Jesse Tyler Ferguson brings acclaimed Truman Capote play Tru to the Menier Chocolate Factory

10-07-26

Fresh from a critically acclaimed New York run, Jesse Tyler Ferguson is set to make his Menier Chocolate Factory debut this autumn as celebrated author Truman Capote in Jay Presson Allen’s award-winning play Tru.

The Modern Family star will reprise his acclaimed performance when the production opens at the London venue on 27 September, with previews from 19 September, running until 14 November 2026. Directed by Tony Award winner Rob Ashford, the production arrives in London following its successful New York engagement earlier this year.

Drawn entirely from Capote’s own words, Tru offers an intimate portrait of one of America’s most fascinating literary figures. Set in December 1975, the play finds Capote alone in his New York apartment after the publication of La Côte Basque, 1965, the controversial work that shattered his friendships with New York’s high society and left him facing both personal and professional isolation.

Originally premiered in 1989, Jay Presson Allen’s play has long been regarded as one of the great solo performances in modern theatre, combining razor-sharp wit with an unflinching examination of fame, loneliness and artistic obsession.

Ferguson said he is delighted to bring the production to London after its warm reception in New York.

“I’m thrilled to bring this intimate production of Tru to the Menier following its successful New York run. The audience response to this unique theatrical experience, and the chance to encounter Truman Capote up close, was incredibly rewarding.”

Director Rob Ashford, who first collaborated with Ferguson on a charity reading of the play in Morocco in 2024, praised the actor’s portrayal of the writer.

“He captured the truth of the man, his humour and heartbreak. I’m thrilled that we get the opportunity to further explore this great pairing of actor and character in London.”

The announcement continues a remarkable period for the Menier Chocolate Factory, with Midnight at the Never Get about to begin performances at the venue, its acclaimed production of Equus transferring to Theatre Royal Bath, The Producers continuing its West End success and Sabrage playing at Lafayette.

With Ferguson taking on one of the theatre’s most demanding one-person roles, Tru promises an intimate evening exploring the brilliance, vulnerability and contradictions of a literary icon whose legacy continues to captivate audiences nearly half a century after the events depicted in the play.

Priority booking for Menier Chocolate Factory supporters opens on 13 July, with public booking opening on 20 July.

Visit the official site HERE