Kiara Dario, a Filipino performer with international stage credentials, has been cast as Gretchen Wieners in the upcoming UK and Ireland tour of Mean Girls the Musical. The role marks her UK principal debut as the production prepares to launch in early 2026.
Dario’s casting has drawn strong support from the global Filipino theatre community, reflecting a growing visibility of Filipino artists on major international stages. Her West End credits include the original London cast of The Great Gatsby at the London Coliseum. Her theatre work spans the international tour of Miss Saigon as Gigi and productions of Annie, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Disney’s Camp Rock, Ang Huling El Bimbo, Joseph The Dreamer and Snow White in the Philippines. She was also previously a member of the Filipino girl group DAYDREAM.
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She is currently appearing in a three-week engagement of Miss Saigon at the New Theatre Oxford, where the musical runs through January 3.
Dario confirmed her casting on Instagram, writing: “Omg the secret’s out! Soooo excited to be a part of the first UK & Ireland Tour of @meangirlsmusical, playing the iconic Gretchen Wieners. See you there, losers!”
Her announcement prompted an outpouring of support from Filipino performers working across West End, Broadway and international stages, underscoring the significance of the moment for the wider community. Red Concepcion (Chicago, Sumo, Miss Saigon) commented, “Yaaaas @kiaramiren!!!” Joaquin Pedro Valdes (The Lightning Thief, Death Note) added, “Congrats Kiara. You’re on. roll!” Joanna Ampil (The Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon) wrote, “Yessss Kiara 🔥🔥🔥”, while Seann Miley Moore (Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Miss Saigon) posted “👏👏👏👏👏”.
Veteran theatre icon Lea Salonga – Tony Award winner, Olivier Award recipient and internationally celebrated for her performances in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables—also joined the conversation, writing, “Woooooooot! Congratultions!”
Dario later reflected on the importance of representation within the cast. “On another (important) note – I’m so proud of the diversity in this cast. Growing up watching American movies, there was a very narrow picture of who could be “cool” and “popular”. It feels special to help reshape what “the popular kids” can look like for today’s teens #representationmatters”
The tour will open on 23 February 2026 at Manchester Opera House and run through January 2027, including a festive three-week engagement at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre.
Based on the 2004 Paramount Pictures film, Mean Girls the Musical follows Cady Heron as she navigates the social hierarchy of North Shore High School and challenges the dominance of the Plastics. Emily Lane stars as Cady Heron, alongside Vivian Panka as Regina George and Sophie Pourret as Karen Smith. Faye Tozer will play multiple roles, with Dario joining the cast as Gretchen Wieners.
The production features a book by Tina Fey, music by Jeff Richmond and lyrics by Nell Benjamin, with direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw. The tour is produced by Lorne Michaels, Crossroads Live and Sonia Friedman Productions.
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