UK Inequality Worsens: 'Our Friends in the North' Writer Reacts

Peter Flannery, the acclaimed writer of the 1990s BBC drama 'Our Friends in the North,' has adapted two episodes for a new stage production. Flannery, originally from Jarrow, expressed surprise that the themes of corruption and poverty he explored in the North East have not faded but have instead intensified. He noted that he had hoped for improvements in addressing inequality, corruption, greed, and deprivation in the UK over the past three decades.

The new stage play, titled 'Our Friends in the North - The Thatcher Years,' opens at Newcastle's Theatre Royal on October 15 and covers the period from 1979 to 1984. It focuses on the impact of these years on the characters Nicky, Mary, Geordie, and Tosker, as well as the wider North East region. While acknowledging the grimness of the subject matter, Flannery emphasized that the drama also offers a message of hope, highlighting the resilience of people through enduring love and friendship.

The original TV series famously launched the careers of Daniel Craig, Christopher Eccleston, Gina McKee, and Mark Strong. The new stage adaptation features a cast of actors who also hope for significant career advancements. Ryan Nolan, portraying Nicky Hutchinson, noted the strong public interest in the production, while Scott Turnbull, playing Geordie, humorously dismissed expectations of following Daniel Craig's trajectory. The cast unanimously believes the play will appeal to both long-time fans and new audiences, as the depicted issues of inadequate housing, police mistrust, and unemployment remain pertinent.