A compelling new play chronicling the life of Paul O’Grady is set to debut in Birmingham, with the late star’s blessing. Titled Savage, the production will run at the Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday, April 20 to Saturday, April 24.
Written by acclaimed playwright Jonathan Harvey—known for hits such as Gimme Gimme Gimme, Coronation Street, and Beautiful Thing—Savage is described as a bold and deeply moving portrayal of O’Grady’s remarkable journey.
The play features RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard in the role of Lily Savage, and is directed by Nikolai Foster, whose credits include Kinky Boots and Legally Blonde.
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Savage traces Paul O’Grady’s path from his working-class upbringing in Merseyside to becoming a beloved national television star, highlighting his rise from London’s vibrant club scene. The story captures his transformation from a sharp-witted boy from Birkenhead into the iconic drag persona who defied convention and won hearts across the UK.
After premiering at Curve Leicester, the production will tour the UK before landing in London’s West End.
Tickets for Savage go on sale for Friends of Birmingham Hippodrome at midday on Thursday, June 18, with a general sale opening on Monday, June 22 at 11am. They can be purchased online at www.birminghamhippodrome.com or by phone at 0121 689 3000.
The 2027 season at Birmingham Hippodrome also features exciting performances including the Sao Paulo Dance Company (February 5-6), the Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical Hadestown (April 13-17), Rambert’s dance work It’s A Sin (April 28-May 1), Singin’ In The Rain (May 11-16), and the classic musical Chicago from July 27 for two weeks.
For full show listings and ticket information, visit the Hippodrome’s official website.