The cast has been announced for Sally Wainwright’s new series, Riot Women.
The drama for BBC and BritBox is currently filming in West Yorkshire.
“I think I am more excited about this than anything else I have ever written. Ever. Oh my God. We have five of the most fabulous actresses on the planet playing the Riot Women. It’s scarily exciting,” said Sally Wainwright.
The story is about 5 women who, along with “two riotous backing singers,” come together to create a makeshift punk-rock band in order to enter a local talent contest, but in writing their first original song, soon discover that they have a lot to say – and this is their way to say it.
Along with the music, they’re also dealing with “demanding jobs, grown-up children, complicated parents, husbands who’ve buggered off and disastrous dates and relationships.”
The 6-parter is described as a testament to the power of friendship, music, and the resilience of women who refuse to be silenced by age or expectation.
Set in Hebden Bridge, it also features Anne Reid (The Sixth Commandment), Sue Johnston (The Royle Family), Peter Davison (Doctor Who), Claire Skinner (Outnumbered) and Angel Coulby (Merlin).
It will has original songs from the band ARXX.
“Led by the inimitable and incredible Sally, Riot Women is timely and vital, as well as riotously entertaining and deeply emotional. And it stars and is being made by a phenomenal group of women absolutely in their prime! We cannot wait to share it with everyone,” added Roanna Benn, Drama Republic CEO and Executive Producer.
Wainwright is also the series’ lead director, with Amanda Brotchie (Gentleman Jack, Doctor Who) directing block two, and Jessica Taylor (Happy Valley, Fool Me Once) is the producer.
Riot Women will premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One in the UK next year.
