The iconic Victoria Wood sitcom dinnerladies is set to return as a brand new stage adaptation tours the UK in 2027.
The production, announced by the Victoria Wood Estate in association with Phil McIntyre Live and Sustainable Entertainment, marks the first time the much-loved series has been adapted for the stage.
Adapted by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by double Olivier Award-winner Sean Foley, the show will open at Manchester Opera House before embarking on a nationwide tour running from January to August 2027.
Les Dennis will lead the cast as maintenance man Stan, with further casting to be revealed.
Inspired by the original TV series, the stage version will reunite audiences with familiar characters including Bren, Tony, Dolly, Anita, Jean, Twinkle and Philippa, all set within the bustling canteen of fictional Manchester factory HWD Components.
First broadcast between 1998 and 2000, dinnerladies became a staple of British comedy, earning a devoted following and winning Best TV Comedy at the British Comedy Awards.
The Victoria Wood Estate said: “We are delighted to be bringing the joy of Victoria Wood’s much-loved classic dinnerladies back to the nation after more than 25 years. We hope that this new stage adaptation by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by Sean Foley – featuring a story inspired by the original TV series – will take theatre goers across the UK straight back to the delights of the canteen and characters they grew to love.”
Les Dennis added: “I’m so thrilled to be on board with this new production of Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies. I’m lucky enough to say I knew Victoria – she and I performed on the comedy circuit in the 1970s and were both finalists on New Faces. I was always such a fan of her – both as a person, and as a comedic voice. Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved northern working-class characters brought to the stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive. I’m the first cast member to be announced as Stan, and I can’t wait to see which fantastic actresses will be bringing these amazing dinnerladies characters to life – they’re all such fantastic roles. I think fans of Victoria will be in for a real treat after hearing director Sean Foley’s plans for this tour!”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
