The Reformers of Peterloo: Tameside band rocks the fight for social justice with powerful new show

Experience the sound of revolution as Tameside’s very own The Reformers of Peterloo bring history roaring to life through their electrifying new show, Peterloo in Rock — a gripping musical tribute to the legacy of the Peterloo Massacre and the ongoing struggle for justice.

Blending progressive folk rock with classic rock, indie, and blues, this local collective of seasoned musicians is using their talents to tell a story that still resonates in today's social and political climate. Their high-impact show will premiere on August 16^th, the anniversary of the Peterloo Massacre, at Manchester’s acclaimed 53two theatre, with a local performance following on October 24th at Tameside’s own Guide Bridge Theatre.

The performance captures key moments in British reform history, from the 1832 Reform Act to universal suffrage campaigns, while drawing powerful parallels to current issues of poverty, inequality, and political complacency.

To amplify its impact, the production features stunning visuals by Polyp, the renowned political graphic novelist behind Peterloo: Witnesses to a Massacre. These images transform the stage into a powerful, immersive experience, fusing sight, sound, and story into an emotional and unmissable performance.

The Reformers of Peterloo are no ordinary band. Each member brings decades of musical experience, diverse influences, and a passion for social change.

• Robert Carter, has fronted several UK and US bands and currently performs with Parkbridge, whose 2024 album Rivets for the Eiffel Tower drew critical praise.
• Steve Andrews, multi-instrumentalist and actor, brings experience from the folk scene to the punk circuit, including time as assistant tour manager to Pete Shelley of Buzzcocks fame.
• John Bradley, a mandolinist and guitarist, also performs with The Dollar Bombers and is a regular contributor to the We Shall Overcome campaign.
• Mary Moden, a powerful voice in folk-punk and LGBTQ+ advocacy, delivers both raw emotion and biting wit in her songwriting.
• Julian Homer, a Stockport-based guitar legend known for his songs about local life, injects his storytelling flair and regional pride into the music.
• Mat Horton, whose drumming ranges from punk to dream pop, brings dynamic rhythm and energy.
• Ste Critchley, a keyboardist and multimedia artist, ties it all together with atmospheric soundscapes and rich textures drawn from decades of musical exploration.

While the show honours a moment of local history, its themes, inequality, disempowerment, and the fight for a fairer society, strike a global chord. And the band is putting their values into action: a portion of any profits will be donated to We Shall Overcome, the grassroots movement of musicians raising money for those facing homelessness and poverty.

Peterloo in Rock is a chance to witness the past and present collide through an unforgettable soundtrack and visuals, one that reminds us all of the unfinished work of justice.

Catch The Reformers of Peterloo at:

• 53two Theatre, Manchester – Friday, August 16th
  Tickets: Book Here
• Guide Bridge Theatre, Tameside – Thursday, October 24th
  Tickets: Book Here

For updates and more info: Facebook.com/reformersofpeterloo