Sunny Afternoon returns for UK tour opening in Manchester

Sunny Afternoon, the musical inspired by the music of the Kinks, is to return for a UK tour for the first time since 2017.

The production will open at Manchester Palace Theatre on October 10, 2025, before heading off to venues including Glasgow’s King’s Theatre and Brighton Theatre Royal.

Casting is yet to be announced for the show, which received four Olivier awards and ran in the West End for two years.

Producer Sonia Friedman said: "I’m thrilled that we’re bringing back our joyous, celebratory, Olivier award-winning best new musical for a new UK tour."

She added: "Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or experiencing it all over again, I can’t wait for audiences across the UK to see it - I’ve truly missed it."

Directed by Edward Hall, the musical is now set to embark on a tour currently scheduled to play until May 30, 2026.

Further dates are yet to be announced for the run, which will see the show visit venues including Sunderland Empire, Alexandra Palace, Nottingham Theatre Royal, Curve in Leicester, and Eden Court in Inverness.

Sunny Afternoon has music and lyrics by Ray Davies of the 1960s rock group the Kinks, and features some of the band’s most beloved chart-toppers, including Lola.

Davies said: "In these times of political uncertainties, it is a relief to know that Sunny Afternoon is on the horizon to lift our spirits."

Joe Penhall wrote the musical’s book, while the production is designed by Miriam Buether and choreographed by Adam Cooper.

Lighting design is by Rick Fisher, with sound design by Matt McKenzie.

Sunny Afternoon is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions and ATG Productions.