Allan Withington's theatrical production inspired by the life of fashion icon Coco Chanel has gained widespread critical acclaim following its premiere at the prestigious Festspillene Bergen.

'Nr 5 — A Story about Coco Chanel' received a rapturous reception at the Fana Kulturhus, with the MD leading Manger Musikklag in accompanying the narrative storyline led by a brace of mannequinesque Swiss bankers (above) and dancers from the Langhaugen Danselinje.

Vital collaboration

Played out in 17 snapshot episodes that mixed historical fact, urban myth and modern day allegory, it was an engrossing portrait of a very public woman, who ever full of contradictions, identified herself as something of a private invention.

Speaking on behalf of the band Sondre J. C. Kvamme told 4BR that the production was a vital collaborative step towards bringing brass bands to a new audience.

"It was a story that could only be brought to life by someone like Allan, who has the imagination and inventiveness to look beyond what others would see as limitations.

We were thrilled to have played our part and delighted at the response. It was so good to see such a diverse audience at the festival premiere."

350 children

Earlier in the week the production was showcased for 350 children, with Allan telling 4BR. "That was a great thrill. The eagerness and the enthusiasm shown in understanding the story of Coco Chanel was obvious and pleasing.

That tells you so much about how collaborating with different art forms can expand musical horizons — and it was further enhanced with the performance at the Fana Kulturhus. I'm delighted that the Festspillene Bergen, one of the leading arts festivals in Europe programmed and supported it.

I hope that the critical and popular interest will enable it to be featured at festivals of different kinds across the world."

It was a story that could only be brought to life by someone like Allan, who has the imagination and inventiveness to look beyond what others would see as limitationsManger Musikklag

Fuel desire

For Manger the acclaim has also fuelled a desire to explore other artistic boundaries with their MD, as Sondre added: "New music and new ideas are so important. Every year we arrange a contemporary music festival called 'BrassWind', with a specific focus on new music for both brass and wind bands.

We wish to challenge composers and musicians to explore the avenues that Allan has once again opened up as it strengthens the importance of brass banding in Norway and beyond."