Excitement is building as Channel 4 unveils first-look images for its upcoming drama series, Dreamers. Produced by award-winning Leeds-based Duck Soup Films, the six-part show is set to air later this month and promises a heartfelt exploration of youth, identity, and ambition.
Created by Lisa Holdsworth, who also serves as executive producer alongside writer Gem Copping, Dreamers follows a diverse group of dance students navigating the highs and lows of growing up. Through raw storytelling and compelling dance choreography, the series captures moments of joy, struggle, and determination.
At the heart of the show is teacher Erica – a passionate but tough mentor leading the Saturday class at the Leeds Academy of the Arts (LAH). The cast includes Puppy, Liam, Koby, Zaki, Zion, Lukas, Theo, Jamal, Liv, Isla, and Twilight – each bringing unique, complex experiences to the story.
Rooted in Leeds, Dreamers was inspired by real stories from the city, supported by the Young Audiences Content Fund (YACF), managed by the BFI and funded by the UK Government. The series highlights the challenges young people face while showcasing Leeds as a vibrant, creative hub.
Filming provided a major boost to the local industry. Through a partnership between Channel 4’s 4Skills initiative, the National Film and Television School (NFTS), and Duck Soup Films, ten Leeds-based trainees received paid placements, gaining hands-on experience and mentorship to kick-start their careers.
Rebekah Wray-Rogers, Co-Founder of Duck Soup Films, said: “We couldn’t be more thrilled that Dreamers was born and raised in our very own city. Collaborating with such a phenomenally talented and diverse group of new-to-the-industry creatives has been an unforgettable journey.”
Kevin Blacoe, Head of Partnerships & Skills at Channel 4, added: “4Skills is proud to fund the 10 training placements on Dreamers. It’s been a brilliant opportunity, with many trainees now further developing their careers.”
Jackie Edwards, Head of the Young Audiences Content Fund, shared: “We were drawn to the inclusive and authentic approach, beautifully reflecting an under-represented community in the UK.”
Supported by Screen Yorkshire and directed by Sara Dunlop, Dreamers is a celebration of creativity, diversity, and resilience, with Leeds at its heart. Tune in to Channel 4 later this month to experience this must-watch new drama.
