God Bless The Child cast includes Julie Hesmondhalgh

Former 'Coronation Street' star Julie Hesmondhalgh has been cast in God Bless The Child, a new play by Molly Davies, which opens at the Royal Court Theatre - Jerwood Theatre Upstairs on 19 November 2014, following previews from 12 November, booking to 20 December 2014.

Julie Hesmondhalgh will be joined by Amanda Abbington, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Ony Uhiara and a cast of eight year olds. The play is directed by Vicky Featherstone.

Synopsis: "'Badger Do Best' has landed, bringing with it a new world of rules and regulations. But the kids are fighting back. Tired of being guinea pigs in yet another government scheme can the class of 4N bring down the education regime set to pacify them? After years working in the classroom, Molly Davies imagines a mutiny of eight year olds."

Julie Hesmondhalgh is well known for her role as Hayley Cropper in the popular UK soap 'Coronation Street'. She last appeared on the London stage in 'Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster' at Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall, Blue Room, in March of this year.

Amanda Abbington is returning to the stage after roles as Miss Mardle in ITV's 'Mr Selfridge' and Mary Morstan in the BBC's 'Sherlock'. Nikki Amuka-Bird's London stage credits include 'Birdland' at the Royal Court and her television credits include the BBC's 'Small Island'. Ony Uhiara is known for her work at the Royal Shakespeare Company, Young Vic and Bush Theatre.