The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists / United We Stand double bill

Townsend Productions are doing a six week residency at The Bussey Building, Peckham in London from the 5th October to the 13th November 2015. The double bill will comprise two of our most popular productions, the classic "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists" and the recent "United We Stand" - the story of Des Warren, Ricky Tomlinson and the Shrewsbury Pickets. Using these plays we aim to raise themes of social injustice, the effects of austerity, working patterns and conditions, and tackle issues and raise awareness of specific subjects such as those highlighted by The Shrewsbury 24 Campaign and Blacklist Support Group. We have lots of post show discussion with talks from Christine Blower, Matt Wrack, Megan Dobney, Tom Watson & Dave smith (Black Listing Campaign).

Townsend Productions Present a Striking Double Bill at The Bussey Building, Peckham: 'The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists' & 'United We Stand' - The story of Des Warren, Ricky Tomlinson & The Shrewsbury Pickets

The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists A new two handed version adapted by Neil Gore from the Stephen Lowe play based on Robert Tressell’s classic book. Townsend Productions present this classic story of a group of painter-decorators who are joined by artist Owen, whose spirited attacks on the dishonesty of Capitalism, along with his Socialist vision, highlight exploitation in the workplace and inequality in society. Relevant still, this tale is told with vigour and passion. This hugely successful production is a gem of Edwardian humorous theatre with songs and music of the time directed by folk legend John Kirkpatrick “A strong and robust show that brings the characters, humour and inspirational ideas of this great book to life. It is needed now more than ever.You’ll leave the theatre and join the struggle!” Ken Loach, Film Director. **** ‘Tremendous’ TheTimes. 10/10‘Sensational’  Liverpool Echo. The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists 5-31 October 7:30 £12 (£10) Mondays – all tickets £5 Online tickets: www.clfartcafe.org Information:T. 020 7732 5275 E: info@clfartcafe.org The CLF Art Cafe, Block A, Bussey Building, 133 Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4ST.

'United We Stand' - The story of Des Warren & Ricky Tomlinson & The Shrewsbury Pickets UNITED WE STAND By Neil Gore.The Story of Des Warren, Ricky Tomlinson and the Shrewsbury 24. In 1972 tens of thousands of building workers won the first national strike in the industry to end cash “lump” wages and seek better pay and conditions.The tactic of using ‘flying pickets’ left the contractors reeling.The enraged construction industry and Tory government sought revenge, and this culminated in the arrest of 24 builders in North Wales charged with offences that included conspiracy to intimidate and affray – the ‘Shrewsbury 24’ were put on trial the following year. UNITED WE STAND focuses on the true and still very current events that led to the imprisonment of building workers Des Warren and Eric Tomlinson (Ricky Tomlinson of ‘The Royle Family’). It reflects the great tide of anger which rocked the very foundations of the established political elite; examines the extraordinary political will of all the participants; and shares the anguish of falling prey to a flagrant miscarriage of justice. It combines Townsend Productions’ trademark small-cast, grand theatrical wit with popular and political songs of the early seventies directed by celebrated folk-singer John Kirkpatrick. “William Fox as Des was outstanding and Neil Gore made a fantastic job playing ‘young’ Ricky” –RickyTomlinson ‘A striking piece of work’ The Observer ★★★★★ ‘Exellent' The Morning Star ★★★★ ' Passionatele delivered' The Liverpool Echo United We Stand 2-14 November 7:30 £12 (£10) Mondays – all tickets £5 Online tickets: www.clfartcafe.org Information:T. 020 7732 5275 E: info@clfartcafe.org The CLF Art Cafe, Block A, Bussey Building, 133 Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4ST.