Words and pics contributed by Torben Wood
Members of the IOG tribe descended on Londinium with the amassed hoards to see a thrilling performance of Boudica at the atmospheric and partly open air Globe Theatre.
Despite rail engineering works and problems on the roads, the nine-strong contingent assembled in time for the 2pm matinee performance and would have their reward, with the majority choosing to stand in the open air yard, fingertips from the action (for just £5!).
The performance follows Boudica’s life after the death of her husband, Prasutagus, King of the Iceni tribe of East Anglia. Having been abused and thrown out of her kingdom by the Roman occupiers, Boudica and her two daughters become fearsome warriors who build alliances with other kingdoms and lead an army to rout Roman strongholds at Camulodunum (Colchester), Londinium (London) and Verulamium (St Albans). Those alliances eventually crumble and result in defeat at Watling Road (now the A5) where Boudica, trapped alone in a forest, eats the berries of deadly nightshade to avoid capture.
A great story was enhanced by an excellent script and powerful performances that were punctuated by humour, dramatic fight scenes, blood, gore, an occasional song (including a rousing rendition of the Clash’s London calling) and some ad-lib involving the hoards in the yard.
The trip was rounded off with a scurry through Borough Market to another historic site, The National Trust-owned pub, The George. Dating back to 1676, the pub offered us much needed sustenance in a relaxing upstairs dining room and the opportunity to discuss the performance and what it was telling us about attitudes to immigration and integration!
Many thanks to Glenn Tobin for organising an excellent trip.