PHILIP THICKNESSE – FRIEND OR FOE?
The life and very lively times of Phillip Thicknesse,
Governor of Landguard Fort 1753-66.
LANDGUARD FORT, FELIXSTOWE: September 28th – October 1st
Something fabulous is happening in Felixstowe. The story of Philip Thicknesse, Governor of Landguard Fort 1753- 66, is being brought to life in the place where it all happened. A site specific production developed by the Woven Theatre Company with widespread community involvement and a whole new perspective on a man who should be better known as an important figure in Felixstowe’s and Suffolk’s history.
Landguard Fort is a spectacular location with a big a central courtyard surrounded by rooms, fortifications, underground passages, an outer bailey and a moat and Philip Thicknesse is a character you will never forget. He was a man with very little respect for authority and made countless enemies but gained great loyalty from his men because he believed corporal punishment was a barbaric practice. And he was adored by his wives, especially his third wife, Ann, a talented musician and writer who was determined to make her own way in the world.
Written by two local playwrights, Peppy Barlow and Sally Wilden, the production will be led by four professional actors and will include cartoons from primary school children, crowd scenes developed by students at Felixstowe Academy, the involvement of the Felixstowe Community Choir and the group of historic re-enactors based at the Fort. Other parts will be played by members of the public and the audience will feel very much part of the experience as they are welcome to join in with the communal songs. The Governor’s monkey, Jacko, and Ann’s parakeet will also be central to proceedings in the form of specially commissioned puppets.
The director, Anna Birch, specialises in site specific productions and has worked with Woven in developing new work over a number of years
Tickets are on sale through Eastern Angles 01473 211498 www.easternangles.co.uk
For more information click on www.philipthicknesse.com.
DO BOOK UP EARLY AND BE PART OF THE FUN. LANDGUARD FORT WILL NEVER FEEL THE SAME AGAIN.
SPONSORS:
The Landguard Fort Trust, The Felixstowe Rotary Club, The Suffolk Coast, Adnams, Peewit Caravan Park.