The actor, composer and writer will reprise his role as William Critchard in the production, which tells the story of two men whose forbidden relationship unfolds against the backdrop of 18th-century England.
Presented by Bill Kenwright Ltd and Paul Taylor-Mills, the musical follows a successful run at Southwark Playhouse earlier this year. The West End production will have its press night on 4 February and run until 17 April 2027.
Set in Redcliffe, Bristol, the story follows William Critchard, a young man from humble beginnings, whose life changes when he meets Richard Arnold, a sailor visiting the town. As their relationship develops, suspicion and prejudice threaten their future together, forcing the pair to confront the dangers of pursuing love in a society determined to keep them apart.The musical features an original book, music and lyrics by Gage, whose stage credits include Bonnie & Clyde, Heathers, & Juliet and Titanique.
His work on Redcliffe earned him the Best Composer, Lyricist or Book Writer award at the 2026 Stage Debut Awards.The production began its development at the Turbine Theatre as part of MTFestUK 2024, before eight sold-out workshop performances at The Other Palace. Its first full production followed at Southwark Playhouse in summer 2026, receiving positive reviews and playing to sold-out audiences.
Speaking about the transfer, Gage said: "I am beyond thrilled that Redcliffe is transferring to the West End, giving us the chance to share this story with even more people." He added that the response to the Southwark Playhouse production had been deeply moving and that the Criterion Theatre would allow the creative team to expand the production while preserving its intimacy. "The Criterion Theatre is the perfect home for Redcliffe, allowing us to expand the world we've created while preserving the intimacy and sense of community at the heart of the show."
Paul Foster returns to direct, with choreography by Emma Woods, set and lighting design by Andrew Exeter and costumes by Martin Hanly. Musical supervision is by Katy Richardson, with orchestrations by Ben Tomalin and additional orchestrations by Ben Ferguson. Matt Hockley is associate lighting designer, while casting is by Will Burton.Further casting will be announced.
Jenny Seagrove, Chairperson of the Bill Kenwright Group, highlighted the importance of supporting original musical theatre writing, describing Redcliffe as a production that has developed considerably since its earliest presentation at MTFestUK. The West End transfer also reunites Bill Kenwright Ltd with Paul Taylor-Mills, whose previous collaborations include Heathers the Musical. For Gage, the move marks another milestone in a career that has combined leading stage performances with the development of his own original work.
Redcliffe plays the Criterion Theatre, London, from 28 January to 17 April 2027