Exciting news for fans of Steps and musical theatre alike: the new musical “Here & Now” is set to embark on a UK and Ireland tour spanning from August 2025 to May 2026, with a notable performance scheduled at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens in April 2026. This development comes on the heels of the show’s successful debut at The Alexandra in Birmingham, where it made history by becoming the venue’s fastest-selling production ever. The overwhelming excitement surrounding the musical was evident, with half of the tickets selling out within just 24 hours of the initial announcement.
Steps, the iconic pop group known for their infectious hits, has put their heart and soul into this musical production, collaborating with esteemed entertainment professionals to bring “Here & Now” to life. Alongside the band, the musical is produced by ROYO, Pete Waterman, and Fascination Management. Notably, the original book is penned by Shaun Kitchener, best known for his work on various acclaimed projects. The show is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, while the choreography is led by Olivier Award-winning Matt Cole, whose expertise promises to elevate the performance through exciting and innovative dance routines.
Although the full casting details for the UK and Ireland tour have yet to be revealed, anticipation is already building. The story of “Here & Now” is set in a bustling seaside superstore, a vibrant location that sets the scene for a night filled with music, drama, and excitement. It aims to captivate audiences with a mix of engaging storytelling blended seamlessly with the catchy tunes that made Steps a household name. With the group’s rich discography featuring 14 top-five singles, the musical is expected to incorporate many of their legendary hits, including fan favorites such as “Tragedy,” “One For Sorrow,” and “Chain Reaction.”
Steps have solidified their place in pop history with impressive statistics. The group has sold an astounding 22 million records and garnered four number-one albums, not to mention their remarkable achievement of reaching 500 million streams across various platforms. The impact of their music has been undeniable, evidenced by their ability to connect with fans through 11 national arena tours. Their comeback tour in 2017 was particularly notable, as it sold out all 300,000 tickets and positioned itself as one of the biggest pop tours of the year, underscoring the group’s enduring popularity.
Since their resurgence, Steps has consistently engaged their loyal fanbase through both live performances and new musical releases. The band celebrated a significant milestone in 2022, marking their 25th anniversary with a headline summer tour that brought together fans of all ages, showcasing the intergenerational appeal of their music. The combination of nostalgia for long-time followers and the enthusiasm of new fans created an electrifying atmosphere during their recent performances, and the upcoming musical “Here & Now” is expected to carry that momentum forward.
As with any production of this scale, great attention to detail is essential, from casting to set design. In many ways, the connection that Steps has with their audience will play a crucial role in how “Here & Now” is received. Fans of the band have long appreciated not just the catchy melodies, but also the storytelling embedded within the lyrics—stories of love, heartache, and joy that resonate across a spectrum of experiences. By integrating these elements into a theatrical performance, the musical seeks to deepen the connection that audiences have with the band’s music.
While fans are eagerly awaiting ticket and date announcements, the spirit of enthusiasm and anticipation continues to grow. The choice of Blackpool’s Winter Gardens as a stop on the tour is particularly exciting, as this iconic venue is known for its rich performance history and its welcoming atmosphere for both audiences and performers alike. Blackpool has long been a favored destination for entertainment, drawing in visitors from around the country who are seeking high-quality theatre and live music experiences. The opportunity for Steps to showcase their musical in such a vibrant locale promises to enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.
Moreover, “Here & Now” embodies a larger trend in the entertainment industry where pop music is increasingly finding its place on the stage. Numerous successful musicals have successfully integrated popular music into their narratives, captivating audiences and breathing new life into these well-loved tracks. The fusion of theatrical performance with chart-topping music serves to bridge generational gaps, allowing those who grew up with the hits of Steps to share the experience with younger fans discovering the group for the first time.
As the build-up to the tour gains speed, the excitement surrounding “Here & Now” becomes palpable. Fans can look forward to possible surprises along the way, including exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the musical, sneak peeks into rehearsals, and perhaps even opportunities to meet the cast. The sense of community fostered by the musical’s themes, paired with the unifying power of Steps’ music, has the potential to create an unforgettable atmosphere, both online and in theaters.
Finally, as we draw closer to the performance date, the anticipation of how Steps will interpret their legacy through “Here & Now” continues to escalate. While casting details remain under wraps, there’s immense curiosity about how the talented actors will bring the story to life and how they will interpret the iconic music of Steps. With the promise of glitzy choreography, engaging storytelling, and beloved songs, “Here & Now” aims to be a celebration of not just the band’s esteemed career but also the joy that their music has brought to countless fans throughout the years.
In conclusion, the announcement of “Here & Now” marks a significant moment in the intertwining worlds of pop music and musical theatre, with Steps at the helm. As they prepare to take audiences on a spellbinding journey through the rhythm and emotion of their songs, fans can only imagine the incredible experience that awaits them. With a commitment to delivering exceptional performances characterized by energy, creativity, and nostalgia, “Here & Now” promises to be more than just a musical; it is poised to become an event that celebrates the very essence of what it means to embrace the music and memories that shape our lives. As the countdown to August 2025 begins, excitement will undoubtedly continue to build, igniting a sense of enthusiasm that will resonate long after the final curtain drops.