A new production of Death Note: The Musical is set to have its world premiere at the Barbican Theatre in London this summer, marking the first fully staged London run of the acclaimed manga adaptation. The show features a revised script, new songs, and an original score by Frank Wildhorn.

Death Note: The Musical opens at the Barbican Theatre from 30 July to 12 September 2026, with a press night scheduled for 11 August. The production is based on the bestselling manga series Death Note by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, which has sold over 30 million copies worldwide and inspired multiple adaptations including animation, films, television series, and a Netflix version.

This reimagined staging will showcase music by Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Jack Murphy, a book by Ivan Menchell, and additional lyrics by Morgan Reilly. It features a revised script and new songs alongside Wildhorn’s original score, promising a fresh take on the story of Light Yagami, the high school student who uses a supernatural notebook to enact his own brand of justice.

The creative team includes director Stephen Whitson, choreographer Fabian Aloise, designer Jon Bausor, and orchestrator Jason Howland. Casting details are yet to be announced. The production is a collaboration between HoriPro, Trafalgar Theatre Productions, and Pinnacle Productions, in association with the Barbican.

Frank Wildhorn expressed excitement about the London premiere, stating he is “humbled, honoured and beyond excited” to bring the show to the Barbican this summer and hopes it represents a significant milestone for the musical in Western theatres.

HoriPro Chairman Mr Hori highlighted the company’s longstanding aspiration to bring Death Note to London, emphasising a long partnership with Trafalgar Entertainment and pride in returning to the Barbican, where they have presented many productions over the years.

Howard Panter, joint CEO and creative director of Trafalgar Entertainment, underscored the ambition behind the project, noting the Barbican’s capacity for work “of scale and ambition” and describing the show as a “landmark, once in a lifetime event.”

Tickets for Death Note: The Musical go on general sale at 10am on 4 March 2026. The production also holds ambitions for a future Broadway run, though details remain to be confirmed.