Following a successful spring run, Northern Rascals is excited to announce an autumn tour of their impactful production, “Sunny Side,” which will travel to Barnsley, Salford, Bath, and Bradford. This Yorkshire-based company is renowned for their innovative, interdisciplinary approach, combining dance, theatre, and spoken word to explore the modern male experience.
In partnership with Andy’s Man Club, a charity focused on preventing male suicide, this deeply resonant show aims to spark crucial conversations about mental health in the UK. As discussions around youth mental health continue to make headlines, “Sunny Side” offers insight into the often-overlooked challenges young people face today.
Co-Artistic Director Anna Holmes stated that “Sunny Side” reflects both their personal experiences and those of local youth from the Calder Valley and similar areas in the North. Over the span of four years, they engaged with over 1,420 young people to examine concepts of home and how various environments shape one’s future. This research revealed a generation grappling with anxiety and a sense of being overwhelmed in a rapidly changing world. The production raises essential questions: Why is there a mental health crisis among young people? Why is suicide the leading cause of death for those under 35, particularly young men? In a Yorkshire town known for its progressive values, why do these issues persist? While “Sunny Side” may not have all the answers, it fosters a necessary dialogue about these crucial topics.
The autumn tour will further extend Northern Rascals’ outreach to communities across the UK, reinforcing their dedication to initiating important conversations about mental health and male vulnerability in an accessible manner.
“Sunny Side” follows K, a young man confronting the challenges of adolescence while striving to reconnect with who he is in a world that feels increasingly unfamiliar. Set in the Calder Valley, K finds himself questioning his identity and grappling with a lack of emotional support. As he navigates the past, present, and future, he seeks to reclaim his sense of self.
Four years in development, this thought-provoking production draws from the genuine experiences of over 1,420 young people aged 14 to 30 from across the UK. By integrating these testimonies, Northern Rascals creates a powerful narrative that resonates with societal struggles, showcasing their commitment to authenticity and social impact. The show tackles sensitive issues surrounding mental health, employing various artistic forms to convey a true representation of the modern youth experience. “Sunny Side” aims to ignite discussions about prevalent problems and encourages individuals to seek support and raise awareness.
Tour Dates:
- 12th September: Barnsley Civic, Eldon Street, Barnsley S70 2JL
- 30th September: New Adelphi, University Road, Salford M5 4BR
- 2nd October: Bath Spa University, Newton Street Loe, Bath BA2 9BN
- 12th November: Kala Sangham/Bradford Arts Centre, Bank House, 41 Bank Street, Bradford BD1 1RD
Cast:
- Soul Roberts (he/him)
- Sophie Thomas (she/her)
- Ed Mitchell (he/him)
Creative Team:
- Co-Artistic Directors: Anna Holmes (she/her) and Sam Ford (he/him)
- Acting Coach/Dramaturg: Geoffrey Colman (he/him)
- Set Designer: Caitlin Mawhinney (she/her)
- Lighting Designer: Barnaby Booth (he/they)
- Digital Designer: Aaron Howl (he/him)
- Production Manager: Adam Goode (he/they)
- Composer: Wilfred Kimber (he/him)
Running Time: 85 minutes
Age Guidance: 14+. “Sunny Side” addresses sensitive topics related to mental health, loneliness, and the societal pressures young people face, including the use of haze and flashing lights.
Social Media: @northernrascals
Website: www.northernrascals.com/sunny-side
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