Ariana Grande Withdraws from 2027 Sunday in the Park with George Revival
Ariana Grande has officially stepped back from the upcoming 2027 revival of Sunday in the Park with George at the Barbican. The withdrawal ends speculation around her involvement and confirms a casting shakeup for the high-profile production.
Empire Street Productions confirmed that Ariana Grande has decided to withdraw from the 2027 revival of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Sunday in the Park with George. The production is set to open at the Barbican in London in summer 2027, with casting to be announced at a later date.
A statement from the production acknowledged Grande’s decision, expressing support and understanding for the choice, while wishing her well. Ariana Grande’s team told People magazine that she will be taking a break from public-facing work after completing her Eternal Sunshine Tour, citing the desire to end the tour healthily and happily.
Grande’s representative further explained she is stepping back due to ongoing public scrutiny and plans to take a much-deserved break. The team noted that the tour has been a positive experience for Grande, who remains grateful to her fans.
The revival, directed by Marianne Elliott—winner of a Tony and Olivier for shows like Company and War Horse—is a major London staging of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical inspired by Georges Seurat’s pointillist painting. Jonathan Bailey is confirmed to star as George in the production.
Produced by Empire Street Productions with set design by Tom Scutt, this revival marks the show’s first major London production in two decades. Elliott’s involvement indicates a high-profile artistic vision for the work.
Grande’s departure comes amid wider preparation for the show’s 2027 Barbican season, but casting details beyond Bailey’s involvement remain to be revealed. The production is expected to maintain momentum despite the change.