After the Act (NHB Modern Plays)

Abseiling lesbians! Queers in classrooms! Perverts panicking parents! Thatcher's Section 28, which banned the 'promotion' of homosexuality in schools, was the landmark legislation that silenced a generation, offered a global blueprint for LGBTQ+ oppression and galvanised a movement. Billy Barrett and Ellice Stevens's After the Act is a funny, camp and unapologetically queer musical about how a moral panic gripped a nation - and a community decided to fight back. Its inspiring, often heartbreaking, stories of teachers, students and activists impacted by the legislation are accompanied by a joyously exuberant score written by Frew and inspired by the music of the 1980s. It was first produced in 2023 by the award-winning theatre and film company Breach at New Diorama Theatre, London, before performances during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and a UK tour in 2024. 'Fizzing, fiery... sparkling satire... this musical feels exceptional... a massive achievement' - Guardian 'Fantastically daring... magnificent' - Time Out 'A moving tribute, a cry of fury, and a timely reminder against complacency - entertaining, provocative and important' - Arts Desk

Billy Barrett is a theatre director and writer. He is co-Artistic Director of the devising theatre company Breach, whose productions he directs and co-writes.