English Heritage is on the lookout to find the voices that will become part of a timeless recording of a famous ballad at Carlisle Castle. The ‘Ballad of Kinmont Willie’ will feature in a new exhibition opening at Carlisle this spring and narrates a major event in the castle’s history.
“Carlisle Castle has played such a prominent role in the city of Carlisle over the centuries and English Heritage is excited to be able to offer this unique chance to become part of the next stage in the castle’s history” said Dirk Bennett, Head of Interpretation at English Heritage.
The Exhibition
The new exhibition tells the turbulent story of Carlisle Castle during many years of conflict between England and Scotland. As part of the exhibition, English Heritage will bring to life an assortment of key characters that have contributed to the story of the castle, one of those being William Armstrong of Kinmont, also known as ‘Kinmont Willie’. Kinmont Willie regularly led mounted bands across the border to England to raid, burn and steal during the state of lawlessness in the 16th century. The ballad itself describes his escape from Carlisle Castle, following his capture and imprisonment there in 1596.
The Contest
The contest is open to people of all ages and recordings will take place during February. If you would like to get involved register your interest by emailing carlisle.castle@english-heritage.org.uk with your name, age (including parental consent if under 18) and contact details. From these recordings the 5 lucky winners will be selected. Anyone looking to get some early practise in can view the ballad here.
