The full cast has been confirmed for the stage adaptation of Victoria Wood’s beloved sitcom dinnerladies, starring Les Dennis and touring UK theatres in 2027. This marks the first work commissioned by the Victoria Wood estate, bringing Wood’s iconic characters to life on stage decades after the original broadcast.

The stage version of dinnerladies will open at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley on 22 January 2027 and tour extensively across the UK until 7 August, concluding in Southend. Adapted for the stage by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne, it draws its storyline from episodes of the original sitcom. Sean Foley directs the production, which is presented in association with Phil McIntyre Live and Sustainable Entertainment.

Les Dennis will star as Stan alongside Sue Cleaver as Jean and Karen Henthorn as Dolly. Amy Drake takes the role of Bren, with Gemma Dobson as Twinkle, Faye Weerasinghe as Anite, Jimmy Fairhurst as Tony, Josie Brightwell as Petula, Rachel Marwood as Jane, and Rachel Pickup as Philippa. The ensemble also includes Sarah Dearlove, Alex Frost, Matthew Gordon, Angela Heenan, and Tyne Pearson.

The original dinnerladies sitcom aired from 1998 to 2000, spanning 16 episodes. Set in the canteen of the fictional Manchester factory HWD Components, it explored the everyday lives and friendships of the staff. The series won a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000.

Speaking about joining the tour, Sue Cleaver recalled her previous experience on the television show and described her excitement at returning as Jean, “I cannot wait to get out on the road and whip up a storm in the kitchen alongside such a stellar cast.” Karen Henthorn added that performing Dolly on stage was a “proper dream come true,” highlighting the sitcom’s enduring appeal.

Les Dennis, who knew Victoria Wood personally and shared early success with her on the comedy circuit in the 1970s, reflected on the importance of the project. “Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved northern working-class characters brought to the stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive,” he said.

The adaptation will tour a wide range of venues, including stops in Manchester, Llandudno, Bath, York, Birmingham, Blackpool, Cardiff, and Liverpool among others. The production promises to revisit the warmth and humour of Wood’s original writing in a fresh theatrical format.