“The stage grabs you before a single note plays.”

Death Note: The Musical
Barbican Centre · 2h 20m · Opened Aug 11, 2026 · Closes May 15, 2027
Critics' Take
Critics mostly praise this visually spectacular manga adaptation for its ambitious staging and strong performances, though some find Frank Wildhorn's score derivative and the material better suited to devoted fans than general audiences.
Critic Scorecard
35 reviews“The whole evening was great fun and total fantasy – just go and lose yourself!”
“This is a flawless adaptation that doesn’t require any knowledge of the manga or anime to engage with and enjoy.”
“What makes this production such a resounding success is its commitment to not just do the best production of Death Note but to make a musical that stands up on its own two feet.”
“Death Note: The Musical is an absorbing, thrilling and striking visual feast.”
Audience Scorecard
Showtimes
Frequently Asked Questions
What do critics say about Death Note: The Musical?
Critics mostly praise this visually spectacular manga adaptation for its ambitious staging and strong performances, though some find Frank Wildhorn's score derivative and the material better suited to devoted fans than general audiences. (CriticScore 73/100 from 35 reviews.)
Is Death Note: The Musical worth seeing?
Probably, if the material interests you. Critics say Death Note: The Musical is worth seeing (73/100 from 35 reviews) — it works best if the premise or cast appeals to you.
What is the CriticScore for Death Note: The Musical?
Death Note: The Musical has a CriticScore of 73/100 based on 35 professional reviews. This is rated "Worth Seeing".
Is Death Note: The Musical still running in London?
Yes, Death Note: The Musical is currently playing at Barbican Centre in London. It is scheduled to close on May 15, 2027.
Where is Death Note: The Musical playing in London?
Death Note: The Musical is playing at Barbican Centre.
How long is Death Note: The Musical?
Death Note: The Musical has a runtime of 2 hours and 20 minutes, including 1 intermission.
Is Death Note: The Musical appropriate for children?
Death Note: The Musical is recommended for Ages 5+.
Cast
Cast information is not yet available for this production.
Quick Facts
- CriticScore
- 73/100 (35 reviews)
- Status
- Now Playing
- Opened
- Aug 11, 2026
- Closes
- May 15, 2027
- Running
- 1 month Off-West End
- Runtime
- 2h 20m
- Intermissions
- 1
- Age
- Ages 5+
- Theatre
- Barbican Centre
- Synopsis
- This summer, the hotly anticipated world premiere of Death Note: The Musical, arrives at the Barbican for 50 performances only from 30 July to 12 September.
- Data Last Updated
- September 13, 2026





