An actor from the cast of Ken Loach's Newcastle-made film I, Daniel Blake is also to take the same role in a new stage adaptation which will be having its world premiere in the city this summer.
Kema Sikazwe - who is best known as rapper Kema Kay - played China, a neighbour of Daniel Blake in the Bafta-winning drama, and Northern Stage has announced that he will take the same character in the upcoming theatre production alongside popular local actor David Nellist in the title role. Kema first landed the role of China after impressing Loach during the director's initial visit north to look for potential cast members for his first film in the city which became a huge hit.
Nellist, from Wallsend, whose TV work has included Sherlock, is currently starring in Love It If We Beat Them, the football and politics play which has just ended its premiere run at Live Theatre ahead of a tour and he will be back in the spotlight as Daniel Blake, a man caught up in the red tape of the benefits system.
