'Wicked' Duo Reunites: Grande and Bailey Confirmed for Sondheim Musical Revival

The much awaited West End production of Stephen Sondheim's 'Sunday in the Park With George' will bring Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey back to the stage. Fans of the duo, who previously enthralled viewers with their chemistry in the 'Wicked' movies, can anticipate seeing them infuse the timeless musical with fresh nuance. The revival, confirmed through official announcements and social media teasers, promises a fresh interpretation of Georges Seurat's artistic journey and the complex relationship between Seurat and his muse, Dot. 

This performance, which is scheduled to launch at London's Barbican Centre in the summer of 2027, represents a significant theatrical achievement for both actors and rekindles interest in one of Sondheim's most cherished pieces.

From 'Wicked' Chemistry to Theatre Collaboration

Following their appearances as Glinda and Fiyero in the popular 'Wicked' film adaptations, Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey have captivated the public's attention as both performers and a dynamic on-screen pair. Fans are excited for more collaborations because of their real relationship, strong chemistry, and love of musical storytelling. This year, the duo confirmed they'll be teaming up again—this time on the London stage—to headline a revival of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's 'Sunday in the Park With George.'

Image Courtesy: The Hollywood Reporter

The duo posed in front of Georges Seurat's well-known painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte," which served as the inspiration for the original musical, in an Instagram photo that formally confirmed the news. Their Instagram caption, "All it has to be good," quoted a lyric from the show's iconic number "Finishing the Hat," delighting fans and cementing the authenticity of their involvement.

While 'Wicked: For Good' made them well-known throughout the world, 'Sunday in the Park With George' represents a very theatrical comeback for both artists, fusing Grande's Broadway roots and star power with Bailey's extensive stage experience.

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Image Courtesy: The Times

Reviving a Musical Classic on the West End Stage

With a screenplay by James Lapine and music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, 'Sunday in the Park With George' is a Pulitzer Prize-winning musical that debuted on Broadway in 1984. The story revolves around Georges Seurat, the pointillist painter responsible for the well-known piece, and his artistic journey to finish "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." The original show has been praised for its examination of creativity across generations, creative topics, and emotional depth.

Over the years, it has seen several productions and revivals, including a high‑profile Broadway staging in 2017, but it hasn't graced a major London theatre in nearly two decades. In the upcoming West End revival, 'Wicked' co‑star Jonathan Bailey is set to portray Seurat—the introspective artist driven by perfection—while Ariana Grande will play Dot, Seurat's muse and complex love interest. 

Image Courtesy: The Times

Their parts offer a chance to display their dramatic and vocal skills in a live theater environment as well as rich, emotional storytelling. The production, which is set to be one of the most talked-about theatrical events of 2027, is directed by renowned director Marianne Elliott and designed by Tom Scutt.

What Fans Can Expect and When It Debuts

Tickets for the revival will go on sale in May 2026 via the Barbican website and box office. The revival is slated to launch at London's esteemed Barbican Centre in the summer of 2027. Ariana Grande's career started on Broadway as a young actress, and this staging will also represent her first West End appearance. Although her schedule includes the 'Eternal Sunshine Tour' and other film projects, she's clearly balancing her pop and acting careers with this exciting theatrical venture.

Image Courtesy: Marie Claire

On the other hand, Jonathan Bailey, a seasoned theatre actor with a Laurence Olivier Award to his name, will surely bring depth and experience to the role of Seurat. With its rich artistic themes and the captivating duo at its core, 'Sunday in the Park With George' looks set to captivate audiences and breathe new life into Sondheim's beloved masterpiece. 

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