Derwent Brass to perform in play

The Belper-based brass band Derwent Brass is to feature in the forthcoming production of Brassed Off at Derby Theatre.

Derwent Brass, one of the most successful brass bands in the region, will be an integral part of their big production for the autumn, a stage adaptation by Paul Allen of Mark Herman’s smash-hit

film.

Members of Derwent Brass will perform during each performance of the show’s run at Derby Theatre, from Friday, September 18, until Saturday, October 10.

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Without giving too much away, the band’s involvement and professional performing skills, in playing a wide range of brass instruments, will be a thrilling and incredibly moving part of the

production.

The band’s live playing will complement the acting and this much-loved story beautifully, the combination of which will surely go down a storm with audiences.

Derwent Brass is one of the recent success stories in East Midlands brass banding. Formed in 1992 with the aim of producing a quality brass band in Derby, Derwent Brass very quickly established itself as a most popular concert attraction.

With a wide reaching repertoire, the band upholds this reputation and is constantly in demand to perform at various venues throughout this region, across the UK and occasionally venturing abroad.

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Sarah Brigham, artistic director at Derby Theatre and director of Brassed Off, said: “I am delighted that Derwent Brass will perform as part of all Brassed Off performances and that they will play an

absolutely key part of the production.

“I have heard so many great things about the band and I know how incredibly popular they are, with audiences of all ages. I was really impressed when I saw their performance, along with British

Sea Power, of Sea of Brass at the theatre a few weeks ago. Their involvement, skills and expertise will be a huge asset to the success of the production and we all look forward to working alongside them and welcoming them to Derby Theatre.”

Keith Leonard, musical director at Derwent Brass, said: “Derwent Brass are thrilled to be involved with this production. Brassed Off has become something of a much-loved British institution, and we are very much looking forward to working with Derby Theatre and being part of the show.”

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It’s 1994 and the miners are striking as the local colliery faces closure. Danny’s dreams of leading the pit’s brass band to victory at a national competition at the Albert Hall seem remote as the men choose between picket lines and redundancy packages. But when flugelhorn-playing Gloria returns to her home town the band get their oompah back and romance is rekindled with her childhood sweetheart Andy.

However, when the real reason for Gloria’s return is revealed and the pressures of the strike get too much for the

band members, things start to fall out of tune...

Brassed Off is a much-loved tale, full of heart and humour is made in Derby by the team who brought you Kes, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, and Solace of the Road. Balancing grit and wit with a poignant look at recent history, the performance also features live music from local brass bands to deliver a thrilling night at the theatre.

Tickets are £9.50 - £25.50. Group and school rates available, 16-25 year olds £5 on Friday evenings. For more information and to book tickets call the box office on 01332 593939 or online at www.derbytheatre.co.uk

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