Scenes from a Friendship

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.

Jane Upton's play is premiered at Nottingham Playhouse in 2026.