“Riot Women,” the upcoming drama series from multi-BAFTA award-winning writer Sally Wainwright, has announced its cast. The BBC and BritBox International co-commissioned production is currently filming in West Yorkshire and will premiere next year.
Set in Hebden Bridge, the six-part series tells the story of five women who form a punk-rock band with two backing singers, initially to enter a local talent contest. However, as they pen their first original song, they find that music becomes a catalyst for change and a means to express their voices. The series explores the power of friendship, music, and the resilience of women dealing with the vagaries of life.
Leading the cast are Joanna Scanlan as Beth and Rosalie Craig as Kitty, the band’s creative masterminds. Tamsin Greig plays Holly, Lorraine Ashbourne plays Jess, and Amelia Bullmore plays Yvonne. Anne Reid and Sue Johnston join as Nancy and Aunt Mary, respectively. The cast also includes Peter Davison, Claire Skinner, Angel Coulby, Taj Atwal, Chandeep Uppal, Jonny Green and Ellise Chappell.
Wainwright, known for her work on “Happy Valley,” “Last Tango in Halifax,” and “Gentleman Jack,” serves as the creator, writer, executive producer, and lead director of “Riot Women.” Amanda Brotchie will direct the second block, with Jessica Taylor as the producer. Executive producers include Roanna Benn for Drama Republic, Tanya Qureshi for the BBC, and Robert Schildhouse and Jess O’Riordan for BritBox International.
The series will feature original songs from the band ARXX. Mediawan Rights will handle worldwide distribution, with the participation of Entourage Ventures. “Riot Women” will air next year on BBC iPlayer and BBC One in the UK, and on BritBox International in the US and Canada.
