Further casting confirmed for Something Rotten!’s UK premiere

Further casting has been revealed for Something Rotten!, which will have its fully staged UK premiere early next year.

Set in 1595, it follows the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, playwrights in the shadow of one William Shakespeare, who attempt to stage the world’s first-ever musical. It was first seen in concert last year at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, with that show winning the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Concert Event.

Something Rotten! features a book by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick and a score by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick.

Set to star will be Jason Manford, returning after the show’s concert run, playing Nick Bottom. Joining him will be Richard Fleeshman as William Shakespeare, having played the role in the award-winning concert. Further casting is to be revealed.

Fleeshman said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the cast of Something Rotten!. This show is very special and absolutely riotous. I can’t wait to bring this larger-than-life rock star version of the Bard to the stage and I’m especially proud that the UK premiere will be in my home town of Manchester.

“Having the opportunity to perform alongside my good friend Jason Manford makes the experience even more joyous. This is an outrageously funny and uplifting show and I’m sure audiences will love every hilarious minute of it.”

The show will open in Manchester next year, playing at the Opera House from 16 June to 19 July 2026