New Dawn Fades – A Play About Joy Division And Manchester
Tickets £27.50 and £31.50 with Souvenir Programme + Booking Fee
Doors Open 7:00pm - Play Starts 7:30pm (20 Minute Interval, Play Ends 9:30pm)
New Dawn Fades – A Play About Joy Division & Manchester returns with a re-energised and vibrant new production touring Autumn 2026. The play tells the story of four ordinary lads who, inspired by the punk revolution of 1970s Manchester, came together to form one of the most influential bands of all time, Joy Division. Following the untimely death of lead singer Ian Curtis, the band went on to huge world-wide success as New Order.
For 2026, New Dawn Fades reunites the creative team from last year’s triumphant tour, with producers NIGEL CARR and TONY DAVIDSON. It is written by the award-winning BRIAN GORMAN, who received much praise for his portrayal of Factory Records boss Tony Wilson and reprises the role this year. He guides the audience through the heart and soul of both the band and the city, introducing an array of historical figures, including Roman General Julius Agricola, Dr John Dee, Friedrich Engels, Paul Morley, and Pete Shelley of Buzzcocks! The result is a spellbinding journey of love, passion, grief, and of course music, drawing inspiration from the enigmatic lyrics of Ian Curtis, with a soundtrack featuring iconic hits of the late 1970’s UK music scene including of course Joy Division. The play is directed by Brian Gorman and Lauren Greenwood, who reprises her role as Debbie Curtis. Josh Lonsdale reprises his role as Joy Division frontman, Ian Curtis.
A smash hit when it debuted at the Greater Manchester Fringe Festival in July 2013, New Dawn Fades has continued to wow audiences across the country, playing to capacity crowds and standing ovations.
“The play is a beautiful crafted and emotional homage to a hugely influential and talented band.”
– Tony Clarke (Louder Than War)
“It’s certainly the closest I’ll ever get to seeing Joy Division… I could not recommend this musical play more highly.”
– The Punk Site
“So fascinating, and (Josh Lonsdale) who played Ian Curtis was brilliant!”
– Jayne Middlemiss (Virgin Radio)
“Josh Lonsdale’s delivery of Ian Curtis is particularly impressive”
– Serena Murphy (Mancunian Matters)
“Tony Wilson (is) admirably played by Brian Gorman. You can’t help but admire the gusto with which the production barrels along”
–Peter Wild (The Manchester Review)
“ridiculously good – the cast successfully captured the style and energy of the real Joy Division”
–Julia (Glos.info)
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