The dark world of teenage drug dealing is brought into sharp relief in this fast moving and energetic production.
Adapted from Tia Fisher’s award-winning verse novel, the piece tells the story of Erik – a teenage boy whose life is turned upside down first by the death of his father during Covid, and then by the being drawn in to the seemingly unescapable world of county lines drug dealings.
The show has been adapted by playwright Helena McBurney and director Katie Thompson with input from young people from Great Yarmouth and Sheringham.
On stage it is dominated by Alex Hardie as Erik. Playing a teen as a adult is difficult, but Hardie largely convinces with a very physical performance; crumpled when stuffed in a locker by high school bullies or angular and anguished mid-attack from his gang controllers.
His narrative drives the play and there is barely when Hardie is not in the spotlight across its 90 minute stage time, but he never waivers.
The three remaining cast members fulfil multiple roles each, with Shyam Patal noticeably adept at transforming from giddy best friend Ravi to gangster K1. Rachael Cummins is a central pivot as Erik’s mum, and Ralph Prosser is instantly dislikeable as her smarmy love interest, and menacing as a variety of gang members.
The book makes playful use of the physical layout of its verse, something trickier to achieve on stage. Instead Mick Murley’s set is focused around the Flo, a semi-abandoned playground that transforms into school rooms, homes, and slums with the help of a projected strip across the top. It makes for a quick-moving production.
The subject matter makes it at times a tough watch, but the honesty of Erik’s voice – confused, corrupted, naïve, noble – makes it a capitvating one.
- Crossing The Line at St George’s Theatre, Great Yarmouth on 11 May 2026. The show is touring as part of the Norfolk and Norwich Festival including Sheringham Little Theatre on 13 May; Seagull Theatre, Lowestoft on 14 May; Diss Corn Hall on 18 May; Norwich Theatre Playhouse on 20 May.
