Hope Mill Theatre and Chris Harper Productions have announced that the first UK non-replica production of Disney’s High School Musical will transfer to London later this year.
The production will open at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre on 12 October 2026, running until 3 January 2027, with a press night scheduled for 20 October.
McFly band member Harry Judd will star as Coach Bolton in the London run, taking over the role following the show’s summer season at The Lowry in Salford.
The Salford run will play from 22 August until 19 September 2026, where the role of Coach Bolton will be played by Jason Donovan.
Judd will join returning cast members Tobias Turley, Leonor Correia, Caitlin Tipping and Luke Bayer, alongside recently announced Disney star KayCee Stroh.
The cast will play the roles of Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan and Ms Darbus respectively, with further casting to be revealed.
Harry Judd said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining this incredible new production of High School Musical. It’s such an iconic film that meant so much to me growing up and now getting to share that same excitement with my own family— makes this even more special. As a dad, it’s been amazing to revisit this story through my children’s eyes and see just how timeless it really is—the music, the energy, the message about believing in yourself—it all still resonates so strongly across generations.
“Stepping into the role of Coach Bolton and leading such a first-class cast in London at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre is something I’m incredibly proud of. I can’t wait to ‘Get My Head in the Game’ and bring this story to life on stage—sharing all the energy, heart and nostalgia of High School Musical with fans old and new.”
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the original Disney Channel film, High School Musical features a book by David Simpatico, with music adapted, arranged and produced by Bryan Louiselle.
The production is co-directed by Hope Mill Theatre founders Joseph Houston and William Whelton, with choreography by Aaron Renfree.
Creative team members also include set designer Andrew Exeter, sound designer Matt Peploe, video designer George Reeve, lighting designer Rory Beaton, costume designer Sophia Pardon, musical supervisor Katy Richardson and musical director Audra Cramer.
Based on the 2006 Disney Channel Original Movie, High School Musical has enjoyed worldwide stage success and previously had its London premiere at the Hammersmith Apollo in 2008.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
