THE Ragged Trousered Philanthropist is Tony Benn’s favourite novel and he won’t be alone in his choice, as Robert Tressell’s socialist staple resonates down the years.

So much so that even in Tory-toff Harrogate – if your reviewer may reach for a risible stereotype – every performance has sold out this week.

Louise Townsend’s touring production is on its second run, back on the road after a cast change that sees Richard Stone filling Fine Time Fontayne’s shoes alongside Neil Gore.

Ironically for a show that raises the flag for workers’ rights and fair pay, and is backed by a multitude of unions, writer Stephen Lowe has down-sized it to a two-hander, Gore and Stone doing the work more usually distributed to at least seven men.

In the close-up confines of the Harrogate Theatre Studio they quickly bond with the audience when relating the breakneck-paced tale of a group of painters and decorators – the philanthropists of the title – struggling for survival in a stagnating, exploitative Edwardian England, as they renovate Mayor Sweater’s house in exchange for meagre wages.

Working their proverbials off, Gore plays six roles and almost as many instruments, while new recruit Stone takes on five roles – and they share another part between them, as well as handling all the scenery changes and even the (somewhat erratic) lighting.

Theatrical yet earthy, everything is done at the drop of a hat or, more accurately a change of head gear or a switch of accent, in a rousing, Weimar-style blast of storytelling, physical comedy, hearty folk songs and audience participation. Tell Tony he should see it.

The Ragged Trousered Philanthropist, Townsend Productions, Harrogate Theatre Studio, today, 7.30pm, and tomorrow, 2.45pm and 7.30pm, sold out. On tour until May 13, playing Leeds Carriageworks, April 5, 7.30pm, 0113 224 3801; Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough, May 8, 7.45pm and May 9, 1.45pm and 7.45pm, 01723 370541; Hull Truck Theatre, May 14, 7.45pm, 01482 323638.