The critically acclaimed biographical musical Woody Sez: The Life & Music of Woody Guthrie makes its London return at Underbelly Boulevard in Soho from 8th to 19th September 2026.
Following performances at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe earlier this summer and over 80 productions worldwide, the show transfers to London for its first capital run in over a decade. Devised by Broadway veteran David M. Lutken alongside original director Nick Corley, the musical explores the life and heritage of American folk icon Woody Guthrie through his own words, letters, and extensive song catalogue.
The production features a cast of four actor-musicians—David M. Lutken reprising his award-winning role as Guthrie, alongside David Finch, Nyssa Grant, and Raquel Chavez—who collectively play more than twenty instruments on stage. The show weaves together live musical arrangements with autobiographical writings, diary entries, and excerpts from Guthrie’s 1930s newspaper columns. The narrative traces Guthrie's journey through the Dust Bowl, the Great Depression, union movements, his merchant marine service, and his time in New York.
Created and performed with the endorsement and support of Woody Guthrie Publications and the Guthrie estate, the production has maintained a multi-decade relationship with the musician's family, helping preserve the authentic folk tradition that influenced artists ranging from Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen to Pete Seeger.
Deviser and lead performer David M. Lutken has previously received the Helen Hayes and Joseph Jefferson Awards for Best Actor for his portrayal of Guthrie. His extensive theater credits include Broadway productions of Inherit the Wind, Ring of Fire, and The Civil War, alongside performances at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.
The London season runs at Underbelly Boulevard, located at 6 Walker’s Court in Soho, with performances scheduled at 19:00 daily, alongside weekend matinees. Tickets and performance schedules are available directly through the Underbelly Boulevard box office.
Photo credit: Wendy Mutz
