Kynren – The Storied Lands Issues Unique Challenge to Next Generation of Stunt Performers and Trick Riders

Actors, physical performers, acrobats and experienced trick riders are being sought to join the professional cast of Kynren – The Storied Lands for its 2027 season in Bishop Auckland. Kynren is launching a new casting call on Monday 12th October for performers with the specialist skills needed to bring its large-scale live productions to life, from fast-moving combat and acrobatics to spectacular horsemanship.

Alongside the action and equestrian roles, Kynren is looking for actors with strong characterisation, stage presence and the confidence to interact with visitors. These performers will bring larger-than-life characters to life, drawing visitors into the stories, encounters and surprises of The Storied Lands.

Successful applicants will become part of the professional seasonal cast of The Storied Lands, the UK’s first live-action show park, which opened this summer and combines live performance, action, animals and special effects across a series of purpose-built outdoor arenas.

The search is initially focused on two distinct areas – combat and acrobatic performers, and experienced trick riders, with separate applications being run for the equestrian roles.

Trick-riding applicants will need to demonstrate both classical dressage and trick-riding ability, while those applying for the combat and acrobatic cast will be expected to demonstrate the specialist performance skills required for Kynren’s action-led productions.

Kynren Chief Executive Anna Warnecke said: “There aren’t many jobs where being able to fight, fall, tumble or perform extraordinary things on horseback forms part of the application, but these are very particular roles.

“The scale of The Storied Lands means we need performers who combine genuine technical ability with the presence and confidence to perform live in front of a large audience.

“We had an extraordinary response when we recruited for our first season and we are looking forward to discovering the performers who will become part of the cast in 2027.”

Applications close at midday on Wednesday 11th November, after which successful candidates will be invited to audition in front of a specialist panel.

Auditions are planned for early December near London and early January at Kynren in Bishop Auckland, with full details provided to those invited.

Those selected will join rehearsals at Kynren from the beginning of June ahead of the opening of the 2027 season on Tuesday 29th June, with contracts running through to Saturday 11th September.

Performers need to be based within commuting distance of Bishop Auckland for the duration of their contract. Applicants for the specialist combat, acrobatic and trick-riding roles will also be required to hold appropriate specialist insurance for the period of their employment.

Applications can be made through the Kynren website from Monday 12th October, with separate application routes for combat and acrobatic performers and trick riders.