THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY to transfer to the West End

Emmie Newitt 18 July, 2025, 11:10

The critically acclaimed new musical held its World Premiere at the Chichester Festival Theatre earlier this year, where it sold out the entire season and opened to 5-star reviews and ovations.

Artwork for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry.

Released by Passenger (AKA Mike Rosenberg), who wrote the music and lyrics for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, as the show plans to transfer to the West End in 2026.

The production this Spring starred Mark Addy as Harold, Jenna Russell as Maureen and Jack Wolfe as The Balladeer.

Based on the best-selling novel by Rachel Joyce and directed by Katy Rudd (Ballet Shoes, National Theatre), The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry tells a moving story of a recently retired man who receives a letter from an old friend and heads out to post his reply, but keeps walking. From South Devon to Berwick upon Tweed, Harold Fry reflects on his past, reconnects with life, and discovers the healing power of hope and redemption.

Today, 'Song for the Countryside' from the production has been released.

He said of writing the music and lyrics for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, ‘I never thought I would write a musical. But when I was asked, I read the book and immediately fell in love with it. I love the story and I resonate so deeply with the characters and the journeys they go on. I instantly knew that it was something that I had to be a part of. It’s been a real labour of love - not just for me, but all of the amazing people involved in the production.

More news on the West End transfer is to come in the future!