Kynren begins work on major show for its time travelling theme park
FOLLOWING recent planning approval, development has now begun on one of the flagship
experiences within Kynren – The Storied Lands, the UK’s first live-action historical theme park.
Set to open in summer 2026 alongside four other monumental shows and immersive experiences,
The Lost Feather is a visually stunning and conservation-led bird show which will be performed on a
breathtaking stage inspired by a giant bird’s nest and work is underway to create the 3,600 capacity
seated arena.
Exploring the ancient and ongoing connection between birds and humanity, the show will feature
spectacular free-flight displays, emotional storytelling, and will also connect people with rare and
endangered species, becoming both a highlight of the visitor experience and a rallying cry for wildlife
protection.
The Lost Feather will be one of five monumental shows and immersive experiences within the
spectacular daytime attraction, set against beautifully landscaped historical backdrops within the
wider Kynren park in Bishop Auckland, County Durham. The show also contributes to the Kynren –
The Storied Lands’ central mission: to bring history, heritage, and nature together through
unforgettable live experiences.
Anna Warnecke, Kynren’s CEO who is overseeing the expansion said: “Approval of the plans for
The Lost Feather is another momentous step forward for Kynren – The Storied Lands. Every aspect of
the entire park has been carefully thought through and designed, building on the expertise gained
from delivering Kynren’s night shows, and we’re all incredibly pleased we can continue to progress
our exciting ideas to produce an epic park that will help boost the local economy and community.”
The Lost Feather is being created under the guidance of two leading figures in avian care, training,
and conservation – Jimmy Robinson, Curator, Birds & Conservation at Kynren and Andy Hallsworth
who is Assistant Curator, Birds & Training.
Jimmy is an internationally recognised bird trainer, falconer, and conservationist with over 25
years of experience. His work has spanned continents and included leadership roles at the Hawk
Conservancy Trust and National Centre for Birds of Prey. He is also the driving force behind Kynren’s
vulture conservation breeding and kestrel research programmes. Andy Hallsworth is former head of
animal training and presentations at ZSEA Banham Zoo and brings over 30 years of experience in
wildlife display and education, including 15 years at ZSL London Zoo, where he developed one of the
UK’s first mixed species free-flying bird displays.
“The Lost Feather embodies everything Kynren – The Storied Lands stands for: world-class
entertainment with purpose. This show will immerse audiences in the beauty, fragility, and wonder
of birds, while also inspiring meaningful action for conservation. We are incredibly proud to have
two of the most respected professionals in the field leading its development,” added Anna.
Together, Jimmy and Andy, supported by their talented team of avian trainers bring unmatched
expertise in bird welfare, training, storytelling, and public engagement to the creation of The Lost
Feather.
Jimmy said: “Birds have shaped our myths, our ecosystems, and our futures. At Kynren, we’re
giving them a platform not only to amaze people, but to move them – to make them care. The Lost
Feather is more than a show; it’s a powerful way to connect people with the natural world and
inspire them to protect it.”
The Lost Feather sits at the heart of Kynren’s growing commitment to environmental protection
and biodiversity. This includes a vulture conservation breeding facility for critically endangered
species such as the African white-backed vulture and a kestrel research programme in collaboration
with the Hawk Conservancy Trust, focused on halting the decline of this iconic British bird of prey.
Future phases of development of Kynren – The Storied Lands will introduce even more
attractions, and further details on additional shows, educational programmes, and conservation
initiatives will be revealed in the coming months. In the meantime, the award-winning live action
night show, Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, will continue on Saturday nights with its 1,000-strong
cast and crew of volunteers and its 2025 season will run from 19th July to 13th September.
For further information about Kynren – The Storied Lands, where legends come alive,
visit: www.kynren.com
