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13 Going on 30 follows a sweet 13-year-old girl called Jenna Rink, who wishes to fast-forward through the awkwardness of adolescence and wake up as a confident, successful adult.
To her surprise, that’s exactly what happens as she opens her eyes to find herself in her 30-year-old body, living in New York City with the glamorous career she always dreamt of.
What begins as a fantasy of instant adulthood quickly unravels into a heartfelt exploration of what we lose and what we rediscover on the way to growing up.
13 Going on 30 at Opera House
13 Going on 30
The production is very similar to the film, paying homage to the coming-of-age classic.
At the heart of the production is Lucie Jones as Jenna Rink, and she is nothing short of delightful. Jones captures Jenna’s quirky, wide-eyed innocence, channelling the excitement and vulnerability of a 13-year-old trapped in an adult body.
Her comedic timing shines through in every gesture and facial expression, whether she’s nervous or bursting with enthusiasm; her performance constantly reminds you that she’s mentally a teenager.
Lucie Jones as Jenna Rink
Each number is delivered with clarity and power, effortlessly soaring through high notes while retaining the warmth and playfulness of the character.
David Hunter brings a thoughtful depth to Matt Flamhaff, Jenna’s childhood best friend. His portrayal is tender and quietly moving, with his version of Matt being vulnerable at times, but with a steadfast charm that makes him instantly likeable.
When paired with Jones, the chemistry is undeniable, and their duets are a highlight of the show, with beautifully blended vocals that give emotional weight to the story’s central relationship.
Amelia Minto sparkles as young Jenna
The younger cast members are equally impressive. Amelia Minto, as young Jenna, sparkles on stage.
She radiates energy, her bright, expressive performance matched by vocals that are both pure and powerful. She perfectly sets the tone for the older Jenna we later see in Jones. Alongside her, Max Bispham as young Matt delivers a touching and heartfelt turn.
During Minto and Bispham’s duet of “I Know You” is a heartwarming moment, tugging at the audience’s heartstrings with its sincerity and emotional depth.
Grace Mouat brings sass and sharpness to Lucy, Jenna’s so-called friend and rival, leaning into the sly, manipulative qualities that fans will remember from the film. Her presence adds an edge to the story, and her performance hits just the right balance of charm and scheming.
On the other end of the spectrum, Caleb Roberts as Richard delivers a comic character. His quick wit, impeccable timing, and steady stream of one-liners land with the audience every single time, drawing consistent laughter.
All eyes are on Dominic Andersen during his solo scene as Alex, Jenna’s boyfriend. His vocal number, “Hot”, performed with tongue firmly in cheek, is outrageous and hilariously over the top. His “Magic Mike” style strip to his boxers had the crowd in stitches and, judging by the reaction, left more than a few audience members feeling blush.
Colin Richmond’s fabulous set design
Colin Richmond’s set design is both imaginative and meticulous, offering a vivid contrast between Jenna’s two lives. When we first see her at 13, the stage bursts with retro flair: blocky shapes, bold colours, and a suburban backdrop that instantly transports the audience to the mid-80s.
As Jenna leaps forward into her thirties, Richmond’s design shifts dramatically. Her adult life is framed by a sleek, modern aesthetic of busy New York, and the polished atmosphere of Poise magazine’s office.
One of Richmond’s particularly striking elements is the back wall of the set, composed of differently sized squares that double as screens. These panels constantly evolve, changing images in rhythm with the story and pulling the audience further into Jenna’s world, whether it’s the cosiness of a suburban bedroom or the dazzling lights of the city.
How the lighting design adds to the ‘fairytale quality’ of 13 Going on 30
Howard Hudson’s lighting design elevates this even further. His use of light to mark Jenna’s transformation is nothing short of magical; the future sequence unfolds with a seamless drop in brightness, before the stage erupts in flickers and sparks of shifting colour. It’s a moment that captures both wonder and momentum, embodying the fairytale quality of the story while keeping it grounded in theatrical spectacle.
Overall, the production is a triumph, ending with a huge standing ovation. It retains the heart and nostalgia of the 2004 film while expanding it into a lively, colourful stage spectacle. The story is familiar yet fresh, brimming with energy, humour, and heartfelt moments. The audience ranges from teenagers to older adults, a testament to the appeal across generations.
Judging by the laughter, cheers, and standing ovation, this is a show that truly resonates. Whether you grew up loving the original movie or are discovering Jenna Rink’s story for the first time, 13 Going on 30: The Musical promises an evening of nostalgia, fun, and pure joy.
Tickets for 13 Going on 30 at Opera House
The production runs at the Opera House until 12th October, and it’s one not to be missed.
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