THE 1950s were brought to life in Durham's Market Place when a popular local band staged a free show.

At The Hop, from Coxhoe, have built a strong reputation with rock 'n roll fans up and down the country and will be bringing their energetic performance to the city's Gala Theatre on October 7.

The core of the band, the Stephenson brothers Ed and Rich, live the rock 'n roll lifestyle, dressing in 50s clothing and driving a 1957 Cadillac Coupe de Ville and 1955 Ford Fairlane Crown Victoria.

The seven-piece band is also a family affair as mum Val is the stage manager and dad Harry operates the mixing desk and sings a couple of numbers as Steve Eddy.

"We played at The Gala last year and it was a great night, a sell-out, and tickets are going well again,'' said Val.

The band has just recruited boogie woogie pianist Alex Bozic, and will be including medleys of songs by Louis Jordan and Bill Haley, and wartime swing, such as In the Mood and Pennsylvania 65000.

"It is music that was the roots of rock 'n'roll,'' said Val.

The show starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £13, concessions £10, and are available from the box office on 0191-332 4041.

Published: 24/09/2004