Scenes from a Friendship by Jane Upton
Nottingham Playhouse 2026- Director
★★★★★ "A platonic One Day that will melt your heart” (The Guardian)
★★★★★ “an emotive, nostalgic play which presents an absolute masterclass in how to successfully present a two-hander” (Theatre and Tonic)
★★★★★ “This show has everything – it is warm, often laugh out loud funny, and is hugely believable. A total must see” (East Midlands Theatre)
First Year Juniors, Long Eaton, 1987. Kylie’s about to hit number one, and Jess meets Billy for the first time.
There’s conflict, competition and mutual intrigue, but they quickly become inseparable: Proper soulmates – the kind who finish each other’s sentences and overshare about first kisses.
As they pursue different paths, him in the big city, her in their fading hometown, they can’t escape the pull of their friendship – or the arguments and jealousy that come with it. Following them across the decades – from making mixtapes and endless summers, to the chaos of parenthood, Scenes from a Friendship is a warm, funny, and deeply felt look at the bond you share with the person who’s shaped your life, who knows all your flaws but loves you regardless.
Nottingham born Jane Upton’s previous work (the) Woman was shortlisted for the Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting and enjoyed a successful run at Nottingham Playhouse and on tour, before transferring to London’s Park Theatre.