NEWS - HOPE MILL THEATRE AND LOWRY TO PRODUCE DISNEY’S HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL IN SALFORD – OPENING AUGUST 2026

🎉 Get’cha head in the game – because something big is coming to Salford! 

Hope Mill Theatre and The Lowry have just announced that they’ll be teaming up to produce the first ever UK non-replica production of Disney’s High School Musical, opening at The Lowry from 21 August – 13 September 2026.

This brand-new staging will mark 20 years since the iconic Disney Channel Original Movie burst onto our screens, inspiring a generation with its catchy tunes, heartfelt story, and unforgettable message: “We’re All In This Together!”

🏀 A Slam Dunk of a Production

This will be no ordinary musical. The Lyric Theatre at The Lowry is set to be completely transformed into an immersive East High basketball court, with extended staging and on-stage seating that promises to bring fans right into the heart of the action. Expect to feel like a true Wildcat as you sing along to hits like:

• Breaking Free

• We’re All In This Together

• Get’cha Head in the Game

• Stick to the Status Quo…and many more!

  
  

🎬 About the Show

High School Musical was originally released as a Disney Channel Original Movie in 2006, quickly becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Its stage musical premiered at Stagedoor Manor the same year, with subsequent productions across the US, a Disney Theatrical national tour, and a London run at the Hammersmith Apollo in 2008.

This new UK version will feature a book by David Simpatico with music adapted, arranged and produced by Bryan Louiselle, and will be co-directed by Hope Mill Theatre founders Joseph Houston and William Whelton.

Further casting and creative team announcements are still to come – but excitement is already building.

🎟️ When Can I Get High School Musical Tickets?

Tickets will go on general sale from 18 July 2025, and we expect demand to be sky-high – this is one that’s sure to sell out fast.

🎤 What the Team Had to Say

Joseph Houston and William Whelton (Producers and Co-Directors, Hope Mill Theatre) shared:

“HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL is a show that is loved and adored across generations... It was our ambition to create a brand-new stage production and bring together those generations old and new to experience the live spectacle in a completely fresh and unique way.”

Matthew Eames, Co-Head of Theatres at The Lowry added:

“Following A Christmas Carol, we are delighted to be working again with Hope Mill Theatre... HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL is the first of these exciting projects. We can’t wait for the East High Wildcats to come to Salford!”

🎶 Conclusion

This all-singing, all-dancing spectacle is shaping up to be the theatrical event of summer 2026. Whether you're a longtime fan of Troy and Gabriella or introducing the magic to a new generation, this immersive new production of High School Musical promises a bold and exciting take on a beloved classic.

So mark your calendars, Wildcats – it’s time to get ready to break free! 🏀🎤🎟️