13 Jul Colchester to celebrate inaugural ‘John Ball Day’
by Matthew Martino
This Saturday, 15 July 2017, will see a day-long celebration of John Ball, the 14th century radical priest who lived in Colchester and – most famously – was one of the leaders of the Peasants’ Revolt in 1381.
The inaugural ‘John Ball Day’ will see a range of events take place across the town, including the unveiling of a plaque in his honour by the Bishop of Colchester and the Labour peer and Essex University Chancellor, Shami Chakrabarti.
Prior to the unveiling of the plaque, which has been organised by the Colchester Civic Society, a recording of the new John Ball Motet by Lizzie Gutteridge will be played. Afterwards a choir will perform ‘Who will be the Lady’. This will be followed by Dorian Kelly, who will take the role of John Ball – whilst making a rallying speech to the people of Colchester.
The events, which are mostly free, include live music, reading, theatrical performances, as well as a forum to discuss the relevance of Ball and his teachings to today’s society.
John Ball Day events will commence on Saturday, 15 July 2017 at 11am and run run til 10.30pm!
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