The new musical Private Jones, exploring the First World War through the perspective of a deaf Welsh sniper, has announced its full cast line-up. Starring Rose Ayling-Ellis, the production opens this Christmas at Southwark Playhouse in London.

Private Jones, a new musical focusing on Gomer Jones, a deaf Welsh soldier and skilled sniper during the First World War, will run at Southwark Playhouse from 14 December 2026 until 30 January 2027. The production features Rose Ayling-Ellis as The Storyteller, alongside James Spence as Gomer Jones and Bronwyn James as King.

The show’s ensemble also includes Ffion Haf, Nadeem Islam, George Karanja, Luke McCall, Lili Mohammad, Thea Munoz-Buirski, Katie Louise Prichard, Jacob Ethan Tanner, and Jacob Young. This cast spans hearing, hard-of-hearing, and Deaf performers, reflecting the show’s inclusive approach.

Private Jones integrates sign language, live captioning, a Foley soundscape, and an original score, making communication and sound design core elements of its storytelling. Choreography is by Misha Shields, with artistic sign language direction by Alexandria Wailes and music direction by Màth Roberts.

The production’s design team includes Anna Kelsey (set), Tim Deiling (lighting), Yvonne Gilbert (sound), and Ben Glover (video). Associate director Alice Eklund supports director Marshall Pailet, who also wrote the piece. The production benefits from BSL direction by Daryl Jackson and Welsh language consultancy by Lowri Morgan.

Produced by Hugo Six in association with Thomas Hopkins Productions, Private Jones offers an inventive take on historical drama through a rich sensory and linguistic landscape. Its national press night is set for 17 December 2026.