Midsomer Murders stage thriller to visit Manchester in 2026

Tuesday, 24 June 2025 20:38

By David Murphy

Classic whodunit The Killings at Badger’s Drift comes to the Opera House as part of a major UK tour

The hit detective drama Midsomer Murders is heading from screen to stage, with a brand-new production of The Killings at Badger’s Drift set to arrive at the Manchester Opera House in May 2026. The show, adapted by Guy Unsworth from Caroline Graham’s novel and the popular ITV series, will tour the UK before its Manchester run.

Daniel Casey, known to fans as DS Troy in the early TV episodes, stars as Inspector Tom Barnaby in this live theatre version. Further cast members include Nathalie Barclay (Killing Eve), Chandrika Chevli (Inside No. 9), John Dougall (Holby City), Julie Legrand (Footballers’ Wives), Rupert Sadler, Chris Agha and Rhîan Crowley-McLean. The actor playing Sergeant Troy will be announced soon.

The plot follows the mysterious death of spinster Emily Simpson in the quiet village of Badger’s Drift. Her close friend Lucy Bellringer suspects foul play and calls in Barnaby and Troy. As secrets unravel and eccentric villagers reveal hidden grudges, the detectives must uncover the truth before more lives are lost.

Fans of the long-running crime series can expect all the twists, turns, and English village intrigue the show is famous for – but with the immediacy of live performance. The production promises suspense, wit, and a gripping finale.

The UK tour launches in Richmond in October 2025 and runs through to May 2026, with stops in Cheltenham, Cardiff, Bromley, Darlington, and Manchester among others.

Tickets for the Manchester dates went on general sale from Monday 24 June at ATG Tickets.