We are delighted that the opening night of the event, on Thursday 19 September, will see the very first staging in the area of the hugely acclaimed `Ballard of Johnny Longstaff` presented by three time BBC Folk
Award winners, THE YOUNG ‘UNS.
Festival Chairman, Roger Nash said: “We are really delighted that THE YOUNG ‘UNS have chosen us and the Alexandra Theatre to stage their new and unique piece of modern folk theatre on our opening night. The production has already played in many parts of the UK to fantastic feedback.
It tells the true story of one man`s adventure, from begging on the streets in the North of England to fighting fascism in the Spanish Civil War, taking in the 1930`s Hunger Marches and East End of London Battle of Cable Street. It`s a timely, touching and often hilarious musical adventure following the footsteps of one working class hero who witnessed some of the momentous events of that era. With their trademark harmony, honesty and humour, THE YOUNG ‘UNS bring together 16 specially composed songs, spoken word, striking imagery and the real recorded voice of Johnny himself, to tell a remarkable human story oozing with modern relevance.”
The Guardian review said: “The harmonies are glorious, the wit is waspish. The songs are powerful, the banter is relentless and the audience is happy. What`s not to like?”.