London's 'Sunday in the Park With George' Canceled After Star Exits
The planned 2027 London revival of 'Sunday in the Park With George' has been canceled after Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey withdrew from the production. Producers Empire Street Productions stated they will retain the rights to potentially stage the show in 2028, though no new dates or cast have been announced.
Key points
- Empire Street Productions confirmed the 2027 Barbican production will not proceed as scheduled.
- Ariana Grande withdrew in August, citing a need for a break from public scrutiny.
- Jonathan Bailey followed with his own departure, stating he made the decision after much consideration.
- The producers indicated they may present the musical in 2028, with further details to be announced.
- Marianne Elliott was scheduled to direct the production, which was set to reunite the 'Wicked' co-stars.
Background
The musical, written by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, debuted on Broadway in 1984 and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It is based on Georges Seurat's painting 'A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.' The London revival was announced in January 2026, with ticket sales delayed to September 2026 to coincide with the end of Grande's 'Eternal Sunshine' tour. Previous revivals occurred in 2008 and 2017.
How outlets are covering it
AP News and Variety report the cancellation as a direct result of the two lead actors dropping out. The Guardian notes that producers likely anticipated the difficulty of selling tickets without the marquee names. Playbill highlights that Marianne Elliott was set to direct, noting her previous collaboration with Bailey in 'Company.' All sources agree that Empire Street Productions retains the rights for a potential 2028 revival.
Why it matters
The cancellation underscores the impact of celebrity departures on major theatrical productions and the challenges of recasting high-profile musicals. It also highlights the tension between public scrutiny and the personal well-being of performers, as Grande cited ongoing media attention as a reason for stepping back.
What to watch
Empire Street Productions will announce further details regarding a potential 2028 production. Auditions for the 2027 show were scheduled for summer 2026, but the cancellation may affect these plans. The producers have not confirmed whether the 2028 revival will feature the same creative team or new casting.
- London revival of ‘Sunday in the Park With George’ called off after stars drop out AP News
- London musical cancelled after Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey pull out BBC
- Sunday in the Park With George musical cancelled, after Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey both drop out The Guardian
- ‘Sunday in the Park With George’ London Revival Canceled After Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey Exit Variety
- London Sunday in the Park With George Postponed Following Jonathan Bailey and Ariana Grande Departures Playbill
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