He may be best known for walking around Ramsay Street as Scott Robinson, but Neighbours legend Jason Donovan will now head to East High School for a reimagining of a Disney classic.
Four years on from his latest appearance as the beloved character in the Australian soap, the actor will now be taking on an altogether different role for a new stage production of High School Musical.
The star will portray Coach Bolton in the upcoming production, which will take place at Salford’s Lowry Theatre from 22 August until 19 September. As per the press release, the venue will feature an immersive and expansive stage design.
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“High School Musical was such a massive part of my kids’ early childhood,” said Donovan in a statement. “As a parent and as a musical fan, the film was family entertainment at its best. Magical! [I] loved it.
“Popular culture has a cycle and I’m delighted to be joining this new, reimagined High School Musical theatrical experience 20 years on from when I first discovered the film. Looking forward to seeing all in Salford.”
The actor joins the previously announced Tobias Turley, Leonor Correia, Caitlin Tipping and Luke Bayer. Joseph Houston and William Whelton will direct the production, while David Simpatico has written the book.
Tickets can be purchased here, with prices starting at £26. Shows typically start at 7pm from Tuesdays to Sundays, though there are matinee showings at 2pm across several days of the week.
The production is based on the 2006 Disney film of the same name, which launched the careers of Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Tisdale amongst others. The story charts the tumultuous romance between Troy Bolton (Efron) and Gabriella Montez (Hudgens).
Disney
Troy, one of the most popular students at East High School, is the leading player in the school’s basketball team, but finds himself facing pressure as he attempts to keep his love for musical theatre a secret.
The film, which was directed by Kenny Ortega, was followed by sequels in 2007 and 2008 respectively, while a spin-off – Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure – focusing on Tisdale’s character was released in 2011.
High School Musical plays at Salford’s Lowry Theatre from 22 August until 19 September. Neighbours concluded in December 2025, but classic episodes are available to watch via Prime Video and YouTube.
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