Two emerging performers have been cast in The Jonathan Larson Project, which will receive its European premiere at Southwark Playhouse Borough this summer. Georgie Butler and Edward Flynn Haddon were selected from more than six hundred applicants in an open search led by Emmy nominated casting director Rob Kelly.
The production will run from 9 July to 22 August 2026 in a new staging directed by John Simpkins, marking thirty years since Jonathan Larson’s death on the eve of Rent’s first performance.
The Jonathan Larson Project celebrates the early work and creative imagination of the composer behind Rent and tick, tick… BOOM! with previously unheard songs from his archives. The London production follows a critically acclaimed Off Broadway season and will feature an expanded UK company.
Butler, currently training at Guildford School of Acting, and Haddon, training at Laine Theatre Arts, have been confirmed as the two covers for the show. Both performers auditioned in person for producers and Kelly, who praised their honesty and instinctive work.
Rob Kelly said: “I’m from South East London, and I didn’t grow up feeling like this industry was built for people like me. That’s why opening doors to new and unrepresented talent genuinely matters to me. We held a real open search because talent isn’t confined to the usual spaces. Georgie and Edward brought something honest and instinctive into the room, and that’s exactly what this piece needs. Jonathan Larson wrote about outsiders, about people fighting to be seen and heard, and that spirit sits at the heart of this project. If theatre and television are going to stay relevant, we have to keep widening the door.”
Producer Thomas Hopkins added: “Rob handled this process with real care and integrity, casting the net properly wide, which felt important to all of us. We are absolutely delighted that Georgie and Edward are joining the company. SAMS Entertainment, Julie Larson and the whole team are so excited to welcome them. Jonathan Larson was a great believer in young artists being given their moment, and I truly think he would have supported both Rob’s approach and these two wonderful new talents.”
Edward Flynn Haddon said: “I can’t tell you how truly grateful I am to not only be blessed with such an incredible first show after graduating, but also to be given the honour of celebrating the legacy of such an incredible writer. I can’t wait to work with such a talented cast of people I have looked up to, and such an awesome creative team. It is a project I am so passionate about and an absolute dream come true. Thank you to Rob Kelly and the team. It is such a beautiful show with an incredible cast and creative team. I hope to do honour to Jonathan Larson and his legacy.”
Georgie Butler said: “It is a dream come true for me to be cast in The Jonathan Larson Project: I’m still pinching myself! I think Jonathan Larson was such an inspiration and so ahead of his time and it is such a rare privilege to be a part of this production.”
They will join the previously announced cast of Max Harwood, Marcus Collins, Michael Mather, Grace Mouat and Imelda Warren Green.
The show offers insight into Larson’s artistry, activism and vision, presenting rare material that shaped one of musical theatre’s most influential voices. His work continues to inspire global audiences through Rent, tick, tick… BOOM! and beyond.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
