Full Casting Announced for Fanny at the King’s Head Theatre

The King’s Head Theatre will welcome Calum Finlay’s riotous comedy Fanny this autumn, with full casting now confirmed for its London run from 10 October to 15 November 2025.

Following its acclaimed 2024 premiere at The Watermill Theatre, the production brings to life the overlooked story of Fanny Mendelssohn, the pioneering 19th-century composer whose work was often published under her brother Felix’s name. Mischief co-founder Charlie Russell reprises her acclaimed performance as Fanny, fresh from her recent West End role in A Comedy About Spies.

She is joined by Daniel Abbott (Groan Ups, Hampstead Theatre’s Linck & Mülhahn), Kim Ismay (Wicked, Elf The Musical), Jeremy Lloyd (The Play That Goes Wrong), Danielle Phillips (Shakespeare’s Globe’s The Merry Wives of Windsor), and Riad Richie (Anna Karenina, Of Mice and Men). Katie-Ann McDonough directs, with music by Yshani Perinpanayagam and designs by Sophia Pardon.

Fanny tells the story of Fanny Mendelssohn stepping out from her brother’s shadow after intercepting a royal invitation meant for him. In a bold act of defiance, she sets out to claim her rightful place at the palace and in musical history. The play has been praised as a “life-enhancing comedy” (★★★★ Whatsonstage) for its sharp, irreverent take on classical music and the women sidelined within it.

Each performance at the King’s Head will conclude with a “Noble Call” — an invitation for female-identifying musicians from all backgrounds to share their work live on stage, celebrating the legacy of women composers.

Director Katie-Ann McDonough said: “Fanny captures the extraordinary ambition and music of Fanny Mendelssohn, a woman whose genius was too often overshadowed. I’m honoured to bring her story of creativity, determination, and the fight to be heard to the King’s Head with this wonderful cast.”

Fanny runs at the King’s Head Theatre, Islington, from 10 October to 15 November 2025, with a press night on 16 October. Tickets are available at kingsheadtheatre.com