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The darkness before dawn
GEORGE FOGARTY applauds a brilliant one-man version of Robert Tressell’s classic of working-class literature
REMARKABLE: Neil Gore in The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists [Townsend Productions]

The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists
Townsend Productions, 
Old Fire Station, Oxford 

Townsend Productions have made a well-earned name for themselves as purveyors of working-class history of the finest calibre. Their previous work has dramatised some of the most important moments in British labour history, including the Tolpuddle martyrs, Red Clydeside and the Grunwick strike. 

Indeed, tonight’s performance (a one man show performed by Neil Gore) is something of an anomaly in that it is based on a novel rather than a true story. 

The original story follows a group of painters and decorators in the fictional town of Mugsborough, selflessly dedicating their lives to the enrichment of their employer, Mr Rushton. 

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