26 June 2024
As an American living in Hastings, I’m often told half-remembered versions of the story of The America Ground. I sort of know the story, but I’m fuzzy on the details. So when Bob Tipler, landlord at The Albion and now budding-playwright and songwriter, invited me to the final dress rehearsal for his America Ground Musical at the Observer, I jumped at the chance. Saves me reading the book!
And give me a story they did. There was romance, drama, trippy shit, somebody died.. The songs were at once West End worthy AND equally fit for the darkened corner of a country pub’s snug bar.
I wasn’t sure whether to join in singing, but everyone else seemed sure not too.. So I didn’t for the most part. But I wanted to.
And don’t get me started with the band. A live band providing a soundtrack to a theatre show? I’m probably nerding out, but this made the evening for me. The house band is Richard Moore and Caitlin Roberts of Lost Revellers alongside Hastings stalwart Rufus Stone and they are the tide that moves us through this unbelievable story.
With a few seasoned actors and singers among them, the cast shows the full colour and breadth of the Hastings arts scene. Alan Ashton in his first acting role, sets the scene and makes the rules as though he was ordained by God to do so. Danny Horn breathes fire, breaks hearts, and talks bloody sense. We were charmed and challenged to be better by Molly Hemsley. The transitions and twists and turns and storytelling is refreshing. The cast is actually made up of our friends and neighbours, but even if you didn’t know a soul on the stage, their characters would still be familiar and intriguing.
Importantly, throughout the show we were gifted easter eggs.. Obvious ones that shone a light on how the themes which affected our America Ground ancestors are basically the same as the ones so prescient today – a battle for resources with an entrenched elite and a seeming disregard by those in power for the well-being of the general public.
It’s early days yet, but this show is a can’t miss.
Oh and it’s sold out, (sorry!) but I believe this story will need telling a few more times. So, please make sure you see it next time round.
If you have tickets, you’re in for a treat. You’ll leave proud to be from Hastings, and it’s good fun.