In the early days of pirate radio, stations like Juice FM and Mission FM were rivalling the likes of the BBC, meeting the needs of an audience that, at the turn of the century, mainstream radio was not. Through their Fringe debut Blaze FM, London theatre company The Big House offer a moving insight into a subculture that has been responsible for creating and sustaining some of the country’s best and boldest drill and grime pioneers, while also critiquing the moral panic accentuated by the police, which renders such predominantly Black artforms as problematic.
Projections at the back contextualise the action on stage against significant moments in UK history, including the 7/7 London bombings and the Brexit referendum. It’s an effective and visually impactful technique that highlights the contrast between how mainstream news is presented by the media and then dissected by the masses. Years pass by but Blaze FM remains a steadfast presence in the community, a constant for listeners in an ever-changing landscape.
As the timeline moves along at pace, the story occasionally feels disjointed, with too little time spent dissecting the criminalisation of drill, a subject matter that continues to plague artists in the scene. Still, the cast of Blaze FM is outstanding in their performances of genres from grime and drill to garage, creating a vibrant party atmosphere amongst grave discussions of topics like gentrification and the villainous actions of the Home Office. Andrew Brown is hugely affecting as Hughbert, the rebellious and stubborn founder and leader of Blaze FM, and father to Aisha and Alpha, his passion for the cause conspicuous. Thanks to a particularly stirring scene, audiences will have Peter Tosh’s ‘Oh Bumbo Klaat’ ringing in their ears for days after the show.
Blaze FM, Pleasance Courtyard, until 25 Aug (not 13, 20), 4.45pm