Banner Theatre will be stopping off in March as part of their national tour with “Spirit of 1868”.

Commissioned to mark 150th anniversary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the Arts Council funded Banner Theatre production will be at March Town Hall on September 28. The performance starts at 7.30pm and admission is free.

In the 150 years since the first TUC congress in 1868, trade unions have the led the fight for workers’ rights. ‘Spirit of 1868’ is a stirring dramatisation of some of the struggles, protests and moments of resistance that shaped our past and our present.

“It reconnects today’s generation with the hard won achievements of the past by blending music, song, drama, archive footage and contemporary interviews,” says a theatre spokesman.

Since its creation in 1973, Banner Theatre has become one of our oldest touring theatre groups developing its own theatre style.

Trades Council Secretary Sue Dockett said: “It is an engaged, living theatre and remains, a key cultural force within the UK working class movement. Its mix of folk, blues, reggae and rock rhythms with video footage, interviews and dramatic scenes provides a unique theatre experience.

“Britain gave the world free independent trade unions. This production tells the story of the last 150 years in a very entertaining way. Whether or not you are a trade unionist this is a great way to learn about and celebrate part of our history and our national culture.”

Thanks to a TUC grant, support from Twenty Twenty Arts and a Unite union donation, the local Trades Union Council has been able to bring this production to Fenland with free admission.

Space is however limited so it is advisable to get tickets in advance from Panini’s Coffee Shop on March Market Place or book via wmdtuc@gmail.com to ensure you have a seat on the night.