Elton John and James Graham's 'Tammy Faye' musical to open at Almeida Theatre

The new musical will open in autumn 2022.

Sophie Thomas
Sophie Thomas

After years of development, a new musical based on the life of televangelist Tammy Faye Messner will finally open in London in 2022. In a tweet from Daily Mail entertainment reporter, Baz Bamigboye, the musical will begin performances at the Almeida Theatre in autumn.

Born in 1942, the Minnesota-born Tammy Faye Messner grew up to become a prolific 20th century televangelist. She initially rose to fame through the Christian talk show, The PTL Club, which she hosted with her husband, Jim Bakker. Throughout her life, she built Heritage USA, a Christian theme park and took time to support HIV/AIDS patients during the epidemic. Messner died in 2007 aged 65.

The new and currently un-named musical  will feature an original story by James Graham. Graham's previous plays include Best of Enemies and Quiz. Original music is by the multi-award-winning singer songwriter Elton John, and original lyrics are by Scissor Sisters member, Jake Shears.

Casting for the new Tammy Faye musical at the Almeida Theatre, as well as performance dates and further information is to be revealed.

Photo credit: Tammy Faye Bakker (Photo courtesy of Darwin Bell on Flickr)

Originally published on

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