How it unfolded
As anticipation builds for the West End premiere of Beetlejuice The Musical, the spotlight is on David Fynn, who has been announced to play the title role. The production is set to begin performances on May 20, 2026, at the Prince Edward Theatre in London. This marks a significant moment for Fynn, who is known for his Olivier-nominated performances in productions such as School of Rock and Much Ado About Nothing.
The musical, based on the 1988 film directed by Tim Burton, originally opened on Broadway in 2019. It features a book by Scott Brown and Anthony King, with music and lyrics by Eddie Perfect. The West End production will be directed by Alex Timbers, with a creative team that includes scenic designer David Korins and costume designer William Ivey Long.
Fynn has expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “It’s a show I’ve admired for a long time – bold, funny, and totally chaotic. Getting the chance to step into such an iconic role is both a huge honour and a slightly surreal experience. I’m looking forward to bringing my own take to it while staying true to what makes the character so much fun. Plus, I do look good in stripes, and I am a little dead inside.” This quote encapsulates his excitement and the unique character he will portray.
The production is set to run until April 17, 2027, allowing audiences ample opportunity to experience this theatrical adaptation of a beloved film. The UK production is produced by Crossroads Live and Warner Bros Theatre Ventures, with casting handled by Harry Blumenau.
As the opening date approaches, the buzz surrounding Fynn’s portrayal of Lydia Deetz and the overall production continues to grow. The musical’s blend of humor and chaos, alongside its strong creative team, promises to deliver an engaging experience for theatre-goers.
Fynn’s casting is particularly noteworthy given the character’s iconic status in popular culture, and his previous work suggests he is well-equipped to bring a fresh perspective to the role. The excitement surrounding this production highlights the ongoing appeal of theatrical adaptations of film properties.
As the theatre community prepares for this new chapter in the West End, the significance of Fynn’s role cannot be understated. His performance is anticipated to resonate with both fans of the original film and new audiences alike, making this a pivotal moment in his career and a highlight in the West End’s 2026 season.
