BRASSED OFF AT THE ADC
There really is nothing like a Brass Band to brighten everything up. In this cracking version of Brassed Off, the cast of convincing characters make for a moving account of the struggles of a community who face annihilation. Yet their devotion to their hundred years’ old band survives. The magnificent brass band - live on stage - is such a treat, and so brilliantly blended into the action, the production turns from intriguing to delightful.
It’s 1994 and the last wave of pit closures now ideologically driven by a confident Margaret Thatcher threaten thousands of workers. Andy, a diffident thoughtful young miner played by Davey Chataway explains the appeal of his job ’good wages, regular work,’ with his mates around him. He falls for Gloria, Gabrielle Kuniawan, an idealistic young graduate, the daughter of a local hero convinced her report will save the mine , the tension and the suffering mount. Who knew these families survived on stale bread and debt as Sandra played brilliantly by Sophia Orr explains to her 8 year old Shane ( a heart -warming performance from Sophia O’ Callagha) Sandra is in a loving relationship, cheerful and absorbed with her new baby. But the pressure of eking out a living begins to grind her down – until she leaves home with her children. Adam Page as Phil her husband, loses everything house, wife, kids, and is left with his trombone and fidelity to the band. His father Jim the bandleader, Zach Foster, emerges slowly in this long drama to the apex of his passion for music and his dedication to the miners.
First seen in film, Brassed Off was a surefire winner. Yet this production shows what magic theatre can make of the same material. We are close up to the anguish and the humour of life in a pit village, but with a whisk of the props, it’s the Albert Hall and we applaud the thrilling performance.
On this first night the scene changes were undeniably slow, but best to incorporate these longeurs into an appreciation of the entire experience. This is not a play in a hurry. Nor should it be. It is unique. The brass band is amazing – enhances the action brilliantly. Everyone wept during Danny Boy, But surely the highpoint of the play came when Harry, Bede Doe conducts the Band in a stirring version of William Tell, his arms flayling he was a a manic Jarvis Cocker emblem of triumph.
The show runs through Saturday 25th October, 7.45 pm
