As I left Birmingham Repertory Theatre this evening, I felt like I had been a part of the rebellion, encompassed in the diverse musical legacy of the Midlands. This evening has given me a superb soundtrack of reggae, 2tone and punk which gave me some electrifying moments. This is the type of gig theatre that I love. Theatre and live music, all entwined together to give a deep, thought provoking experience.
The production of Rebel Music takes us back in time to the summer of 1976. I personally at this point was still a twinkle in my (then) 16 year old Mums eye, but this production made me feel as if I could have been there, I could feel the pain, the emotion, the fight. 1976 in the sweltering summer heat in amongst the economic turmoil. The National Front (Skinheads and Dr Martens) are marching through the streets, they want a white Britain. The culture war needs to be fought and Rock Against Racism is putting white punk bands and black reggae bands on the frontline, ready to win the war and defeat the National Front.
Lauren Foster (Denise) and Hannah Millward (Trudi) perform the role of two teenage music fans, fighting for the soul of working class Britain, in Birmingham. Using singing, dancing and acting to portray the racial tension of the late 1970s. Even enlightening me to Eric Claptons racist rant which started the whole Rock Against Racism movement. Every day is a school day, and today I learnt that one of my childhood legends was so utterly disgusting.
A story of culture, racial politics, social upheaval and turbulent teenage years.
Nathan Queeley-Dennis who plays Andrew (and Denise’ Dad) is phenomenal in his performance. Showcasing his talent in singing, performing and his amazing ability to hold the audience in the palm of his hand. This is an actor I could watch over and over again.
Everyone played their roles perfectly. The perfect Brummie accents, the energy on the stage and the way the three cast members just seemed to gel. This was a perfectly written, directed and performed play. Delivered as Middle Child Theatre do best, with music.
Yesterday, today and tomorrow are all sell out performances but do check online to see future dates. Rebel Music is at Birmingham Repertory Theatre until 5th October 2019 starting at only £10 each.
The tour then continues to intimate venues including West Bromwich Central Library, Touchbase Pears in Selly Oak, Halesowen Library, Dudley Library and a few more venues.
It is such a poignant play, delivered at a time when Britain is once again seeing racism on the rise.
A must see!
https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on/rebel-music.html
Disclaimer: We were invited along to see the show in return for an honest review. We loved the show. Photos by the talented Graeme Braidwood.