The Battle (2026 play)
| The Battle | |
|---|---|
| Written by | John Niven |
| Based on | The history of Oasis and Blur |
| Date premiered | 11 February 2026 |
| Place premiered | Birmingham Repertory Theatre |
| Setting | London, 1995 |
The Battle is a comedy play by John Niven based on the rivalry between English Britpop rock bands Oasis and Blur.
Production history
The play, directed by Matthew Dunster, made its world premiere at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre from 11 February to 7 March 2026, before transferring to Manchester Opera House from 17 to 21 March 2026.[1][2][3] It was originally announced to tour the UK however the tour was subsequently cancelled aside from the Birmingham and Manchester dates.[4] Mathew Horne was announced to play Britpop music executive Andy Ross.[5]
Cast and characters
| Character | Birmingham / Manchester[6] |
|---|---|
| 2026 | |
| Andy Ross | Mathew Horne |
| Alex | Brandon Bendell |
| Jo | Iona Champain |
| Justine | Harriet Cains |
| Guigsy | Billy Dunmore |
| Bonehead | Tommy Garside |
| Alan White | George Greenland |
| Damon | Oscar Lloyd |
| Meg | Louisa Lytton |
| Alan McGee | James Oates |
| Noel | Paddy Stafford |
| Graham | Will Taylor |
| Liam | George Usher |
References
- ^ Richards, Will (2025-04-29). "Blur vs Oasis chart battle to be subject of new play 'The Battle'". Rolling Stone UK. Retrieved 2025-04-29.
- ^ Wiegand, Chris (2025-04-29). "Britpop battle between Blur and Oasis revisited in 'punchy' new comedy". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 2025-04-29.
- ^ Bamigboye, Baz (2024-08-30). "Breaking Baz: Oasis' Bitter '90s Britpop Clash With Blur Retold In West End-Bound Show 'The Battle'". Deadline. Retrieved 2025-04-29.
- ^ Raven, Paul (2025-10-08). "Oasis vs. Blur comedy The Battle cancels tour but Birmingham & Manchester to go ahead [Updated] | West End Theatre". www.westendtheatre.com. Retrieved 2026-02-21.
- ^ "Mathew Horne to star in Oasis vs Blur Britpop comedy The Battle on tour". 2025-06-25. Retrieved 2025-06-27.
- ^ "Full cast announced for THE BATTLE". West End Best Friend. Retrieved 2026-02-21.