Details

In 1800 the celebrated poet/artist William Blake moved to the village of Felpham in Sussex. Whilst there, Blake had a minor altercation with a soldier who was found trespassing in his garden. Events then took a more serious turn as the soldier turned on Blake and accused him of treason and sedition at a time when England feared an invasion by Napoleon. The subsequent trial and his experiences whilst in Felpham left a lasting impression on Blake and shaped the writing of the classic hymn 'Jerusalem', which is still revered and held today as a true icon of 'Englishness'. This is a humorous yet dramatic and stylised account of this complex and troubled period in Blake's life and the events that inspired him to write the famous hymn. Did Blake really think England's lands were green and pleasant?

Cast/Performers

Pete Picton (William Blake), Louise Amos (Catherine Blake), Rachel Branton (Frances), Alexander Gordon-Wood (William Hayley), Francis Bodiam (Lady Hesketh), Lucy Whittemore (Courtier 1), Emma Logan (Courtier 2), April McCormack (Courier 3), Miranda Harrison (Betty / Anne), Andy Hamilton (Grinder), Alexandra Mackenzie-Smith (Josie Grinder), Richard Watkins (Duke of Richmond), Graham Woolmer (Clerk / Soldier), Robin Hodges (Cocks), Andrew Wyld (Schofield), James Limm (Captain / Driver)

Creatives/Company

Author: Chris Mounsey
Director: Phil Matcham