In this episode, Rhys Williamson speaks with actor Ned Campbell about Beats, the powerful coming-of-age story by Kieran Hurley that recently completed a successful run at Riverside Studios.

Directed by Olivier and Offie-nominated Toby Clarke, Beats follows teenager Johnno McCreadie on the night of his first illegal rave, set against the backdrop of the 1994 Criminal Justice Act. As the act attempts to outlaw gatherings centred around “a succession of repetitive beats,” Johnno and his best friend Spanner dive headfirst into a night of rebellion and freedom.

In a tour de force solo performance, Ned Campbell populated a vivid world of characters, with live music by on-stage DJ Emma Haines, capturing the energy, heartache, and resilience of a generation.

Beats is a pulsing, magnetic celebration of youth culture, resistance, and the lasting power of music still resonating thirty years on.

Listen now to hear Rhys and Ned discuss the making of Beats, the relevance of its story today, and the timeless pull of gathering to music.

Thanks for listening to Inside Riverside Studios.

Presented by Riverside Studios
Hosted by Rhys Williamson
Marketing: Beatriz López de Priego
Produced by Yianni Sines

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