Grayson the Musical, inspired by the artist Grayson Perry’s life, has announced its full cast for a preview run at Soho Theatre Walthamstow in July 2026. The early-stage workshop seeks to explore Perry’s journey from his Essex upbringing to art world success.

Grayson the Musical will play a five-performance workshop engagement at Soho Theatre Walthamstow from 16 to 19 July 2026. It offers an early-stage presentation of the musical comedy based on the life of the Turner Prize-winning artist Grayson Perry.

Jack Shalloo takes the title role of Grayson Perry, supported by a cast including Rebekah Hinds as Phillippa, Sooz Kempner as Barb, and Gloria Onitiri as Therapist. The ensemble also features Sam Lupton, Lemuel Knights, Katy Baker, Elliot Norrington, Lucy Park, Joshua Lay, and Ben Welch in various roles.

The production is directed by Sean Foley. The creative team is led by music from Richard Thomas, a book by Sara-Ella Ozbek, and lyrics and life story contributions from Perry himself. Additional creative credits include Phil Bateman for musical supervision, Alice Power for design, and Akhila Krishnan for video design.

Perry described seeing himself portrayed on stage as a “weird and moving experience,” praising Jack Shalloo as “an enormously talented performer with the warmth, the wit, the intelligence and the charisma needed to bring this story to life.” He expressed his excitement about what the cast and creative team will produce together.

The musical traces Perry’s life beginning with his childhood on an Essex council estate, following his ascent to prominence as a contemporary artist. The workshop run is positioned as a development phase ahead of further work on the piece.

With its blend of comedy and biographical storytelling, Grayson the Musical adds to the growing interest in theatre exploring artists’ lives. Its Soho Theatre Walthamstow presentation will offer audiences an initial glimpse of this creative undertaking.