The Brave and The Rave

Illegal raving explodes against a disenfranchised generation of miners in Wasteland, set in 1994 as Grimethorpe Colliery ceased to exist. Get deep into a stage full of warehouse parties complete with a festival-worthy soundscore and all the lights, before being brought back to the grim realities of what was among the poorest regions in the country. Set in a period of huge political upheaval, expect vivid storytelling through top-notch dance, plus archive film footage, a brass band and lots of highs and lows. Wasteland is the follow-up to award-winning Coal, by contemporary dance boss, Gary Clarke, who is getting a serious rep for weaving together popular and political culture through movement. On Feb 27 and 28 at DanceXchange in Birmingham Hippodrome, have a look-see here. Then get your tickets (from £8, rising to £14) here.

Picture: Joe Armitage