Grayson the Musical: New Musical Comedy About Grayson Perry Premieres at Soho Theatre, Walthamstow
An exhilarating brand-new musical comedy inspired by the extraordinary life of Grayson Perry arrives at Soho Theatre, Walthamstow for a strictly limited workshop run this summer. GRAYSON THE MUSICAL plays from 16 to 19 July 2026 in a series of five preview performances directed by double Olivier Award winner Sean Foley (The Ladykillers, Dr. Strangelove).
About Grayson the Musical
Funny, irreverent and unexpectedly moving, GRAYSON THE MUSICAL tells the incredible true story of one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Follow Grayson as he struggles to make his mark on the world while never quite feeling like he fits in. From the wrong class, wearing the wrong dress and making all the wrong choices, Grayson’s journey takes him from an Essex working-class council estate to the dizzying heights of the Tate Gallery.
This irreverent odyssey sees him navigate identity, creativity and self-acceptance via marital breakdowns, career disasters and some life coaching from a six-foot teddy bear named Alan.
Combining outrageous humour with emotional honesty, GRAYSON THE MUSICAL features music by Richard Thomas (Jerry Springer: The Opera), a book by Sara-Ella Ozbek, and lyrics and life story by Grayson Perry himself.
This joyous and riotous new musical is about growing up and embracing who you truly are, touching on themes of family, therapy, art and, of course, cross-dressing. You know, all the usual musical comedy tropes.
Grayson Perry on Bringing His Life to the Stage
Grayson Perry said: “When I first started thinking about turning my life into a musical, I realised it already contained most of the essential ingredients. Questionable fashion choices and class anxiety amongst them. Beneath all the comedy however, is a story about trying to work out who you are and if you can ever truly belong. A concept which many may relate to. I’m delighted that the show will be starting its life at Soho Theatre Walthamstow and excited to see what audiences make of it.”
Presented as a special first-look engagement ahead of further development, these five performances offer audiences an exclusive early opportunity to experience this bold new British musical.
Grayson the Musical London Creative Team
Director: Sean Foley
Music: Richard Thomas
Book: Sara-Ella Ozbek
Lyrics and Life Story: Grayson Perry
Musical Supervision: Phil Bateman
Designer: Alice Power
Video Design: Akhila Krishnan
Lighting: Rory Beaton
Sound: Gareth Tucker for Autograph
Choreography: Lizzi Gee
Musical Director: Isaac McCullough
Grayson the Musical London Tickets and Venue Information
Performances: 16 to 19 July 2026
Venue: Soho Theatre, Walthamstow
Running time: 2 hours 20 minutes including interval
Age guidance: 18 and over
Website: graysonthemusical.co.uk
