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Manchester Opera House
“Something Rotten! is a riotous, tongue‑in‑cheek love letter to musical theatre, bursting with wit, colour and unashamed theatrical joy.”
This marks the first full UK production, starring Jason Manford, Richard Fleeshman and Marisha Wallace, running at the Manchester Opera House until 19 July 2026.
📜 What’s it about?
With a book by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick and music and lyrics by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick, the show transports audiences back to 1595, where brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperately trying to carve out their place in the theatrical world. Their biggest obstacle is the overwhelming fame and swaggering brilliance of their contemporary, William Shakespeare.
🎭 Staging and Design
The set, inspired by Elizabethan and Tudor villages, is beautifully crafted and cleverly flexible, allowing for multiple inventive uses throughout the show. Paired with bright, colourful lighting, it becomes a visual spectacle.
The only noticeable misstep is the apparent use of AI in one backdrop and some onstage posters, which lack the craftsmanship and detail seen elsewhere and don’t quite match the overall production value.
🪭 Costumes
Rebecca Brower’s costumes are fun, colourful and flamboyant, drawing inspiration from Elizabethan fashion with a modern theatrical twist. They perfectly complement the show’s playful tone.
📜 Performances
Jason Manford as Nick Bottom
Manford, best known for his stand‑up comedy and television work, proves himself a multi‑talented leading man. He brings charisma, strong vocals, sharp comedic timing and impressive acting depth to the role. His dancing is equally noteworthy, and he delivers comedic lines with effortless precision.
Richard Fleeshman as Shakespeare
Fleeshman is dashing, flamboyant and full of rock‑star swagger. His performances of “It’s Hard to Be the Bard” and “Will Power” are packed with showmanship, charm and wit. He oozes star power from the moment he steps on stage.
Marisha Wallace as Bea
Wallace’s vocals soar effortlessly, filling the theatre with warmth and power. Her chemistry with Manford is delightful, and together they form a charismatic and charming stage pairing.
Cassius Hackforth as Nigel Bottom
Hackforth is endearing and quietly compelling, shining particularly in Act II as Nigel’s emotional arc deepens. His scenes with Portia are sweet, funny and full of heart.
Carla Dixon‑Hernandez as Portia
Dixon‑Hernandez is adorable, funny and equipped with powerhouse vocals. She pairs beautifully with Hackforth, creating a charming and memorable duo.
Cory English as Nostradamus
English is gloriously ostentatious and almost maddening, but always in the most endearing and hilarious way. His eccentric energy drives some of the show’s biggest laughs.
Chad Saint Louis as Troubadour Saint Louis opens the show with flair. He is sassy, vibrant and a joy to watch, with vocals that match the ensemble’s high standard.
Ensemble
The ensemble delivers high energy, tight choreography and razor‑sharp comedic instincts. They bring the world of Something Rotten! to life with infectious enthusiasm.
📜 A Love Letter to Musical Theatre
Packed with Easter eggs for musical theatre lovers, Something Rotten! celebrates beloved shows across the decades. It’s a feast for the eyes and ears, hilarious from start to finish, and proudly refuses to take itself too seriously — which is exactly what makes it special.
📜Final Thoughts
This UK premiere is a knockout production: hilarious, high‑energy and overflowing with charm. With a stellar cast, dazzling design and a script that revels in the joy of musical theatre, Something Rotten! is a joyous night out that will leave audiences grinning.
Written by Suzzi Hirst
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