Francesco

Fresh from this year's Greenbelt Festival, ‘Francesco’ is an original song cycle inspired by The Little Flowers of St Francis of Assisi, presenting the story of Francis as a living spiritual journey. Raised in a wealthy merchant household during a time of social upheaval, Francis rejected the life expected of him and sought instead to follow the way of Christ. His conflict with his father, his experience of suffering and his embrace of poverty and service shaped a faith that was both radical and deeply rooted in love. His story offers a timely invitation to humility and care for creation, quietly challenging us to reflect on attachment, surrender, and the freedom found in following one's spiritual calling.

Created in early 2025 by singer-songwriter and actor Daniel Zappi (Carnival Row, Shakespeare In Song, Kingdom Come Deliverance II), and performed together with award-winning actor, playwright, author and director Justin Butcher (Scaramouche Jones, The Madness of George Dubya, The Devil’s Passion, Walking To Jerusalem) and musical theatre actress Rachel McFadyen (Hooray for Hollywood, Queerly Beloved: A Lavender Song Cycle, SOMA), 'Francesco' blends music, storytelling, and theatre to bring Saint Francis vividly to life.