The Octagon’s next season in Bolton launches with The Family Way, an intimate portrayal of family life written by celebrated local playwright Bill Naughton and directed by new artistic director, Elizabeth Newman.
Set in '60s Bolton, with many references to the town throughout, the play follows optimistic newlyweds Arthur and Jenny Fitton who are young, in love and excited to embark on the rest of their lives together.
First produced in 1963 under the title All In Good Time, the play was later made in to a film, The Family Way, shot in Bolton and starring real-life father-daughter duo John and Hayley Mills.
The cast, consisting of first-time performers, award-winning veterans and Octagon favourites includes Bolton actress Jessica Baglow and Harry Long in the lead roles.
Joining the Octagon for his first time on stage is Akshay Gulati, son of soap star and dancer Shobna Gulati, playing sweet and simple Eddie Taylor. At only 20, he’s the youngest member of the cast and performing in his first professional role, having recently completed a foundation course in acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.
The play runs from September 4 to October 3.