THE team behind the Chester Mystery Plays archive is recruiting volunteers to create a living collection of records, memories and photos.

Often described as the birth of theatre in the Western world, the plays were first performed in the 14th century although the last performance before their 20th century revival was in 1575.

Members of the city’s theatre and faith communities revived them in 1951 as part of Festival of Britain celebrations and they have been performed at least every five years since. The next full production is planned for June 2013, with a mini production of The Creation taking place this June.

The Mystery Plays company has raised funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the Sharing the Mystery project, to create an archive to record and conserve the plays from 1951 onwards.

“This isn’t just about dry documents like Board papers”, explains chairman Jo Sykes. “It’s also about collecting people’s memories and their photos.”

Training on archive development and conservation will be given to all those participating in the project through the University of Chester and the Cheshire Record Office, while interviewing techniques will be taught by the Oral History Society.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to work with some new people,” adds Jane Dawson, project co-ordinator.

“We’ll be working with some who have volunteered with us before but we also want to add to the Mystery Plays family.”

Further details on volunteering or contributing memories and memorabilia from Jane on 07813 661949 or at info@chestermysteryplays.com