Finding Neverland musical to open in London 2017

It has been announced that Gary Barlow's Broadway musical Finding Neverland will transfer to the West End at a yet to be announced theatre in January 2017.

The Take That singer and songwriter announced the news today via social media.

Featuring a book by James Graham with music and Lyrics by Gary Barlow and Eliot Kennedy, the musical is based on the Academy Award-winning film of the same name. Described as a "breathtaking new musical" it follows playwright J.M. Barrie, the man who created Peter Pan and the magical world of Neverland.

US publications Page Six and The New York Post have also reported news that British performer Alfie Boe will play the role of JM. Barrie in the London production, following a stint in the Broadway production later this year. Boe is currently starring in the Broadway revival of Les Miserables in the role of Jean Valjean at the Imperial Theatre, and is known to British fans for playing the role at the 25th anniversary as well as at the Queen's Theatre.

The musical had its premiere at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on Broadway, where it opened on 15 April 2015 where it is currently still running. Glee star Matthew Morrison originated the role of JM Barrie, which is currently being played on Broadway by Tony Yazbeck. British performer and original Mary Poppins Laura Michelle Kelly continues to star as Sylvia Llewelyn Davis, alongside Kelsey Grammer who has made a return to the show in the role of Charles Frohman.

Produced by Hollywood Mogul Harvey Weinstein, the musical premiered in a different form in Leicester with a score by Michael Korie and Scott Frankel, and was expected to transfer to the West End. This new version, with music by Gary Barlow, opened to mixed reviews on Broadway and failed to be nominated for any Tony Awards at the 2015 ceremony.

Further information regarding the West End premiere of Finding Neverland is yet to be announced, and will be updated shortly.

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