Review: 13 Going On 30 at Manchester Opera House

A Nostalgic Wish Come True – 13 Going On 30

A review by Phil Roberts of Mix 56

Last night I went to see 13 Going on 30 – The Musical.

Honestly? I didn’t expect to feel quite this much.

Remember being thirteen and desperate to fast-forward into real adulthood—a job, a flat and a life that seemed sorted?

This show absolutely gets it.  So does everyone in the audience.

The lights come up at Manchester’s Opera House and you’re back in the early 2000s: all that sparkly chaos, the wild fashion choices, the confidence.

If you loved the film, you’ll know the story but not the songs—they’re all new and, for me, that was a challenge. But, honestly, they work.

If you’ve never seen the film? Doesn’t matter—you’ll have a brilliant time.

Lucie Jones Shines

Let’s talk about Lucie Jones for a second.

She’s genuinely something else—hilarious, vulnerable, and totally convincing as Jenna growing from awkward teen to frazzled adult.

Her voice is spectacular. The tunes might not be the ones you’ll be humming on the train, but emotionally they land exactly where they should.

Watching the adult characters sing to their younger selves was unexpectedly moving—just brilliant.

David Hunter & Grace Mouat

David Hunter plays Matt, and he brings a gentle sweetness that just works. When he duets with Lucie? The whole theatre leans in.

Grace Mouat as Lucy absolutely steals scenes. She’s sharp, funny, and keeps that nostalgic film vibe alive without ever forcing it.

Songs That Pack a Punch

Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, who wrote the music, had a serious job creating a new score from scratch.

Some songs are bright and poppy; others hit you square in the chest when you’re not expecting it.

Visually, the musical nails it—magazine office glam collides with early 2000s kitsch: just the right amount of ridiculousness.

The office boss had me spitting out my diet cola at some seriously funny lines!

Audience Buzz

The crowd was loving every minute.

There was a bloke behind me having absolute belly laughs at every joke, and a woman in her seventies upfront wiped away tears during the more emotional moments (same, love, same).
The buzz of everyone feeling the same thing at once? Magic.

The show balances being funny and meaningful without tipping into cheesy or heavy handed.

It isn’t just nostalgic—it’s about the choices that shape who we become.

Direction & Ensemble

Andy Fickman keeps everything moving—no dragging, no pointless filler.

The teenage cast is genuinely brilliant, and the ensemble brings real energy from basement birthday parties to the glossy magazine office scenes.

Never once did I find myself checking my watch.

Final Verdict

Should you go? Absolutely.

13 Going on 30 – The Musical is fun, touching, and properly entertaining.

Big laughs, real heart and a classic message about staying true to yourself—which never goes out of style.

It’s running at Manchester’s Opera House for a little longer.

Go. Take someone. Have a night out. Dream about being an adult—or a kid, again.

Fair warning: you’re likely to leave with glitter on your coat and a lump in your throat.

I was part of a standing ovation at the end.

Sure, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea—but honestly?  That’s the best kind of night at the theatre.

It makes you think. What would you change if you could? Wow.

Now there’s a question….

• 13 Going on 30 showcasing at Manchester Opera House until Sunday 12th October
• Tickets from ATG Tickets