Striking Sparks: The Story of The Matchgirls

Striking Sparks: The Story of the Matchgirls

The premiere of ‘A Fair Field’ by Jonathan Pease, in an evening of music telling the story of the Bow Matchgirls’ Strike of 1888.

This project brings together musicians from four community groups, Queen Mary University, and local schools, to perform a brand new piece telling the story of the Matchgirls Strike of 1888.

A historic event which took place in the Bryant & May factory in Bow, East London, the strike saw the group of young women and girls successfully challenge workplace exploitation and win better pay conditions. Their story was inspirational for subsequent generations of workers around the world, and sets an example for us in today’s society, where many still work hard and yet struggle to make ends meet.

East London Community Band will be joined by Aldersbrook Community Choir, East London Children’s Choir, Poplar Singers, Queen Mary University of London Choir, and Victoria Park Singers in a rousing performance of this timeless story of bravery and hope.

Saturday 1st July: 7pm

Great Hall of the People’s Palace, Queen Mary University of London, E1 4NS