Regional Tryout | Manchester, UK | HOME Manchester Theatre | Opened November 27, 2025 (Investment)

Creative Team

The UK stage premiere of Disney’s Freaky Friday features a book by Bridget Carpenter (Friday Night Lights) and a catchy pop-rock score by the Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning duo Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey (Next to Normal). Reunited after their massive success with Heathers, producer Paul Taylor-Mills and director Andy Fickman brought this production to life with sharp, energetic choreography by Alexzandra Sarmiento and vibrant, multi-functional set and costume designs by David Shields.

Synopsis

Based on Mary Rodgers’ 1972 novel and the beloved Disney films, this musical comedy explores the turbulent relationship between an overworked mother, Katherine, and her rebellious teenage daughter, Ellie. Overwhelmed by the pressures of high school drama and Katherine’s impending wedding, the two reach a breaking point. When a magical hourglass shatters during an intense argument, they instantly swap bodies. With only 24 hours to reverse the spell, they are forced to spend a day literally walking in each other's shoes—navigating high school cliques, complex catering demands, and family expectations—ultimately learning profound self-acceptance and mutual respect along the way.

Production History

Following its developed regional life in the United States, the musical finally made its highly anticipated UK Premiere at HOME Manchester on November 27, 2025. Intended as a major centerpiece for Manchester's festive holiday theater season, the energetic, feel-good production enjoyed a highly successful six-week limited engagement, concluding its run on January 10, 2026.

Cast Highlights

The Manchester premiere featured a stellar company of West End favorites and rising British talent:

• The Mother & Daughter: Musical theater veteran Rebecca Lock (Heathers, Here and Now) stars as the uptight Katherine, earning rave reviews for her hilariously sulky transformation into a teenager. Opposite her, breakout star Jena Pandya (Bhangra Nation) shines with effortless comedic timing and powerhouse vocals as the teenage Ellie hosting her mother’s anxious adult soul.

• The Supporting Cast: The production features charming newcomer Max Mirza as Ellie's sandwich-loving crush, Adam; West End favorite Ian Virgo as Katherine's patient fiancé, Mike; and American cabaret sensation Tori Scott as Katherine's stressed assistant, Torrey.