Rock and Roll Man at Salisbury Playhouse

ROCK & ROLL MAN is a thrilling new musical celebrating the life and legacy of Alan Freed, the Cleveland DJ who named the genre ‘Rock & Roll’ and changed music history forever.

Written by acclaimed musician Gary Kupper, journalist and music producer Larry Marshak, and Tony award winning producer Rose Caiola, and directed by Tony award nominee Randal Myler, ROCK & ROLL MAN opens at Salisbury Playhouse in February 2026.

Alan Freed was more than a DJ - he was a visionary. Hearing the future in the rhythm and voices of a new generation, he integrated audiences and artists, broke down barriers on the airwaves and in concert halls, and helped ignite a cultural revolution. Along the way, he became an icon to the nation’s youth - and a target for the nation’s establishment. ROCK & ROLL MAN brings his story to life with explosive original songs written for the stage, alongside iconic hits by Little Richard, Chuck Berry, LaVern Baker, Buddy Holly, Bo Diddley, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Drifters, The Coasters and The Platters. Audiences can expect to hear legendary genre-defying tracks including Tutti Frutti, Maybellene, Great Balls of Fire, Yakety Yak, and Why Do Fools Fall in Love.

Featuring a cast of multi-talented actors, actor-musicians and a live onstage band, this vibrant new production combines electrifying live music with bold, contemporary design by multiple award winner Morgan Large (recent credits include Sister Act, Joseph & His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Newsies).

ROCK & ROLL MAN is the original musical about a musical original - a celebration of the man who gave rock & roll its name and inspired the generation that changed society forever. The show is produced by Wiltshire Creative, Rose Caiola for Caiola Productions and Julian Bird for Green Room Ents.