Up 'n' Under

Synopsis

The Cobbler's Arms - an unstoppable force in amateur rugby league! These guys mean business; with terrifying tactics and frightening physiques, they're indestructible and they know it! Or are they? Arthur Hoyle doesn't think so... and he'll stake his house on that! An impulsive bet with local Mr Big, Reg Welsh, says that Arthur can train any team to crucify the Cobblers. So, armed with burning ambition, he sets about kicking his beer swilling motley crew into shape. Can they make the impossible possible? Can they conquer the Cobblers? This play contains some strong language and is not suitable for children.

Our Review:

12 October 2009

Celebrating its 25th anniversary with its first appearance in the new Hull Truck Theatre, Up ’n’ Under is more than just a classic of regional theatre, one that stormed London and New York. It’s also the prototype for many plays where a set of hopeless non-achievers takes on the best with remarkable success. Interesting, then, to read in the programme that John Godber’s own inspiration was the film Rocky.

Up ’n’ Under remains probably the best of Hull Truck’s urban fairy-tales. Characterisation and dialogue (with some updating for this production) are sharp and fresh. The cultural references range from Shakespeare to Chariots of Fire to Rocky, cleverly using the mock-heroic to win over doubters without destroying the sentimental soft centre. Above all, the climax, the rugby match where the worst amateur team in Yorkshire takes on the best, is a brilliant piece of theatre, with six actors effecting instant changes of stance and (it seems) physi...

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