Manchester's latest musical is anything but rotten

If you've ever watched one of Neil Patrick Harris's unforgettable opening performances at The Tony Awards, you'll already have a sense of what Something Rotten! has in store. From the opening number, it captures that same infectious energy, blending fast paced musical comedy, clever theatrical references, spectacular ensemble performances and a genuine love letter to Broadway before launching into one of the funniest new musicals to arrive in Manchester for years.

The UK premiere has landed at Manchester's Opera House, a venue that has become known for launching productions that later go on to enjoy life in the West End and beyond. On the strength of this performance, Something Rotten! deserves to follow the same path.

Set in Elizabethan England, the story centres on brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom, two playwrights desperate to escape the shadow of William Shakespeare. While Shakespeare enjoys rock star status, the Bottom brothers struggle to fill seats and pay their debts. Looking for inspiration, Nick turns to a soothsayer who predicts that the future of theatre is something completely new. A musical.

From there, the show embraces its wonderfully ridiculous premise and never lets up.

Jason Manford is perfectly cast as Nick Bottom. His comedy comes naturally, but he also brings warmth to a character who could easily become unlikeable. He keeps the audience on his side throughout, whether he's chasing success or making one terrible decision after another.

Richard Fleeshman is magnificent as Shakespeare, playing him less like a revered literary figure and more like an arrogant rock icon. Every swagger across the stage, every knowing look and every overblown entrance lands exactly as intended.

Marisha Wallace is outstanding as Bea Bottom, delivering powerhouse vocals while giving the role plenty of heart. Cassius Hackforth provides an excellent contrast as the quieter, more romantic Nigel, while Carla Dixon Hernandez brings charm and energy as Portia.

Then there's Cory English as Nostradamus, whose performance threatens to steal the show every time he appears. His comic timing is exceptional, and one particular musical number explaining the future of theatre had the audience roaring with laughter.

The cast as a whole deserve enormous credit. There isn't a weak performance on stage, and the ensemble rarely stop moving. Whether they're dancing, singing or delivering another visual gag tucked away in the background, there's always something happening.

The production itself looks superb. The Tudor inspired sets are richly detailed without becoming over complicated, while the costumes add even more personality to an already colourful production. Every musical number feels bigger than the last, helped by slick choreography and impressive staging that keeps the pace racing along.

What really makes Something Rotten! stand out, though, is its writing.

This is a musical written by people who clearly adore musical theatre. It celebrates the genre while gently poking fun at it, weaving references to classic productions throughout the show without ever feeling smug or excluding those who don't spot every joke.

Some of the biggest laughs come from these affectionate nods, but the comedy works perfectly well on its own. Even if you've never seen another musical, there's enough wit, slapstick and clever wordplay here to keep you entertained.

There is some cheeky humour and a handful of jokes aimed at older audiences, so families should bear that in mind, but nothing ever feels excessive or out of place.

Running at around two and a half hours including the interval, the show never feels long. It moves at such a relentless pace that the time flies by, finishing with an audience on its feet for a well deserved standing ovation.

Manchester audiences have a habit of embracing new musicals before the rest of the country catches on. Don't be surprised if Something Rotten! follows the same path.

Whether you're a lifelong theatre fan or simply looking for a genuinely funny night out, this is a production that delivers from the first note to the final curtain.