The Raree Show or A Fox Trap't - a genuine 18th century entertainment

Saturday 3rd August, 4pm – 5pm

Holy Trinity, Goodramgate

Living in the parish of Holy Trinity, Goodramgate, Joseph Peterson was a member of Thomas Keregan’s troop of comedians. The Opera was, as he tells us, ‘the first efforts of an inexperienced undertaker’. It tells the tale of unfortunate lovers and their misplaced love. After a short presentation about Joseph’s fascinating life and unfortunate death, we will step back in time and hear his words ringing out in York once again.

Although described as an “Opera” on its title piece, there is no singing here. This 18th-century entertainment was not 'opera' as we know it today but comic dialogue with lyrics set to popular tunes. In this case, we no longer even know the tunes so, on this occasion, the performance will be entirely spoken.

Joseph’s original introduction, shown below, begs the support of the people of York, just as we do today.

Tickets are free, but donations on the day will be welcomed.

The interior of the venue is usually colder than the outside temperature so please do dress more warmly than the weather suggests - 18th century costumed attendees particularly welcome! Seating will include use of our 16th and 18th century box pews.

The venue is fully accessible (save for the Sunken Chapel). Please note however that the floors are uneven and light levels may be low.

Any queries please contact [email protected].

To the Gentleman and Ladies of York.

Gentleman and ladies! The repeated favours I have received from you, and the great goodness you have been pleased to extend to me; have prompted me to the presumption of offering the following trifle for your perusal. I am very sensible, there is nothing in it can claim the least pretence to merit: but as it is the first effort of an unexperienced undertaker, and contains nothing, I imagine, that can be offensive to morality, or good manners; I humbly hope for your indulgence: and beg leave to assure you, my principal care shall always be, in my station, to behave so, as not to forfeit a continuance of the honour you have done towards me,

Gentlemen and Ladies,

your most obedient, and most humble servant,

Joseph Peterson

Host or Publisher Holy Trinity Goodramgate (part of the CCT)