The world premiere of the new musical Dark of the Moon will feature Lauren Jones and Glenn Adamson in the lead roles at Charing Cross Theatre. The supernatural tale blends folk-rock music with a story of love and magic set in the Appalachian Smoky Mountains.

Lauren Jones and Glenn Adamson have been announced as the lead cast for Dark of the Moon, a new musical opening at the Charing Cross Theatre. Adamson will play John, the Witch Boy, with Jones as Barbara Allen, his human love interest.

The musical is based on the 1941 play by Howard Richardson and William Berney and features a book by Jonathan Prince. Its music and lyrics are by Lindy Robbins, Dave Bassett, and Steve Robson, creating a folk-rock score that Adamson described as filling “the folk-rock void we’re all missing.”

Set in an Appalachian town and a parallel world of witches and warlocks, the story centres on the fraught relationship between Barbara and John as they navigate community opposition and a dark pact made under the moon.

Director Georgie Rankcom, known for productions such as The Frogs and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, said the story has captivated audiences since the 1940s. She highlighted a recent resurgence in interest following its connection to Stranger Things, adding that this adaptation allows a new generation to rediscover the tale.

The creative team also includes choreographer Jane McMurtrie, musical supervisor Brad Haak, musical director Matt Herbert, and orchestrator Dillon Kondor. Production designer Libby Todd, lighting designer Jonathan Chan, sound designer Andrew Johnson, and casting director Peter Noden complete the team.

Performances are scheduled to run from 18 May to 8 August 2026, with a press night on 26 May.