Chloe St George, EdFringe Review
Inspired by the accounts of miners who lived through the 1984 Miners’ Strike, Undermined takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions in this controversial industrial struggle.
Meet young miner Dale, his best mate Billy, cheery Tony and the comic relief Jonny.
Fuelled by energetic and engaging storytelling, multi-rolling and direct address, Undermined offers up a message of unity and solidarity. Audiences are invited into the action and taken on the journey that Dale and his friends experienced in this divisive year. Whether you lived through the 80’s or not the piece delivers a powerful and compelling narrative that anyone can relate to.
2024 will be the 40th anniversary of the strike with organisations such as the Orgreave Truth & Justice campaign still fighting for justice for the police brutality endured by many miners.
Donald Stewart, Fringe Review
Amy Hanson, Broadway World
David Pollock, The Scotsman
Mayer Wakefield, Morning Star
Lydia Lakemoore, A Younger Theatre
'A dynamic and compelling performance from Danny Mellor as he tells an honest and devastating portrayal of Dale and his comrades in the depths of the miners’ strike. Its political heart is tragic as we draw parallels to the current Tory Government and question whether as a nation we will ever learn from the mistakes made. What has changed? '
‘When one actor, whose set comprises no more than a chair and a pint, can play a full cast without ever compromising his characters' humanity, lead you seamlessly through a story that burns with injustice without ever resorting to tub-thumping, and on the way make you laugh out loud and reduce you to tears by turns, you know you're experiencing something special.’
‘Undermined'is a powerfully thought provoking memory of the heartbreakingly sad and good humoured happiness throughout the 84/5 Miners Strike. In this one man performance Danny Mellor successfully holds the audiences attention with his captivating interpretation of events and relationships, using his dramatic skill to create tension and anticipation. A wonderful play about class, friendship, solidarity and state power. Not to be missed.’
‘This is an amazing show, that really makes an audience feel the full range of emotions, it is hilarious, heart-breaking and uplifting. Danny's performance is engaging and energetic throughout. He really makes you believe you know every character without out any change of costume, scenery or props, a truly brilliant performance. It was the best thing I saw during the three days I was at the Fringe.’
‘Undermined was so incredible it was worth missing my bus to tweet in the rain. The best one-man show I've seen!’
'I was at the Oxford show last night with my 14 year old. I have to say this was totally awesome. I see a lot of live shows but this was one of the best I've ever seen. My son agrees. He now wants to be an actor. Thank you for the laughter, pathos, sadness and reminders of such a tragedy of our time.’
If you'd like to know more about booking Undermined then please contact me directly.
If you've been to see the show I would LOVE your feedback, either written or video feedback to be shared with your permission.
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