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MELTING POT & BIRMINGHAM REP PRESENT

a new comedy about the battle that rocked the nation

written by

john niven

directed by

matthew dunster

WORLD PREMIEREPRIOR TO WEST END

London, 1995. Two of the country’s biggest bands release singles on the same day, commencing the battle of Britpop.

On one side, clean-cut, art-school intellectuals from the South. On the other: raw and unapologetic lads from the North. Rivalries flare, friendships fracture and at the centre of it all a mania that would define an era – were you Blur or Oasis?

From the chaos of the Brit Awards to the infamous chart war, The Battle is a wickedly funny dive into one of the greatest rivalries in rock history. Featuring legendary personalities and unforgettable clashes, it was never just about the music, but power, pride, and uncontrollable competitiveness. Expect filthy language and razor-sharp dialogue in this cut-throat new comedy that puts you right at the heart of the feuding, the fame, and the fallout.

Get ready to roll with it.

Starring Mathew Horne as the music industry executive who kicked off the race to No 1. between the two bands

11 Feb - 7 Mar

The Rep, Birmingham

17 - 21 Mar

Opera House, Manchester

The Battle has set and costume design by Fly Davis, lighting design by Jessica Hung Han Yun, sound design by Ian Dickinson, video design by Tal Rosner, fight direction by RC Annie and casting by Claire Bleasdale

based (mostly) on real events