New Dawn Fades: A Play About Joy Division and Manchester returns with a re-energised and vibrant new production touring the UK this October.

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 2025, 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.

Added to the event

Preceding the performance on Wednesday 15 October at 6:15pm, Nigel Carr (co-producer of New Dawn Fades and editor of online music magazine Louder Than War) will be interviewing Alan Hempsall.

Alan is the singer with Manchester post-punk band Crispy Ambulance, and is known for having stood in for Ian Curtis at the notorious 8 April 1980 Joy Division “riot gig” at The Met (then called The Derby Hall) – learn more about that gig here. Alan will be talking with Nigel about the events of that evening.

Ticket holders for the 15 October show are invited to arrive early to watch this interview.