Brassed Off

This play raises many emotions, particularly if you lived through the miners strike of the 1980's and the aftermath.  I lived in South Yorkshire during these times and seeing this production it raised a little anger in me, together with equal measures of laughter and tears.  The story revolves around Grimley Miners Brass Band in the 1990's, and the struggles of the players to cope with the proposed closure of the mine and financial hardship.

The Stape Silver Band from Pickering were wonderful from the beginning, to the final scene when they played Land of Hope and Glory, and were very cleverly used by the director Katrina Stead, this play is not easy to produce however Katrina did a great job, although just one minor criticism, I would have preferred a little less blacking out of the stage, although I appreciate there were many scene changes to cope with.

Ivan Hall played the leader of the Grimley Band, Danny, and he captured the essence of the role brilliantly, the final speech was outstanding and brought a tear to the eye.  A mention also for Rosie Hodgson, 13 years old, played the part of a boy, Shane, and was mervellous, definitely a star in the making, such confidence and acting ability for one so young.  Other notable performances, Phil played by Paul Burnett, Sandra, his wife played by Suzy Corrigan, together and separately captured the essence of the roles wonderfully.  Jordan Butler and Megan Harrison as Andy and Gloria gave very meaningful performances.  With all the other members of the cast playing their parts perfectly, bringing out the humour, pathos and steadfastness of a mining community.

A thoroughly enjoyable evening, very well done to all.

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