Brassed Off!

‘Brassed Off' is based on the all time classic film of the same title. This has a place in many people's hearts, with the narrative being focused on the pit closures in the 1990's. Having such a heartfelt and prevalent story, many people can relate and understand the emotions that echo throughout this play. It would bring back all the memories from the eighty four strikes that affected so many people. The stories of different family lives and the differing affects also gives people a connection to the story.

Being sat in a full auditorium with a brass band in full view, in front of the stage gave us an idea of what was in store. From the start, the band had a superb powerful sound. It was also made up of local players, who had volunteered for show week and added an extra home touch to the production. They supported the cast well, along with covering many scene changes.

Using four of the band members on stage in various scenes helped to boost the numbers. This said it did still look very sparse on stage, with limited instruments seemingly playing full band arrangements. Also with the band being in full view, it's took away a little from the idea that the actors were actually playing. This was especially emphasised in Gloria's flugelhorn solo in ‘Concierto de Aranjuez’, as we could see the musician playing in front of the stage.

The production was well cast, with a large age range being present, from the children and youth performers to the adult members. They were all in suitable roles that made for believable relationships. The narrative was easily followed and the audience could feel the heartache and tension that is so prevalent. Not only due to the strike and closing of the pit, but between the families too. Emphasising how money issues and job problems can completely destroy a person.

The use of the stage and auditorium was well managed with the band actually marching round the auditorium and stopping in different areas. This depicted when the band was moving between villages on their competition day. The way that they all got gradually more drunk towards the end worked well, with a believable drunk persona being achieved by all. Also the use of the side apron for Phil’s kitchen helped to show the differing locations.

The final speech by band master Danny was just superb. The auditorium was deadly silent and everyone hung on his every word. This totally gripped the audience and was a fitting close to such a well done play. We would like to congratulate the company on achieving such good audience numbers and delivering on such a piece of theatre.

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