and old-fashioned raw theatrical magic. As a pagan alternative to pantomime, this guarantees a magically cool yule.’  THE GUARDIAN

'....a fresh, sparkling and mystical piece of primeval folklore for adults and children alike....this is a Celtic cultural experience complemented by haunting Irish music that lends both atmosphere and awareness accessible to all ages. Take time out this Christmas and allow yourself to be lost in the land of mist and magical truth-telling.'  THE MORNING STAR

'Refusing to write down to his young audience, Neil Duffield cleverly combines ancient mythology and modern street cred for his tale of heroes, villains and young lovers spanning the centuries - while throwing in some eco awareness and humour aimed at the adults. Couple that with puppets, Riverdancing, Irish and Welsh accents and live singing and playing and he has come up with another winner. A first rate production.' THE STAGE

©2002 Neil Duffield, All Rights Reserved.