The Royal Exchange Theatre has announced the cast for the regional premiere of the Tony-Award winning musical Fun Home, featuring music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by Lisa Kron.ย
This production marks the musicalโs Northern debut and coincides with the 20th anniversary of Alison Bechdelโs iconic graphic novel.
Directed by former Royal Exchange Artistic Director Sarah Frankcom, the show represents a homecoming for the director during the theatreโs 50th anniversary season.
Fun Home is described as an exhilarating and heartbreaking musical exploration of coming out and coming of age.
The story follows cartoonist Alison Bechdel as she journeys through childhood memories of growing up in a funeral home and her efforts to understand the secrets within her family, particularly those involving her father.
Leading Cast and Homecoming Performances
Jodie McNee returns to the Royal Exchange to portray Alison Bechdel.
McNee has a long history with the theatre, having appeared in productions such as Hamlet and A Taste of Honey.
Starring opposite her as Bruce Bechdel is Olivier Award-winning actor Nigel Harman, known for his celebrated stage work in Shrek and Guys and Dolls, as well as screen roles in EastEnders and Downton Abbey.
The role of Medium Alison will be played by Alice Audrey O’Hanlon, while Small Alison will be shared by Lillie Babb, Felicity L.J. Moore, and Harriet OโShea.
Alex Young joins the cast as Helen Bechdel, with Natasha Cottriall as Joan and Lucca Chadwick-Patel performing the roles of Roy, Bobby, Mark, and Pete.
A Masterpiece in the Round
The production runs in the Royal Exchangeโs iconic in-the-round auditorium from 3 July to 1 August 2026.
This modern masterpiece uses soaring and revelatory songs to tell a tale of grief, love, and the complexities of family life.
The creative team includes several returning collaborators, such as Designer Peter Butler and Music Supervisor Matthew Malone.
Jenni Jackson serves as Choreographer and Intimacy Director, while the lighting and sound are handled by Bethany Gupwell and Tony Gayle respectively.
The roles of John and Christian will also be played by a rotating cast of young performers, including Reggie Kempson, Finley Litchfield, Reuben Shepherd, Arthur Lyons, Morris McKinley, and Theo Wake.
Jennifer Caldwell and Alfie Richards complete the company as offstage covers.
This production stands as the fourth major show in the theatre’s landmark 50th anniversary programme, continuing its tradition of bringing groundbreaking musical theatre to Northern audiences.
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