Andrew Lloyd Webber developing new musicals on The Illusionist and the Mona Lisa theft

Andrew Lloyd Webber has revealed he is simultaneously developing two new stage works: an adaptation of The Illusionist and a second musical based on the real-life theft of the Mona Lisa, offering fresh insight into his next creative chapter.

Andrew Lloyd Webber has unveiled details of two ambitious new musical projects, confirming that alongside his long-gestating adaptation of The Illusionist, he is also developing a second work centred on the theft of the Mona Lisa.

The composer’s The Illusionist, based on Steven Millhauser’s story and the 2006 film, has been in development for several years. The piece has been described by Lloyd Webber as leaning towards an operatic form, with workshop presentations already completed as the creative team refines its structure and staging.

However, the more surprising revelation is a second, newly announced project focusing on one of the most infamous art crimes in history. Speaking recently, Lloyd Webber explained: “It’s a true story about how the Mona Lisa disappeared for three years… and ended up in Italy.”

The musical will dramatise the 1911 theft carried out by Vincenzo Peruggia, a Louvre employee who removed the painting and kept it hidden for years. While details remain scarce, the composer added: “More than that, I can’t really tell you… I am going away next week to write it.”

Both projects suggest a continued interest in storytelling rooted in illusion, mystery and historical intrigue—recurring themes across Lloyd Webber’s body of work. With The Illusionist progressing steadily and the Mona Lisa musical now in early development, the composer appears poised to expand his repertoire with two visually and narratively rich new productions.