The beloved magical nanny created by Christianna Brand and adapted by Oscar-winning actor and screenwriter Emma Thompson is heading to the London stage. The brand-new musical adaptation of Nanny McPhee has announced its official West End premiere dates, securing a high-profile run at London’s Aldwych Theatre beginning November 6, 2027.
Tickets for the anticipated production are scheduled to go on general sale on October 14 at noon, available via the show’s official website. The theatrical run is currently booking through to September 9, 2028, positioning it as a major theatrical event of the upcoming West End calendar.
Creative Team and Production Details
Emma Thompson wrote and starred in the original 2005 Universal Pictures film and its 2010 sequel Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang. She has now penned the book for the musical. The production features music composed by singer-songwriter Gary Clark, with lyrics jointly written by Thompson and Clark.
The stage adaptation is guided by a decorated creative team:
- Director: Katy Rudd (The Ocean at the End of the Lane, Ballet Shoes)
- Set and Costume Design: Rob Howell (Matilda the Musical)
- Choreography: Ellen Kane (Matilda the Musical film adaptation)
- Orchestrations and Arrangements: Simon Hale and Nigel Lilley
- Lighting Design: Howard Hudson
- Sound Design: Ian Dickinson for Autograph
- Illusion Design: Chris Fisher
- Puppetry: Samuel Wyer
- Projection Design: Andrzej Goulding
- Casting Director: Natalie Gallacher
The production is presented by Universal Theatrical Group and Working Title Films in association with Studiocanal on Stage and MGM on Stage. General management is provided by Playful Productions. Producers for Working Title Films include Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Lindsay Doran, Emma Thompson, Paul Warwick Griffin, Gareth Hewitt Williams, and Rebecca Quigley.
The Plot: Bringing Nurse Matilda to the Stage
The musical is based on the original Nurse Matilda books by Christianna Brand, illustrated by Edward Ardizzone, and inspired by the cinematic adaptations. It follows the iconic title character as she arrives at the home of the Brown family.
Upon arrival, Nanny McPhee discovers a household in absolute chaos. A desperate, widowed father, a group of unruly children who have driven away numerous previous nannies, an uncontrollable donkey, and a troublesome baby have turned domestic life upside down. Armed with her signature knobbly walking stick, unorthodox methods, and a healthy dose of magic, Nanny McPhee sets out to restore order while teaching the household vital lessons.
Casting details for the West End production have not yet been announced. Producers have indicated that company announcements are expected soon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nanny McPhee The Musical
When will Nanny McPhee The Musical open in the West End?
Performances are scheduled to begin on November 6, 2027, with the production running through to September 9, 2028.
Which theatre is hosting the production?
The world premiere will take place at London’s Aldwych Theatre.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets officially go on general sale on October 14 at 12:00 PM.
Who wrote the music and lyrics?
The book is written by Emma Thompson, with music by Gary Clark and lyrics by both Thompson and Clark.
Has the cast been announced?
Casting for the production has not yet been revealed, but announcements are anticipated soon.
