Old stories told new

Tonight I went to see a stage version of The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists. This was written at the dawn of the 20th century, and has been a massively influential story in many ways.

Angela Eagle was there tonight. That's how left wing she is :o)

It's difficult for a 2 hour play to do justice to such a novel, and I think certain important parts, though included, could have done with a bit more - particularly Barrington's Great Oration.

But the abridgers did a good job overall. The great money trick was particularly well done.

Bugger me though, it was hot in there.

Also, met someone before the play started that I haven't seen since my mid twenties. A guy called Ray McHale, someone who has spent his whole life fighting to make the world a better place. He must be getting on towards 50 now, but he's still out there, selling red bannered newspapers. Got to respect that. He was someone I admired then, and it was good to see he hasn't dropped the baton. He recognised me, which was nice, and after a few seconds, I was able to put a name to his face too. I knew him through the Labour Party Young Socialists/Militant back in the mid 80's, where he hosted meetings with his wife, Carol.

I asked him how she was.

"She died, about 10 years ago, of an asthma attack. She was only 46"

Old news, but new to me, and it's actually had an impact. I remember her as a pretty, demure, friendly, and committed lady. 46 is too young.

Anyway, Me and Ray are both on facebook. I've sent a friend request. I hope we stay in touch.