A Hero’s Homecoming: DISNEY’S HERCULES Reveals Full West End Cast
Bless my soul, indeed—there’s a flurry of excitement in London’s theatre scene! With the much-anticipated arrival of DISNEY’S HERCULES at the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane next summer, audiences will be treated to an action-packed spectacle brimming with Greek myth, awe-inspiring music, and a healthy dose of Disney magic. Fans of the original 1997 animated film can finally mark their calendars: previews begin on 6 June 2025, leading up to an official opening night on 24 June 2025. It’s already shaping up to be one of the biggest theatrical events of the year, promising a massive turnout of theatregoers, Disney devotees, and anyone who loves an uplifting story of a hero discovering his true identity.
The Legendary Tale Returns
Originally released as an animated feature in 1997, HERCULES quickly became a Disney favourite, thanks to its witty script, memorable songs, and striking twist on Greek mythology. Now, nearly three decades later, the story comes to life on the West End stage with a full-scale musical adaptation. True to the Disney tradition of transferring iconic films to the theatre (think the triumphant stage versions of THE LION KING, MARY POPPINS, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and ALADDIN), HERCULES adds another star to the studio’s live-theatre constellation.
This brand-new production isn’t simply a carbon copy of the film, though. Boasting a book by Robert Horn(SHUCKED) and Kwame Kwei-Armah (THE VISITOR), the piece weaves in fresh material to expand on the film’s themes of destiny, family, and heroism. The famously catchy score by Alan Menken (BEAUTY AND THE BEAST) and lyrics by David Zippel (MULAN) returns with signature tunes—Go the Distance, Zero to Hero and I Won’t Say (I’m In Love)—all set to delight. But you can also expect new musical numbers that delve deeper into Hercules’ journey and the motivations of the hilarious yet nefarious Hades.
A Star-Studded Cast
So, who will be leading us on this epic adventure? Taking on the titular role is Grammy nominee Luke Brady, stepping into those winged sandals to play the son of Zeus. Mae Ann Jorolan, who originated the role in Hamburg’s European premiere, makes her West End debut as the feisty Meg—just in time to show London that there’s more to this “damsel in distress” than meets the eye. Meanwhile, the comedic sidekick Phil—part mentor, part grumpy goat-man—will be played by Trevor Dion Nicholas, whose West End credit as Genie in ALADDIN firmly established his knack for high-energy, showstopping performances.
We all know the ultimate Disney villain can make or break a show, and for HERCULES, the cunning Hades is entrusted to Stephen Carlile, whose background includes turning heads in other major stage roles. The heroic quest doesn’t stop there: the Muses, beloved narrators and vocal powerhouses in both the film and the musical, are portrayed by Candace Furbert, Sharlene Hector, Brianna Ogunbawo, Malinda Parris, Robyn Rose-Li, and standby Muse Kamilla Fernandes. With their soulful voices and gospel-inflected style, the Muses typically steal the spotlight whenever they appear—and there’s little doubt they’ll be show-stoppers once again.
Rounding out the principal cast is Craig Gallivan as Bob, Lee Zarrett as Charles, and an ensemble featuring a talented roster of performers: Rhianne Alleyne, Lana Antoniou, Daisy Barnett, Felipe Bejarano, Sarah Benbelaid, Joel Benjamin, Jack Butcher, Nicole Carlisle, Francessca Daniella-Baker, Jemal Felix, Marie Finlayson, Ryesha Higgs, Cruz-Troy Hunter, Travis Kerry, Stefan Lagoulis, Jason Leigh Winter, Jordan Livesey, Harriet Millier, Ellie Mitchell, Saffi Needham, Ingrid Olivia, Matt Overfield, Patrick Robinson, Ope Sowande and Rhys West.
Muses Bring The House Down
One of the most iconic elements of the original film is the group of five sassy Muses who guide the audience through Hercules’ trials and triumphs. Their presence in the stage musical is just as crucial, now enhanced by the artistry of choreographers Casey Nicholaw (DISNEY’S ALADDIN) and Tanisha Scott. Expect to see the Muses in high-octane production numbers—possibly with updated dance breaks or new medleys—designed to make full use of their phenomenal vocal range and comedic timing.
Their function goes far beyond mere scene transition. The Muses effectively mirror the storytelling tradition of ancient Greek theatre, while channelling modern influences of gospel, soul, and pop. It’s the perfect blend of past and present—a reminder that, even with high-tech LED screens and state-of-the-art special effects, great theatrical storytelling begins with a chorus that knows how to captivate.
