The production, directed by Caroline Leslie will begin performances at the Criterion Theatre on the 3rd May.

Producers have confirmed that the stage production based on the BBC radio 4 comedy will be heading to the West End this May, with each week featuring a special guest star in the role of Sir Philip (“Pip”) Bin. Among those confirmed so far to make an appearance are: Tom Allen, Adjoa Andoh, Alexander Armstrong, Jo Brand, Jack Dee, Stephen Fry, Nish Kumar, Lee Mack, Stephen Mangan, Ben Miller and Sue Perkins. 

Bleak Expectations follows young Pip’s extraordinary exploits with sisters Pippa and Poppy plus best friend Harry Biscuit as they attempt to escape the calculating clutches of the dastardly Mr Gently Benevolent, defeat the hideous Hardthrasher siblings, and deflect disaster at every turn!

Will evil be vanquished by virtue? Can love triumph over hate? Escape with this joyfully anarchic comedy featuring barbarous boarding schools, contemptible conspiracies, roaring romances, devilish disguises, and definitely, probably, hopefully, a happy ending!

With full casting for the production yet to be announced, the creative team behind Bleak Expectations includes: designs by Katie Lias, lighting design by Andrew Exeter, sound designs by Ella Wahlström and casting directors Lucy Jenkins and Sooki McShane.

It is being produced in the West End by Anthology Theatre Productions, Glass Half Full Productions, Patrick Gracey, David Wolstencroft, and David Mirvish, John Yonover, Ricardo Hornos / Tomas Rottemberg, Richard Winkler / Dawn Smalberg, in association with Act Productions, TC Beech, Marianne Benton and Scott Delman / Florence Sloan.

Bleak Expectations will run at the Criterion Theatre from the 3rd May until the 3rd September. To book tickets click here.