More names added to Something Rotten!’s UK premiere

Even more casting has been revealed for Something Rotten!, which will have its fully staged UK premiere this summer.

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. It is directed and choreographed by Tim Jackson (Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York) and presented by Kevin McCollum of Alchemation and Joshua Andrews of JAS Theatricals.

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, while revealed today is Marisha Wallace, who also appeared in the award-winning concert, playing Bea. Interestingly, Wallace had originally been part of the Broadway production in 2015, where she served as an understudy for Bea and played Eggie White.

Wallace commented: “I’m beyond thrilled to have been cast in the UK premiere of Something Rotten! It was pure joy to be a part of this hilarious musical on Broadway a decade ago – so now, to be joining this incredible company for the first time that UK audiences will get to see it, is a full-circle moment in the best way. I can’t wait to dive back in!”

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