Reviewed by Matthew Broadley-Forrest

The superb collaboration between the Octagon Theatre and Theatre by the Lake, has once again produced something special with their brilliant production of writer/director Mark Herman’s 1996 film Brassed Off.

First adapted for the stage in 1998 by Paul Allen, the production under the direction of Liz Stevenson is embarking on a three week run at the Octagon, and I’m pleased to say it more than delivers.

Set during the mid 1990’s 10 years after the brutal miners strikes, the fictional pit town of Grimley, is one of the last coal towns left standing. The pit is the life blood of the community, and still turns a huge profit, however with the threat of closure on the horizon and talk of redundancy, how will this impact not just the workforce but their loved ones?

Told through the recollections of Shane (Andrew Turner), the son of pit worker Phil (Joey Hickman). Phil and his family have been hit hardest mainly through his involvement in the strike of 1984. He, along with wife Sandra and their four children (Daneka Etchells), are struggling to keep their heads above water.

In addition to Phil, there are fellow miners, Jim (Greg Patmore) and Harry (Matt Ian Kelly) best mates and a formidable double act, equally matched by Rita (Maxine Finch) and Vera (Joanna Holden) their wives, with Rita tirelessly campaigning to save the pit, whilst Vera has dreams and ambitions for the nicer things in life. Then there is Andy (Barney Taylor), a bit of a jack-the-lad, who has known nothing else other than working down the mine and living in the town of his birth. Andy’s world is turned upside down with the arrival of Gloria (Hannah Woodward), a former childhood sweetheart, who has returned home to do some good for her community.

Finally there is Phil’s father, Danny (Russell Richardson), a retired pitman, and Grimley’s colliery brass band leader, a no nonsense proud man who is laser focused on restoring some pride to the community though his band.

There is so much to admire from this production, especially the strong, super talented ensemble cast. The production benefits from casting superb actors who can also play a bit, alongside musicians who can act as well. For the numerous brass arrangements the production has enlisted the help of two local bands: Eagley Band and Windgates Band who perform some rousing pieces including Florentiner March and a beautiful rendition of Danny Boy (I’m not ashamed to say left me with a bit of grit in my eye).

There are fine performances throughout, Joey Hickman as Phil, gives a desperate, yet measured turn as Phil. Barney Taylor and Hannah Woodward give spirited turns as young lovers, Andy and Gloria. The pairing of Greg Patmore and Matt Ian Kelly is a real plus point of the show, the pair have great chemistry and comedic timing. The same can also be said of Maxine Finch and Jonna Holden. However it’s Russell Richardson’s turn as Danny which will live long in the memory: the passionate tirade against the Tory Party and destruction of communities is a thing of beauty.

Paul Allen’s gritty script doesn’t pull its punches, it is filled with heartbreak and humour. In the blink of an eye, it shifts from despair to hope and reliance, anchored by a much needed dose of gallows humour.

Rather sadly some of the themes in Brassed Off, are still as prevalent now as they were 30 years ago, yet hope as ever remains. With a dynamite script, a cast of actors and musicians at the top of their game, this an essential night out to the theatre. Unmissable.

Brassed Off is at the Octagon Theatre till Saturday 28th September, tickets are available here.