The National Theatre has announced the full cast for a new production of Jim Cartwright’s acclaimed play The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, directed by Deputy Artistic Director Robert Hastie.
The production will run in the Dorfman Theatre from 2 December 2026 until 23 January 2027 before embarking on a nationwide tour across England, supported by Arts Council England.
Previously announced casting includes BAFTA Award-winning actor Paul Chuckle as Mr Boo, Olivier Award winner Jill Halfpenny as Mari Hoff, and Ian Charleson Award winner Francesca Mills in the title role of Little Voice.
Joining them are Beverly Rudd as Sadie, Daniel Ryan as Ray Say, Adonis Siddique as Billy and Noel White as Telephone Man, as well as understudying duties for Ray Say and Mr Boo.
The company is completed by Alice Croft, Kofi Dennis and Nicky Swift, who will perform in the ensemble while covering principal roles throughout the run.
A celebrated modern classic, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice tells the story of a shy young woman who retreats into her bedroom, recreating the voices of legendary singers from her late father’s record collection. When her mother’s latest boyfriend discovers her extraordinary talent, Little Voice is suddenly thrust towards a spotlight she never sought.
The production features a creative team led by Robert Hastie alongside set and costume designer Janet Bird, lighting designer Paul Pyant, sound designer Mike Walker, composer and music director David Shrubsole, movement director Ira Mandela Siobhan, and fight and intimacy director Bethan Clark.
Following its National Theatre engagement, the production will tour to Newcastle Theatre Royal, Sheffield Theatres, Belgrade Theatre Coventry, The Lowry in Salford, the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre and Theatre Royal Plymouth.
Described as a joyful, tender and bittersweet celebration of music, ambition and self-discovery, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice will feature iconic songs associated with performers including Judy Garland and Shirley Bassey.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
