The highly anticipated 2027 revival of the Stephen Sondheim musical Sunday in the Park with George has been officially cancelled following the departure of its lead stars.
Empire Street Productions confirmed on Monday 14 September 2026 that the production, which was scheduled to run at London’s Barbican Theatre, will no longer proceed as planned. The decision follows a series of high-profile exits that left the production without its two principal performers.
A timeline of departures
The collapse of what was expected to be a West End ‘super-production’ began in early August 2026, when pop star Ariana Grande announced she was stepping away from the project. Her departure was attributed to a desire for a “break from visibility” following her Eternal Sunshine tour.
The production suffered a further blow on 1 September 2026, when Jonathan Bailey confirmed his own exit. Without the two bankable stars, the production company determined that the 2027 season was no longer viable. The show was to be directed by Marianne Elliott.
Practical information for fans
For many theatre-goers, the news comes as a significant disappointment, though there is little immediate financial risk to the general public. Public ticket sales had not yet officially commenced, meaning no mass refund process is required for the performances themselves.
The cancellation leaves a significant gap in the Barbican’s summer 2027 schedule.
Hopes for a 2028 revival
Empire Street Productions has indicated that it aims to retain the rights to the musical with a view to staging it in 2028. However, this proposal faces significant logistical challenges.
While the producers have expressed hope for a future run, The Guardian reports that the Barbican Theatre is currently scheduled to be closed for the duration of 2028 for maintenance. This would necessitate a move to an alternative venue if the production were to go ahead in that year. It also remains unconfirmed whether the original creative team, including director Marianne Elliott, would be available for a rescheduled production.