The production will be the first UK non-replica production at Lowry, Salford, opening 21 August 2026, running until the 13 September 2026.
Twenty years after the film was released, Hope Mill Theatre and Lowry have confirmed a production of High School Musical will take to the stage in 2026.
With tickets set to go on sale on the 18th July, the stage adaptation will feature a book by David Simpatico with music adapted, arranged and produced by Bryan Louiselle and will be co-directed by Hope Mill founders Joseph Houston and William Whelton. Further creative team and casting yet to be announced.
It has also been confirmed that The Lowry will be transformed into an immersive basketball court, with on stage seating and an extended stage, bringing audiences into the world of East High.
Based on the hit Disney Channel original film, High School Musical had its world premiere production at Stagedoor Manor Summer Theatre Camp in 2006. It then went to The Theatre of Stars in Atlanta, Georgia for its first professional staging before Disney Theatrical staged a national tour in 2007. The musical has enjoyed significant success in regional theatres around the world and had its London premiere at the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre in January 2008.
Producers and co-directors Joseph Houston and William Whelton said: “ High School Musical is a show that is loved and adored across generations. From its first explosion into the world in the 2006 movie, there is no denying the impact that this phenomenon has had on people across the globe, including ourselves. It was our ambition to create a brand-new stage production of High School Musical and bring together those generations old and new to experience the live spectacle, in a completely fresh and unique way. Having recently created A Christmas Carol and Nine at Lowry, this is the perfect space to be bringing this incredible show back to the stage and to Manchester.”