Overview

• The world-premiere production runs at Manchester Opera House through October 12.
• Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa provide the book, with songs by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner and direction by Andy Fickman; Jennifer Garner serves as executive producer.
• Critics are divided, with Manchester Evening News praising a lively, affectionate homage and The Times dismissing it as a timid replication lacking imagination.
• Lucie Jones draws consistent praise in the lead role, with standout notices for younger cast members Amelia Minto and Max Bispham.
• Reviews note conventional staging that closely tracks the film and leans on early-2000s nostalgia, with tunes described as catchy by local outlets but merely serviceable by national press.