The full cast has been announced for the world premiere production of How Soon is Now?, a new indie musical by acclaimed playwright Siân Owen, opening at Lowry in Salford this October before embarking on a UK tour.
Set on New Year’s Eve 1997 in Manchester, the musical follows three young women whose lives collide on a night of music, friendship and possibility, against the backdrop of a changing Britain and a soundtrack of iconic 90s indie anthems.
Bethan McLean will play Jean, a Welsh outsider searching for connection, while Kaitlyn Akinpelumi takes on the role of Angie, the life and soul of the party. Laura Robinson makes her professional debut as Polly.
Darragh Cowley stars as DJ Spin Jim, the actor-musician who guides audiences through the story. Described as a ‘Puck-like’ master of ceremonies, the character blurs the boundaries between memory, fantasy and reality.
Joining the company are Theo Woolford as Carl, Jean’s controlling boyfriend, and LJ Willow as part of the band ensemble.
Featuring music from artists including The Stone Roses, Radiohead and The Smiths, How Soon is Now? explores friendship, self-discovery and hope through the lens of a memorable night out.
The production is presented by Manchester-based theatre company Box of Tricks and directed by Artistic Director Adam Quayle. The creative team also includes designer Hannah Sibai, musical director Vidar Norheim and movement director Chris Brown.
Adam Quayle said: “I’m so excited about working with this company to bring How Soon is Now? to life. With some serious talent in the room – actors with incredible voices, multi-talented multi-instrumentalist actor-musicians – this promises to be an all-singing, all-dancing theatrical experience. Total theatre.”
He added: “Ten years in the making, How Soon is Now? is an electric story of female friendship and empowerment, driven by a live soundtrack of iconic indie classics. A reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is a light that never goes out”.
Writer Siân Owen said: “I want audiences to feel like they’ve walked into the middle of a nightclub where a story is unfolding around them full of laughter, heartbreak, music and magic. But above all I hope people leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. It’s really a love song to music, friendship, courage and remembering that together we can all find glimmers of hope.”
Following its premiere at Lowry from 1 to 3 October, the production will tour to Chester, Lancaster, Wakefield, Bradford, Exeter, Bristol, Stockton, Ipswich, Sheffield and Scarborough.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
