Staged reading of new play SANDS UNITED announced
This July, Just Add Milk will hold a week-long R&D for Sands United, a bold and emotionally charged new play exploring child loss, masculinity, and the bonds between men who find themselves in unimaginable circumstances.
Developed with the support of Thomas Hopkins Productions, the week will culminate in a staged reading for invited industry and supporters at the Old Diorama Arts Centre on 17 July.
Written by Natalie Mitchell and directed by Jesse Jones, Artistic Director of Royal & Derngate, Sands United is produced by JAM’s Executive Director Kristian Wall alongside Tom Hopkins. The cast includes Simon Harrison (What It Feels Like for a Girl), Jay Simpson (The Shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes), Alex Austin (Andor), Joseph Langdon (The Seagull), and Thomas Coombes (Baby Reindeer).
It's about child loss, masculinity, friendship, grief and Barry from EastEnders.
Five men are members of a football team no one wants to be part of: Sands United. Drawn together through loss, their weekly games provide a space for support, friendship and laughter. But as they work towards a key fundraising match, the pressure mounts: Ryan's wife is pregnant again and the anxiety has caused his dad, Rich, to start drinking again; a big anniversary is approaching for manager Paul and he's struggling with his mental health; Evan's jumping through hoops as part of the adoption process; and newest player Ollie just wishes he wasn't here at all.
Will they be able to pull together in time for the fundraising match?
Just Add Milk (JAM) commissioned Sands United in 2025 as part of its mission to champion working-class voices in new writing. This poignant and often darkly funny play delves into themes of child loss, masculinity, friendship, and grief—with a nod to Barry from EastEnders.
Executive Director of JAM, Kristian Wall, said: “Partnering with THP marks a significant milestone for Just Add Milk. After independently producing our first four shows, this is our first step into commercial theatre and we’re incredibly excited about the possibilities it opens up.
“At JAM, we’ve always aimed to spark conversations around vital issues; from men’s mental health to muscular dystrophy and food poverty. With Sands United, we hope to shine a light on the support available to those affected by child loss and help bring this often-silent grief into public awareness.”
Thomas Hopkins said: “Working with Kristian and Liam at JAM as a trustee is one of the most significant aspects of my professional life. It is essential that we support the future growth of every facet of our industry. This exciting opportunity to champion a new play developed from the ground up, in alignment with JAM’s core values, allows us to take our efforts a step further and truly shape the future of our industry."