Actor Rupert Hill, widely recognized for his role as Jamie Baldwin in Coronation Street, is making his debut as a playwright with his new work, HUSK. This dark and intense drama will run from September 25-29 at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre, directed by the venue’s Artistic Director, Joseph Houston. The production features an impressive cast, including Hill himself, alongside Danielle Henry, Daniel Poyser, David Crellin, and David McCreedy.
HUSK tells the story of Ray, a man recently released from prison after a long sentence. Homeless and destitute, Ray sets up a tent in a forest, determined to seek revenge on the individual responsible for his imprisonment. Through a series of flashbacks spanning over three decades, the audience gradually uncovers the events that led Ray down this dark path.
Rupert Hill, who has enjoyed a successful acting career and has also written and directed several films, draws from personal experiences to craft this gripping narrative. Hill explains that while HUSK was not initially intended to explore themes of addiction, his own journey to sobriety influenced the play’s underlying message. “Three years ago, I realized I was a high-functioning alcoholic and decided to quit drinking. The sense of freedom I felt from sobriety was profound,” Hill shared. “Although I didn’t set out to write about alcoholism, HUSK ultimately became a story about addiction and the pursuit of freedom and salvation.”
The play’s director, Joseph Houston, expressed his excitement about bringing Hill’s work to the stage: “When I first read Rupert’s new play HUSK, I was instantly hooked. It’s a true page-turner and a testament to Rupert’s superb writing. I’m thrilled to work with such an amazing cast and creative team to bring this piece to life.”
Audiences can expect a theatrical experience that is as thrilling as it is poignant, combining elements of dark humour, suspense, and heartfelt emotion. Following its run at Hope Mill Theatre, HUSK will preview at The Dukes in Lancaster on October 2-3.
