Musical Adaptation of Speedo Mick’s ‘Story of Hope’

The life story of Speedo Mick, known for raising over £1 million for charity by traversing the UK in only swimming trunks, will be adapted into a musical, described as a “story of hope.” Michael Cullen, a Liverpool native, dedicated nine years to undertaking fundraising challenges in his distinctive attire, aiming to aid young and homeless individuals. Cullen stated that the production, titled Speedo Mick – The Scouse Stomper, scheduled for the city’s Royal Court in summer 2025, will narrate the experiences of a “Scouse fella who made bad mistakes and turned his life around”. He also expressed that it was “unbelievable” that his personal narrative would be presented on stage. John Fay, known for his work on Coronation Street and Brookside, penned the musical, with Boff Whalley, formerly the guitarist for Chumbawamba, composing the music. Whalley commented that the performance would offer “a good night out”. He further elaborated, “It’s based on a real character who has become a proper legend around Merseyside for his mad charity walks, all undertaken in the briefest of briefs.” The production will chronicle Speedo Mick’s early life and his progression from experiencing homelessness due to addiction to accomplishments such as swimming the English Channel and traversing the entire UK regardless of weather conditions. The fundraiser, who received Liverpool’s Citizen of Honour in May, conveyed that he felt “overwhelmed and proud” about the musical’s development. He remarked, “I look at everything I’ve done and it makes me want to cry, to be honest.” He continued, “I’ve been lost to addiction and all this has given me a purpose.” Cullen mentioned that his former school friends would be among the initial audience members for the musical, which is expected to contain some unexpected elements, even for them. He explained, “Because of my ADHD, I was always distracted and sent out of class, so there’s so much of the story people haven’t heard.” He reiterated, “It’s about a Scouse fella who made bad mistakes and turned his life around.” He emphasized, “It’s a story of hope, that anybody out there who has dealt with addiction can turn their lives around if they get the support they need.” He confirmed his participation in the creative development, though not in every aspect of the planning. He stated, “I’m trying not to be too hands on, but I do have an input.” He added, “I don’t know how they will put someone swimming the English Channel on stage, so I will leave it to the writers and director.” Kevin Fearon, the theatre’s executive producer, remarked that the establishment takes pride “on telling the stories of Liverpool, and none is quite so weird and wonderful as Speedo Mick”. He further commented, “As a charity fundraiser he has inspired millions, but we think there are aspects of his story that will tug on the heartstrings.” Speedo Mick – The Scouse Stomper will be performed at Livepool’s Royal Court between 30 May and 5 July 2025. For additional content, listeners can access the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.