Reminiscent of Billy Elliot, ‘Last Train To Wigan’ tells the story of Mike Walker’s attempt to escape his mundane, working-class existence. However, this time the escapism comes in the form of Northern soul and the drug fuelled dancing at Wigan Casino nightclub in the 1970s. Narrated by a 40 year old man reflecting on how his life and relationships were affected by his obsession with Northern soul and whose decline parallels the deterioration of the Casino (which burnt down in the early 80s), the play has moments of real poignancy during which the writer’s passion as a survivor of Northern soul are conveyed. Whilst some performances are weaker, the actor playing the young Mike Walker successfully portrays the naivety of youth.
C soco, 14 – 20 Aug, 10.10pm (11.10pm), £6.50 – £9.50, fpp274.
tw rating 3/5
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Sections: by Katie Chapman - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 3/5 | Tags: C Venues, KTF Productions
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