Meet the Full Cast of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry
Published on 22 December 2025
Following a sold-out, critically acclaimed run at Chichester Festival Theatre, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry transfers to the West End in 2026. Based on Rachel Joyce’s bestselling novel and featuring original music and lyrics by Passenger, this uplifting new musical opens at the Theatre Royal Haymarket on 29 January 2026, running until 18 April 2026.
If you’re wondering who is in the cast of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, here’s everything you need to know about the full London company.
Who plays Harold Fry?
Mark Addy reprises the title role of Harold Fry, an ordinary man who embarks on an extraordinary journey on foot from Devon to Berwick-upon-Tweed. Addy is known for his acclaimed stage and screen career, including The Full Monty and Game of Thrones.
Who plays Maureen Fry?
Jenna Russell stars as Maureen Fry, Harold’s wife, whose own emotional journey unfolds back home. Russell is one of the UK’s most celebrated musical theatre performers, with credits including Sunday in the Park with George and Hello, Dolly!
Who plays The Balladeer?
Noah Mullins returns as The Balladeer, guiding the audience through Harold’s pilgrimage and bringing the story’s themes of hope, kindness and connection to life.
Full cast of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (London)
Joining the previously announced principals, the full West End cast includes:
- Craig Armstrong – Rich / Ensemble
- Jenna Boyd – Sister Philomena, Farmer’s Wife, Rita / Ensemble
- Daniel Crossley – Silver Haired Gentleman, Napier / Ensemble
- Nell Martin – Young Maureen, Deliveroo / Ensemble
- Nicole Nyarambi – Garage Girl / Ensemble
- Peter Polycarpou – Rex, Locum / Ensemble
- Gleanne Purcell-Brown – Kate, Betsy, Kind Customer / Ensemble
- Ashley Samuels – Wilf, Jim / Ensemble
- Maggie Service – Queenie Hennessey, Fairy Assistant, Gorilla / Ensemble
- Madeleine Worrall – Martina / Ensemble
- Timo Tatzber – Dog, Young Harold / Ensemble and Puppet Captain
Swings
- Gemma Atkins – Swing
- Olivia Foster-Browne – Swing
- Ediz Mahmut – Swing
- Edwin Ray – Swing, Trainer Man and Dance Captain
Who wrote The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
The musical is based on the internationally bestselling novel by Rachel Joyce, who has adapted her own book for the stage. Joyce’s story of love, loss, redemption and second chances has resonated with millions of readers worldwide.
Who wrote the music for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
The show features original music and lyrics by Passenger (Mike Rosenberg), the multi-platinum-selling singer-songwriter best known for the global hit Let Her Go. This production marks Passenger’s debut as a theatrical composer, bringing his signature folk-pop sound and emotional storytelling to the stage.
Who directs The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
The West End production is directed by Katy Rudd, whose previous work includes The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Ballet Shoes. Her visually poetic direction was widely praised during the Chichester run.
Production history
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry premiered at Chichester Festival Theatre in Spring 2024, where it opened to rave reviews, multiple five-star ratings and nightly standing ovations. The entire run sold out, leading to its highly anticipated West End transfer.
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry London – key information
- Theatre: Theatre Royal Haymarket
- Performance dates: 29 January – 18 April 2026
- Run time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including interval)
- Age guidance: 12+
Frequently asked questions
Is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry a musical?
Yes. The stage adaptation is a full musical featuring an original folk-pop score by Passenger.
Is the West End cast the same as Chichester?
Many of the principal performers, including Mark Addy and Jenna Russell, are reprising their roles from the Chichester Festival Theatre run, alongside an expanded West End ensemble.
Is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry suitable for children?
The show is recommended for ages 12+, due to its emotional themes.
Where is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry playing in London?
The musical plays at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in the West End.
How long is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
The running time is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including an interval.
Looking to see this life-affirming new musical in London? Discover more about the show and book The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry tickets today.
By Hay Brunsdon
I've 15 years of writing and editorial experience, and starting working in the West End theatre industry in 2012. When not watching or writing about theatre I'm usually swimming, hiking, running, or training for triathlons in the Stroud valleys.