The Little Big Things is a powerful new British musical inspired by the bestselling memoir of Henry Fraser, a young man who rebuilt his life after a devastating spinal cord injury. Premiering at Soho Place in London in 2023, the production features an original pop score by Nick Butcher, lyrics by Butcher and Tom Ling, and a book by Joe White. Directed by Luke Sheppard (& Juliet), the show tells Henry’s inspiring true story through an innovative dual portrayal—before and after his accident.
Celebrated for its heartfelt performances and ground-breaking disability representation, The Little Big Things has been praised as “a game-changer” in modern theatre. With stunning visuals, inclusive casting, and emotionally rich storytelling, the musical reminds us that even the smallest moments can make a big impact. This uplifting production is a must-see for anyone who believes in resilience, positivity, and the power of the human spirit.
The Little Big Things is a powerful, uplifting British musical based on the bestselling memoir by Henry Fraser. Premiering at Soho Place Theatre in London in September 2023, this inspiring new production tells the true story of Henry Fraser’s remarkable journey following a life-changing accident. With music by Nick Butcher, lyrics by Nick Butcher and Tom Ling, and a book by Joe White, The Little Big Things has been celebrated for its honesty, humour, and innovation.
At just 17, Henry Fraser was a promising young rugby player when a diving accident on holiday left him paralysed from the shoulders down. Rather than let the injury define him, Henry chose to rebuild his life through resilience, positivity, and creativity—ultimately becoming a renowned artist, motivational speaker, and author. His bestselling memoir, The Little Big Things: A Young Man’s Belief That Every Day Can Be a Good Day, serves as the emotional foundation for this musical.
The show stands out not just for its heartfelt storytelling but also for its groundbreaking approach to representation and accessibility. The Little Big Things features a dual portrayal of Henry Fraser, with two actors—one disabled and one non-disabled—playing Henry before and after his accident. This creative choice provides a multidimensional view of Henry’s inner journey and challenges the norms of musical theatre casting.
Directed by Luke Sheppard (& Juliet, In the Heights), the production boasts choreography by Mark Smith, known for his work with inclusive and deaf dance company Deaf Men Dancing. The staging of the musical uses innovative design and visual storytelling, including projection and physical theatre, to bring Henry’s inner world vividly to life.
With a pop-infused score and powerful ensemble performances, The Little Big Things captures the emotional highs and lows of recovery, family dynamics, and self-discovery. Songs like “The World is Waiting” and “The Little Big Things” reflect the show’s central themes of gratitude, determination, and finding joy in life’s small moments.
Critics have praised the musical for its moving performances and impactful message. It has been lauded as a “game-changer for disability representation on stage” and a “must-see new British musical.” The production has also been recognised for integrating accessibility into its core design, offering captioned performances, audio description, and an inclusive environment for all audiences.
The Little Big Things is more than just a musical—it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of embracing change. Whether you’re a theatre lover, a fan of real-life stories, or simply looking for an inspiring night out, this show delivers heart, hope, and a reminder that sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference.
