The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists
About The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists
Adapted by Neil Gore from the book by Robert Tressell, directed by Louise Townsend
Neil Gore, presents a one-person 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.
This enduring and absorbing classic story of a year in the life of a group of Edwardian painters and decorators is brought to life by Neil Gore using his extensive knowledge of the book and the play, having performed it in many versions over forty years.
‘The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists’ follows a group of workers as they renovate ‘The Cave’, a three-storey town house, 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.
They are joined by artist Owen, whose spirited attacks on the dishonesty of Capitalism along with his Socialist vision, highlights the exploitation in their workplace but also focuses on the inequality in society as a whole.
Watch the trailer
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
Standard – £15.00
Pay more – £20.00
Pay less – £10.00
Dates & times:
Saturday 03 October 2026 at 7.30pm
Running time:
70 minutes, including an interval
Age guidance:
11+
About The Old Fire Station
The Old Fire Station in Oxford is an arts centre with a unique social mission, combining creativity with community impact. Located in the city centre, it hosts a vibrant programme of theatre, exhibitions, music, comedy, and workshops.
It shares its space with the homelessness charity Crisis Skylight Oxford, supporting people experiencing homelessness through training and opportunities in the arts. By bringing artists, audiences, and vulnerable communities together, The Old Fire Station aims to challenge inequality and inspire positive change.
Discover more about The Old Fire Station, including travel, access and venue information.
