The East End of London has burned with the fires of rebellion for centuries. Most recently, from the Matchgirls of 1888 to the “Made in Dagenham” workers at Ford’s in Dagenham in 1968, its women have fought for change. Sara Wesker fought harder than most. Forty years after the Matchgirls and forty years before the Ford Workers, in 1928 Sara led a 12 week ground breaking strike in the garment industry.
An ardent trade unionist and prominent Communist Party activist, Sara sang on the picket lines, fought at the Battle of Cable Street. This is her story.
Empower
Growth
Chopped Liver & Unions
by J.J. Leppink
The East End of London has burned with the fires of rebellion for centuries. Most recently, from the Matchgirls of 1888 to the “Made in Dagenham” workers at Ford’s in Dagenham in 1968, its women have fought for change. Sara Wesker fought harder than most. Forty years after the Matchgirls and forty years before the Ford Workers, in 1928 Sara led a 12 week ground breaking strike in the garment industry.
An ardent trade unionist and prominent Communist Party activist, Sara sang on the picket lines, galvanised a traditionally compliant workforce and in 1936 fought at the Battle of Cable Street. This is her story.
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Marie Lloyd Stole My Life
by J.J. Leppink
Merry Nelly Power was a real life, trailblazing performer of the 19th century, who struck an early blow for women’s rights by divorcing her husband, owning her own properties and headlining at all the major theatres. Until her fame – and her most famous song – were usurped by the young Marie Lloyd.
Her life was more dramatic offstage than on – her own personal Victorian melodrama. “Marie Lloyd Stole My Life shines a light on the unglamorous side of showbusiness in the 19th century through the subversive lens of the Victorian Music Hall. It’s a bit “Ripper Street” and a bit “EastEnders”. With songs. Not quite the “Good Old Days”, is it...?!
Kemp's Jig
by Chris Harris and Chistopher Denys
"And let those that play your clowns say no more than is set down"
In 1600 Will Kemp, the most famous comic and clown of his generation and Will Shakespeare, most famous playwright in history, fell out in an argument over a play. Shakespeare stayed in London, writing for The Lord Chamberlain's Men and producing the plays still renowned the world over. Kemp embarked on a bizarre PR stunt, Morris dancing from London to Norwich.
Based on Kemp's own diary, "The Nine Daies Wonder", Kemp's Jig is a romp through Elizabethan England, sharing the adventures of Shakespeare's now almost-forgotten clown.
This one man show has been playing to rave reviews up and down the country, including at last year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe and at the famous Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, where Kemp's original event finished.
A "horrible history" for all ages, fans of Upstart Crow and Shakespeare in Love will enjoy cheering the maverick Kemp on his way.
Gilbert and Sullivan's Nightmare
by J.J. Leppink
Old Adam is almost a permanent fixture at the Savoy Theatre. He has appeared in every G&S opera but never quite made it to a leading role. It is now awards night and Adam is due to receive his Long Service Award. He’s been in the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company for longer than anyone can remember and is hoping he might just - finally – get the recognition he thinks he deserves. But will his hopes be in vain?
With the help of the world’s least motivated pianist and using well known songs from several G&S operas - occasionally with lyrics the audience may recognise - this is G&S as you’ve never seen it before!
This is a short one act play (running time c35 minutes); Available primarily as part of a double bill with "Marie Lloyd Stole My Life"
The Diary of a Nobody
by George & Weedon Grossmith, adapted by Tim Shaw
Step into the whimsical world of "The Diary of a Nobody," where the ordinary becomes extraordinary! Follow the hilariously mundane misadventures of Charles Pooter, a man who navigates the ups and downs of suburbia with a touch of unknowing comedic flair. Discover how the simple moments in life can spark laughter, reflection, and a deeper connection to our own quirks. Ready for a delightful escape from the January blues? Then come along to see Blue Fire Theatre Company’s production of what Evelyn Waugh called “the funniest book in the world”