HOME Manchester and Karl Sydow present Going Out Out, a brand-new play running from Thursday 16 October to Saturday 1 November 2025, with a press night on Tuesday 21 October.
Written by Barney Norris and directed by Jess Edwards, Going Out Out tells the heartwarming story of Ian, a widower who finds unexpected healing and joy through the Manchester drag scene.
Ian’s life has become increasingly isolated since the loss of his wife. But when Raz, a young drag performer, delivers his groceries and discovers Ian wearing his late wife’s dress, an unlikely friendship begins.
Soon, Ian reconnects with his estranged daughter, Lauren, and prepares to give the performance of his life at her working men’s club.
Jess Edwards said:
“Going Out Out is a powerful story of friendship and recovery from the deepest depths of loneliness. The show is a piece of quiet activism – in staging compassionate and generous conversations between two such unlikely friends – a Queer British Asian young man who does drag, and an older white man who is totally heterosexual.
“In today’s culture of cancellation and division, it’s so rare for those from different demographics, with apparently opposing views to hold a conversation – let alone form a friendship. That a man like Ian falls in love with drag and experiences its capacity to transform his shame, along with the magnitude of friendship and kindness, is such a powerful message.”
James Quinn stars as Ian, returning to HOME after numerous appearances at Manchester’s Library Theatre. His screen credits include Early Doors, Brassic, Doctor Who, Queen Charlotte – A Bridgerton Story, and Apostasy.
Darren Kuppan plays Raz, with TV credits including Dodger, Spooks, Coronation Street, and Emmerdale.
Verity Henry completes the cast as Lauren. Her stage work includes Touched and Wuthering Heights At Hurricane Speed, while her TV appearances include Cold Feet and Hijack.
The creative team includes:
- Set & Costume: Miriam Nabarro
- Lighting: Adam Foley
- Sound & Composition: Duramaney Kamara
- Musical Direction: Jordan Paul Clarke
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
