The Filleting Machine

“One of the most powerful bits of theatre I’ve seen in a long time”

Written in the 1970s, Tom Hadaway’s The Filleting Machine reflects family tension, generational poverty and the decimation of industry in a short but impactful drama that is relatable and timeless.

Our debut production in 2017, of Tom Hadaway’s classic Tyneside play was awarded British Theatre Guide’s Best Revival and North East Theatre Guide’s Proud To Be In The North East award.

We toured the play to Tyneside communities with support from Sunday for Sammy and Arts Council England. To date, we have delivered 27 performances to pubs, social clubs, schools, community centres and theatres, and a special commemorative performance at the late Tom Hadaway’s blue plaque award ceremony.

“This award-winning revival is proof that Tom Hadaway’s classic play truly stands the test of time…”

The Filleting Machine is a 40 minute explosive domestic drama.

Set in the 1980s on the Ridges Estate, now the Meadow Well, the play tells the story of the Rutter family – Ma wants her children to aim for more than she had and Da believes his way of life as a fish filleter is good enough. When Davy’s new job threatens his father’s livelihood, the family’s financial survival is uncertain and, with it, Da’s conviction that he is right.

Written over forty years ago, The Filleting Machine is as relevant today as it was then. Does further education guarantee you a job? Is any job guaranteed? How do you help your children have a better life than you’ve had and is that what they want anyway?

Our school packages have included workshops designed to create debate. Young people can hotseat characters, quiz them about their choices and advise the young characters on how to pursue their own dreams. Our engagement work explores expectations on young people and asks whether they should follow the path in front of them or aim higher and challenge perceptions.

Watch our production of Tom Hadaway’s The Filleting Machine in 360 film for free! We worked with award-winning Candle & Bell Film to provide immersive theatre you can watch at home.

Choose how you view by scrolling around the screen on your device or with a VR (or DIY) headset. Made with funding from Arts Council England and supported by the Hadaway family.