A fresh and rebellious new queer musical, Polly: A 21st Century Love Story will debut at The Other Palace Studio on Wednesday 18 February 2026 for a one‑night industry showcase and public performance.
Described as part romantic comedy and part act of rebellion, the musical reimagines classic rom‑com tropes through a modern queer lens. The story follows Polly, a plus‑sized polyamorous northerner living in London, whose life is upended when she receives a wedding invitation from her cousin Luke. Expected to bring her long‑term boyfriend, she instead decides to embrace her full identity and bring her girlfriend, igniting tensions around family expectations and belonging.
Natalie Durkin stars as Polly, joined by Aaron Lee Lambert as Adam, Mark Anderson as Harry, Adam Colbeck‑Dunn as Luke, Molly Lynch as Emily, Claudia Kariuki as Jen, Martin Callaghan as David and Daniele Coombe as Tina.
The musical is written by Natalie Durkin, with music and lyrics by Joe Tapper, and is directed by Amy Anders Corcoran. During this developmental workshop, the team aims to explore authenticity, love and the politics of visibility within family and community spaces.
Produced by Chris Darby for Daddy’s Money alongside Liam McIntosh Entertainment, the showcase invites industry professionals and early supporters. Musical direction comes from Jordan Paul Clarke.
Writers Natalie Durkin and Joe Tapper said, “Dirks and Tapper can’t wait to workshop the musical with this phenomenal cast and creative team, and to keep building a show that feels representative, inclusive, and truly joyful. We’re so excited to finally play and explore a show we’ve poured our sweat, tears, and a lot of love into and share it with a room full of wildly talented people.”
The performance runs 1 hour 35 minutes and is recommended for ages 15 plus, with references to sex, bondage, intimacy, parental loss and mental health.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
