Horden’s new Playhouse will soon witness the third major production to grace its stage this year. Ensemble ’84, following the success of The Tragicall Historie of Hamlet and the return of the musical documentary Pits, People and Players, will present its own adaptation of Robert Tressell’s The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists this autumn.
Set in the early 20th century, the story revolves around a group of painters and decorators who spend their days beautifying homes for the wealthy while struggling to provide for their own families. The work is physically demanding, the pay is meager, and the looming threat of unemployment is ever-present.
Frank Owen, one of the workers, begins to question the system that perpetuates poverty among the very people who create wealth. As he challenges his co-workers to see things differently, he discovers the difficulties of building solidarity in the face of fear, insecurity, and the need to earn a living wage.
With a perfect blend of humor, emotion, and political commentary, the production delves into the themes of work, friendship, and the pursuit of a fairer society.
The play is directed by renowned theatre-maker Mark Dornford-May, and Ensemble ’84’s adaptation promises to bring Tressell’s story to a modern audience through their distinctive style of theatre, which combines powerful storytelling, movement, and music.
Mark Dornford-May, Artistic Director of Ensemble ’84, shared his thoughts on the production, stating, “The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists was written over a century ago, but its message still resonates with our world today. It raises important questions about who creates wealth, who benefits from it, and why the hardest-working individuals continue to struggle. These are conversations that should take place everywhere, but especially in communities like East Durham, with a proud industrial history.”
The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists is the latest addition to the impressive line-up of productions at The Playhouse in Horden. Since its grand opening with Sir Ian McKellen earlier this year, the venue has attracted thousands of audience members through its doors. The Tragicall Historie of Hamlet received rave reviews and introduced many people to Shakespeare for the first time.
Ensemble ’84 continues its commitment to bringing world-class theatre to East Durham and telling stories that resonate with the local community.
The company is also one of the original partners of the flagship Into the Light program, a cultural and creative partnership aimed at driving long-term growth in County Durham. Julia Handelman-Smith, Into the Light Director, commended Ensemble ’84 for their success and their contribution to the cultural and economic development of East Durham. She said, “East Durham has always been defined by hard work, solidarity, and creativity. Ensemble ’84 is a prime example of what can be achieved when we invest in these values. Their ambitious productions, creative opportunities, and commitment to the town of Horden itself are a testament to the power of culture-led regeneration. The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists is a fitting story to be told, and we are eagerly anticipating its debut next month.”
The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists will be performed at The Playhouse in Horden from 30 September. Tickets are available now at https://www.ensemble84.com/the-ragged-trousered-philanthropists.
