High School Musical Film Star KayCee Stroh Joins UK Stage Revival as Ms Darbus

In a casting announcement that will delight fans of the beloved Disney franchise, KayCee Stroh has been confirmed for the upcoming UK stage revival of High School Musical. The actress, who became a household name playing Martha Cox across all three High School Musical films, will take on an entirely different role this time around, stepping into the shoes of the wonderfully dramatic drama teacher Ms Darbus.

A Full-Circle Moment for KayCee Stroh

The new production marks the 20th anniversary of the original High School Musical film, which first aired on Disney Channel in 2006 and became a global cultural phenomenon. For Stroh, joining the UK stage version represents something deeply personal.

"It's a genuine full-circle moment," the actress said of her involvement. She described moving from originating Martha Cox on screen to now inhabiting the equally iconic Ms Darbus on stage as "both an honour and a joy." Stroh also revealed that performing in the UK has been a long-held ambition, making this opportunity all the more meaningful.

Perhaps most touchingly, Stroh explained that the fans themselves were a driving force behind her decision to take the role. "I chose to take on this role for the fans, whose unwavering support, love, and shared nostalgia have made High School Musical so special," she said.

Jason Donovan and a Stellar Cast Lead the Revival

Stroh joins an impressive ensemble already announced for the production. Jason Donovan, the Australian pop star and musical theatre veteran, will play Coach Bolton, the basketball-obsessed father of leading man Troy. Tobias Turley takes on the role of Troy Bolton, while Leonor Correia stars as the academically gifted Gabriella Montez. Caitlin Tipping will portray the gloriously ambitious Sharpay Evans, with Luke Bayer as her devoted twin brother Ryan. Further casting is still to be revealed.

The combination of a genuine High School Musical film alumna alongside established stage performers and a pop culture icon in Jason Donovan gives this revival a unique blend of nostalgia and theatrical credibility that should appeal to both die-hard fans and newcomers to the story.

An Immersive Theatrical Experience at The Lowry

This is not simply a traditional staging of the much-loved musical. The production promises to transform the Lyric Theatre at The Lowry in Salford into a fully immersive basketball court, complete with on-stage seating and an extended performance space designed to place audiences directly inside the world of East High School.

The ambitious staging means that theatregoers will feel as though they are part of the action, surrounded by the drama, romance, and rivalry that made the original film so compelling. It is an inventive approach that reflects the growing appetite among audiences for immersive theatrical experiences, a trend that has been embraced by productions across London and the UK in recent years.

Fans can expect to hear all of the songs that defined a generation, including "Breaking Free," "We're All In This Together," "Get'cha Head in the Game," and "Stick to the Status Quo." These tracks became global hits when the film first aired and remain instantly recognisable two decades later.

The Creative Team Behind the Production

The stage adaptation features a book by David Simpatico, with music adapted, arranged, and produced by Bryan Louiselle. The production is co-directed by Joseph Houston and William Whelton, a directorial partnership overseeing what promises to be a dynamic and visually striking show.

The wider creative team brings together an impressive array of talent. Choreography is by Aaron Renfree, set design by Andrew Exeter, and sound design by Matt Peploe. George Reeve handles video design, while Rory Beaton is responsible for lighting. Costumes are designed by Sophia Pardon, with musical supervision from Katy Richardson and musical direction by Audra Cramer. Casting is handled by Pearson Casting, production management by Ammonite Studios, and general management by Chris Harper Productions.

A Brief History of High School Musical on Stage

The original High School Musical stage adaptation premiered in 2006, the same year the Disney Channel film first captivated audiences worldwide. The story follows Troy Bolton, the star basketball player, and Gabriella Montez, the brilliant new student, as they discover a shared love of singing and challenge the rigid social hierarchies of East High School. It is a tale about breaking free from expectations and finding the courage to be yourself, themes that resonated powerfully with its young audience and continue to do so today.

The stage version has since been performed by schools, amateur groups, and professional companies across the globe, becoming one of the most widely produced musicals of the 21st century. A professional London production played at the Hammersmith Apollo in 2008, but this new revival represents a significant step up in ambition with its immersive staging concept and the involvement of an original film cast member.

Tour Dates and How to Book Tickets

The revival is currently playing in Leicester before visiting Bristol and Southampton. The Lowry engagement in Salford opens on 22 August 2026 and runs until 19 September 2026. Tickets are now on sale for the Salford dates, and given the level of nostalgia surrounding the franchise and the star casting, demand is expected to be high.

This is a production that will appeal to multiple generations. Those who grew up watching the original film are now in their twenties and thirties, many with children of their own who they may want to introduce to the world of East High. The immersive staging adds an extra dimension that sets this apart from previous productions, making it feel like a genuinely fresh theatrical event rather than a straightforward revival.

Should You Book?

If you have any fondness for High School Musical, this production looks like an unmissable opportunity. The combination of KayCee Stroh bringing authentic film-era magic, Jason Donovan's star power, and the immersive basketball court staging makes this far more than a standard touring musical. The 20th anniversary timing adds a layer of celebratory nostalgia that could make for a truly special evening.

For families, it is worth noting that the show's themes of friendship, self-expression, and challenging expectations remain as relevant and uplifting as ever. And with an extended run at The Lowry, there should be plenty of options for finding dates that work.

Whether you were part of the original High School Musical generation or you are discovering the story for the first time, this revival promises to deliver the heart, humour, and irresistible music that made the franchise a phenomenon.

Looking for more musicals to see? Browse our full list of shows currently on sale, or check out the latest theatre news and features on BritishTheatre.com.