Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody skates into London after Off-Broadway success

Following successful runs in New York and at the Edinburgh Fringe, Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody will make its London debut at Underbelly Boulevard this autumn with a newly announced UK cast.

Following acclaimed runs Off-Broadway and at this year's Edinburgh Fringe, Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody will make its London debut at Underbelly Boulevard, where it will play from 7 October to 1 November.

Created by Dylan MarcAurele, who wrote the book, music and lyrics, the 75-minute musical is inspired by Rachel Reid's bestselling hockey romance Heated Rivalry. Rather than presenting a direct adaptation, the production offers a tongue-in-cheek parody packed with original songs, fast-paced comedy and affectionate nods to the novel's devoted fanbase.

Leading the London cast are Zheng Xi Yong as Shane Hollander and Joseph Dann as Ilya Rozanov. They are joined by Andrew Berlin as Ilya's Dad, Sylvie Stenson as Shane's Mom and May Tether as Main Susan.

The production is directed by Alan Kliffer, with choreography by Brooke Engen and Tiffany Engen. The creative team also includes set designer Sully Ross, costume designer Brendan McCann, lighting designer Devin Cameron and sound designer Germán Martínez.

Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody first premiered Off-Broadway before making its UK debut at the Edinburgh Fringe, where it introduced British audiences to its humorous take on one of the most popular contemporary LGBTQ+ romance novels. The London engagement marks the show's first full run in the capital.

Combining contemporary pop-inspired music with musical theatre storytelling, the production celebrates the rivalry and romance between two elite ice hockey players while embracing its parody roots. Fans of the original novel and newcomers alike will have the opportunity to experience the show when it opens at Underbelly Boulevard this October.