CLC Art Café, Peckham 2 – 14 November. Reviewed by Claire Roderick
The story of Des Warren, Ricky Tomlinson and the Shrewsbury 24 is told in this new play by Neil Gore. The events of the 1972 building workers’ strike and the establishment’s reaction are told passionately by Gore and William Fox – acting the parts of the main protagonists. Des Warren’s activities in North Wales and Shropshire, organising flying pickets to oppose the cash “lump” wages, fight for better wages and improve safety standards on building sites, alongside Ricky Tomlinson (a fine impression by Gore), are ended by the unions agreeing a deal and securing a pay rise. Footage of politicians, picketers and police, and the media coverage of the situation is used alongside poetry and music are used to wonderful effect. The two actors are talented musicians and vocalists, taking us through 1970s classics, folk and workers’ songs to embellish the story.
Whilst Tomlinson returns to work, Warren is unable to, following several unwise newspaper interviews. Then, 5 months later, the police arrest the men and they, along with others, are charged with conspiracy to intimidate, unlawful assembly and affray. The police at the actual picket on the day when the offences were alleged to have taken place had actually congratulated the men on leading such a peaceful protest! The “great conspiracy” between the politicians, police and building firm owners is related as a variety act with dummies and puppets to show exactly what a farce the charges were. The play becomes darker once the trial begins, culminating in Tomlinson’s and Warren’s impassioned speeches from the dock. The sentences passed, Warren’s resulting illness and the blacklisting of the convicted pickets merit this sombre finale. There has been no happy ending. Campaigners are still fighting to get the case referred to the Court of Appeal.
The play does not paint the characters as saints, but mentions their mistakes, and the actors create characters that feel authentic and deeply human. There are lots of laughs in amongst the political intrigue – Gore and Fox revel in the more over the top characters, and pounce on each others fumbles and mistakes with glee. The audience aren’t safe from them either – don’t sit in the front row!
This is a fascinating and funny play about a part of our history that is very pertinent today as the government tries to curb the role of the unions. Uplifting and inspiring – well worth a look.