I'M not exaggerating by any means when I say that I have just had one of the most enjoyable evenings out in Basingstoke….and on a Monday night too!

If, like me and a number of others, you attended the opening night’s performance of Tales from the Terraces then I am sure you’ll agree that it was something pretty special.

The play, an alternative look at the beautiful game, is the brainchild of local playwright Mark Bromley. He wrote and directed the play alongside Nathan Duncombe who was making his debut as producer. 

I made my way upstairs along with many others for an evening that would turn out to be humorous, dark, emotional and thoroughly entertaining. The cast of Daniel O’Leary, Tracey Brown and Daren Luke Kelly did a sterling job in their roles and had the full attention of the audience from the first line to the last.

Obviously I don’t want to give the story away but what I will say is that the play is split in to two halves just like the beautiful game itself.

The first half is set in a pub with Tracey in the main role. She was very good, connecting with the audience as she told of her passion for her beloved Arsenal and the 1979 FA Cup Final. She made us laugh one minute and then the next she’d be pouring her heart out about her past. It was a twist that nobody expected and it worked well.

The second half of the performance is set on a train with Daniel O’Leary playing the role of Malcolm, a West Ham fan who meets one of the West Ham players, played by Daren Luke Kelly.

This second half of the performance had the audience crying with laughter and there’s even an appearance by the play's creator, Mark Bromley who is hilarious. Everyone involved did a brilliant job on this debut night and I would definitely recommend Tales from the Terraces to anyone that wants a really entertaining night out.

Mark and the whole production team and cast should be proud of what they have created. Things like this should be and need to be supported. 

Don't miss the chance to see this. 

The play is being staged at The White Hart, London Road in Basingstoke until Friday, May 22. Performances begin at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £10.

-Gary Choppen