Blackburn a Northern Soul

A  new film about the northern soul movement which has been filmed in part at Blackburn’s King George’s Hall has been launched.

Northern Soul, a film tracing the scene’s Lancashire roots, has been directed by Elaine Constantine and charts the rise of the genre in the 1970s, and features scenes shot at the Northgate venue.

It features actors including Steve Coogan, John Thomson, Ricky Tomlinson and Lisa Stansfield.

More than 800 people turned up at King George’s Hall in August 2012 to act as extras for the feature-length production.

It was selected as a film location because of its likeness to Wigan Casino, one of the top destinations for Northern Soul enthusiasts during its 1970s heyday. Filming also took place at Norden High School in Rishton.

Ms Constantine, from Bury, is a photographer by trade but formed a production company in 2009.

In an interview with the Lancashire Telegraph, she told readers:

“When Northern Soul exploded out of the North it was spellbinding to witness. Young lads, who never expressed themselves were suddenly dancing with passion to this new sound. As a teenager, dancing to this music gave me an overwhelming feeling of belonging and euphoria. It’s this same feeling of excitement and belonging to something special that I want to give to the film.”

She added:

“Northern Soul was phenomenally popular with British youths in the 1970s, taking the North of the country by storm. Northern Soul the film intends to appeal to those generations of fans while attracting a modern audience who can relate to youth culture from another era. If you were there, you’ll know. If you weren’t there, you’ll wish you had been.”

A 57-song soundtrack to accompany the film has also been released.

Set in 1974 and shot on location in Blackburn, Burnley, Bury and Bolton, Northern Soul is Elaine Constantine’s directorial film debut and comprises a British cast who share her fond remembrance.

Released on October 17th the film will have its first Blackburn viewing on Thursday 6th November.

Hosted by Blackburn Film Club, the film will be shown within the Town Centre bar ‘Barzooka’, Victoria St at 8 pm. This special screening will be followed by an DJ led evening of Northern Soul hits and an exhibition of Northern Soul photography.

Entry is free and for more information visit www.blackburnisopen.co.uk