The Kids Are Alright
Written and directed by Niall Whitehead.
Set on a pebbled beach and inspired by true events and local history, The Kids Are Alright is a sharp, poignant comedy which spotlights teenagers’ lives and reflects on how events of the past have the power to shape the present.
A seaside trip leads to revelations, confrontations and a recognition that things will never be the same again.
Featuring a dynamic soundtrack and powerful acting, this is an acutely observed snapshot of young people on the verge of change, with a nod to the influence of 1960s culture.
Written and directed by Niall Whitehead
MAKING LOCAL THEATRE IN HASTINGS
Local Theatres: Participation, Inclusion, Imagination is a national research project funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). The project – involving researchers from four universities: Royal Holloway, University of London, The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, The University of Sunderland and University of York – is the first major study of local theatres, investigating professional, youth and amateur theatre across England. Part of this research explores the contribution theatres make to their local communities, for example supporting local people in building artistic careers closer to home; and how theatres, theatre companies and makers are telling stories that reimagine local identities and local life.
As part of the research, we are collaborating with The Stables Theatre on their annual Scene & Heard Festival. The theme for Scene & Heard 2026 is ‘Making Local Stories’. The festival will host work made by local theatre makers and companies who responded to our research project’s call – for small stories that uncover, explore, and inspire new imaginaries of life (and theatre-making) in Hastings. We are excited to be working with 1066 Youth Theatre, Hastings Theatre Project, and Bev Lee Harling and the Molly Winklers.
Findings and practical outcomes from the wider project can be found on our website: localtheatres.wordpress.com
Scene and Heard Festival 2026 is in collaboration with and supported by the AHRC funded research project Local Theatres: Participation, Inclusion, Imagination.
Technical team supported by the Mike Boakes Fund
Approximate run time (no interval) – 50 minutes.
Triggers + Age Guidance – A play highlighting teenage issues.
