Using the music of Take That as it’s foundations, the new musical The Band, written by Tim Firth is currently touring around the UK, already having broken records in terms of pre-sales. Telling the story of a group of five friends as both teenagers and 25 years later as women, all obsessed with “the band”, it aims to be a paean to feminine friendship. Speaking to the show’s two Welsh cast members, Alison Fitzjohn (Claire) and Rachel Lumberg (Plays Rachel), we asked how it feels to be part of a show that’s couched in resonance for Take That’s fans, depicting as it does the fervour of teenage fandom and its ability to bring back strong memories years down the line. How does it feel to be part of something like that? “It’s so special as the fans are so enthusiastic… I’ve always thought that speaking to our fans is so important” says Alison.
It certainly has proven itself to be important, as the show has been praised for telling realistic and positive stories of women all shapes and sizes. Alison and Rachel praised “incredible” writer Tim Firth on this point. “To want to write a story which deals with many deep, realistic issues is highly commendable. He has a fantastic way of wrapping serious issues with comedy, warmth and friendship” says Alison. How important is it to tell these stories? Rachel explains; “I think I can speak on behalf of all us when I say that, when accepting these roles, none of us truly realised the impact it would have on both ourselves or the women who have come to see the show so far.” She furthers “We are there for them and to tell their story and we hope we’ve done it, and them, justice.”
Alison adds “it makes people contemplate where they are in their own lives,” to the extent where some fans have even opened up to Alison about their issues. How does that feel? “I’m honoured that I can be here for people who feel they need me and privileged that I am part of a show that is helping.”
Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff. Tuesday 9th January – Saturday 20th January. Tickets: From £19.50. Info: 029 20636464 / www.wmc.org.uk
words JAKE YOUNG
