THE SECRET DIARY OF ADRIAN MOLE
AGED 13¾ THE MUSICAL
Leicester Curve (2015) - Menier Chocolate Factory (2017) - Ambassador’s Theatre, West End (2019), Queens Theatre Hornchurch (2022)
Adapted from the original novel by Sue Townsend
Music and lyrics by Pippa Cleary
Book and lyrics by Jake Brunger
Orchestrations by Kieran Merrick
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ – The Musical is a charming, funny coming-of-age story set in 1980s England, following the awkward but endearing teenager Adrian as he navigates school, family chaos, first love, and poetic ambitions. With catchy songs and nostalgic flair, it captures the trials of adolescence through Adrian’s hilariously honest diary entries.
★★★★★ EVENING STANDARD ★★★★★ THE INDEPENDENT ★★★★★ WHATSONSTAGE ★★★★★ MUSICAL THEATRE REVIEW ★★★★★ THE NEW EUROPEAN ★★★★TIME OUT ★★★★ THE MAIL ON SUNDAY ★★★★ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH ★★★★ BROADWAY WORLD ★★★★ THE METRO ★★★★ THE SUN ★★★★ THE TIMES
Nominated for UK Theatre Award for "Best Show for Children and Young People" at Curve
Nominated for Radio 2 Audience Award for Best Musical at the Evening Standard Awards
‘Should not be missed’ Mail on Sunday
’A perfectly realised new British musical’ Evening Standard
’Rescues the British musical’ The Guardian
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The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Musical brings to life the beloved character from Sue Townsend's iconic books, chronicling the trials and tribulations of a teenage boy navigating the challenges of adolescence. Set in the 1980s, this musical adaptation captures Adrian’s witty and often poignant observations as he grapples with love, family, and the awkwardness of growing up.
Adrian Mole made its World Premiere in 2015 at the Curve Theatre in Leicester, the hometown of the book’s author, Sue Townsend. The production was directed by Luke Sheppard, designed by Tom Rogers and choreographed by Tim Jackson. Before Sue Townsend sadly passed away in 2014, she had been working closely with Pippa and Jake, helping them to write the perfect musical version of her beloved book. The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Musical made its off west end debut at the Menier Chocolate Factory in 2017 and finally made it to the West End in the Ambassadors Theatre 2019!
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Musical features an engaging score by composer Pippa Cleary, known for her ability to blend catchy melodies with emotive storytelling. Cleary's music captures the essence of Adrian's character, using a variety of styles that reflect the highs and lows of teenage life. All the characters from the well-loved children’s book are brought to life in front of your eyes, through Brunger’s clever book and Cleary’s impressive music.
The music and orchestration complement the vibrant energy of the show, enhancing key moments of Adrian’s life using emotion and comedy. Pippa Cleary's musical composition plays a crucial role in bringing Adrian's journey to life, making The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Musical a memorable and joyful experience for audiences of all ages!
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Musical is licensed by Concord Theatricals for Amateur use. It is available through them to anyone who wants to enjoy this wonderful show and put it on in their own setting!