★★★★ “adroit use of technology … is just one striking feature of this devised show” The Observer ★★★★★ “a wonderful, thoughtful play, beautifully performed by a fine cast which breathes new life into an important, yet often overlooked part of working-class history” Morning Star Using 21st-century artefacts and technology, this vivid and passionate production shows how the Luddites helped inspire the birth of Manchester’s radical political identity – and how their long-misunderstood protests remain relevant today.
But their 19th-century complaint, that bosses were using technology as an excuse to beat down the workers, resonates now more strongly than ever. Angry workers, calling themselves Luddites, smashed the new machines that threatened their way of life, and were written off as enemies of progress. The Industrial Revolution was the original Northern Powerhouse, but not everyone bought into the future it promised. It’s time to come together, time for rebellion – but with spies in their midst, who can be trusted? The world is shifting right under their feet. But the workers and craftsmen are being side-lined for profit. It’s the early 1800s and Manchester is one of the most advanced cities in the world, overflowing with innovation. There Is A Light… ran from 25 July to 10 August 2019 at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, and for three performances 16 to 17 August 2019 at their pop-up venue, the Den at Stalybridge Civic Hall.