The musical is set to be presented at the Cadogan Hall as part of the 2022 UK Australia Season programme.

It has been confirmed that David Suchet will play the role of Alfredo Frassati, alongside Louise Dearman as Sarah Parker, and Celinde Schoenmaker as Mimma Marini in the new musical about war and friendship.

The shadow of Fascism drives Mimma, a young Italian journalist, to take refuge at her Uncle Lorenzo’s nightclub in London.  Mimma forges an unassailable friendship with Sarah, an aspiring jazz singer, while her family are increasingly embroiled in resistance against Mussolini. The coming conflict brings out the best and worst in people as Mimma’s brother is captured, Londoners prepare for Hitler’s Blitz, and fears of betrayal reach fever pitch.  Mimma and Sarah are caught in the turmoil as Soho is torn apart by arrests and internments.  As England and Italy face their darkest hours, Mimma is in danger of losing everything.  Everything – that is, except the one friend she can trust. Mimma is a musical that bridges continents and cultures by blending soulful jazz, opera and musical theatre.

Mimma’s creative team includes Ron Siemiginowski (Composer & Producer), Giles Watson (Librettist) and Luke Fredericks (Director). The score will be performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Richard Balcombe (Musical Director & Orchestrator).

It was also confirmed that Orana Productions Ltd, Producer and Presenter of the Mimma Charity Concert, will donate 100% of ticket proceeds to The Prince’s Trust. The total amount donated to The Prince’s Trust is expected to be £65,000. 

Talking about being part of the gala concert, David Suchet said: “When I first read the Mimma script and listened to the beautiful score of soaring operatic arias in Italian followed by smoky jazz numbers, I was fascinated to explore more about this remarkable story of war and heartache set against the rise of fascism in Italy, and the Second World War in London. Mimma touches on many issues of the time, but what resonated with me, was the underlining message of courage, truth, family bonds and the power of friendships. I am very much looking forward to performing the title role of the Narrator, Alfredo Frassati, and sharing the wonderful story of Mimma with the audience.”

Mimma will be performed at Cadogan Hall on the 28th February 2022.