A new play by Neil Gore

The Story of Clem Beckett, Sportsman and Fight

SPAIN 1936: ‘When Fascism clutched at the throat of the Spanish people threatening a foul tyranny and the menace of war in Europe, Clem felt at once that his place was in freedom’s rank’

Clem ‘Dare Devil’ Beckett joined the International Brigades and not for nothing did he earn the name, ‘Dare Devil’. He was loved by the masses for his great daring, courage and skill on the Speedway track. He rode as no one else had ever ridden. He was a man of the people, and the same fight he used against money-sharks and corruption in his sport, he used to defend democracy against Franco’s rising fascist army.

Clem met his death at the Battle of Jarama after he and his comrades including his friend, writer and novelist Christopher Caudwell, held their posts against overwhelming odds. They remained at their post to cover a temporary retreat, but were never seen alive again.

Following the success of ‘The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists’, ‘We Will Be Free!’ and ‘United We Stand’, Townsend Productions’ new play, ‘Dare Devil Rides To Jarama’, commemorates and celebrates the contribution and sacrifice of the volunteer International Brigades on the 80th anniversary of their creation. Through stirring song and poetry and compelling movement and imagery the play captures the raw passion and emotion generated by the Spanish Civil War.