Production Park in Wakefield has been selected as the base for the new Netflix drama, Adolescence.
- The drama features renowned actors Stephen Graham, Ashley Walters, and Erin Doherty.
- The series, centred on a family’s trauma, will be shot in a single continuous take.
- The facility’s Studio 005 was adapted for extensive set construction, integrating local settings.
- The production includes a partnership with ScreenSkills to foster local talent engagement.
In a significant development for the regional creative industry, Production Park in Wakefield has been announced as the production hub for the upcoming Netflix drama, Adolescence. This major television project is produced by the esteemed Sheffield-based WARP Films, along with Matriarch Productions and Plan B, and boasts a star-studded cast including Stephen Graham, Ashley Walters, and Erin Doherty. The choice of Production Park underscores the increasing recognition of its facilities and expertise in supporting large-scale productions.
The plot of the series revolves around a harrowing family drama, triggered by the arrest of a thirteen-year-old boy for the murder of a teenage girl. The narrative is presented in a unique one-shot format, directed by Philip Barantini, who is acclaimed for employing this method in previous works. This approach presented significant challenges, necessitating a studio environment that could accommodate such intricate filming requirements while also providing a conducive setting for the cast and crew over an extended period.
Production Park’s Studio 005, typically used for large-scale arena tour productions, was repurposed to facilitate the extensive set constructions required for the series. The production team executed two major internal builds and extended the set externally, utilising the expansive space available. Additionally, the studio team assisted in scouting nearby locations to complement the on-site filming activities, benefitting from the area’s diverse settings within driving distance of the main set.
Mark Herbert, joint CEO of WARP Films, expressed the strategic importance of the venue, highlighting its capacity to fulfil both the technical demands of the one-shot filming style and the logistic needs of housing crew and cast. His positive remarks about the filming environment at Production Park, situated in a historically significant area close to his hometown, emphasise the regional advantages of such a location.
The involvement with ScreenSkills’ outreach initiative, First Break, is another noteworthy aspect of this production. This collaboration, which aims to support local talent in South Kirkby through industry-led events, reflects a commitment to nurturing emerging professionals within the television sector. The initiative strives to enhance accessibility and provide valuable opportunities to those aspiring to enter an often elusive industry. ScreenSkills Director Kaye Elliott noted the programme’s success in engaging untapped talent within the community.
Adolescence marks a significant milestone for Production Park, showcasing its capabilities as a premier production venue in the UK.
