Many performers have attempted to construct an opera based around their style of music; Green Day with rock opera 'American Idiot', The Who with punk story 'Tommy', and now Rev Hammer has successfully made a folk opera. And an historical one at that.
Focusing around the leader of Seventeenth century radical reformer group the Levellers, the story of 'Freeborn' John Lilburne is performed with such style and in such an original way. And who better to help with this performance than bands that have chosen their names from parts of this historical figure's life; the Levellers, New Model Army and others.
First performed in a field in the South West in 2005, the show received standing ovations for three nights running at the Beautiful Days festival. Now on a short tour of the UK, and a sure sell out, this is a unique chance to here the story of such a relevant man. The characters are played by members of the bands, probably a first for many of them.
Whilst the bands New Model Army and the Levellers are content to perform only a few songs each (though Simon Friend appears once as the Cavalier, and Jon Sevink is a prominent member of the band), it is their tracks ('Burford Stomp', 'Lowlands Of Holland' (not the Dutch festival!) and 'Rumour and Rapture' which undoubtedly get the loudest applause of the evening. There are unforgettable turns from Steeleye Span's Maddy Prior as John's wife Elizabeth, and astounding vocals from Rose Kemp as Mary Overton. The staple band of the show are made up of members of New Model Army, new and old, and seeing them perform together is quite a rare thing.
Also making a very good impression is Rose Kemp, daughter of Maddy and Rick Kemp. Her strong vocals near on shake the small historical building that is Leeds City Varieties. Together with Maddy she performs 'Bonny Besses' and 'Every Woman's Pain'.
The songs vary throughout the night, with folk, jazz, soul, punk, rock and reggae all covered, depending on the performers style and the point in the story. Rev Hammer's role as the one and only Mr Lilburne gives him a chance to portray the emotion he has for this character, and express the time and effort he has put into this unique concept (which started thirteen years ago).
Not all history lessons and sad songs about exile and death, there are comedy turns from Stephen Burden as Bishop Bray, a man who likes to argue with members of the audience, who happen to also be strategically placed members of the English Civil War Society, dressed in all the historical gear and totally opposed to Bray's rantings. Apart from the songs and speeches there are words from Parliamentary soldier Nehemiah Wharton, played by Justin Sullivan, and rousing speeches from Oliver Cromwell, played by instrumentalist Harry S. Fulcher. Phil Johnstone also makes an appearance as the Executioner Will O' The People.
So with the backdrop featuring the face of John Lilburne gazing down at the show, what do I think he would have made of this play of his life? I'd be proud that people have not forgotten and although the fight for freedom is never really over, due to people like these performers and believers we can be reminded of John and his efforts.
article by: Danielle Millea
photos by: Danielle Millea
published: 19/02/2008 14:42
FUTURE GIGS
sorry, we currently have no gigs listed for this act.