Cast update for The Globe Mysteries at Globe Theatre

Cast update for The Globe Mysteries, an adaptation by Tony Harrison of The Mystery Plays, which opens at the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre 10 Aug 2011, following previews from 5 Aug - running to 1 Oct 2011.

William Ash will play Jesus, best known for his lead role as Zakes Abbot in the 2008 film Hush, and his regular appearances in the BBC drama Waterloo Road. David Hargreaves will play God, and the remainder of the 14-strong ensemble who will perform over 60 parts, are Joe Caffrey, Philip Cumbus, Marcus Griffiths,Adrian Hood, Paul Hunter, Lisa McGrillis, Rhiannon Meades, David Nellist, Matthew Pidgeon, John Stahl, Ony Uhiara, Helen Weir.

It is directed by Deborah Bruce and designed by Jonathan Fensom .

This fresh perspective on The Mystery Plays uses vibrant music, storytelling traditions and street theatre to inject a contemporary relevance to these well know tales.

The medieval Mystery plays were among the earliest forms of drama and one of the most important influences on English theatre. Beginning with the creation and ending with the last judgement, these cycles introduced aspects of medieval life into theatrical representations of the Bible. With community guilds presenting relevant scenes on lavishly decorated wagons or platforms, these collection of plays were developed from the 10th Century until just before Shakespeare's own plays were performed.