Lead casting confirmed for Sinatra: The Musical
Published on 3 February 2026
Frank Sinatra has been a puppet, a pauper, a pirate, a poet, a pawn and a king, and now he’s the subject of his very own musical. But who will be playing the iconic singer in Sinatra: The Musical at the Aldwych Theatre? Read on, and we’ll start spreading the news…
Joel Harper-Jackson (Standing at the Sky’s Edge) will star as the charismatic crooner, he will star opposite Ana Villafañe (On Your Feet!) as Ava Gardner and alongside Phoebe Panaretos (Strictly Ballroom) who reprises her role as Frank’s first wife, Nancy Sinatra.
Commenting on today's announcement, Harper-Jackson said “Stepping into the shoes of Frank Sinatra is a privilege I don’t take lightly. There is only one Frank, and I’m committed to honouring his legacy with truth, respect and integrity. To collaborate with Kathleen Marshall, Joe DiPietro, Gareth Valentine, Universal Music and, of course, Tina Sinatra is an honour beyond words. Returning to the Aldwych Theatre, where I made my West End debut eleven years ago, feels like coming home. Frank was my grandad’s hero, so this role is deeply personal. Preparation has begun, and I’m so excited to start this journey.”
Director Kathleen Marshall is thrilled with the casting, gushing: “The trio are all amazingly talented, triple-threat performers who possess the charm, magnetism and passion to embody these three charismatic and fascinating people.”
The musical started life at the Birmingham Rep, where it wowed critics and fans alike. The show follows Frank Sinatra, charting his rise to stardom in the 1940s, as well as his personal relationships, and the challenges that shaped his career.
Sinatra: The Musical plays at the Aldwych Theatre from 3 June 2026 until 10 April 2027.
