by Debra Hall for remotegoat on 29/05/10    * * * * *

Rifco Arts have really pulled something special from the bag with this production. I know the communication team were recently seeking help with publicity in and around the Warwick Arts Centre. Now, having seen the show, I really think they have something to shout from the rooftops about.

Where do I begin with this? This is totally unique in regard to anything I have experienced in theatre to date. It is an education, an exciting, funny, yet poignant journey through British Bhangra history. This is the finest example of a collaboration of many talents; the music and the singing and dancing, all aspects of theatre work in particular the writing of this wonderful theme and the quality of the directing. The set design is superb.

The concept has been three years in the making. The Asian cast has been expertly sourced and have come together to give wide appeal. There are many theatrical devices that have fused in this work, but it is the music and the songs and the wholehearted performance of this facet in particular that really makes this tick – well it is a musical I hear you say, best be assured then that it is one of the highest calibre.

I had not realised, somewhat naively, that Britain has had Bhangra for the past 30 years. Lyrics often suit best the Punjabi language rather than the English, so has not received the exposure that it perhaps should have. Yet the energy and rhythm captivates and would appeal to anyone with an ear for musical influences of a wider range. British Bhangra has grown and moved with the times. I am sure if it resonated in our British lives we would be all the more enriched and uplifted. This music as it stands today is totally ‘Made in Britain’ and we would not be forsaking identity if we opened up to it. At present we continue to listen to mainstream banality that has a schmaltzy connection with TV talent shows and as we all know this is having a dampening affect on the popular music in this country. Presentations such as this go some way to restoring faith in our creative industries.

I can keep piling on praise for the production forever. I am aware I could fill in more gaps about the story itself, but this is a UK tour underway now and bums should be on every seat – and for all the right reasons! For the ultimate in cultural and artistic experience and where satisfaction is guaranteed I urge that you take some quality time-out and go see this.

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