The Boy in the Dress (musical)


The Boy in the Dress is a musical with music and lyrics by Robbie Williams, Guy Chambers and Chris Heath, and a book by Mark Ravenhill. The musical is based on the 2008 novel of the same name, written by David Walliams. The novel told the story of a twelve-year-old boy who enjoys cross-dressing, and the reactions of his family and friends.

Background

The musical is based on the 2008 novel The Boy in the Dress, which was written by David Walliams, with illustration by Quentin Blake. The novel was previously adapted into a BBC television short film in 2014.
In February 2018, Gregory Doran, artistic director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, confirmed that the RSC was working with David Walliams on an undisclosed project. In May 2018, the show was officially confirmed and received its world premiere in 2019 inStratford-upon-Avon for the festive period. The show has a book by playwright Mark Ravenhill and is directed by Gregory Doran. The musical features an original score and lyrics by Robbie Williams and Guy Chambers.

Production History

Stratford-upon-Avon (2019-2020)

The world premiere of the musical began previews on 8 November 2019, with press night on 27 November 2019, and ran until 8 March 2020. The production is directed by Gregory Doran, designed by Robert Jones, choreographed by Aletta Collins and lighting designed by Mark Henderson.
On 22 August 2019 the initial adult casting was announced including Rufus Hound as Dad, Natasha Lewis as Darvesh’s Mum, Forbes Masson as Mr Hawtrey and Irvine Iqbal as Raj. The complete casting was announced on 9 September 2019.

Upcoming London transfer

In an interview with WhatsOnStage.com, Doran revealed that the production was due to transfer to the Savoy Theatre in London's West End opening in autumn 2020, however due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, plans were postponed. It was also revealed that a cast recording, recorded by the Stratford-upon-Avon cast near the end of the run was due to be released with the launch of the West End run.

Cast and characters

Musical numbers

; Act I
; Act II