A Liverpool Hope University lecturer is part of an all-star British cast for a new feature film which premieres at the prestigious Raindance Film Festival this October.
Sharon Byatt performs alongside some of Liverpool’s most recognisable actors in new comedy drama, Our Kid, including the BAFTA-nominated Ricky Tomlinson, Leanne Best of Tin Star fame and Connor McIntyre, who is best known for his portrayal of Coronation Street villain, Pat Phelan.
Based on the multi-award-winning short film, Thomas, Our Kid tells the powerful story of the Reilly family, who learn to deal with adversity through humour after being struck with devastating news which forces them to adapt their lives.
Course Leader for Musical Theatre, Byatt plays the role of Reilly family matriarch, Tracey, in the latest release from director, Sean Cronin.
The film follows her on-screen daughter, Laura, a football-mad 12-year-old, who dreams of playing for Liverpool and idolises her older brother, Thomas.
Despite having cerebral palsy, Thomas embarks on an inspirational quest to raise money for charity through a sponsored bike ride, showing Laura and the rest of his community what determination and perseverance can achieve.
Reflecting on her role, Byatt said: “Tracey epitomises the strong Northern working-class mother who will be recognised by those who watch the film.
“Her family is her world and they come before anyone or anything else, including herself. The other leading role in Our Kid is the city of Liverpool.
“It creates the most beautiful backdrop throughout and reminds me how proud I am to be Liverpudlian.”
Byatt has enjoyed a 30-year acting career which has seen her star on stage as well as screen. She played Irenee in 90s sitcom Bread, as well her role as Sue Freeman in Sky soap opera, Springhill. She also has the honour of being the only actress to have played Mrs Johnstone, Linda and Mrs Lyons in Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers both on the West End and touring stages.
Based in the School of Creative and Performing Arts, she is now responsible for training the next generation of aspiring actors and actresses, who benefit from her continued work as a director, producer and performer.
Our Kid premieres at the Curzon Mayfair cinema in London on Sunday 29th October as part of the world-renowned Raindance Film Festival, the largest independent film festival in the UK.