The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists

Adapted from the classic book

One person Magic Lantern show of the classic book The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists adapted by Neil Gore from the book by Robert Tressell directed by Louise Townsend.

Neil Gore presents a version of the classic novel by Robert Tressell featuring projection, political conjuring tricks, live music and song. Meet the famous characters and enjoy the scenes, speeches and songs, featuring the Great Money Trick as its centrepiece.

The story follows Frank Owen and his fellow painters and decorators as they renovate 'The Cave', a three storey townhouse, for Mayor Sweater. It traces their hardships and struggles for survival in a complacent and stagnating Edwardian England.

These workers are the 'philanthropists' who throw themselves into back-breaking work for poverty wages in order to generate profit for their masters.

Frank Owen, whose spirited attacks on the dishonesty of capitalism and his socialist vision, hilights the exploitation in their workplace and focuses on the inequality in society as a whole.

A meaningful, powerful, thought-provoking production delivered with skill, humour, and pathos. A great evening's entertainment.

"A Company making a name for delivering, vivid politically committed theatre"
- The Observer

"Tremendous"
- ***** The Times

"A phenomenal performance"
- John McDonnell MP (Shadow Chancellor)

"The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists is a wonderful entertainment for all the family"
- Peter Yates

"A fantastic evening’s entertainment all round"
- Julia Armstrong

Select Performance



More great shows coming to The Little Theatre...
  • Is That a Whip in Your Hand by Gavin Robertson in March
  • Third Class by Russell Lucas in February
  • Importance of Being Earnest by National Theatre Live in February
  • Beachcomber Stories by Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre in April
  • Looking for Me Friend by The Cabaret Geek in May