Mandy Patinkin Shares Heartfelt Advice for ‘Sunday in the Park’ Star Jonathan Bailey

Mandy Patinkin, the original George in Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed musical “Sunday in the Park with George,” recently shared heartfelt advice for Jonathan Bailey, who is set to star in the upcoming London revival. Patinkin, who portrayed George Seurat in the Broadway production opposite Bernadette Peters in 1984, expressed his excitement about Bailey’s upcoming role during an appearance on the podcast “Don’t Listen to Us,” which he co-hosts with his wife Kathryn Grody.

Advice to Jonathan Bailey for ‘Sunday in the Park’

As Bailey prepares to embody the character of George Seurat alongside Ariana Grande, Patinkin offered simple yet profound guidance: “Just enjoy every single second of it.” He emphasized that stepping into this role is a significant life privilege, encouraging Bailey to connect deeply with the material and enjoy the experience, even in challenging moments.

Patinkin’s Reflections on the Musical

Patinkin recalled the significance of the musical, describing it as one of the greatest gifts of his life. He noted that the core advice from the character of George—“Connect, George. Connect”—is a guiding theme throughout the production. He stressed the importance of immersing oneself in the music, lyrics, and narrative while performing.

The Upcoming Revival

The London revival of “Sunday in the Park with George” will open in the summer of 2027 at the Barbican Theatre. Tickets are expected to go on sale in May 2027. Patinkin expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m thrilled for them, and I’m thrilled for us.” He looks forward to witnessing the performances of Bailey and Grande, highlighting the experience as a cherished moment for both the actors and the audience.

Insights from the Podcast

On their podcast, “Don’t Listen to Us,” Patinkin and Grody engage in spontaneous discussions, offering candid advice to their listeners. More than just a talk show, the podcast has become a platform for meaningful conversations. Patinkin described it as a “fascinating roulette wheel,” where the lack of preparation leads to impactful questions and lively dialogue.

• Podcast Launch: “Don’t Listen to Us” was created for honest conversations.
• Podcast Format: No preparation; spontaneous interactions.
• Guests: Listeners seeking advice engage with the hosts.

Grody, a self-described lover of people, appreciates the opportunity to connect with listeners, though Patinkin admitted he prefers animals over large gatherings. Their podcast enriches their social circle, encouraging new friendships and connections.

Anticipation for the Revival

As revival preparations continue, Grody and Patinkin reflect on the influence of “Sunday in the Park with George.” Grody remarked that she’s compared every musical she has seen to this masterpiece. She expressed how excited she is for a new audience to experience the show, recognizing its enduring messages about life and art.

In conclusion, both Patinkin and Grody are eager to support the next generation of talent and celebrate the timeless beauty of theater. Their advice to Bailey emphasizes the importance of connecting with art, an ethos that continues to resonate with audiences today.