The folk musical will run at the theatre from the 23rd January until the 21st March 2026.
It has been announced that new musical Ballad Lines will make its London debut at the Southwark Playhouse in 2026.
Officially opening at the theatre on the 29th January, the musical has been co-created by Finn Anderson (Islander) and Tania Azevedo (But I’m A Cheerleader). Anderson wrote the book, while Azevedo wrote the music and lyrics and it was first commissioned by Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Northwestern’s American Music Theatre Project in 2014. It had its premiere at at Macrobert Arts Centre in 2023 under the title of ‘A Mother’s Song’.
Sarah thought she’d left her childhood behind. A queer woman living in New York City, she’s long severed ties with the folk traditions of her upbringing. But when old ballads resurface, so do the voices of her ancestors — pulling her on a life-changing journey across time.
Spanning continents and generations, Ballad Lines follows three women bound together by blood, song, and choice. In 17th-century Scotland, Cait, a minister’s wife, wrestles with the constraints of her role. In 18th-century Ireland, Jean, a spirited teenager, faces an uncertain future. In 21st-century New York, Sarah is caught between the life she’s built and the pull of the past.
The news of the London run arrives as a 17 track concept album will be released on 12th September 2025, ahead of a special concert at Cottiers in Glasgow on 15th September.
Meanwhile, the creative team behind the production includes: TK Hay (set design), Shonagh Murray (music direction), Tinovimbanashe Sibanda (choreography), Simon Wilkinson (lighting), and Andy Johnson (sound). Eliza Beth Stevens is assistant director, James Anderton is production manager, Kristie Winsen is general manager and Jane Deitch is casting director.
To book tickets visit: https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/ballad-lines/