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Disney Green Lights “Woke” Remake of ‘Hercules’; Arriving Summer 2025

Hercules musical
Credit: Playbill and Disney Theatrical Productions

Known as one of Disney’s most beloved animated films, Hercules has had fans laughing, crying, singing, and dancing for decades. Due to its stellar vocal score and impactful story, many fans have dreamed that this show could one day come to the stage in the form of a live production.

Disney has had great success in the past with Broadway-style musical adaptations of movies like The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Aladdin. Last year, Disney tried out Hercules with an out-of-town production of the new stage musical at the Papermill Playhouse. The show also did a German production in Hamburg.

While many fans loved the production, others criticized the “woke” casting choices and some of the changes to the script and the story. Despite these complaints, Disney has decided to move forward with a West End debut of the show.

Related: Disney Gives Disappointing ‘Hercules’ Live-Action Update

Hercules Live Action

Credit: Disney

Hercules: The Heroic New Musical

The highly anticipated Hercules Musical is officially making its way to the esteemed West End. The show is set to delight audiences with a spectacle that combines the enchanting world of Greek mythology with the magic of musical theater.

This production, masterminded by the acclaimed composer Alan Menken and lyricist David Zippel, promises to transport theatergoers to a realm where gods and mortals collide in a tale of heroism, love, and self-discovery set against a backdrop of divine grandeur and human frailty.

With the creative vision of director Casey Nicholaw and playwright Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah, the stage at Theatre Royal Drury Lane is set to be transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors and emotions.

Hercules musical

Credit: Johan Persson. A Stage Entertainment and Disney Theatrical production

The story showcases Hercules’ journey as he strives to find his place among both the celestial and earthly realms. This adaptation from the beloved Disney animated film exemplifies the magical storytelling that Disney Theatrical Productions is renowned for, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience that will captivate audiences of all ages. While many favorite songs and numbers will return, fans should expect changes as well.

Will the Controversy Carry Overseas?

While many London Disney fans are thrilled that the musical is set to arrive in the Summer of 2025, others are worried about the creative vision of the shows. When the show premiered in the United States at the Papermill Playhouse, some criticized the casting choices, which leaned towards a more diverse route than the film did. The Hamburg production received similar feedback.

hercules musical

Credit: Johan Persson. A Stage Entertainment and Disney Theatrical production

In addition, some critics did not like some of the more modern elements that they added to the story of the musical. Fans will have to wait and see what Disney has planned for casting a creative vision as the show begins rehearsals next year. What do you think about this revival?

About Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.