Michael Longhurst to direct new version of Boy George's TABOO

Emmie Newitt 31 October, 2025, 14:19

taboo new production Thomas Hopkins, Jack Holden, Boy George, Michael Longhust and Alessandra Davison. Photo by Danny Kaan

A new take on the original musical that sparked conversations everywhere is in the works!

Michael Longhurst, the acclaimed Olivier-nominated director of award-winning productions including Next to Normal and Constellations, has joined Producer Thomas Hopkins, Boy George, Associate Director Alessandra Davison, and Olivier nominated writer and performer Jack Holden (Kenrex) to create a new version of Taboo.

The team has been together on a two weeklong research and development session housed in the Young Vic to explore the next stage of the show’s evolution. This session follows a successful reading of the first draft in May, attended by a select group of Broadway and West End producers and venue representatives, which marked another major milestone in the show’s ongoing development.

Taboo made its debut in the West End in 2002 and starred Luke Evans, Matt Lucas and Dianne Pilkington. It received widespread critical acclaim and an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. The musical went on Broadway in 2003 and had a UK tour before its last revival in Brixton in 2012.

Set during the 1980s in London, Taboo follows the rise of the vibrant, rebellious New Romantic scene in an iconic nightclub. It covers a cultural movement that left an indelible mark on pop, fashion, and global culture.

Michael Longhurst said, “I’ve always loved Taboo for its wild, unapologetic heart, and for the way it celebrates the outsiders who changed culture forever. Collaborating with George, Jack and Thomas in the room has been joyous, and the story feels as urgent, defiant and full of life as ever..”

Boy George said, “Working with Michael Longhurst on this next chapter has been pure joy he brings such intelligence and heart to everything he touches. Jack and I have been digging deep to find the truth behind the make-up, not just the glitter, but the guts and seeing it take shape with Michael’s insight has been electric. It’s more than a show now; it’s a revelation.”