Zootopia Takes the Stage in 2027: Will Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde Take Over Broadway?
Disney Theatrical Productions is taking the beloved animated classic Zootopia to new heights with a stage adaptation of the 2016 hit film. The new musical, announced through an Equity audition notice, will offer fans an immersive 90-minute experience, premiering as a professional LORT (League of Resident Theatres) production. With plans to offer both professional and amateur licensing, the adaptation is shaping up to reach a wide audience.
‘Zootopia’ Takes the Stage
Fans of the film will be thrilled to know that the creative team behind the stage version is a star-studded group. The book will be written by Sara Wordsworth, with music and lyrics composed by Jaheem Toombs, with additional contributions from Matte Martinez. Connor Gallagher has been tapped as director, while Ian Weinberger will serve as music supervisor. C12 Casting is handling the casting process, ensuring that Zootopia’s iconic characters are brought to life by talented performers. The characters expected to be featured include Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, Dawn Bellwether, and Chief Bogo, all of which are key players from the original film.
Auditions for the stage adaptation will take place on September 19, 2025, at Ripley-Grier Studios in New York City. This marks the first step in bringing the iconic characters and world of Zootopia to life in a live theater setting. The roles being cast include the major characters of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, Dawn Bellwether, and Chief Bogo, and will offer theatergoers a fresh and exciting take on the Zootopia story.
A stage musical adaption of ‘ZOOTOPIA’ is in the works at Disney.
(via https://t.co/kFFto4pHuh) pic.twitter.com/QTnaZ54GhB
— Cosmic Marvel (@cosmic_marvel) September 9, 2025
Building on a Legacy of Animation to Live-Action Adaptations
The stage musical version of Zootopia represents the next phase in Disney’s long tradition of adapting animated films for the stage. The original 2016 film was an immediate success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide and earning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Directed by Byron Howard and Rich Moore, with Jared Bush as co-director, Zootopia explored important themes like prejudice, diversity, and inclusion through its colorful, anthropomorphic characters. With memorable performances from Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, and Idris Elba, the film became a favorite among audiences of all ages.
Now, fans will be able to enjoy the Zootopia world in a new format. The stage adaptation is expected to capture the heart, humor, and important messages that made the film such a hit, while offering exciting new elements and surprises. Whether you’re a longtime Zootopia fan or new to the franchise, the musical promises to bring an exciting new experience to both theatergoers and Disney lovers alike. As preparations continue for its debut, theatergoers can look forward to seeing the world of Zootopia come to life on stage—and perhaps even get a few fresh surprises along the way.
