The BBC, SISTER, and Universal International Studios have unveiled the cast for The Dream Lands, a new six-part LGBTQ+ coming-of-age drama set to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. To add to the excitement, joining the cast is Sex Education star Connor Swindells, best known for his role as Adam Groff, who will play the enigmatic Kole.

Based on Rosa Rankin-Gee’s novel Dreamland, this adaptation is brought to life by BAFTA-winning writer Kayleigh Llewellyn (In My Skin, Killing Eve), promising a gripping blend of romance, conspiracy, and the enduring fight for survival in an unforgiving world.

Set in a near-future Margate, The Dream Lands paints a bleak picture of life in 2039. With soaring global temperatures, rising seas, and a menacing political climate, inequality has reached catastrophic levels. Amidst this turmoil is Chance, played by newcomer Pascale Kann (September Says), a fiercely intelligent and loyal 17-year-old who has been forced to protect her family from an early age. Struggling to make ends meet, Chance lives a life of petty crime in a crumbling coastal town that’s on the verge of collapse.  

Things take a drastic turn when the government announces a rejuvenation scheme for Margate, promising to revitalise the once-thriving seaside community. But this new initiative is far from the lifeline it seems, as Chance and those closest to her begin to uncover hidden motives and dark conspiracies beneath the surface.

At the heart of the story is Chance’s relationship with Franky, a girl with ties to the establishment that threatens the very fabric of Chance’s world. Their relationship sparks a thrilling journey of romantic awakening and self-discovery, as Chance grapples with newfound feelings while navigating the ever-present dangers of her environment.

Described as a blend of relationship drama and conspiracy thriller, The Dream Lands explores themes of love, hope, and resilience against the odds. The series follows a defiant community determined to rise above the hardships imposed upon them, showcasing the enduring power of human connection in even the darkest of times.  

With its compelling narrative and a strong cast, The Dream Lands promises to be a must-watch drama, delivering an emotional, high-stakes journey that resonates deeply with today’s social and political climate.