Cult classic 13 Going On 30 to make its musical debut in Manchester

Tickets are on sale now

Daisy Jackson - 26th June 2025

Cult classic rom com 13 Going On 30 is preparing for its musical world premiere – and it’s happening right here in Manchester.

The brand-new musical is based on the hit 2004 film of the same name, starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo.

As in the film, 13 Going On 30 The Musical will follow awkward teen Jenna Rink who makes a birthday wish to skip those difficult high school years.

To her surprise – her wish comes true.

Jenna wakes up to find herself ‘30, flirty and thriving’ in a dream role as a magazine editor, but still trying to work out what, and who really matters in life.

The brand new musical will open at the legendary Opera House this September, bringing all the magic of the time-travelling film to life.

For the stage version, Lucie Jones (who you might recognise from X Factor) will star as Jenna, alongside David Hunter (Matt), Grace Mouat (Lucy), Caleb Roberts (Richard), Andrew Berlin (Kyle), and Dominic Andersen (Alex).

Cult classic 13 Going On 30 to make its musical debut in Manchester

The musical is also written by the same duo behind the hit flick.

13 Going On 30 The Musical will have songs by Michael Weiner and Alan Zachary, who wrote for High School Musical: The Musical, and will be directed by Andy Fickman of Heathers and She’s The Man.

Film writers Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa, who have also written the book of the musical, said: “When we wrote the movie 13 Going on 30, we never dreamt that on the film’s 20th anniversary, we’d get the chance to see a whole new generation fall in love with Razzles and feel thirty, flirty, and thriving.

“It’s been a joy to work with ROYO, Revolution Studios, Wendy Federman and Phil Kenny, songwriters Alan Zachary & Michael Weiner, and director Andy Fickman to bring this story to life as a stage musical.

“We were thrilled by the audience’s response to our workshop last year, and now we can’t wait to officially open in Manchester at the legendary Opera House – the launchpad of so many iconic musicals.

“So bring your family, your friends, maybe a date, or just come alone – don’t be shy, we’re all nice. Hope you have as much fun seeing the show as we had making it!”

13 Going On 30 The Musical will be at the Opera House in Manchester between 21 September and 12 October 2025.

Tickets are on sale now HERE.

Featured image: Publicity picture