The first artistic collaboration inspired by Brass Band England's 'Elevate' initiative which saw Freckleton Band link up with theatre director Jamie Sophia Fletcher for what was described as "a celebration of brass bands, drag cabaret and queer culture", has been hailed as a 'flipping marvellous' success.
Recently held at the Fifth Floor venue at Blackpool Tower, it saw the North West band joined by drag artists Len Blanco and Donna Trump for a triumphant night of big brass numbers, comedy skits and glamour.
There was laughter, audience participation, great musical arrangements and playing, all in celebration of two of the nation's favourite cultural phenomenon.
During her pre-show speech, Jamie said: "Growing up in the 80's and 90's there were a few things that undoubtedly shaped who I am today, and one of those is playing in a brass band."
Celebration
That celebration was expressed in the programme, which blended the traditional with the contemporary.
The 'William Tell' overture, 'The Contestor' march and part of Cyril Jenkins' 'Life Divine', were inventively integrated with Queen's iconic 'I Want to Break Free' performed by Len Blanco, 'Out There from Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame' by Donna Trump, and a show-stopping Shirley Bassey finale of 'This Is My Life'.
It proved to be a huge hit with the audience, with one later saying: "We had a flippin' marvellous time! We love this project."
It proved to be a huge hit with the audience, with one later saying: "We had a flippin' marvellous time! We love this project"audience member
Vibrant showcase
The reviews have also been great too with Liv Appleton of the brass band blog, 'It's Not a Trumpet' writing that it had been, "a vibrant showcase of the beauty that can be created when diversity and inclusion is embraced."
'Kinky Toots' was the result of the hard work and collaborative spirit of a creative team and their six months of dedication from the pairing of director Jamie Sophia Fletcher and BBE member band Freckleton Band, led by MD Adam Taylor, and two incredible drag artists in Len Blanco and Donna Trump.
