Something Rotten! musical announces UK premiere details

Details have been confirmed for Something Rotten!, which is set to make its fully-staged UK premiere next year.

The production follows the sold-out concert performances of the musical at Theatre Royal Drury Lane last year, which went on to win the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Concert Event.

The show will open in Manchester next year, playing at the Opera House from 16 June to 19 July 2026, ahead of a planned West End run. Initial casting has also been confirmed.

Something Rotten! features a book by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick and a score by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick, and is directed by Tim Jackson. 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.

The show ran for over 700 performances on Broadway and was nominated for ten Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It has also been staged across the USA and internationally.

Tickets go on general sale on Wednesday at 10am.