A Knight’s Tale musical receives rave reviews in Manchester - but parents question child suitability
While some have called for it to be transferred to the West End, others have been left confused over the show's child policy
Audience members have questioned whether the latest musical to grace the stage at Manchester’s Opera House is suitable for children. A Knight’s Tale made its debut on Friday April 11 and is based on the cult 2001 hit movie of the same name, starring Heath Ledger.
Irish comedy writer and actor Brona C Titley has adapted the film for the stage and it’s been directed by the award-winning Rachel Kavanaugh and choreographed by Olivier Award-winning Matt Cole.
The jukebox musical features well-known hits, including Queen's We Will Rock You and follows the mediaeval adventures of the peasant squire Will Thatcher.
It’s already received rave reviews from fans calling it “a fantastic show” and “amazing”, with one Reddit user saying it “definitely deserves a run in the West End”.
But there has been uncertainty over whether the musical is suitable for children and parents have questioned what age it is appropriate for.
A warning message is displayed on the website when you go to book tickets, which users have to acknowledge to continue with the purchase. It currently states: “Important information. Please be advised that A Knight’s Tale contains explicit language and some nudity. Children under 4 will not be admitted.”
One audience member commented on Facebook: “Don’t get it! Thought it was aimed at kids at first (as there were kids in the audience), but some of the language was inappropriate.”
Another asked: “Would this be suitable for a six year old? I know under 4s won’t be admitted…just wondering if it’s suitable as there’s nudity and swearing!!”
Someone also asked if it would be suitable for a child aged six or eight in a thread in the Reddit group TheWestEnd. Reddit user Temporary_Eye_9758 replied: “I don’t have kids myself but I think they’d probably be too young. It can be quite rude in parts and has some nudity in.”
The Manchester Evening News has contacted the Opera House for a comment.
While there is confusion on whether the show is suitable for kids, what is certain is how popular A Knight’s Tale has been only one week into its run.
Posting a thread in the Reddit TheWestEnd group, Temporary_Eye_9758 said: “I know it’s not technically the West End but I think I read it’s going there. I saw it this evening and I went in completely not knowing anything about it.
“Wow this show exceeded expectations. The show is funny, production is incredible and the cast are great. I know jukebox musicals get hate but there’s a real mix of songs. Yeah they’re a bit randomly placed in parts but everything else makes up for it. I sat there with a smile on my face for most the show!”
Reddit user Oklce7032 wrote: “I went the opening night, and was happily surprised at how good it was. They kept the fun, slightly camp feel of the original film. Lots of memorable film quotes, but done in a jukebox musical style.
“Definitely deserves a run in the West End. I'm hoping it will develop a cult following like Heathers did. Deserves to do well. I'm definitely going back again and taking my daughters.”
One Facebook user said: “The best show I’ve seen in a long time, worth going to see it before it moves to London.” Another added: “Congratulations on a fantastic opening night to all cast and crew!! My hat goes off to the props team and the ensemble who have energy to hit that choreo like I’ve never seen. I’d book again to get a different view for sure.”
A Knight’s Tale is on at Manchester Opera House until May 10, 2025.