The Epic Conflict Between Light & Dark

A Lifelong Quest – The Alliance Rock Band. By Robert Lavala

“Here Ye, Here Ye” shouts King James (Trocke) to an enthusiastic crowd gathered to watch the spectacle of electric guitars, keyboards and swordplay. The stage is set with a backdrop of stone, and the executioner stands with a double-edged ax ready to dispense... well, really this is totally a family-friendly show with all the trappings of a Medieval theater production. There are sword fights, archers at the ready, King and Queen, Prince and Princess all performing to the driving rock and roll of the talented band.

Each member of the cast, The Alliance, is dressed in period-authentic costume and the performance is well rehearsed. All characters from King to child dancer are on their mark and ready to give the crowd what they have come for: The epic battle between light and darkness. When asked about the deeper meaning behind the Alliance, King James said, “This is our crusade: To bring a positive message to everyone. We want to show that concepts such as honor, respect, loyalty, courageousness, and trust are virtues we can embody today.” He went on to say that “...there has always been a fight between light and darkness. We emphasize the fulfilling aspects of living in the light.”

James has been studying and playing guitar since his early teens, and his wife Coleen has loved music from a very young age being influenced by her father who was a professional musician. Coleen began playing keyboards with The Alliance in Japan in 2012. The current iteration of the band has been playing together for about a year, although watching them perform you would think it has been much longer. Each of the musicians has a polished and professional demeanor lending to the show's success. When asked about the acting side of their performance, James explained that there are three levels to the Alliance’s repertoire. The first stage is geared towards smaller venues that only want the band to perform. The second level is what they have brought to regional events such as the Bonners Ferry's Rusty Moose Tavern where the band performed while set to a backdrop of stone, props and a cast of costumed medieval characters. The third level is a full-blown theatrical performance with scenes and stage changes and is held in a more controlled environment. The last level would be akin to a large production of a Shakespeare play only set to rock and roll music. The venue would lend to the dramatic effect of the medieval rock show as lighting and sound play a vital role in portraying the intense conflict of the script.

When asked what the future holds for The Alliance Rock Band, James excitedly outlined what would certainly be a bright future for the band and its members. “We are hoping to be headliners both locally and nationally, and Las Vegas has a wonderful show at the Excalibur Hotel. I could see us playing for a venue like that,” he said. “Disney would be another place where this band would have a excellent opportunity to shine.”

You can find more information about the band at www.thealliancerockband.com. The website also features an online store where you can purchase CDs, t-shirts and other band memorabilia. James was also quick to mention that Alliance is always looking for more Lords and Ladies to join in the fun. Be sure to look for the next show, and who knows, after seeing the show you may join the quest.

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