ISLAMABAD: London’s West End has a new hero — and he wears a toga. Disney’s Hercules has officially opened at the iconic Theatre Royal Drury Lane, transforming the 1997 animated classic into a dazzling stage musical full of heart, humour, and high-energy gospel tunes.
Inspired by the original Disney film — which itself drew from Greek mythology — the story follows Hercules, the mighty son of Zeus, as he tries to earn back his godhood after being turned mortal as a baby by the underworld’s scheming god, Hades. From awkward teen to full-blown hero, Hercules must prove himself — not just to Mount Olympus, but to himself.
“It’s a new version of the story that still feels familiar,” said writer Robert Horn.
We’ve kept the spirit of the movie, but made it fresh for theatre audiences. – Robert Horn, the writer
Fans of the animated film will still hear favourites like Go the Distance and Zero to Hero, written by Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken and lyricist David Zippel. But this stage production also adds new songs and gives more spotlight to the five all-knowing Muses — Greek goddesses of the arts and storytelling — who guide the tale with powerhouse vocals and bold costume changes.
“They’re iconic,” said Malinda Parris, who plays Muse Calliope.
Growing up, we saw ourselves in these characters when representation was rare. Now, we get to be that inspiration for others. It’s magic. – Malinda Parris
One major change from the film? Phil, Hercules’ cranky half-goat trainer, is now portrayed as a human taverna owner in this version. But actor Trevor Dion Nicholas says the heart of the relationship remains the same.
“Phil is still that father figure,” Nicholas explained. “We’ve made their bond deeper, more emotional. It’s funny, it’s real, and it hits harder than ever.”
While Hercules was not a smash hit at the box office when it was first released in 1997, it has since become a cult favourite, loved for its humour, music, and soulful Muses. This stage version first came to life in New York’s Central Park in 2019, and later hit Hamburg in a German-language version. Now, it has finally landed in London in full Greek glory.
The musical runs at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane — the same venue that recently hosted Disney’s Frozen — from June 24, 2025, through March 28, 2026. With its mix of mythology, music, and modern flair, Hercules is set to be one of the West End’s must-see shows.
So whether you are a lifelong fan of the film or just in the mood for a hero’s journey with a heavenly soundtrack, Hercules promises a legendary night at the theatre.
