13 Going on 30 is the latest in a long line of classic films to be given a musical makeover and is also the latest in a long line of musicals to make its debut at Manchester’s Opera House after the likes of Mrs. Doubtfire and Burlesque. Previews of it are currently on for just three weeks. But is it a case of a flash in the pan tryout that doesn’t live up to the film or the anticipation, or will it reach the dizzy heights of success others have managed?

As far as predictable yet feel-good and camp but funny new shows go, 13 Going on 30 the musical certainly showed more signs of leaning towards the latter than the former. While it’s still very early days to really determine its success in this preview run let alone its staying power in the ever saturated and competitive world of theatre – especially ones adapted from films, the premiere show’s full house audience did not appear to leave disappointed.

Almost fully faithful to the original 2004 film’s story starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo, bar a few minor changes, 13 Going on 30 follows sweet but shy Jenna Rink who has just turned 13 and wants to be everything she isn’t – popular, or “thirty, flirty and thriving”. But her school’s mean girl gang take advantage of her, leaving her embarrassed at her birthday party, while her best friend Matty bears the brunt of her anger and humiliation. Inadvertently using the wishing dust he gave her, Jenna’s wish magically comes true and she soon wakes up on her 30th birthday to find that she is hot and successful. But is all as it really seems?

Former X Factor contestant Lucie Jones as adult Jenna – who boasts a now 15-year-long career in musical theatre and credits including Legally Blonde and Wicked – David Hunter as adult Matty, and Grace Mouat as adult Lucy front a predominantly relatively unknown cast that make up the remainder of the major and minor characters.

One thing that did surprise and impress me was the younger cast. While I am often weary of child actor-heavy shows such as Matilda, Oliver! and Annie because the children are often still inexperienced in both acting and singing with immature voices, those in 13 Going on 30 the musical were actually not as shrill as one might have expected, particularly young Jenna and Matty.

The majority of the songs are certainly fun, well-written to include catchy hooks or showcase vocals, especially when adult Jenna laments about the life she grew up to live and adult Matty is torn between his trust issues and Jenna and Wendy. However, it’s hard to pick out any that could really stick as memorable classics – an often hard feat in a musical theatre world that has churns out so many new shows and soundtracks that were not in their respective films or haven’t had the chance to be around for decades yet. That’s even with seasoned duo Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner behind the music and lyrics are well-known for songs for similar stage and TV shows.

I’ve always loved 13 Going on 30 – it’s cute, an easy watch, features a classic 80s pop soundtrack, and is surely one of Jennifer Garner’s movie career highlights. And its bouncy, comedic vibe is definitely translated well onto the stage, including iconic scenes such as the much-loved mob dance to Michael Jackson’s Thriller. But while it may be a case of simply trying to relive or extend the life of a great film from 21 years ago and it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, director Andy Fickman’s adaptation will surely keep its fans happy. But will 13 Going on 30 the musical be back after previews? I believe it does deserve more chances to prove itself but would suggest a shorter runtime for starters – there’s only so much you can drag a 90 minute film out to well past 2 hours long…

Rating: 3.5/5