The Riot

Fishermen from Newlyn, staunch Methodists, did not go to sea on the Sabbath, but visiting boats from Lowestoft (known as Yorkies) did, landing their fish on Monday thus reducing the price of the fish for Newlyn fishermen for the rest of the week.

The local fishermen fight back by tipping the whole catch of the Yorkies 100,000 mackerels into the harbour.

What starts as a peaceful protest soon turns into violence. Caught in the middle of the disturbance is Thomas Bolitho, local merchant, magistrate, mine owner and mayor. He seems to respect the fisherman’s beliefs, but he is also a businessman and he knows that the violent nature of the dispute is not good for business. He tries to compromise with both sides, but soon finds his life is in danger when they both turn against him.

A powerful dark comedy combined with Darke’s dream-like confusion! This production contains strong language.