Marc Burrows. Photo by Alexis Dubus Photography
Award-winning comedian and writer Marc Burrows is set to bring his multimedia stage production The Britpop Show to Guildford this April, offering audiences a detailed and humorous exploration of one of the most defining eras in British music history.
Marking 30 years since the height of the Britpop phenomenon—and the high-profile chart rivalry between Blur and Oasis—the show examines the cultural, political and musical forces that shaped the 1990s. Blending stand-up comedy with commentary and archival material, Burrows revisits a period often regarded as a peak moment for UK guitar music.
Drawing on his experience as a music journalist, Burrows reflects on interviews with leading figures from the era while charting Britpop’s rapid rise and eventual decline. The production considers how the movement evolved from a wave of optimism and mainstream success into a period marked by commercial pressures and shifting cultural identity.
The show also explores the broader social context of the time, including the influence of the New Labour government and the approach of the millennium. It addresses how Britpop intersected with questions of class, national identity and the changing face of the music industry.
Speaking ahead of the Guildford performance, Burrows highlighted the town’s connection to the UK music scene. He noted its position within the commuter belt as well as the contribution of local institutions, including the University of Surrey, in training music professionals who went on to shape the industry.
Speaking ahead of the Guildford performance, Burrows highlighted the town’s connection to the UK music scene.
Directed by Dec Munro, The Britpop Show combines humour with critical reflection, aiming to appeal both to those who experienced the era firsthand and to newer audiences interested in its legacy. The production examines the lasting impact of Britpop on British culture and its continued influence on contemporary music.
Burrows is also known for his previous work The Magic of Terry Pratchett, which has toured extensively and received critical acclaim.
The Britpop Show will take place at the Bellerby Studio, G Live, Guildford, on Saturday 11 April 2026 at 8pm. Tickets are available from the website.
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