The stage production of Barry Hines’ much-loved book Kes has just opened at the Octagon Theatre in Bolton, before it arrives at Theatre by the Lake from 6 to 30 April.

Based on the acclaimed book and film, it has been adapted for the stage by Robert Alan Evans, and features live original music by Alexandra Faye Braithwaite, sung by Nishla Smith.

Evans said: “I think Kes resonates as a story because not a whole lot has changed since the 1960s. It seems to me that we still have a world dominated by class and privilege. There are young people like Billy Caspar everywhere; who have every bit as much intelligence, wit and drive as the children of more privileged folks, but none of the chances.

When I watch this story I am filled with the feeling that anyone, no matter what you think of them, might have unimaginable worlds inside.”

Featuring actors Jake Dunn and Harry Egan alongside singer Nishla Smith, the production is directed by award-winning director Atri Banerjee, recently listed in The Stage as one of the top 25 Theatre-makers to watch in 2022.

Kes is a Theatre by the Lake co-production with the Octagon Theatre Bolton.