Townsend Theatre Productions in association with University of Manchester, The Place Theatre Bedford & Unite the Union present

Yes! Yes! UCS!

A new musical play by Neil Gore celebrating the 50^th Anniversary of the Upper Clyde Shipbuilders’ “Work-In” of 1971-2.

With the massive Glasgow and Clydebank shipyards facing closure and the incumbent Tory government refusing to invest in what they called ‘lame-duck’ industries, ‘Yes! Yes! UCS!’ is the story of how two women workers on the fringes of an industry facing imminent closure are drawn into the monumental heroic battle to save the jobs of thousands, as well as the traditions, skills and good name of Scottish shipbuilding, and how their view of the world would be changed forever.

Through Townsend Theatre Productions’ trademark gritty drama, audience interaction and live music from the early 70s, community solidarity, collective resistance and workers’ control are seen to be inspired through the ‘Work-In,’ led by organised shop stewards, including Jimmy Reid and Jimmy Airlie, attracting huge national and international support on the way to a celebrated victory.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono sent a bunch of roses with message for the people of Glasgow; it read: “Power To The People!”

★★★★★ "A theatrical triumph" The Voice (full review here)

★★★★★ "If this play doesn't ignite a flame of pride in your heart for working-class struggle, check your pulse!" Morning Star (full review here)

★★★★  "superbly played and sung by young Scottish actors Janie Thomson and Heather Gourdie, and it’s backed by magnificent original animations and historic film footage" The Scotsman (read full review here)

All tickets include a £1 admin charge

Approx running time 1 hour 40 (including interval)

All purchases for show at the Alma now have a suggested donation to the theatre and inhouse company of £2.00

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The Alma Theatre has been serving the community for 25 years and has never been the recipient of ACE or other funding. Our theatre manager started maternity leave as the pandemic hit and as a result we missed all opportunities for additional arts council support. We have been offering reduced rates, preferential box office splits and extended promo support to aid the recovery from the past year and a half. Your help will enable us to continue bringing fantastic stories to your local theatre. 50% of your donation will go to the Alma Theatre, and 50% to our inhouse company, Schoolhouse Productions.