Did you work for the Port of Felixstowe or at Felixstowe Docks during the 1980s?
Suffolk-based theatre-maker Karen Goddard and Director Ollie Harrington are looking for inspiration for a play entitled Don’t Knock the Dock.
The research and development of this brand new theatre piece is being funded by Suffolk County Council and Arts Council England. The project is also supported by Eastern Angles.
Karen Goddard says; “I grew up in Felixstowe in the 1970s and 80s and a lot of people I knew went to work at the Dock.”
“Back then, working down the Dock was the default position for a lot of boys. If we had lived in a coal-mining area, they would probably have gone down the mines.”
“What we want is a cross-section of voices including crane drivers, canteen workers, cleaners and customs officers.”
The team behind Don’t Knock the Dock are keen to shine a light on the lives and experiences of these employees. Although it was often a dangerous and physically demanding place to work, the overriding sentiment seems to be a strong sense of camaraderie. Many people met their partners and life-long friends whilst working at the Dock.
If you, or someone you know, would like to share a story about working at Felixstowe Dock you can contact the team by emailing: DontKnockTheDock@outlook.com
Two script-readings will take place on Friday 26th September 2025 at Trimley Memorial Hall and the New Wolsey Theatre – book your free tickets here.