Tudor almshouse inspires new youth play

The history of a town's almshouse for poor people has inspired a new play devised by a youth theatre.

The Red Rose Chain has been researching Tooley's Court in Ipswich town centre, which was founded in 1550.

Tuppence A Week is a new original heritage play inspired by the real stories of both modern and historical residents, exploring poverty in the Tudor era and what it means to ask someone for help.

Writer and director Rei Mordue said: "People still live there, still benefit from them, and it's really exciting to see that direct connection to the past."

Almshouses date from the medieval period when religious orders provided housing for those in need. Others have been set up by philanthropists, charities and businesses.

Homes at Tooley Court are available to rent.

The Chainers is one of the Red Rose Chain's inclusive young companies, for people aged 15 and over.

They received funding from Historic England's Everyday Heritage grant programme, celebrating working class histories.

Ms Mordue continued: "What really jumped out at us from the start when we were looking at the reports of the people that lived there in the Tudor period is that there were so many connections to them and the people that live there today.

"Initially, when we come up with improvisations exploring these ideas, the Chainers will find little ways of going 'ooh, actually, I know someone a bit like this or have experienced something a bit like that'."

Tuppence a Week follows a character called Peter who lives in Tooley's Court, on Foundation Street, in the present day who has been researching the almshouses, discovering stories and relating to them.

Eva Balding, 19, plays multiple characters and is the drummer in the onstage band.

"It's really important to recognise there shouldn't be any shame associated with seeking help," she said.

"There's also that storyline with a lady who loses her sight and she's really fearful of seeking help because she does not want to appear vulnerable."

Henry Tooley is described as the richest merchant of Tudor Ipswich.

He left the bulk of his estate to the poor of the town which sparked years of legal disputes following his death.

He was buried at the nearby waterfront church of St Mary at the Quay.

Today Tooley's Court is administered by Ipswich Foundation Street Charity, with bedsits and one bedroom flats giving residents an independence within a supportive community.

Tuppence a Week is at the Avenue Theatre, Ipswich on Saturday, 22 March at 19:00 GMT and Sunday, 23 March at 13:30 and 16:30.

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