Theatre announces first stage adaptation of spine-tingling nove

After worldwide success as a bestselling book and cult movie, Coraline has now been adapted into a stage show, Coraline – A Musical which is coming to the Birmingham Rep in June 2025.

The new musical is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman (The Ocean at the End of the Lane, Good Omens, Doctor Who) and is adapted by award-winning playwright and screenwriter Zinnie Harris, with music and lyrics by British musician and songwriter Louis Barabbas.

This family friendly musical aimed at anyone aged 9+ will premiere in Leeds before touring to Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh.

Neil Gaiman said: “I love that the story of Coraline has had a life long beyond the novel — it's been a film, an opera, and now a musical. I am so excited for this new version.”

Coraline – A Musical will be directed by James Brining (Oliver!, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical, The Wizard of Oz). It is a darkly imaginative, richly rendered fantasy story that will take audiences on an adventure into a mysterious world under the spell of the button-eyed, deeply sinister “Other Mother”. 

First published in 2002 by British author Neil Gaiman, Coraline is celebrated for its gothic charm and the empowering journey of its young protagonist.

As young Coraline moves into a new home with her family, she soon discovers that things are not what they seem. The roof leaks, the wallpaper is peeling off the walls, the new neighbours are eccentric and her parents are so busy they hardly notice her at all. 

As Coraline explores her new home, she discovers a mysterious door, an entrance to a parallel “perfect” world. But not everything is as it seems – and everyone has buttons for eyes!  

Zinnie Harris said: “It’s a joy to work with Gaiman’s text, the narrative translates well - this epic adventure that sees a little girl battling the weirdest of adversaries and ultimately using her grit and courage to win through.”

James Brining said: “Coraline is a wonderfully imaginative coming-of-age story that takes us to dark places and challenges us to explore a world glimpsed from the corner of our eye – an unnerving place full of shadows and mystery, where nothing is quite as it seems.

“Coraline is a brilliant character, an unlikely but inspiring hero whose curiosity about the world matches her courage to face her biggest fears.”

Neil Gaiman is a highly acclaimed British author known for his stunning multi-genre work, including fantasy, horror, science fiction, and young adult fiction.

He is celebrated for his imaginative storytelling, unique characters, and ability to blend myth, legend, and modern themes. 

 Further cast and creatives to be announced.