The planned London revival of Sunday In The Park With George has been called off after stars Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey pulled out. The Wicked co-stars were scheduled to reunite on stage at the Barbican in 2027, directed by Marianne Elliott. In August, Grande announced she was stepping back from the spotlight and leaving the show, though producers Empire Street Productions said it would proceed.
Bailey also departed earlier this month, but the firm stressed: "Work on the production continues." However, it was confirmed on Monday that the production will no longer take place at the theatre next year. A statement from the company said: "The planned 2027 production of Sunday in the Park with George at the Barbican will no longer proceed as scheduled. "Empire Street Productions will retain the rights with a view to presenting the production in 2028.
Further details will be announced in due course." Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed musical is inspired by the Georges Seurat painting A Sunday Afternoon On The Island Of La Grande Jatte. It tells the story of a fictionalised Seurat attempting to finish the artwork, balancing art and life alongside his relationship with muse Dot. An earlier attempt to revive the musical starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Annaleigh Ashford was postponed indefinitely in 2021 due to Covid.
Announcing his decision to withdraw from the production earlier this month, Bailey posted on social media: “Ari is one of my dearest friends, and my support for her is unwavering. Marianne is extraordinary and one of my longest collaborators and friends. After much consideration, I have decided to also step back from Sunday in the Park with George.
Among many things, the story explores the deep connection between George and Dot, a beautiful, devoted pairing, and I so look forward to seeing what the team, and the two actors who will now take on these roles, will create with it.” He added: “I wish the very best to the entire company with what will no doubt be an incredible production, and I will be cheering them on as they continue this journey.” However, the show will no longer go ahead following Monday’s announcement. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
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