Can’t Fight the Moonlight… Coyote Ugly heads to the West End in 2027 as a brand-new musical

Can’t Fight the Moonlight… Coyote Ugly heads to the West End as a brand-new musical

10-12-25

One of the most iconic cult films of the early 2000s is heading for the West End. Jamie Wilson Productions, alongside Nederlander Studios, have announced the world premiere of Coyote Ugly – A New Musical, set to open in London in 2027, bringing the fire, freedom and female-led swagger of the original film to the stage.

Based on the global hit movie inspired by the legendary New York Coyote Ugly Saloon, the new musical reunites the powerhouse creative forces behind the original soundtrack while expanding the story for a new generation of theatre audiences. Released in 2000, Coyote Ugly became a surprise box office smash, taking over $113 million worldwide and embedding itself firmly in pop culture thanks to its unapologetic attitude and era-defining music.

At the heart of the stage adaptation is Diane Warren, the Grammy Award-winning songwriter and 16-time Academy Award nominee whose songs helped make the film an enduring favourite. Warren will bring her iconic tracks to the stage, including Can’t Fight the Moonlight, The Right Kind of Wrong, Please Remember and But I Do Love You, alongside brand-new songs written exclusively for the musical.

The book will be adapted by Gina Wendkos, the original screenwriter of the film, joined by Olivier Award winner Vikki Stone, whose musical theatre credentials add sharp wit and theatrical flair to the adaptation. Completing the creative dream team is Jerry Mitchell, the multi Tony Award-winning director and choreographer behind West End hits including Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde and The Devil Wears Prada. His signature blend of high-octane choreography and emotional storytelling feels tailor-made for the Coyote world.

Diane Warren has long championed the idea of a stage version, calling both the film and its soundtrack “guilty pleasure classics” and describing the musical as “a fun guilty pleasure just when we need it most”. With fresh songs and a theatrical reimagining, the production aims to capture the heart and heat of the original while giving it new life under the lights.

Jamie Wilson added that the production brings together an exceptional, award-winning creative team and promises audiences a wild theatrical experience, where the music and storytelling ignite the spirit of Coyote Ugly all over again.

Presented with special permission from Buena Vista Theatrical Group Ltd, Coyote Ugly – A New Musical looks set to bring big voices, bold choreography and fearless energy to the West End. Saddle up — the coyotes are coming.