The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ (musical)
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ (musical) is a stage musical adaptation of Sue Townsend's popular 1982 novel of the same name. The musical follows the trials and tribulations of a teenage Adrian Mole as he navigates adolescence, family problems, unrequited love, and his aspirations to become a celebrated intellectual.
The musical premiered in 1984 at the Phoenix Arts Centre in Leicester, UK. It has since enjoyed numerous revivals and productions, including a successful run at the Menier Chocolate Factory in London in 2017. The book and lyrics were written by Jake Brunger and Pippa Cleary, who also composed the music.
The musical typically features a cast of children and adults, portraying Adrian, his parents, friends, and other key figures from his diary. The songs often reflect Adrian's adolescent angst and humorous observations about the world around him. Common themes explored in the musical include the complexities of family relationships, the pains of growing up, and the search for identity. The musical is known for its witty lyrics, catchy tunes, and faithful adaptation of the source material.