Co-producers Theatre by the Lake, Octagon Theatre Bolton and Stephen Joseph Theatre have announced the cast for the northern classic, Brassed Off, based on the popular 1996 film. This new production will be directed by Theatre by the Lake’s artistic director, Liz Stevenson.
The co-production will open at Theatre by the Lake from Fri 28 June – Sat 27 July before visiting Stephen Joseph Theatre from 2 – 31 August and Octagon Theatre Bolton from Thu 5 – Sat 28 September.
It’s 1994 and the tight-knit mining community of Grimley, Yorkshire, are fighting to keep their colliery open. Meanwhile, revered band leader Danny battles to keep his dispirited band of brass-playing miners together with the dream of qualifying for the National Championships at London’s Albert Hall.
When the uncertainty around the pit’s future becomes too much for the band members, loyalty is tested, pressure mounts and the community begins to break apart. With their whole way of life at stake, can the band find a way to play on?
A talented company of 10 actors including several actor-musicians make up the cast for this new production full of grit, heart and northern humour.
Liz said: “It is a timely moment to present this iconic play, 30 years after the 1984 miners strike. Our production looks back on the battles of this close-knit mining community, asking, what has changed? And what does this play mean to us today?”
The theatre is working with the Penrith Town Band, to weave live brass music throughout the show to deliver a moving theatrical experience that celebrates the resilience of communities and the transformative power of music.
Stagey Lady 