The new version of the show has been directed by Kathryn Edwards, with actor Jen White taking on Phoebe’s story.
White, 39, said she was reticent at first about taking on the role, which was first performed to nightly standing ovations at The Lace Market Theatre in February 2026.
She said: “It’s definitely added pressure playing Phoebe.
“This is her experience, they are her words, so there’s an added layer of responsibility.”
White has a script with a photo of Phoebe’s face on it, which she said reminded her that it was normal to feel anxious about taking on the role of a real life and deeply-loved person.
But she also describes taking on the challenge as a “gift”.
She said: “There is potential for people to read the synopsis and think ‘it is a bit heavy’, but it’s about life and living.
“Yes, there are dark moments because Phoebe got the worst news she could have got, but it’s about her living through that.
“I think it’s really uplifting.”
Edwards said one of the most important things when she took on the project was to have the family on board.
“It’s been lovely working closely with Gail [Brown] as a producer and finding out more about Phoebe through her.
“It’s made the whole thing even more personable.”
The play will go on a UK tour in the spring after showing at the Nottingham Playhouse.
Edwards said it was a fitting legacy to Phoebe that the play would take on a new journey.
“There are so many beautiful things in life that can really bring happiness and finding that, when times are really tough, is what the play is really about,” she said.
