New musical based on Grayson Perry to have preview run in London

A new musical comedy based on the life of Grayson Perry will be workshopped in London.

Directed by Sean Foley, Grayson the Musical will tell the true story of the artist who went from an Essex working-class council estate to the Tate Gallery, navigating identity, creativity and self-acceptance.

The piece features music by Richard Thomas, book by Sara-Ella Ozbek and lyrics and story from Perry, who said: “When I first started thinking about turning my life into a musical, I realised it already contained most of the essential ingredients – questionable fashion choices and class anxiety amongst them.”

Adding: “Beneath all the comedy however, is a story about trying to work out who you are and if you can ever truly belong. A concept which many may relate to. I’m delighted that the show will be starting its life at Soho Theatre Walthamstow and excited to see what audiences make of it.”

Also on the creative team are music supervisor Phil Bateman, designer Alice Power, video designer Akhila Krishnan, lighting designer Rory Beaton, sound designer Gareth Tucker for Autograph, choreographer Lizzi Gee, musical director Isaac McCullough, producers Trafalgar Entertainment, Cuelight Productions and Sustainable Entertainment. The authors of Grayson Perry: Portrait of the Artist as a Young Girl are Perry and Wendy Jones.

The musical will be presented as a workshop for five preview performances at Soho Theatre Walthamstow. There is an age guidance of 18+.

Tickets go on general sale on 20 May, while a presale is available on the website.