High School Musical star KayCee Stroh joins UK stage revival

KayCee Stroh, best known for playing Martha Cox in the High School Musical film trilogy, will star as Ms Darbus in the new UK stage revival of Disney’s High School Musical.

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the iconic film, this new production opens at the Lowry in Salford on 22 August 2026 and will run until 19 September 2026. Tickets are now on sale.

She joins Jason Donovan as Coach Bolton, alongside Tobias Turley as Troy, Leonor Correia as Gabriella, Caitlin Tipping as Sharpay and Luke Bayer as Ryan, with further casting to be announced.

Speaking about the role, Stroh said it felt like a “genuine full-circle moment” to return to the world of High School Musical, adding: “From originating Martha Cox to now stepping into the equally iconic role of Ms Darbus, it’s both an honour and a joy to be part of the story in a whole new way.

“Performing in the UK has long been a dream of mine, and to do so with a story that holds such deep meaning makes it even more special. Ultimately, I chose to take on this role for the fans, whose unwavering support, love, and shared nostalgia have made High School Musical so special!”

The Lyric Theatre at the Lowry will be transformed into an immersive basketball court, featuring on-stage seating and an extended performance space that places audiences inside the world of East High. The production will include beloved songs such as “Breaking Free”, “We’re All In This Together”, “Get’cha Head in the Game” and “Stick to the Status Quo.”

High School Musical features a book by David Simpatico, with music adapted, arranged and produced by Bryan Louiselle, and is co-directed by Joseph Houston and William Whelton.

Based on the hit Disney Channel Original Movie, the stage adaptation premiered in 2006 and has since enjoyed global success, including a London run at the Hammersmith Apollo in 2008.

The creative team includes 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 and musical direction by Audra Cramer.

Casting is by Pearson Casting, with production management by Ammonite Studios and general management by Chris Harper Productions.