Cast for Pinocchio musical’s return revealed

Shakespeare’s Globe has announced the cast and creative team for the return of Pinocchio, which premiered at the venue in November 2025.

Lee Braithwaite returns as Pinocchio, alongside Kerry Frampton as Fox, Ed Gaughan as Franzini, Lizzy Ives and Kody Mortimer as Ensemble/Swing. New cast members include Liv Alexander and Josh Butler, both as ensemble/swing, Olivier Award nominee Amy Booth-Steel as Giacomo Cricket, the Coachman and Cat, Luke Brady as Carpenter and Rabbit Prince Charming, Gabrielle Brooks as Blue Fairy, and Colm Gormley as Geppetto. Bartolomeo Bartolini joins returning puppeteers Aya Nakamura and Andrea Sadler.

Based on Carlo Collodi’s original stories, the musical is directed by Shakespeare’s Globe associate artistic director Sean Holmes, with a book and lyrics by Charlie Josephine and music and lyrics by Jim Fortune. It received a glowing review from WhatsOnStage last winter.

The creative team also includes associate director Roberta Zuric, choreographer Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu, designer Grace Smart, puppetry director and designer Peter O’Rourke, orchestrator Zac Gvi and sound designer Tony Gayle.

Holmes said: “I’m delighted that our production of Pinocchio is returning this Christmas to the Globe. We were immensely proud of the show and the response from audiences who loved its humour, heart and honesty. We look forward to welcoming a whole new audience to experience this magical festive musical.”

Josephine’s other work includes Cowbois for the Royal Shakespeare Company and Royal Court Theatre, while Fortune composed the music for Mr Gum and the Dancing Bear. Holmes previously directed Romeo and Juliet at Shakespeare’s Globe in 2025.

The show runs from 28 November.