Featuring actor Ian Ruskin, From Wharf Rats to Lords of the Docks is a multi-media one-man play that tells the story of ILWU founding president Harry Bridges and his life’s work, through his passions, struggles and his wicked sense of humor. With many of his own words - from childhood stories of Australia to waterfront speeches during the 1934 strike to confessions of loss during his divorces and bouts of drinking - it brings Harry to life as a visionary but very human man. This 65-minute story was written under the watchful eye of leading scholars, ensuring that it is accurate as well as entertaining.
Ruskin has performed it over 300 times to 50,000 people at universities, colleges, theatres, union conventions, museums, libraries and citizens’ groups across America, in Canada, Hawai’i, England and Australia.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the life and times of a true icon!
This performance is made possible by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies at the University of Washington.