LIPA grads help bring iconic Liverpool TV show to the West End

The stage adaptation of Boys from the Blackstuff made its West End debut in June and 16 LIPA graduates were involved in its journey from Liverpool rehearsal rooms to The Garrick Theatre. 

James Graham’s adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s groundbreaking TV drama started its life at Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre in 2023. After a successful run in Liverpool the production moved to the National Theatre before arriving at The Garrick Theatre in London’s West End for an eight-week run. 

Graduates from Acting, Theatre & Performance Design and Theatre & Production Technology have played a part in the production, whether that be working on R&D and early rehearsals, its opening run in Liverpool or performing at the National Theatre and the West End.  

Sheryl-Lynne Valensky, Head of Theatre & Performance Design and Technology says: “It is so exciting to see so many graduates involved in this critically acclaimed production.   

“It truly reflects how our industry focused approach and practical hands-on training prepare graduates to integrate themselves into the professional production process and be a part of shows like Boys from the Blackstuff.  We send them all a huge congratulations!” 

LIPA graduates who worked on Boys from the Blackstuff include: Jamie Peacock, Hayley Sheen, Abbie Jones, Chris McCourt, Helen Lainsbury, Alicia Southerton, Helena Harvey, Fay Rusted, Rae Woods, Francesca Goodridge, Jen Baron, Jamie Haining, Steph Carter, Emma Stokes, Abbie Caskie, Lauren Hitchen. 

Image: Jamie Peacock and Lauren Neil, Boys from the Blackstuff at the National Theatre. Photography by Alastair Muir.