An outdoor community theatre project at Beauvale Charterhouse, near Greasley, Eastwood, Nottinghamshire. Commissioned by Broxtowe Borough Council. Funded by Arts Council England and Broxtowe Borough Council.

Rehearsals are currently underway for our new community show which will be performed from Thu 29th July to Sat 31st July, 2010. Times to be confirmed.

‘It is 1543 and we, the Carthusian Brotherhood, have a most terrible tale to tell. We know that this is a story that brings danger to all who hear it. But we also know that it is necessary for us to do so. For it is a story that will bring truth and light to bear on these most tumultuous and barbaric times in which we live.’

In the mid sixteenth century an event took place that was to mark the beginning of one of the most savage and important moments in English history. Central to this event was the story and the actions of a group of men who lived in silence just outside of Eastwood in a place called Beauvale. These men were Carthusians, their dwelling was Beauvale Charterhouse, and their story is one of sacrifice, of conscience, of betrayal and of turmoil.

The Cries of Silent Men tells of this event, when the Carthusian brotherhood stood firm against the wishes and the power of one of the most famous men in history – King Henry VIII.

This is a story of desire and defiance, of political intrigue and religious soul searching, of those who strive for peace and beauty and of those who unleash chaos and terror. It is a story that takes place amidst the atmospheric ruins of Beauvale Charterhouse, home to the Carthusian Order, and it is a story that uncovers a truly incredible moment of history that comes right from the heart of that community.

Performed by a cast of local people The Cries of Silent Men will be a truly ambitious, spectacular and emotional performance that continues the relationship between Hanby and Barrett and Broxtowe Borough Council.