NHB Modern Plays- Our Friends in the North

A new stage adaptation of the BAFTA-winning BBC drama series, adapted by its original writer. A funny, tender and urgently political exploration of what it means to belong. Premiered at Newcastle Theatre Royal in 2026. 'These are hard times for the little people.' 1979. Newcastle. Britain stands on the threshold of a new political era, and the lives of four friends begin to drift in different directions. Nicky is drawn into parliamentary politics, Tosker and Mary’s relationship is in crisis, and Geordie’s becoming entangled in criminal activity. As the world around them shifts and the Thatcherite government reshapes communities and relationships across the country, the group must confront difficult choices about loyalty, identity and survival. Our Friends in the North: The Thatcher Years is a new work for the stage by Peter Flannery, adapted from his own BAFTA-winning BBC television series, a defining British drama and cultural landmark. The play is a funny, tender and urgently political exploration of what it means to belong, and how the past continues to shape the future. It was premiered at Newcastle Theatre Royal in 2026, as a co-production between Live Theatre, Eastlake Productions and Newcastle Theatre Royal, directed by Jack McNamara. ‘A modern classic… rich, beautifully drawn characters… the quality of the writing is immediately apparent’ Guardian on the original TV series