Full Cast Announced for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry Musical at Chichester Festival Theatre
The full cast has been confirmed for the world premiere of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, a new musical based on Rachel Joyce’s multi-million-selling novel. The production, which features music and lyrics by Passenger, will run at Chichester Festival Theatre’s Minerva Theatre from 5 May to 14 June 2025, with a press night on 15 May.
A Story of Redemption, Hope, and Human Connection
Adapted by Rachel Joyce from her own novel, this uplifting and profoundly moving musical follows Harold Fry, a lonely, grey-haired man who, after receiving a letter from an old friend, embarks on an unexpected 600-mile journey across England. Leaving behind his bewildered wife, Harold’s pilgrimage transforms into a journey of self-discovery, as he encounters strangers who inspire and challenge him along the way.
A Star-Studded Cast
Directed by Katy Rudd (The Ocean at the End of the Lane), the production stars:
Mark Addy (The Full Monty, Game of Thrones, The Rig) as Harold Fry
Jenna Russell (Sunday in the Park with George, Hello, Dolly!) as Maureen Fry
Jack Wolfe (Next to Normal, West End) as The Balladeer
They are joined by an outstanding ensemble cast, including:
Ralph Birtwell (The Band’s Visit, Life of Pi)
Amy Booth-Steel (Assassins, Tammy Faye)
Tarinn Callender (Hamilton, The Cat and the Canary)
Don Gallagher (Crazy for You, Aladdin)
Jacqueline Hughes (Hello, Dolly! Clueless the Musical)
Nell Martin (Crazy for You, My Fair Lady)
Anu Ogunmefun (The Creakers, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical)
Ben Redfern (The Red Shoes, Groundhog Day)
Sharon Rose (Sylvia, Hamilton)
Timo Tatzber (Jesus Christ Superstar, Sondheim’s Old Friends)
Madeleine Worrall (Jane Eyre, Tonight at 8.30)
Passenger’s First Stage Musical
The production features original music and lyrics by multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Passenger (aka Mike Rosenberg), best known for the global hit Let Her Go. Though Passenger is not performing in the musical, his folk-inspired score promises to bring Harold’s journey to life in a way that is both contemporary and deeply emotional.
A Creative Team Bringing Harold’s Journey to Life
The musical is helmed by a renowned creative team, including:
Director: Katy Rudd (Ballet Shoes, The Ocean at the End of the Lane)
Designer: Samuel Wyer
Choreographer: Tom Jackson Greaves
Arranger & Orchestrator: Jeremy Holland-Smith
Musical Supervisor: Phil Bateman
Lighting Designer: Paule Constable
Sound Designers: Ian Dickinson and Gareth Tucker for Autograph
Video Designer: Ash J Woodward
Musical Director: Chris Poon
Casting Director: Anna Cooper CDG
The adaptation has been co-created by Rachel Joyce, Peter Darling, and Katy Rudd, with Nick Sidi serving as dramaturg.
A Landmark Stage Adaptation
Originally a BBC Radio 4 drama, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry was expanded into a full-length novel, which went on to become a Man Booker Prize longlisted bestseller, published in 37 languages. Joyce also adapted the story for the 2023 film starring Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton.
This world premiere at Chichester Festival Theatre marks the first time Harold Fry’s journey will be brought to life on stage as a musical.
Tickets & Booking Information
Dates: 5 May – 14 June 2025
Venue: Minerva Theatre, Chichester Festival Theatre
Press Night: 15 May 2025
Tickets: Available via Chichester Festival Theatre’s website
