A touch of brass at Derby Theatre

Derby Theatre is also celebrating 40 years with a special gala performance of Brassed Off.

2015 marks 40 years since Derby Theatre (formerly Derby Playhouse) was opened on Theatre Walk in the Eagle Centre by the 11th Duke of Devonshire.

To mark four decades of world class theatre, fantastic audiences and innovative community engagement, Derby Theatre will present a Gala Performance of their big autumn production, on Tuesday, September 22.

This is an fantastic opportunity for Derby Theatre audiences to celebrate this occasion and to see a knockout production.

The black tie/formal weargala event will include: a glass of bubbly on arrival, canapés, the performance plus post-show drink, food and entertainment, all for £40 per person.

Gary Johnson, general manager at Derby Theatre said: “We are very excited about the gala evening and celebrating the 40th anniversary.

“Brassed Off is the perfect show to celebrate the occasion – a big-hearted, rousing production full of heart and humour, which we are confident will be a huge hit.

“Every penny from the event will go towards our work within the community.

“This special gala event will celebrate 40 years of the Theatre being at its current site and the arts thriving within our city, and we sincerely hope our audiences will want to come and celebrate this landmark occasion with us.”

It’s 1992 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 and is made 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 fromBelper-based Derwent Brass.

Tickets are £40 per person for the Gala Performance – and for standard performances: £9.50 - £25.50.

Group and school rates are 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

During this celebratory season audiences and visitors to the theatre will also be able to view an exhibition of archive materials, including photographs from past productions.

Derby Theatre will also invite their supporters to take part in various discussions and events.

See the website for more details.