2025 marks a century since the passing of Joseph Rowntree (1836–1925), the York-based businessman, radical social reformer, and philanthropist whose ideas continue to shape society today. Organised by The Rowntree Society, centenary celebrations have been going on across the city to raise awareness of his remarkable life and legacy – and this summer York Theatre Royal’s community production His Last Report will focus on the work of his son, social reformer, Seebohm Rowntree.
Rowntree’s became world-famous for products like Fruit Pastilles, KitKat, and Smarties, employing over 7,000 people in York by 1923. Joseph Rowntree’s Quaker values shaped him as a pioneering employer who championed workers’ welfare. His success in business enabled him to improve housing, education, and social welfare for those in need.
We caught up with Mark Payton who is playing Joseph Rowntree in the York Theatre Royal production to find out more about this very special show and how it celebrates the Rowntree legacy in unexpected ways.
Mark, who was a professional actor for many years, retired from the world of acting almost two decades ago to focus on a career in teaching but has recently made a return to the stage with performances in York Shakespeare Project productions. His Last Report will mark his return to the York Theatre Royal Main House stage where he will play Joseph Rowntree alongside a community cast of over 100 people.
So what does it mean to Mark to be a part of a community production which focuses on the Rowntree legacy? He explains, “I’ve lived in York for 30 years now and as a resident here you can’t fail to be aware of the impact the Rowntree’s have had on all our lives. From that distinctive smell of chocolate in the air, to the swimming pool and the theatre, so many of us still benefit from the Rowntree legacy in the city.
“The play focuses on Seebohm and his work with the poverty reports, but there are some interesting tensions explored between Seebohm and his father around how philanthropy should and could develop. Seebohm is more of a risk-taker than his father and the scenes between him and Joseph are really fascinating in that sense to see how that tension plays out.
“Getting involved in a community show like this is just so special and when the opportunity came up I was really excited by the idea of playing this role. It also helps that Joseph and I look very similar! I have a real fondness for York Theatre Royal and I can’t wait to perform on the stage and to just be part of that backstage buzz alongside so many other volunteers.”
On how the rehearsal process has gone so far, Mark comments: “The rehearsal room has such a warm, friendly atmosphere and it’s been great fun! I’ve loved being directed by Paul [Birch] and Juliet [Forster] who ensure all the cast are supported whilst also challenging and stretching us to get the very best performance from us.”
Finally, we asked Mark why he thinks people should come and see the show?
“The play is so relevant for now and has a lot to say about society today. People may also come away learning something new about the Rowntrees and their impact on York! It will definitely get people thinking whilst also being (I hope!) a very entertaining and fun night out.”
Don’t miss your chance to see Mark as Joseph Rowntree this summer in His Last Report at York Theatre Royal from 19 Jul to 03 Aug.
For the wider Joseph Rowntree Centenary celebrations, The Rowntree Society are inviting individuals, organisations, and communities to host events, share stories, or engage in activities that reflect Joseph Rowntree’s values, contribution and legacies. This can be a talk, workshop, community project, exhibition or anything else you can think of!
Some of the highlights so far this year have included the Remembering Rowntree event where people got the opportunity to learn about Joseph’s funeral, York Chocolate Festival, coffee mornings, community workshops and public talks about Rowntree histories. Coming up, in addition to York Theatre Royal’s production of His Last Report activities also include the 240th anniversary of The Mount School (where Joseph was a member of the school committee), the opportunity to visit Rowntree buildings usually closed to the public and so much more.
To find out more, get involved or see upcoming events, visit the Joseph Rowntree Centenary website.
