World premiere of A Knight`s Tale: The Musical set to 2025

The production will open on 11 April at Manchester Opera House.

The musical is based on the 2001 movie starring Heath Ledger and Paul Bettany, written by Brian Helgeland. Brona C. Titley writes the stage adaption. The show will be directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and choreographed by Matt Cole.

A Knight’s Tale follows William Thatcher, a 14th-century peasant squire who breaks all the rules when he passes himself off as a nobleman in the hopes of becoming the world champion of jousting.

Helgeland said: "Over 20 years ago I had the time of my life surrounded by a supreme cast and crew making a film we all fell in love with while we were joyfully making it. Sitting at a recent read through of the stage version, fashioned by Rachel Kavanaugh and Brona C Titley, I could feel that same joy and love emerging. I am grateful for the new life they are creating and very eager to see it in all its fully staged glory."

Titley added: “When I saw A Knight’s Tale the movie in 2001, I knew it was an instant classic. Upon innumerable rewatches, I can confirm… it still is! Adapting it for the stage has been more fun than I ever thought possible to have at work. This show is a sexy, silly, jousty, dancey, romance-y, musical extravaganza! It’s been one of the most fulfilling jobs of my career so far, and that was even before I met the incredible director, and team of legends that are working together to make it an unforgettable night out. I hope audiences love it as much as I do—do not miss this joyous, dizzy ride people!”

Kavanaugh added:  “I am beyond excited to be directing Brona’s brilliant and hilarious stage adaptation of Brian’s ground breaking film. With a score of well-loved rock and pop bangers, jousting, dancing, adventure, and romance, I hope we can give the audience a knight to remember as we follow the journey of a thatcher’s son and find out if he really can ‘change his stars’.”

Casting by Lucy Casson (with children’s casting by Keston and Keston) is yet to be announced.

The show is produced by Tristan Baker and Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment and Isobel David, by arrangement with Sony Pictures and Helgeland.