World-renowned and loved by locals, London’s West End guarantees a good time. With so many stunning theatres hosting incredible musicals and plays daily, there is always something to see.
Here are our recommendations for the must-see musicals and theatre shows in London.
The Lion King
If you love the film, you will adore the musical. The Lion King Musical is a stunning reimagining of the classic Disney film and is one of the West End’s best-selling and longest-running shows. With music by Elton John, a score created by Hans Zimmer, and amazing costume design, the atmosphere inside the theatre is truly magical. You will love watching Simba rise from a cute little cub to king of the Pride Lands.
Hamilton
Hamilton took the world by storm when it first premiered in the US in 2015, and for the past 10 years, it has continued to captivate audiences across the globe. It tells the story of America’s Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who played a role in the Revolutionary War and helped shape America. The winner of 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Hamilton is filled with hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R’n’B and Broadway – so expect to be grooving in your seat.
The Phantom of the Opera
Created by Andrew Lloyd Webber, this romantic and haunting story is considered one of the most spectacular productions in history. The Phantom of the Opera has been playing at His Majesty’s Theatre since 1986, making it one of the longest-running musicals in London’s West End. Set in the Paris Opera House, the story follows a gifted and gorgeous soprano singer who is both haunted and mentored by a mysterious, disfigured musical genius. It has opulence, intrigue, powerful performances, amazing costumes, and elaborate sets.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Fans of Stranger Things are going to love this one! Serving as a prequel to the TV show, you travel to Hawkins, Indiana, 30 years before Eleven and the crew ever showed up, and witness how the portal to the Upside Down was found and the dark forces that come with it. Providing a deeper understanding of the events that occur in the show’s main plot, the production features incredible logic-defying acts, jump scares and a thrilling story. It’s worth every penny.
The Devil Wears Prada
You know what the bestselling novel and blockbuster film, The Devil Wears Prada, was missing? A musical accompaniment, of course! Following the same story, watch as aspiring journalist Andy fumbles her way through a job at the prestigious Runway magazine. Working for fashion’s most powerful editor-in-chief, Miranda Priestly, comes with many mishaps, learning curves, and successes. With songs written by Elton John, talented actors, and devilishly good costume design, this one hits all the right notes.
Wicked
Catapulted to new heights thanks to its recent movie version, Wicked has been a staple on the London theatre scene for a long time, and with good reason. Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked tells the story of Glinda and Elphaba – the Good Witch and Wicked Witch of the West, respectively. With a stunning score and bewitching plot, Wicked takes you on a journey into the world of Oz before Dorothy ever sets foot on the yellow brick road.
SIX
A musical dedicated to the wives of Henry VIII, what could be more British? SIX is an uplifting and fun retelling of Tudor history. As Aragon, Boleyn, Seymour, Cleves, Howard and Parr take to the stage to proclaim who had it the worst under the rule of their terrible husband, you are treated to powerful ballads, fierce choreography, sparkling costumes and six queens who are not going out quietly.
Hadestown
Who doesn’t love a bit of Greek mythology? Hadestown brings the stories of two fascinating couples to life – that of the young couple Orpheus and Eurydice, and King Hades and his wife Persephone. Dive deep into the underworld and back with epic set design, incredible original songs, and an exhilarating storyline.
Cabaret
The Kit Kat Clubwelcomes you to Cabaret. Set in Berlin, you are invited to escape from the impending troubles of the outside world and instead relax, loosen up and be yourself in comfort and style. The electrifying production is based on the original play and is all shimmer and showbiz, baby. With an enthralling story of survival, expression, the dangers of escapism, the complexities of love and relationships, set in the context of a changing social landscape of pre-war Germany, this show has your attention from the first to the last number.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Truth, beauty, freedom and love are on the menu. London’s Piccadilly Theatre is transformed into the spectacular Moulin Rouge, where you will be transported to sparkling Paris via stunning visuals, show-stopping performances, original and popular songs and incredible costumes. The immersive production lights up the theatre with the same pizazz and excitement as Baz Luhrmann’s Oscar-winning film.
Les Misérables
Do You Hear the People Sing? They are telling you to see one of the most revered musicals in history. Les Misérables tells a story of social injustice, love and redemption in the setting of the French Revolution. Exploring the harsh reality of poverty and the need for human dignity and equality, it’s not exactly light, but it is brilliant. With a remarkable score filled with songs you will undoubtedly know, and feel deep within your soul, Les Misérables deserves to be seen and heard.
The Play That Goes Wrong
Gracing the stage for 10 years, The Play That Goes Wrong is the longest-running comedy in the West End. As the title suggests, this is the kind of play where nothing goes to plan, and your sides will be aching with laughter because of it. Chaotic in the best way possible, this play is ideal for the whole family, which only adds to its appeal!
The Mousetrap
As the longest-running West End show in history, The Mousetrap has been playing at St Martin’s Theatre since 1952. The Agatha Christie masterpiece is complex and deceptive, with a twist ending that has been shocking audiences for decades. If you like the game Cluedo, you will love this classic whodunnit, which, despite its age, doesn’t appear to be slowing down.
Witness for the Prosecution
London’s County Hall is the backdrop for this enthralling court case drama. With a murdered older widow, an accused younger man and his distrustful wife, the tension is high. With excellent acting, realistic set and sharp storytelling, Witness for the Prosecution will have your spidey senses on overdrive.
Looking for London theatre tickets? Click here to explore our range of West End shows and plays in London.