McFly's Harry Judd cast in High School Musical's stage show
The pop rock star is trading drums for high school drama
Last updated 8 hours ago
The Wildcats are heading back to the stage - and this time, there’s a familiar pop rock star stepping into the spotlight. High School Musical is gearing up for a major London run, bringing fresh energy to the beloved Disney story.
With new casting, iconic songs and a nostalgic pull that still resonates, this latest production promises something special. And with one surprising name leading the charge, fans have plenty to get excited about.
McFly star Harry Judd is officially joining the London transfer of Disney’s High School Musical, taking on the role of Coach Bolton when the show opens at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre on 12 October 2026.
Harry takes over the role from Jason Donovan, who will appear in the earlier Salford run at Lowry before the production heads to the capital. The London run continues through to 3rd January 2027, with a press night scheduled for 20th October.
On joining the production, Harry said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining this incredible new production of High School Musical. It’s such an iconic film that meant so much to me growing up and now getting to share that same excitement with my own family - makes this even more special. As a dad, it’s been amazing to revisit this story through my children’s eyes and see just how timeless it really is - the music, the energy, the message about believing in yourself - it all still resonates so strongly across generations.
"Stepping into the role of Coach Bolton and leading such a first-class cast in London at Troubadour Theatre Wembley is something I’m incredibly proud of. I can’t wait to ‘Get My Head in the Game’ and bring this story to life on stage - sharing all the energy, heart and nostalgia of High School Musical with fans old and new.”
What’s the show about?
Based on the hit Disney Channel film, High School Musical follows Troy, Gabriella and their classmates as they navigate school life, friendships and identity - all while challenging expectations through music and performance.
Packed with fan-favourite songs like 'Breaking Free', 'We’re All In This Together' and 'Get’cha Head in the Game', the story centres on self-expression, teamwork and stepping outside your comfort zone.
Who is cast in the production?
Harry Judd leads the London production as Coach Bolton.
He is joined by Tobias Turley as Troy, Leonor Correia as Gabriella, Caitlin Tipping as Sharpay and Luke Bayer as Ryan.
Disney star KayCee Stroh - who played Martha Cox in the High School Musical movie franchise - also appears as Ms Darbus.
Jason Donovan will play Coach Bolton during the Salford run before Harry takes over for London. Further casting is set to be announced.
Speaking to Magic Radio's Harriet Scott, Harry recalls the moment he told his daughter, Lola, he will be starring in the production as Coach Bolton.
Where is it showing?
You can catch High School Musical live on stage during its UK run, starting in Salford before transferring to London. Tickets go on priority sale from 20th May, with general sale opening on 22nd May via the official website.
The production begins at Lowry in Salford from 22nd August to 19th September 2026.
It then moves to Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in London, running from 12th October 2026 to 3rd January 2027.
Performance days and times
At Lowry in Salford, performances run Wednesday to Sunday at 2pm and 7pm between 22nd August and 6th September, with some schedule variations including an additional show on Tuesday 25th August.
From 8-19th September, shows run Tuesday to Saturday at 7pm, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm, plus additional matinees on select weekdays.
London performance times at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre are yet to be confirmed.
High School Musical will be co-directed by Hope Mill Theatre's Joseph Houston & William Whelton, with choreography by S Club Juniors' Aaron Renfree (2018's Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again).
Where can I stream HSM?
The original High School Musical films are available to stream on Disney+, where the franchise first became a global phenomenon.
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