February 19th - 23rd 2002 - ublues peformed 8 shows with iTheatre's production of John Steinbeck's classic "Of Mice and Men" providing original live music, specially written for the play. Read the reviews below.

"What perhaps was the highlight of all other semiotic texts on stage was the use of music. The interesting inclusion of live music by the Universal Blues Band assisted in recreating the 'Down-South' atmosphere that is essential to the play. Their presence on the stage, performing these authentic tunes (songs accompanied by guitar and harmonica), helped exemplify the ways in which music is an integral aspect of performance because of its ability to create and localise context." Full review here

"One of the most refreshing elements of the play is the live music by the Universal Blues Band, who helped bring to life the down South atmosphere required in the play. The strains of the harmonica and guitar gave the play an added dimension, and this duo are so authentic that if they didn't perform the opening song on stage, you probably wouldn't believe that these two Asian guys are anything but black American..." Full review here

"The i-theatre company also deserves a round of praise for the way they handled Parsley’s material. The set was impressive, as was the lighting, and the musical score, played live by the local group Universal Blues Band, who also composed it, set the 1930’s hardscrabble tone of the tale beautifully."
http://www.qlrs.com/issues/apr2002/extramedia/lfpts.html

Full review here

A behind the scenes insight into the play with director Brian Seward and cast. Click here and follow the "Arts" link