High School Musical revival announces London transfer and initial casting

Disney’s High School Musical will move to London this autumn.

The production, presented by Hope Mill Theatre and Chris Harper Productions, marks the first UK non-replica staging of the musical and follows a summer run at the Lowry in Salford from 22 August to 19 September.

After its Salford run, the show will be opening at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre from 12 October 2026, with performances running until 3 January 2027 and a press night set for 20 October.

Harry Judd, best known as a member of McFly, will play Coach Bolton in London, taking over the role from Jason Donovan, who appears in the Salford engagement. The cast transferring to London includes Tobias Turley, Leonor Correia, Caitlin Tipping and Luke Bayer as Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay and Ryan respectively, alongside KayCee Stroh as Ms Darbus. Further casting is to be announced.

Judd said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining this incredible new production of High School Musical. It’s such an iconic film that meant so much to me growing up and now getting to share that same excitement with my own family –  makes this even more special. As a dad, it’s been amazing to revisit this story through my children’s eyes and see just how timeless it really is—the music, the energy, the message about believing in yourself – it all still resonates so strongly across generations.

“Stepping into the role of Coach Bolton and leading such a first-class cast in London at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre is something I’m incredibly proud of. I can’t wait to ‘Get My Head in the Game’ and bring this story to life on stage – sharing all the energy, heart and nostalgia of High School Musical with fans old and new.”

Featuring a book by David Simpatico and music adapted, arranged and produced by Bryan Louiselle, the stage version includes songs such as “Breaking Free”, “We’re All In This Together”, “Get’cha Head in the Game” and “Stick to the Status Quo”.

The production is co-directed by Joseph Houston and William Whelton, with choreography by Aaron Renfree, set design by Andrew Exeter, sound design by Matt Peploe, video design by George Reeve, lighting design by Rory Beaton, costume design by Sophia Pardon, musical supervision by Katy Richardson, musical direction by Audra Cramer, casting by Pearson Casting, production management by Ammonite Studios and general management by Chris Harper Productions.

Based on the Disney Channel Original Movie, High School Musical premiered on stage in 2006 at Stagedoor Manor before its first professional production in Atlanta and a US national tour in 2007. It later received its London premiere at the Hammersmith Apollo in 2008.

Priority booking for London opens on 20 May, with general on sale from 22 May.