A brand-new play inspired by the life of Paul O’Grady is set to premiere in 2027, as producers announce full details for SAVAGE, written by Jonathan Harvey and starring RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard.
The production will open at Curve Leicester on 13 February 2027, ahead of a planned West End run, with performances continuing there until 6 March before a wider UK tour.
SavAGE explores the origins of O’Grady’s iconic alter ego Lily Savage, tracing his journey from a working-class upbringing in Birkenhead to national stardom.
Drawing on O’Grady’s autobiographies, the play promises a mix of humour and poignancy as it charts the creation of one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers.
The production is directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster and is a co-production between ROYO, Curve, Hope Mill Theatre and Eilene Davidson.
Danny Beard, known for their quick wit and commanding stage presence, will take on the title role, bringing Lily Savage to life for a new generation.
During early development, Paul O’Grady said, “I’m delighted Jonathan (Harvey) has agreed to write the script, I really am as he’s perfect for this and he’s such a great writer.”
Writer Jonathan Harvey added, “I was so thrilled when Paul gave me the opportunity to turn his life story into a stage show. I first saw Lily in a scuzzy gay bar in West London in the late 80s and laughed ‘til I hurt, so it’s an honour indeed to bring his story and the colourful escapades of the blonde bombsite herself to life. This is one of those few shows that I’m involved in where I can go ‘You need to come. It’s really good’… because the zinging one-liners are all his. It’s so sad he’s not here to see it, but hopefully this will be a fitting testament to everything he achieved, and a cracking night out full of humour and heart.”
Curve’s Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster said, “Paul was a generational talent, and we are honoured to have the opportunity to work on this hilarious, heartfelt and electrifying new play by the mighty Jonathan Harvey, which celebrates Paul’s life, legacy and Lily.
Jonathan is one of our finest writers and alongside Paul’s husband André, manager Joan and our co-producers, we are indebted to them all for trusting us to tell this story.
From the streets of Liverpool to the sharp tongue and stiletto heels of Lily Savage, Paul’s is a remarkable and utterly unique story. We know our audiences in Leicester will laugh loudly, be deeply moved and reminded why Paul O’Grady remains one of the most beloved and revered entertainers this country will ever produce.”
The show promises an intimate and vivid portrait of O’Grady’s life, combining sharp humour with emotional depth to celebrate both the man and his legendary creation.
Further casting and creative team details are to be announced.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
