Mark Addy's Unexpected Musical Journey

Mark Addy, recognized for his roles in "The Full Monty" and "Game of Thrones," has taken on a surprising new challenge starring in the musical "The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry." Addy described falling in love with the story, which is adapted from Rachel Joyce's best-selling 2012 novel. The narrative centers on Harold Fry, a 60-year-old retiree who undertakes an impulsive 600-mile walk across England after leaving home to mail a letter to a dying friend.

Addy, who previously appeared in a non-singing role in a 1990 musical, confessed to experiencing imposter syndrome among the professional singers and dancers in this production. The musical features music and lyrics from Passenger, whose real name is Mike Rosenberg. The show is directed by Katy Rudd and produced by Chris Harper and Nick Sidi, who began developing it over seven years ago.

"The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry" had its world premiere at the Chichester Festival Theatre in May and June of last year. Following a successful sold-out run there, the production transferred to London's Theatre Royal Haymarket for an 11-week limited engagement. The original story began as a BBC Radio 4 play two decades ago, later adapted into a novel long-listed for the Booker Prize, and then a feature film.