Lead cast revealed for Dark of the Moon musical

Glenn Adamson and Lauren Jones will lead the world premiere of Dark of the Moon at Charing Cross Theatre.

The new musical, based on the 1941 play by Howard D Richardson and William Berney, features a book by Jonathan Prince and music and lyrics by Lindy Robbins, Dave Bassett and Steve Robson.

Dark of the Moon is a supernatural story set between an Appalachian town and a parallel world of witches and warlocks in the Smoky Mountains.

It follows the relationship between Barbara Allen, a human, and John, a witch-boy, as they attempt to build a life together despite opposition from their communities and the consequences of a pact made under the dark of the moon.

Adamson will play John, the Witch Boy, opposite Jones as Barbara Allen.

Adamson said: “To say I’m excited for this one is an understatement. When I first heard the demo tracks for the show I was beyond desperate to be part of it. The soundtrack really is THAT good. London really doesn’t have a show like this one. It fills the folk-rock void we’re all missing. This one’s for the Rockers, the Romantics and the Witches among us.”

Jones added: “I’m incredibly excited to be returning to the Charing Cross Theatre with this new project following Rebecca. From reading the script and hearing the demos, it’s clear there’s something really special at the heart of this piece. I can’t wait to collaborate with the company and bring this intimate, powerful story to life for the audience.”

The production is directed by Georgie Rankcom, whose credits include The Frogs, Anyone Can Whistle, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and Before After. Rankcom explained: “Dark of the Moon has captivated audiences since the 1940s, and it’s exciting to see the story finding new resonance today — most recently through its appearance in the world of Stranger Things. This musical adaptation allows us to rediscover the story for a new generation.”

The creative team also includes choreographer Jane McMurtrie, musical supervisor Brad Haak, musical director Matt Herbert, orchestrator Dillon Kondor, casting director Peter Noden, production designer Libby Todd, lighting designer Jonathan Chan and sound designer Andrew Johnson.

Performances will be running from 18 May to 8 August 2026 and a press night scheduled for 26 May.