Angus Bartlett, playing K in Sunny Side, discusses the show, the male loneliness epidemic and the importance of checking in
The term ‘male loneliness epidemic’ has long circulated across social media. While coverage of the issue has often been questionable, sometimes even mocked, with an underlying sentiment that men benefit from a patriarchal society, it may arguably contribute to the very problem it dismisses. Content like this can reinforce the expectation for men to remain closed off, emotionally reserved and driven purely by logic.
At the end of the day, we are all human, each with our own struggles, regardless of gender. It is shows like Sunny Side that offer a much-needed social commentary, shining a light on young men who lack emotional support in a world that does not always make space for them within traditional ideas of masculinity.
Working in partnership with ANDYSMANCLUB, the show responds to the current socio-political climate, where 74% of suicides in the UK involve men. Sunny Side provides a timely and necessary platform for dialogue, understanding and community support. Northern Rascals developed this powerful narrative through in-depth outreach with 1,500 young people across the UK, collaborating in studios, schools and digital spaces.
Angus Bartlett is a dancer who plays the lead role in Sunny Side, taking on the character of K – an 18-year-old who feels left behind.
For someone who hasn’t seen Sunny Side, how would you describe the show and what audiences can expect?
It takes you on a journey. It’s not just dance, it’s physical theatre, acting and movement. There’s also text throughout, with pre-recorded lines woven into the performance. The story follows a young man who’s been left behind in the small northern town where he grew up. The people close to him move away, and he’s just there, wishing things could stay the same, while the world feels like it’s moving on without him. It’s really about that feeling of being left behind.
The show touches on themes like isolation and being left behind. There’s been a lot of discussion around the male loneliness epidemic – do you think that’s something reflected in the show?
Yeah, definitely. I think it’s all through the eyes of a young person’s perspective, and those feelings are very real. A lot of young men might not know how to deal with emotions like loneliness or how to ask for support or guidance. Being male can sometimes make that even harder. There’s still that barrier around reaching out for help.
But it’s also about the environment. In smaller towns, it can be quite common for people to stay where they are and follow a similar path to their parents. For some people, that’s not what they want, and that can create a sense of being stuck. So I think the show explores both that environment and the internal struggle of not knowing how to express what you’re feeling.
Do you think shows like Sunny Side can help normalise conversations around men’s mental health?
100%. That’s exactly what the show is for. It shows what’s happening and what those feelings can lead to if left unaddressed. I think it will really resonate with people at different points in their lives and encourage them to reach out and talk.
You play K, an 18-year-old struggling with identity and feeling stuck. What was your approach to bringing that character to life?
What’s really special about the show is how relatable it is. Even in rehearsals, there were so many moments where we’d think, “I’ve felt that,” or “That reminds me of someone I know.”
For me, it was about sitting with those feelings and really tapping into them, both personally and through imagining the experiences of others. That helped me portray K in an authentic way. It doesn’t have to be your exact experience, you might just recognise it in someone else or a moment in your life, and I think that’s what makes it connect with people.
Were you able to relate to K’s experiences yourself?
Yeah, definitely. Growing up in smaller places, there are elements you can relate to. You start to think, “That could have been me.” If I hadn’t found dance as an outlet, things might have been very different.
So for me, it’s about using my own experiences and emotions alongside K’s story, blending the two to bring the character to life in a truthful way.
Why do you think conversations around men’s mental health have traditionally been so difficult and do you feel that’s starting to change?
I do think things are changing, and it’s a big step in the right direction. It’s a complex issue, but I think people are becoming more aware and more connected. It’s harder to hide how you’re feeling now, but at the same time, it’s easier for others to notice.
I think people are starting to take more responsibility for checking in on each other. If you notice a friend isn’t quite themselves, not just for a day, but over time, you’re more likely to ask how they are. That’s something that’s really starting to shift.
Finally, if someone watches the show and relates to K’s struggles, what message would you hope they take away?
Just to reach out. I think it’s really important to say something, even if you don’t quite know how to put it into words. Just making that first step and expressing how you feel can make a huge difference. Not keeping it in is the most important thing.
Sunny Side with Angus Bartlett is on at ARC, Stockton Arts Centre, Dovecot Street, Stockton on Tees, TS18 1LL on 10 April and you can get your tickets at arconline.co.uk