03 September 2025
Marco Gandolfi
The world premiere of 13 Going on 30 - The Musical is just around the corner, and producers have released the first look at the cast in rehearsal ahead of its opening at the Manchester Opera House. The highly anticipated show, based on the beloved 2004 rom-com, is set for a limited run beginning September 21, 2025.
Leading the cast are West End veterans Lucie Jones (Waitress, Les Miserables) as Jenna Rink and David Hunter (Waitress, Kinky Boots) as Matt Flamhaff, alongside Grace Mouat (SIX, & Juliet) as Lucy Wyman. The production also features a talented supporting cast including Caleb Roberts, Andrew Berlin, Dominic Andersen, Ross Dawes, Suzie McAdam, and Iván Fernández Gonzáles.
The musical, produced by ROYO, Revolution Studios, and a team of acclaimed producers including executive producer Jennifer Garner, features a book by the film's original writers, Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa. The songs are written by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, known for their work on Broadway’s First Date.
The creative team boasts some of the industry's most celebrated names, with direction by the award-winning Andy Fickman (Heathers) and choreography by Jennifer Weber (& Juliet). The production design will be brought to life by a team of accomplished professionals, including set designer Colin Richmond, sound designer Adam Fisher, and lighting designer Howard Hudson.
With a cast of seasoned professionals and a creative team behind some of the West End's biggest hits, 13 Going on 30 - The Musical is shaping up to be a must-see event. The show is expected to blend the classic film's charm with a fresh, musical twist, promising a nostalgic and delightful experience for fans and newcomers alike.