A West End musical won’t be hitting the stage in south Essex next year after its UK tour was axed.
Trainspotting The Musical, based on Irvine Welsh’s novel, was scheduled for a UK tour following its West End run, including a stop at the Cliffs Pavilion in Westcliff from February 2 to 6, 2027.
Venues have removed listings for the shows, and the tour details have also disappeared from the official website.
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Cast members confirmed the news on social media.
The National reported Kieran Brown, performer and resident director, said: "The UK tour has sadly been cancelled – just not selling unfortunately for us."
"This business is brutal - but it’s business at the end of the day. Lose £2 million now or £6 million later," he added.
"So, so very much to be proud of."
The musical follows Renton, Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud, Tommy and Kelly, catching up with them 30 years after the events of the 1996 film.
Irvine Welsh at the opening night of Trainspotting The Musical at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London's West End (Image: Ian West/PA Wire)
The production's statement read: "The forthcoming UK tour of Trainspotting The Musical, which was due to begin on 19 October, has been cancelled.
"We are very grateful to our cast, crew and creative team for their dedication to the production, but the current economic climate has resulted in lower than expected ticket sales.
"Ticketholders will be contacted by their point of purchase with full refund details. We apologise for any inconvenience and disappointment this may cause.
"Trainspotting The Musical continues at London's Theatre Royal Haymarket until 5 September 2026."
Directed and developed by Caroline Jay Ranger, the show was written by Irvine Welsh, with music and lyrics by Welsh and Stephen McGuinness.
The production blends tracks from the original film with new material created specifically for the stage, capturing the energy and grit that made Trainspotting a cultural phenomenon.
Trainspotting The Musical will continue its run at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London until September 5, 2026.
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