The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists Comes to Faversham

Neil Gore, a writer, actor, and musician from Kinross, Perthshire, has spent over forty years working with Robert Tressell's classic novel, The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists. His one-person adaptation, directed by Louise Townsend, combines projection, political conjuring tricks, live music, and song to bring the story to life. The show follows a group of workers as they renovate a three-storey town house, 'The Cave', for Mayor Sweater, and features the Great Money Trick as its centrepiece.

The production has received critical acclaim, with Clare Brennan of The Observer describing it as a "one-man, many-charactered tour de force". Film director Ken Loach has also praised the show, saying it brings the book's characters, humour, and ideas to life and is needed now more than ever. Gore's extensive knowledge of the book and play has allowed him to craft a unique and engaging performance that showcases his skills as an actor, musician, and writer.

Gore's background in theatre is extensive, with earlier stage credits including Song of Singapore at Chichester Festival Theatre and in the West End. In 2026, he performed the play as a two-hander alongside Rodney Matthew at North Edinburgh Arts Centre, featuring comedy routines and Music Hall songs. The production has toured widely across the UK, with venues including the Lantern Theatre in Sheffield, the Ironworks in Brighton, and the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough.

The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists will be performed at The Alexander Centre in Faversham on Tuesday, 3 November 2026. Tickets are with the button beside the article. The show is approximately 1.5 hours long, suitable for ages 11 and over, and offers a unique blend of theatre, music, and magic that is sure to resonate with audiences today. With its themes of workplace hierarchy, rivalry, and workers' humour, the production is a compelling watch for anyone interested in classic literature and innovative storytelling.