Billy's first theatre role

Essex singer and activist Billy Bragg is to make his first foray into theatre this spring.

The "bard of Barking" has written songs for the production which is part play, part gig and part art installation.

Written by Mick Gordon, the play looks at British identity through the eyes of three generations of a white working class community and was inspired by Bragg's book, The Progressive Patriot.

"I have never done anything like this before, mixing songs with theatre is a totally new experience for me," said Bragg.

The play will be staged at the Wellcome Collection, London from April 19 to May 12.

Meanwhile, Bragg continues his campaign against bankers' bonuses and is threatening not to pay his taxes in protest against the rewards being given out by the Royal Bank of Scotland.