⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lowry Theatre Manchester
Transferring to London from 12 October 2026
Joyously nostalgic.
High‑energy and heartwarming all at once.
Twenty years after High School Musical first burst onto our screens, this new non‑replica production arrives with a refreshing confidence — honouring the original while offering something vibrant, modern and irresistibly fun. It’s a show that reminds you why East High became such a phenomenon in the first place: the friendships, the optimism, the unapologetic celebration of being yourself.
A Fresh, Immersive East High
The staging is instantly striking. Bleacher‑style seating rises proudly onstage, offered in addition to the traditional auditorium seating, giving audiences the choice to sit within the world of East High or enjoy the show from the comfort of the main theatre. It’s a clever, playful design that deepens the sense of immersion — whether you’re onstage with the Wildcats or watching from the audience, the energy feels close enough to touch.
The use of space in and around the stage ensures the production feels alive from every angle. It’s bold, modern and full of movement — a design that understands exactly what this story needs.
As a non‑replica production, there are structural and musical changes throughout, but even with these shifts, the heart of High School Musical remains intact. The themes of inclusion, individuality and finding your voice still land with the same empowering resonance they had two decades ago.
The Cast
KayCee Stroh — the original Martha — steps into the role of Ms Darbus with fierce humour and fabulous flair. There’s something genuinely special about watching her pass the Martha torch while reinventing Darbus with such confidence and charm.
Harry Judd makes his debut as Coach Bolton, and although I wished we’d seen more of him, his finale moment — complete with those unmistakable Strictly Come Dancing moves — was a delight.
Tobias Turley brings charisma and warmth to Troy Bolton, shining especially in “Get Your Head in the Game” with slick choreography and strong vocals. Opposite him, Leonor Correia offers a refreshing take on Gabriella Montez — intelligent, assured and quietly powerful. Together, they share an undeniable chemistry.
Caitlin Tipping and Luke Bayer are a standout duo as Sharpay and Ryan. Caitlin adds a new layer of vulnerability to Sharpay without losing any of her iconic sass, while Luke matches her with flamboyance, comedic timing and fierce vocals. Their partnership is electric.
A Change That Doesn’t Quite Land
One alteration that felt less effective was transforming “When There Was Me and You” into a duet and ensemble number. The staging became busy, losing the emotional intimacy of Gabriella’s original solo — a moment that once grounded the story with quiet heartbreak.
Final Thoughts
This is the kind of production that lifts your spirits. The more you sit with it, the more you appreciate how joyfully it balances nostalgia with fresh energy — a love letter to the fans who grew up with it and an open invitation to new Wildcats discovering it for the first time.
This production is absolutely set to “bop to the top” as it heads to London.
It honours the original while confidently embracing a fresh, modern identity — making it a perfect night out for lifelong fans and brand‑new Wildcats alike.
Because at the end of the day… we’re all in this together.
High School Musical is transferring to London from 12 October at TROUBADOUR WEMBLEY PARK THEATRE .
Written by Suzzi Hirst
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