Malcolm Muggeridge, former spy, editor of Punch and TV personality, is brought back to life thanks to former Brighton teacher-turned-actor Peter Stockbridge.
This one-man show celebrates the life of this acerbic journalist and commentator on public affairs, who was born 100 years ago this year.
The 75-minute show written by Peter, who lives in Patcham, and friend John Ford tells of key events in Muggeridge's life, including his one-time passion for the Soviet Union, his career as a spy with MI5, his writing and his great friendship with novelist Graham Greene.
Peter, whose acting career over the past few years has included roles in Peak Practice, EastEnders and other TV dramas as well as stage roles, has presented his show at Wheaton College, Chicago, where the Muggeridge archive is held, and the St Mugg Centenary Lunch at the Garrick Club in front of members of the Muggeridge family.
He says: "Muggeridge was a friend of George Orwell and made many suggestions to him about the draft of Animal Farm.
"But as Muggeridge used to say, 'Thank goodness he never used any of them.'
"Orwell, who also celebrates his centenary this year, became friends with him when they shared the same opinions about the Spanish Civil War.
"And Greene and Muggeridge were friends when both were spies during the war.
"Part of what I want to do with this show is to revive Muggeridge's reputation as a great writer.
"His journalism is exceptionally good but he was a lazy man and his one regret was that he never made it as a novelist."
Muggeridge was a long-time Sussex resident and died in Robertsbridge 13 years ago.
The show starts at 8pm. Call 01273 647100 for further details.
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