North Finchley sees new play ‘Anthem for Dissatisfaction’ open at Artsdepot
Gina Donnelly’s award‑winning drama, commissioned by Brassneck Theatre, begins its UK tour in North Finchley in November 2026, depicting two Belfast siblings from the 2007 credit crunch to the 2023 cost‑of‑living crisis.
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Barnet Post reported that the new drama began its North Finchley run at Artsdepot on 4 November 2026. The 65‑minute piece follows siblings Sarah and Jamie from Belfast as they move from the 2007 credit crunch to the 2023 cost‑of‑living crisis. The story is set against a soundtrack that includes tracks by Oasis, The Jam and Sam Fender.
Background and creation
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According to Barnet Post, the play was written and co‑directed by Gina Donnelly of SkelpieLimmer Productions. Brassneck Theatre Company commissioned the work, aiming to bring theatre into community settings. Donnelly said the idea originated after a Sam Fender concert in 2023, when she discussed the experience with her sister.
“‘It felt like I could write a story about two siblings and the relationship of them two through music.’”
Gina Donnelly, playwright
Barnet Post noted that the drama won awards at both the Edinburgh and Dublin Fringe festivals in 2025. Tony Devlin, co‑director, described the piece as an “explosion of working‑class frustration against a system, specifically designed for them not to succeed.”
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What audiences can expect
The production stars Emily Lamey and Simon Sweeney, as reported by Barnet Post. The music is intended to underscore the narrative rather than dominate it, creating a balance between dialogue and familiar songs. Audience feedback at earlier venues was described as “amazing” and “relatable” by Donnelly.
Barnet Post added that the tour includes venues beyond Artsdepot, but the North Finchley performance marks the first appearance of the play in London. The venue’s box office is handling ticket sales, and the council’s cultural services have listed the event on the Barnet cultural calendar.
Residents who wish to attend should check Artsdepot’s website for seating availability. No further council action is required, but the event contributes to Barnet’s ongoing programme of supporting touring arts in the borough.
Questions this report answers
+When does ‘Anthem for Dissatisfaction’ start its run at Artsdepot?
The play opened at Artsdepot in North Finchley on 4 November 2026, as reported by Barnet Post. That date marks the first London performance of the touring production, and tickets are sold through the venue’s box office.
+Who wrote and directed the play?
Gina Donnelly of SkelpieLimmer Productions wrote and co‑directed the drama, according to Barnet Post. She developed the piece after a Sam Fender concert in 2023 and worked with co‑director Tony Devlin on the production.
+What awards has the drama previously received?
Barnet Post confirmed that the production won awards at both the Edinburgh Fringe and the Dublin Fringe festivals in 2025. Those accolades helped secure the UK tour that now includes the Artsdepot performance.
+How can residents buy tickets to see the show?
Tickets are available through Artsdepot’s box office and online booking system, as listed on the venue’s website. Barnet Post noted that the council’s cultural calendar includes the event, but purchasing is handled directly by the venue.
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