5 Reasons to See High School Musical in London

High School Musical originated as a Disney Channel film in January 2006, with two sequels and a spin-off plus a Disney Theatrical stage musical which opened on Broadway in August 2006.  This current non-replica revival opened 20 years later at the Lowry in Salford in August 2026 and transferred to London’s Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre earlier this month. 

The story is set at East High School and follows basketball star Troy Bolton and clever new girl Gabriella Montez’s relationship.  They show interest in the school musical which irks the stagey twins, Sharpay and Ryan, and the story then unfolds.  Dynamics between different school groups are highlighted and we see the development of Disney wholesome self-discovery and personal growth. 

Thinking of seeing High School Musical on stage in London? Check out our five reasons why you should get your head in the game a book tickets now.

1. An Immersive Setting Gets Your Head in the Game 

As you enter the theatre, you instantly notice the immersion as you pass East High School banners and climb branded steps, to then see the huge baseball court stage project out in front of you.  Before the show, there are crowd cheering sounds playing around you so you really feel like you are entering into courtside seating.  About ten minutes before the show start time, there is an on-stage preshow which boosts the immersive setting as cheerleaders hype the crowd. 

Side screens were used in some scenes, for example in Jack Scott’s radio links which add another perspective.  One of my favourite shots was during “Stick to the status quo” on the central screen when the full cast were framed and it looked like a film scene.  When not being used in this way, they look like score screens in a basketball arena which made them part of the setting without being overused. The stairs in the auditorium were used on several occasions, such as when the marching band entered, which continued the immersion.  Stair use also cleverly diverted our attention from stage whilst it was being set up for the next scene. 

2. On-Stage Seating Gets You Closer to the Action

There are banks of on-stage seats to the left and right of the stage which further enhance the setting because they are on two sides of the court, in addition to the regular auditorium on the third side.  The cheerleaders play to them first which must make the on-stage audience feel special.  The show is primarily played to the front so that may be a slight downside but more than compensated for by being close and feeling truly courtside.  These seats are advertised as affordable so are designed to be inclusive.   

3. A Slam Dunk Cast

Two big names are seen on the advertising: Harry Judd as Coach Bolton and KayCee Stroh as Ms Darbus.  Harry Judd’s role seemed minimal although he brings the proud father at the end to complete the story arc. KayCee’s role is more significant and she embodies the drama teacher, delivering an expressive and energetic performance throughout.   

Tobias Turley and Leonor Correia as Troy and Gabriella created their own versions of the characters with beautiful vocals.  Tobias transitioned between song and spoken word with seamless control.  Caitlin Tipping and Luke Bayer as Sharpay and Ryan embodied these characters, presenting them as fans would want with charisma and attitude. 

4. The Ensemble and Dancing Are All in This Together! 

The ensemble seemed huge but was needed to fill the vast stage.  They performed as individuals when needed with different characteristics or team players as required.  They worked well together to present some energetic choreography.  For example, the first basketball drill scene was a highlight from the start, with energetic ball work and movements heightened by lighting on floor and 3 walls around the court.  “We’re all in this together” showcased the different groups coming together and projected the feel good factor.  “Breaking free” used them to fill the stage in a more subtle way. 

5. It’s a Perfect Night of Nostalgia 

The production contained many nods to the original film which would be appreciated by the Wildcats fans of the show.  Sharpay and Ryan’s audition starts with the classic finger clicking which works well on the additional screen projection.  The staging allows for them to overlook the cafeteria during “Stick to the status quo” in that key scene just as they did in the film.  The setting seems familiar and use of set pieces like the moon in “Breaking free” echo the movie.  Fans are happy to have KayCee back in the cast as she played Martha in the original film.  The beloved songs are all included but have some extra lines in places to help the stage story. 

There is plenty to keep old and new fans happy with enough nostalgic nods without making the show feel dated.  It feels fresh and energetic in the immersive setting.  The show struck me as a derivative of Grease with a straightforward story but offers Disney family fun.  It has a short run until 3 January 2027 so there isn’t long for Wildcats to revisit East High.

High School Musical plays at Wembley Park Theatre until 3 January 2027. 

Where I Sat 

I sat in Stalls G30.  This was in the main auditorium facing the front of the stage.  It was central so was three rows back from the protruding apron and seven rows back from the main stage line.  The stalls raked so this was a good spot to see down on the stage a little and close enough to see details, but far enough back to take in the whole stage without turning my head.  I often struggle with legroom but had plenty of space.  I would definitely recommend this seat. 

Have You Seen High School Musical?

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Reviewed by Candace Ashby for SeatPlan, October 2026