The Battle
During the nineties you were either a fan of Oasis or Blur, a right of passage if you will…..for me it was always Oasis, but does that still ring true after seeing brand new show The Battle, premiering at Birmingham REP?
Charting the story of the battle for a number one spot, writer John Niven has captured every essence of the music scene of this iconic era, the sibling rivalry between the Gallagher brothers and the band rivalry between ‘posh boys’ Blur and ‘Mancunian working class boys’ Oasis. This play is funny, captivating, entertaining and explores the stories of two legendary bands literally fighting to the death in order to secure that number one record. When the choice is between Country House (Blur) and Roll With It (Oasis) it will always be a close call and for any fan of either band you’ll know how it ended up!
The casting for the show is spot on. Special mention to George Usher as Liam Gallagher. Every mannerism of the larger than life music star was perfect, the swagger 100% nailed and the comic timing was superb. Complemented alongside Paddy Stafford as brother Noel, their on stage relationship was how you imagine it would be in real life during that period of their lives. Moments between the two have been beautifully crafted by Niven as we explore their tumultuous relationship whilst trying to win that coveted top spot. Oscar Lloyd as Damon Albarn, and Will Taylor as Graham Coxon of Blur played their characters with warmth. Their personas obviously much different than the Gallagher brothers, with a slightly calmer feel, however they also brought plenty of humour to their side of the story, another plus in the fantastic writing here by Niven.
There are many scenes of drug taking, and very adult language during the show, however this is so synonymous with the moment in time we are transported to, it felt like the story might have been lost slightly if those elements weren’t included.
Set design by Fly Davis was perfectly crafted to tell the story of the two bands essentially at war with each other. For each set transition in between scenes our eyes were drawn to the vast LED screen which captured moments in time, or took us to another location. There were also some well known DJ’s who featured documenting the battle as it was happening with a look quite obviously inspired by Beavis and Butthead, another staple of 90’s pop culture. Never have I seen Chris Evans or Jo Whiley in this light before, but again it brought such humour to the proceedings. Couple that with some absolute 90’s bangers such as Waterfalls by TLC, and Common People by Pulp, not forgetting a smattering of Take That, this show is every inch a ‘Rock n’ Roll Star’!
‘Girls and Boys’ alike will adore this love letter to an iconic moment in time in an era that is a fond memory of many, including me! ‘Some Might Say’ this is the best new show of 2026 with some brilliant writing, and fantastic performances. For me, I am still on Team Oasis and hope the Blur fans don’t ‘Look Back in Anger’. Which ever side you’re on, be on the side of new writing and make sure you get to Birmingham REP to join the chart topping party!
This show was reviewed at Birmingham REP where it runs until the 7th March 2026. Tickets available here: The Battle | Birmingham Rep
Review written by Emma Rowley
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Photo credit: Helen Murray
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