Joy: A New Musical to have UK premiere in 2027

Exclusive: Joy: A New Musical will make its UK premiere at Southwark Playhouse Elephant early next year, following its Off-Broadway run in 2025.

The production is based on the life of inventor and entrepreneur Joy Mangano, whose story was also told in the 2015 film Joy, starring Jennifer Lawrence.

Mangano, a single mother living on Long Island, developed the Miracle Mop after becoming frustrated with an everyday household chore. She went on to pitch the product on QVC, selling 18,000 mops in 30 minutes and beginning a career as an entrepreneur.

The musical features music and lyrics by AnnMarie Milazzo, a book by Ken Davenport and direction by Lorin Latarro, whose choreography credits include Waitress and Mrs Doubtfire. Joshua Bergasse (Smash, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) is the choreographer.

The creative team also includes musical supervisor Andy Einhorn, set designer Lu Herbert, costume designer Tina McCartney and video designer David Bengali.

The production is led by producer Sandi Moran, whose credits include Hadestown, Sister Act and Moulin Rouge!.

Mangano said: “From selling out on QVC in the 90s to taking centre stage in London with Joy: A New Musical – what an incredible journey! Seeing my life set to music is beyond spectacular. If audiences leave with more joy in their hearts and bigger dreams in their minds, then that’s the real magic!”

Latarro added: “I am excited for London audiences to experience the new musical Joy, a real-life story so inspiring, funny and poignant. AnnMarie Milazzo’s music is breathtaking and witty.”

The musical premiered Off-Broadway at New York’s Laura Pels Theatre in 2025, with Betsy Wolfe (& Juliet, Waitress) playing Mangano.

Joy: A New Musical will run at Southwark Playhouse Elephant from 20 February to 10 April 2027, with press night on 4 March. Tickets are priced from £20, with concessions from £16 and previews from £16.

Casting for the UK premiere will be announced in due course.