Brass band to take centre stage in theatre production of classic film
A brass band will be taking centre stage in a theatre production of a classic film which shares the area’s deep mining history.
Easington Colliery Band – along with the RMT Fishburn Brass Band – will be part of a production of Brassed Off, which runs from Tuesday,
September 6, to Saturday, September 24, at Durham’s Gala Theatre. Basedonthe1996film starring Ewan McGregor and Tara Fitzgerald, the theatre tells the story of a miner’s lifelong ambition to lead his local colliery band to the National Brass Band
Competition at the Royal Albert Hall, while his pit is earmarked for closure.
The music for some of the performances will be played by Easington Colliery Band, which was formed in 1915 by miners.
Jonathan Collins, Easington Colliery Band chairman, said: “We are all excited to be taking part in the stage production of Brassed Off. “The original film is a true British icon of cinema and close to the hearts of all brass banders, particularly those of us from colliery villages who went through the same experiences as the fictional
Grimley Colliery Band.” He added: “It will actually feel like living it all over again, but in a more enjoyable way.”
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We are excited to involve two local brass bands in our production of Brassed Off. “Wearepleasedtobeable to honour this history by having both bands play in the production.”
Tickets are available, from £20, at www.galadurham. co.uk/brassed-off or at the Gala Durham Box Office on 03000 266 600.