'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry' review — Rachel Joyce's musical is life-affirming theatre
Read our review of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, with a book by Rachel Joyce and music/lyrics by Passenger, now in performances at Theatre Royal Haymarket through 18 April.
Summary
- The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is based on Rachel Joyce's 2012 novel
- She has adapted the novel for the stage with music and lyrics by Passenger
- Mark Addy and Jenna Russell star in the lead roles
How do you stage a 627-mile journey by foot on stage? This was the challenge given to the creatives of new musical The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, first at Chichester’s Minerva Theatre in 2025 and now in the West End, as the show takes its first steps at Theatre Royal Haymarket.
The result could have been repetitious and tedious, but thanks to Katy Rudd’s immaculate direction, and superb, balletic choreography by Tom Jackson Greaves, Harold Fry’s journey from Devon to Berwick-upon-Tweed to see his old, dying friend Queenie is a heartfelt, gripping voyage.
Based on Rachel Joyce’s 2012 novel, with stirring, uplifting music by singer-songwriter Passenger, the musical is a love letter to pastoral Britain. Ash J Woodward’s oil painting video projections conjure pink-streaked skies and lush, rolling hills, while washing lines become maypoles and a never-still ensemble transforms into sheep, horse-riders, postmen, and even a glitzy car wash (complete with bubble crowns).
The musical fills a gap recently left by the charming, Olivier-winning The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, which also drew on folk tradition, community, and a hard-working ensemble to conjure a more quaint view of British life than is often felt in its cities. It is safe to say that Joyce’s adaptation has certainly melted this Londoner’s heart.
We are in safe hands with Game of Thrones and The Full Monty actor Mark Addy, who plays the titular Harold. His performance is the acting equivalent of putting on a favourite, comfortable old jumper — his Harold is a little rough round the edges, but he is good, real, stoic, and completely captivating. He sets out as a man seeking to provide comfort to another, but realises he is the one who needs to be healed along the way. Addy may not have the strongest vocals in the company, but the show’s penultimate confessional song “Dear Girl in the Garage” is rousing and layered with years of grief and regret.
Addy has strong, believable chemistry with Jenna Russell, who plays Harold’s wife Maureen. It requires their physical separation during Harold’s pilgrimage for the couple to address the years-long emotional distance that has also developed, yet through Maureen’s memories we see glimpses of the steady love that underlies their relationship. Her grief for their shared trauma, which sees her cry into her net curtains during “Tin of Soup for One”, is quietly devastating.
Playing the Balladeer is Australian actor Noah Mullins, a doppelgänger of Jack Wolfe (who starred in the Chichester run). Dressed like a woodland sprite, complete with flower crown, the Balladeer accompanies Harold on his journey, often singing while Harold remains silent. Mullins is ethereal and bewitching, sweeping up the audience with their silky vocals from the opening number “Rise Up”. Harold’s other constant companion during the show, Dog, is sweetly brought to life by puppeteer Timo Tatzber.
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is life-affirming theatre, which captures the rich tapestry of British life, and through an assortment of characters (from an eastern European doctor, to a young, recovering drug addict) shows that everyone is carrying their own, hidden pain.
The swell of grief in the second act is disarming, but there are plenty of bright, humorous notes in Joyce’s tale of a man who chooses to believe in the miracle of walking. If you find yourself in the West End for a couple of hours, it’s the perfect place to rest your feet.
Book The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Main photo credit: Mark Addy, Noah Mullins, Jenna Russell, and company in The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. (Photos by Tristram Kenton)
Frequently asked questions
What is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry about?
Following its sold-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry makes its West End debut. Adapted for the stage by Rachel Joyce from her 2012 novel, with a brilliant score by Passenger, this new musical is a profoundly moving celebration of hope.
Where is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry playing?
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is playing at Theatre Royal Haymarket. The theatre is located at 18 Suffolk St, London, SW1Y 4HT.
How long is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
The running time of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is 2hr 20min. Incl. Interval.
How do you book tickets for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
Book tickets for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry on London Theatre.
What's the age requirement for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
The recommended age for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is Ages 12+..
How much do tickets cost for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
Tickets for The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry start at £32.
Who wrote The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
This musical is adapted for the stage by Rachel Joyce, with music and lyrics by Passenger.
What songs are in The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
There are numerous songs in the musical, including ‘Walk Upon the Water,’ ‘Shout it from the Rooftops,’ and ‘My Hero Harold Fry.’
Who directed The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?
Katy Rudd directs the musical.
Is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry appropriate for kids?
This musical is best suited for those ages 12 and above.
Is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry good?
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is a gorgeous, heart-warming musical that blends humour with kindness. With a beautiful score and powerful performances, it’s a lovely story that will stay with audiences long after the final note.
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