Stiletto, a new musical exploring the lives of castrati performers in 18th century Venice, will play London's Charing Cross Theatre next year.

The musical features music and lyrics by Grammy, Oscar, and Golden Globe nominee Matthew Wilder, and a book by Olivier nominee Tim Luscombe. Running March 24 through June 15, 2025, opening night is set for March 31.

Castrati were young boys, almost exclusively from poor families, who were castrated to preserve their high treble voices before the onset of puberty. In exchange for the physical sacrifice, those with the most talent found work in opera and choral ensembles, elevating their families station. Those who did not pass vocal expectations were cast aside.

Set in the 1700s, this story follows a castrato who falls in love with the daughter of an African slave and tries to help her achieve a stage career. At a society event, a mysterious death leads to his love being imprisoned, pitting the young singer against the demons from his past and the corruption of his present.

Stiletto will be directed by David Gilmore, with choreography by Tony nominee Anthony Van Laast. Jae Alexander will serve as music supervisor and director, with Simon Nathan as his orchestrator. The musical is described as follows.

Cast members will be announced at a later date. The creative team will include set designer Ceci Calf, costume designer Anna Kelsey, lighting designer Ben Ormerod, and sound designer Andrew Johnson. Neil Rutherford is the casting director. The executive producer is Guy Kitchenn. The production is produced by Patrick Bywalski for the Robert Stigwood Organisation, and Steven M. Levy for Charing Cross Theatre Productions Limited.

For more information, visit CharingCrossTheatre.co.uk.