A Creative Dream Team
Alongside Casey Nicholaw—who directs and choreographs the production—there’s an army of seasoned designers making sure that HERCULES truly dazzles. Scenic and additional video design are in the capable hands of Dane Laffrey, while costume design is led by Gregg Barnes and Sky Switser. Lighting designer Jeff Croiter and sound designer Adam Fisher aim to create a feast for the senses, with additional video design by George Reeve. Special effects by Jeremy Chernick promise to bring the mythical realms to life—think lightning bolts, smoky underworld entrances, and maybe even some monstrous Titans rampaging on stage.
Adding to the magic are David Chase with his dance music arrangements, Mia M. Neal on hair and wig design, and Kirk Cambridge-Del Pesche crafting make-up looks fit for Mount Olympus. From glorious to grotesque, you can bet these creative wizards will push the boundaries of what’s possible in a West End theatre, making us truly believe in both gods and monsters.
The Drury Lane Connection
Theatre Royal Drury Lane, often referred to simply as “Drury Lane,” is one of London’s oldest and most prestigious venues. Recent renovations have brought it back to its full splendour, complete with comfortable seating, improved sightlines, and top-notch technical facilities. After hosting big hits like FROZEN, the building has proved itself well-suited for large-scale family musicals, full of spectacle and heart.
There’s something apt about hosting a show built on classical myth in a theatre with such a storied history. From 17th-century comedic plays to the grand musicals of the 20th century, Drury Lane has always been a space that celebrates the evolution of performance art. DISNEY’S HERCULES continues that lineage, melding old legends with modern Broadway flair.
Global Potential
As with other Disney hits, there’s plenty of speculation about where HERCULES might head after its West End run. Could we see an international tour that stretches across North America, Europe, or Australia? The appetite for Disney musicals in Australian theatre is especially strong, with past productions like THE LION KING, FROZEN, and ALADDIN drawing capacity crowds in Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond. Should HERCULES follow in their footsteps, Antipodean audiences would undoubtedly leap at the chance to see their favourite Greek hero brought to life down under.
Industry data supports the notion that big Disney titles rarely stay confined to one city for long. THE LION KING has played to over 100 million people worldwide, and FROZEN is quickly following suit with productions popping up internationally. Given the universal appeal of a hero’s journey and the popularity of those timeless Alan Menken tunes, HERCULES seems poised to become the next global Disney phenomenon.
Unique Comedy And Modern Spin
One feature that truly sets HERCULES apart from other Disney favourites is its clever interplay of comedy, mythological grandeur, and modern references. Much like the film, the stage version isn’t afraid to wink at modern pop culture or inject comedic irony into ancient legends. Expect lively banter between Hercules and Phil, irreverent wisecracks from Hades, and a wink or two aimed directly at 21st-century audiences.
This unique tone also offers an ideal showcase for Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah’s writing. Horn’s comedic finesse (evident in his Tony Award-winning work on TOOTSIE and popular new musical SHUCKED) and Kwei-Armah’s dramatic insights (from leading the Young Vic and writing socially conscious plays) combine to give HERCULES a fresh voice. It’s not every day you see a thousand-year-old myth told through such an up-to-date lens—one that’s packed with personality and underpinned by one of Disney’s most diverse musical scores.
If the rapturous standing ovations for Disney’s other stage adaptations are any indication, DISNEY’S HERCULES is all but certain to become a mainstay on the West End map. With a powerhouse creative team, a richly talented cast, and the historic Drury Lane as its backdrop, this production looks every bit as epic as the Greek myths that inspired it.
At its core, HERCULES is about discovering the hero within each of us, a message that resonates regardless of background or age. For longtime fans of the film, the show offers a deeper glimpse into beloved characters—think soaring ballads, comedic quips, and high-octane choreography. For newcomers, it’s a chance to meet this legendary hero for the first time, in a theatre setting that’s guaranteed to dazzle the senses.
So, polish your sandals and get ready to cheer as the son of Zeus goes toe-to-toe with the fearsome Underworld. Few spectacles capture the jubilant spirit of musical theatre quite like Disney, and with HERCULES roaring back to the spotlight, we’re reminded why these shows continue to captivate generations. Whether you’re humming Zero to Herowhile queueing for tickets or simply curious about how Greek legends translate to the West End stage, rest assured: there’s a hero in all of us, and this summer at Drury Lane is the perfect time to find it.
