The Royal Exchange Theatre has revealed the cast for its upcoming regional premiere of Fun Home, set to run from 3 July to 1 August 2026. This production will mark the musical’s northern debut and offers a fresh exploration of Alison Bechdel’s story through Jeanine Tesori and Lisa Kron’s celebrated score and book.

Fun Home, based on Alison Bechdel’s 2006 graphic novel celebrating its 20th anniversary, will be staged in the Royal Exchange’s in-the-round auditorium. The musical follows Bechdel as she reflects on her childhood in a family-run funeral home, her sexual awakening, and her complex relationship with her father.

Jodie McNee leads the cast as Alison, with Nigel Harman cast as Bruce Bechdel. Alice Audrey O’Hanlon plays Medium Alison, while the role of Small Alison is shared by Lillie Babb, Felicity LJ Moore, and Harriet O’Shea. Natasha Cottriall appears as Joan, and Alex Young takes the role of Helen Bechdel.

Lucca Chadwick-Patel completes the principal cast by playing multiple characters including Roy, Bobby, Mark and Pete. The role of John will be shared by Reggie Kempson, Finley Litchfield and Reuben Shepherd, while the role of Christian will be alternated between Arthur Lyons, Morris McKinley and Theo Wake. Jennifer Caldwell and Alfie Richards serve as offstage covers.

The production is directed by former Royal Exchange artistic director Sarah Frankcom, with choreography and intimacy direction by Jenni Jackson. The creative team also features Matthew Malone as music supervisor, Peter Butler on design, Bethany Gupwell on lighting, Tony Gayle as sound designer, Emma Baggott as associate director, and Natalie Gallacher casting.

Fun Home’s arrival in Manchester marks the first northern staging of the musical, expanding its reach beyond London and other major theatre centres. The show’s blend of autobiographical storytelling and intricate musical composition continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting themes of identity and family.