Brian Clark’s powerful drama Whose Life Is It Anyway? comes to the People’s Theatre in Newcastle this May, exploring autonomy, dignity and the right to choose through the story of a paralysed sculptor fighting for control over his own future.
The People’s Theatre in Heaton will present Brian Clark’s acclaimed drama Whose Life Is It Anyway? from Monday 11 to Saturday 16 May 2026.
The play follows sculptor Ken, played by Jack Thompson, whose life changes forever after a devastating car accident leaves him paralysed from the neck down. Confined to a hospital bed, Ken uses humour and intelligence to cope with his situation while building relationships with the hospital staff caring for him.
However, despite his sharp mind and determination, Ken faces an uphill struggle against the medical and legal systems of the 1970s as he fights for the right to make decisions about his own future.
More than 45 years after it first premiered, Whose Life Is It Anyway? remains deeply relevant. Last month, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill ran out of time to become law, reigniting national debate around assisted dying legislation and personal choice at the end of life.
Against this backdrop, Brian Clark’s play continues to ask difficult and compassionate questions about autonomy, dignity and freedom, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own beliefs long after the curtain falls.
Lauren Allison directs the production for the People’s Theatre.
The cast includes Jack Thompson as Ken, Rye Mattick as Sister, Annie Cairns as Kay, Abbie Martin as Dr Scott, Pete McAndrew as Dr Emerson, Peter Dawson as John, Martin Johnson as Mr Hill, Kristin Clawson as Mrs Boyle, Mike Smith as Dr Travers, Chris Goulding as Justice Milhouse, Thomas Hodgson as Eden, Stuart Laidler as Barr, and Stewart Dives as Kershaw.
Whose Life Is It Anyway? runs from Monday 11 to Saturday 16 May 2026 at the People’s Theatre, Stephenson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 5QF.
Performances begin at 7.30pm.
Tickets are priced at £16.50 and £14 and are available via the People’s Theatre box office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) or online at the People’s Theatre website.
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