The fully staged UK premiere of the musical Something Rotten! has announced further casting, including Jason Manford, Richard Fleeshman, and Marisha Wallace. The show’s arrival next year marks the first full production in the UK following a successful concert version.

Something Rotten!, a musical comedy set in 1595, follows the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, as they attempt to create the world’s first musical while competing with William Shakespeare. The production’s UK premiere is scheduled to run at Manchester Opera House from 16 June to 19 July 2026.

Jason Manford returns to the role of Nick Bottom, reprising his part from the previous concert production at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Richard Fleeshman also returns as William Shakespeare, having played the role in the same award-winning concert event that won the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Concert Event.

Marisha Wallace joins the cast as Bea, having previously appeared in the concert production. Wallace was also part of the original Broadway production in 2015, where she understudied Bea and played Eggie White. Reflecting on her casting for the UK premiere, she described the opportunity as a “full-circle moment.”

The show features a book by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick, with music and lyrics by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick. Direction and choreography are by Tim Jackson, known for Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York. Producers include Kevin McCollum of Alchemation and Joshua Andrews of JAS Theatricals.

The UK premiere comes after Something Rotten! was initially seen in concert form at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, marking its first exposure to UK audiences. This fully staged production will offer a new chance for audiences to experience the musical in its intended form.

The story’s playful take on the birth of the musical theatre genre places it firmly in the tradition of metatheatrical comedies, with the historical rivalry between the Bottom brothers and Shakespeare providing the central conflict.

Audiences in Manchester will be the first in the UK to see the full production, bringing the show’s blend of wit, music, and historical parody to life on a regional stage.