New Dawn Fades: A Play About Joy Division & Manchester at RNCM
Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor
Set in the wake of the punk revolution of 1970s Manchester, New Dawn Fades: A Play About Joy Division & Manchester tells the story of the four ordinary lads who came together to create one of the most significant bands to come out of the North.
The play was a smash-hit when it first debuted at the Manchester Fringe Festival in 2013 and has toured regularly across the country, playing to sell-out audiences and standing ovations. The show celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2022 and will mark the occasion by embarking on an autumn tour, which concludes at the RNCM for two performances this September. The revival also celebrates more than 40 years since the release of Joy Division’s debut album Unknown Pleasures in 1979.
New Dawn Fades: A Play About Joy Division And Manchester is brought to the stage by Manchester production company All Roads Meet, with executive producer Nina Whiteman. It is directed by Sean Mason and Giles D Bastow, who have been an integral part of the show since it premiered in 2013, they are also part of the cast.
The unique show – grounded within the context of Manchester’s history and culture – takes audiences on a thrilling journey through the hugely creative and turbulent post-punk era. Packed with memorable personas, the character of Tony Wilson will lead you through 2000 years of Mancunian history, shining a light on some of the surprising influences on Joy Division’s music – from Roman General Julius Agricola and philosopher Frederich Engels through to Dr John Dee and others.
From the inspirational Sex Pistols gig at Manchester’s Free Trade Hall in 1976 to the formation of a new post-punk band; Ian Curtis’ enigmatic lyrics, mesmerising stage performances and the moment the band signed for Factory Records, New Dawn Fades leads its audience through love, passion, progress and grief, all set to a perfect Joy Division soundtrack.
