World Productions, known for its acclaimed works like “Line of Duty,” “Save Me,” and “Vigil,” is currently in the process of filming their latest project, “The Gathering.” This six-part drama is the brainchild of renowned writer and director Helen Walsh, who is creating her first original script for television.
The lead roles in “The Gathering” will be portrayed by Eva Morgan, a talented newcomer, as Kelly, and Sadie Soverall (“Little Bone Lodge”) as Jessica. Joining them is Vinette Robinson (“Boiling Point,” “The Lazarus Project”) playing Jessica’s assertive and overbearing mother, Natalie. Warren Brown (“Ten Pound Poms,” “The Responder”) takes on the role of Kelly’s hardworking single parent, Paul, while Richard Coyle (“Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore,” “Then You Run,” “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina”) plays the successful solicitor Jules.
Set on Merseyside, the series revolves around a violent attack on a teenage girl during a rave on a tidal islet. The story follows a group of teenagers from diverse backgrounds, each of whom could be a suspect, along with their parents, who are equally under suspicion.
Eva Morgan’s character, Kelly, is the victim of the attack, caught between two contrasting worlds. On one side, she is an accomplished gymnast with ambitions for world-class competitions but faces conflicts with her competitive teammates and their ambitious parents. On the other side, she hangs out with urban free-runners, whose carefree and reckless lifestyle clashes with the strict discipline of competitive sports. This compelling narrative reflects the complexities of contemporary society.
The cast also includes Sonny Walker (“The Responder”) as Adam, and newcomers Luca Kamleh-Chapman as Bazi and Hebron Tedros as Dessie.
“The Gathering” delves into the dynamics between today’s parents and their teenage children. It explores the delicate balance between granting teenagers their freedom while ensuring their safety in a digital age where social media can either elevate or destroy their lives with a mere click. The series questions whether it is responsible for parents to be deeply involved in their children’s lives or irresponsible not to be aware of their actions.
Helen Walsh, writer, said, “I’m thrilled to have a brilliant cast on board led by such established talent. Our young actors, many of whom are newcomers, have wowed us with their raw and heartfelt depictions of teenagers having to navigate adult problems in morally ambiguous worlds.”
Commissioned by Channel 4, “The Gathering” is overseen by Caroline Hollick, Head of Drama, and Gwawr Lloyd, Commissioning Editor, Drama. The executive producers include Simon Heath, Laura Cotton, Helen Walsh, and Gareth Bryn for World Productions, with Graham Drover as the producer. The episodes will be directed by Gareth Bryn (known for “Line of Duty” S6 and “Karen Pirie”) for episodes 1, 2, 5, and 6, while Amanda Blue (“Maternal”) will handle episodes 3 and 4.
World Productions, a part of ITV Studios, is responsible for international distribution.
