Naworth Castle

A History of the Howards

Performed by Year 7 in the Great Hall of Naworth Castle

To see photos of the play at Naworth Castle, click here

Naworth Novelty

The subject matter of Naworth Novelty has been drawn mainly from historical fact, but is also the imaginative outcome of an intriguing morning I spent with the portraits and presences in the paintings you see around you this afternoon in the Great Hall. The history of the Howard family is rich and exciting – plot and counter plot at the highest political and social level, ambitious men, jockeying for positions of great power and influence. Functioning in such a rarefied atmosphere, it is unsurprising that many of them found their way to the Tower of London, where they awaited trial and, often, execution.

The play has been adapted to suit the needs of the Mowden Year 7 group, and the principal aim has been to use the story of history, incorporating words that were spoken by leading Howards during the sixteenth century, as well as a novelty value for the children and – we hope – for the audience. So, for example, alongside the Third Duke of Norfolk and his wife, Elizabeth Stafford, the detective Sherlock Holmes, Watson and Miss Marple also appear, keen to pry into any of the legends and mysteries that might belong to Naworth. Particular thanks to the Honourable Philip and Mrs. Elizabeth Howard for their generous hospitality.