Cult 80s film Back to the Future is being turned into a West End musical - and will have its premiere in Manchester.
The first official musical theatre adaptation of the sci-fi favourite will land at the Opera House for a 12-week season from February 20 to May 17 next year, before transferring to London's theatreland.
The show is written by Bob Gale, who wrote the original 1985 film, together with the film's director Robert Zemeckis and theatre producer Colin Ingram (Ghost - The Musical).
Fans can look forward to a soundtrack of songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode, along with new music and lyrics by Emmy and Grammy Award-winning Alan Silvestri and six-time Grammy Award-winning Glen Ballard, with additional songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode.
The film starred Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly, a rock 'n' roll teenager who is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-travelling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr Emmett Brown.
But before he can return to 1985, Marty - who will be played in the stage adaptation by Olly Dobson (Bat Out Of Hell the Musical, Matilda) - must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence.
The original cast of the film are all said to be excited about the new musical version.
Christopher Lloyd, who played Doc Brown, said: “Ever since Bob Gale told me about this, I’ve been eagerly anticipating it and, in particular, wondering what it will be like to hear Doc Brown sing.
"So I’m really looking forward to attending the opening in Manchester to experience our wonderful movie as a musical. I’m only sorry I don’t have a real time machine so that I could see it tomorrow!”
The project has been six years in the making but finally 'the time is right', added Gale.
"We’re thrilled that we can retell our story on stage in a brand-new way, and we’re certain that Back to the Future fans all over the world will share our enthusiasm," he said.
"In the words of Marty McFly, ‘your kids are gonna love it’ – and so will you and your parents. There’s truly no better way to celebrate the movie’s 35th anniversary, and we’re happy to say The Future is coming back!”
The musical will be directed by Tony Award-winning director John Rando (Urinetown, On the Town), alongside a multi Tony and Olivier Award-winning design, music and choreography team.
Tickets go on sale on Friday May 24 at 10am, priced from £19.55. Visit ATGTickets.com or call 0844 871 3018.
