NEWS - Trainspotting The Musical UK Tour Comes to Manchester Palace Theatre in 2026

Trainspotting The Musical UK Tour Announced for Manchester Palace Theatre

Trainspotting The Musical will head out on a major UK tour in 2026, with the production visiting the Manchester Palace Theatre from 2nd November 2026.

Direct from London’s West End and marking 30 years since the release of the iconic film, the new stage adaptation is written by Irvine Welsh, based on his bestselling debut novel, and directed and developed by Caroline Jay Ranger.

First released in 1996, Trainspotting became one of the defining British films of its generation, taking more than $76 million worldwide and winning multiple awards including a BAFTA for Best Screenplay. The film was later ranked in the British Film Institute’s list of the Top 100 Greatest British Films of the 20th Century.

Now, three decades later, the story returns to the stage, bringing audiences back into the world of Renton, Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud, Tommy and Kelly.

The production will star Scottish actor Robbie Scott as Renton, alongside Sheridan Townsley as Sick Boy, Kieran Andrew as Spud, Frankie O'Connor as Begbie and Finlay Paul as Tommy.

Additional cast members include Rebecca McKinnis, Gordon Cooper, Ashley J. Russell, Rosie Dignan, Yana Harris and Sophie Hutchinson.

Speaking about the musical, Irvine Welsh said:

“I believe the musical has a bigger, loudly beating human heart than either the book or the film. People need to think about the world we’re living in, and we offer that inspection, but they also need to sing their hearts out and laugh their heads off.”

The production features new music and lyrics by Stephen McGuinness and Irvine Welsh, alongside songs inspired by the electrifying soundtrack that helped define the original film.

According to the production, the musical explores how addiction and escapism have evolved in modern society, shifting from the drug culture of the 1990s to today’s digital world and screen addiction.

Described as “radical, invigorating and life-affirming”, the production promises a provocative theatrical experience for audiences across the UK.

Tickets

ATG+ members can book tickets for Trainspotting The Musical NOW.

General sale opens at 10am on Wednesday 13th May 2026 via ATG Tickets.

For more information and future tour updates, visit the official website.