Grayson Perry musical announces casting for preview run

Full casting has been announced for the workshopped production of Grayson the Musical, which will play at Soho Theatre Walthamstow from 16 to 19 July 2026.

The musical comedy is inspired by the life of Grayson Perry and will be presented as an early-stage engagement ahead of further development.

Jack Shalloo will play Grayson Perry. He is joined by Rebekah Hinds as Phillippa, Sooz Kempner as Barb, Sam Lupton as Colin/Lawrence, Lemuel Knights as Alan Measles, Gloria Onitiri as Therapist, Katy Baker as Miss Green/Pottery Teacher/Nurse, Elliot Norrington as Young Grayson, Lucy Park as Ger-Woman/Journalist/Shop Assistant, Joshua Lay as Dad/Nicolas Serota, and Ben Welch as Zumba Teacher/Art School Tutor/Philippa’s Assistant.

The production is directed by Sean Foley. The creative team also includes music by Richard Thomas, book by Sara-Ella Ozbek, lyrics and life story by Grayson Perry, musical supervision by Phil Bateman, design by Alice Power, video design by Akhila Krishnan, lighting by Rory Beaton, sound by Gareth Tucker for Autograph, choreography by Lizzi Gee, and musical direction by Isaac McCullough.

Perry said it was a “weird and moving experience” to see himself portrayed on stage, describing Shalloo as “an enormously talented performer with the warmth, the wit, the intelligence and the charisma needed to bring this story to life. I’m thrilled to have him leading this wonderful cast and can’t wait to see what they create together.”

The musical follows Perry’s life from his upbringing on an Essex council estate to his career as an artist.

Grayson the Musical will run as a five-performance workshop engagement.