About the Show

A haunting new play with music, exploring faith, shame, and queerness in 1980s North-East England.

Set in North-East England in 1983, Radiant Boy unfolds during a fierce snowstorm as trainee singer Russell and his mother, Maud, await the arrival of a young priest who believes Russell may be possessed.

Selected by the RSC for their 37 Plays competition, this chilling debut by Nancy Netherwood blends theatre and music, featuring a soundtrack of traditional folk songs, North-East melodies, and 80s New Wave. Through an atmospheric and gripping narrative, the play delves into themes of faith, shame, queerness, and the power of art to forge human connection.

Critic Reviews (4)

"An intimate and atmospheric supernatural horror with music running through its veins, Radiant Boy holds a collection of exquisite portrayals."
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“Stuart Thompson is completely compelling as Russell: a tangle of sharp angles, edges, snark and vulnerability as he rails against Nottingham’s damaged Maud, hardened by a bitter life.”
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“The energy never wanes; instead, it coils tighter with each revelation.”
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"The scenes here are tense, emotionally engaging and feel believable. Pulling this off so well is a testament to the skill of all involved."
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Cast and creative team

Cloudburst Productions