A brand-new musical celebrating the music and legacy of indie icons The Wedding Present is set to make its debut this summer in Leeds. Titled Reception: The Wedding Present Musical, the production is written and directed by the renowned theatre-maker, Matt Aston. It will open at The Warehouse in Holbeck (Slung Low) on Friday, August 22, and run until Saturday, September 6, 2025, with the press night scheduled for Tuesday, August 26 at 7:30 PM.
Presented by Perfect Blue Productions and Engine House Theatre, the show draws inspiration from the songs of David Gedge, the Leeds-born frontman of The Wedding Present and Cinerama. This premiere coincides with the 40th anniversary of the band’s debut single, “Go Out and Get ‘Em Boy,” promising a heartfelt tribute to four decades of heartbreak, nostalgia, and gritty indie sounds.
At its core, Reception tells a story of love, friendship, loss, and reconnection, follows a group of Leeds University students over five transformative years. From graduations to weddings and funerals, the musical captures the emotional depth of Gedge’s songwriting—raw, tender, and wryly observant.
Gedge himself, initially surprised yet intrigued by the concept, remarked, “I never imagined my songs would be in a musical, but the team has created something truly special. I’m genuinely excited to see it come to life.”
The musical will feature a combination of cabaret-style table seating and traditional raked theatre seating, providing an intimate and immersive experience for the audience. Fans can look forward to classic tracks from The Wedding Present’s extensive discography, alongside songs from Cinerama and a brand-new composition crafted specifically for the show.
Matt Aston, whose directing credits include Touched with Vicky McClure and Oleanna starring Alistair McGowan, noted that the idea for the musical arose after witnessing Gedge perform with the BBC Big Band. “His lyrics always contained a strong narrative—they were practically begging for a theatrical adaptation.”
Casting details will be announced in the coming months. Tickets start at £16.90, with special “Wedding Guest” packages available.
For more information and to book tickets, visit slunglow.org.
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