One of the world’s most ancient forms of entertainment; a night at the theater never gets old … and plays and farces have certainly come a long way since centuries ago.
As the curtains raise on a grand stage in London’s West End, prepare to be dazzled, delighted, brought to tears and wowed by the plethora of musicals and shows — some historic, others brand spanking new.
If you’re traveling to London town any time soon, don’t pass up the chance to experience the city’s official theater district — home to some of the greatest productions ever known — where you’ll find West End shows to suit all tastes, whether you’re in the mood for a comedy, a love story, a murder mystery or a classic musical.
(Those not in the know; the West End Theatres are not just located in the West End, but they are members of the Society of London Theatre.)
From Les Miserables to The Mousetrap to Wicked to The Lion King, there are currently 41 London shows and musicals showcasing on the West End. Deciphering each set; check out this list of the best West End musicals and shows to see right now.
Deciphering each set; check out this list of the 37 best West End musicals and shows to see right now, including a few off-West End productions that deserve a standing ovation.
Theater-goers tip: Curious to learn more about the theaters on the West End? Here’s a recital of the 39 formal West End theaters that comprise London’s official theater district.
1. Les Miserables
For the dreamers, lovers and melodramatists; prepare your hearts (and minds) as you flashback to 19th-century France during the epic tale of love, passion, persuasion and the fight for freedom.
It would be a far more drastic crime (than the one Jean Valjean committed) to begin anywhere else other than the West End’s longest-running musical to date, Les Miserables, with over 12,000 performances under its acting belt.
Fans of a period piece, you’re in for a serious treat …
Set in France just after the French Revolution, follow the tale of the lead protagonist, Valjean, after he is released from 19 years in prison (sentenced for petty theft) and his adaption back into society. Yet all the while, for years he is chased by an adamant police officer after breaking his parole.
Originally written by Victor Hugo (a French writer and politician), the 1862 novel was adapted for the stage by Claude-Michel Schönberg, Alain Boublil, Jean-Marc Natel and Herbert Kretzmer, premiering in Paris in 1980. After Cameron Mackintosh got ahold of the script, he converted the French piece into an English musical for the West End.
Ranking highly among the public, the show was performed for audiences in London for the first time in 1985 where it has remained on stage ever since. So popular; the dramatic musical moved to Broadway as well as the big screen (in the 2012 musical film starring Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, Russel Crowe and Amanda Seyfried).
“I Dreamed a Dream,” “At the End of the Day,” “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables,” “One Day More,” “Master Of The House,” “On My Own,” and all the classics still feature in Les Mis.
- Les Miserables tickets
2. The Lion King
It’s not uncommon for audience members to experience all the feels and shivers down their spine during a performance of the multiple award-winning, iconic production of The Lion King — standing true testament to the power that music has to move you.
Based on the roaringly successful, award-sweeping Disney film of the same name, the musical masterpiece opened its West End doors in 1999 at the Lyceum Theatre (two years after debuting on Broadway), which has remained its permanent home ever since.
The original soundtrack (with music and lyrics by Elton John, Hans Zimmer, Lebo M. and Tom Rice) was employed for the stage, with the addition of a few new songs composed for the show, like ‘Endless Night,’ Bless your ears with African sounds and beats, as well as other genres incorporated into the mix(tape) from pop music to rock.
Directed by Tony award winner Julie Taymour (claiming Tonys for best director and costume designer for The Lion King), follow the tear-jerking story of the prince lion cub Simba who is exiled from the pack by his plotting, evil uncle Scar, after his father Mufasa (and rightful king of the Pridelands) is murdered.
Bringing the story to life through dance, song and music, find yourself wowed by not only the production but the costume design and puppetry work — featuring over 232 puppets in the show!
The show also utilizes nearly 40 indigenous African instruments to create the sounds and calling of Mamma Africa.
Can You Feel the Love Tonight? It’s pretty impossible not to after witnessing the emotionally moving and riveting West End musical. And yes, all the favorites feature too like “Circle of Life.”
- The Lion King tickets
3. Wicked The Musical
When any show is converted from the big screen to the stage, it’s always a gamble, especially when the original is a global phenomenal success.
Using the 1939 musical fantasy film, The Wizard of Oz and the 1995 novel ‘Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West’ by Gregory Maguire as inspiration, Wicked The Musical was reimagined for theater, becoming an instant worldwide sensation — that’s certainly a win in our books.
The spellbinding story is set years before Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion and Tin Man venture off along the Yellow Brick Road, focusing on a time when Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West first met, became unlikely best friends and the events that unfolded when the universe pins good versus evil against one another.
Featuring the most magical soundtrack (with the score by Stephen Schwartz), the production has collectively racked in more than 100 awards and has become a worldwide sensation.
The curtain opened for its first performance in the West End circa 2006 and already it’s one of the longest-running musicals in London’s official theater district. Housed at the art-deco-styled Apollo Victoria Theater since its first curtain call; the stage has been redesigned and envisioned for the musical.
Directed by two-time Tony® winner Joe Mantello, fancy up in all your green attire for this timeless wonder!
- Wicked tickets
4. The Phantom of the Opera
Ladies and gentlemen; it’s the one, the only, The Phantom of the Opera; one of the greatest London shows of all time!
As the second-longest-running musical and the third longest-running show on the West End, it’s also officially the longest-running show on Broadway in New York City.
Based on the French tragedy written by Gaston Leroux in 1910 (Le Fantôme de l’opéra), the sad love story is about one man’s obsession and a young couple in love, set within the grand Paris Opera House.
It centers around Christine Daaé who is lured into the shadows by the Phantom, a mysterious figure and musical genius whose face is always hidden — literally and figuratively. Without giving too much away, weird things start to happen to the cast of a show that Christine is to star in, ultimately gaining her the lead role.
Written for the stage by none other than Andrew Lloyd Webber (with lyrics by Webber and Charles Hart and the libretto by Richard Stilgoe, and again, Webber), to say it was an instant success is an understatement.
Winning a prestigious Olivier Award as well as multiple Evening Standard Theatre Awards in its first year of premiering on the London West End in 1986, just two years after opening it moved to Broadway where it has won countless accolades and has showcased here ever since.
Introducing the iconic half-mask to audiences, become enthralled by ballads like ‘Masquerade,’ ‘The Phantom of the Opera,’ ‘The Music of the Night,’ and ‘All I Ask of You.’
- The Phantom of the Opera tickets
5. The Book of Mormon
From the creators of South Park comes The Book of Mormon; a hilariously funny satirical musical that also happens to be a fantastic introduction to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Following two missionaries who set off to Uganda to spread the word, Elder Price (played by Dom Simpson) and Elder Cunningham (Connor Peirson) encounter resistance from the locals who are too busy dealing with their own economic struggles to show much interest in the faith.
Written by Robert Lopez (creator of Avenue Q and lyricist for Frozen), Trey Parker (South Park, Cannibal! The Musical) and Matt Stone (South Park, Team America: World Police), all three also worked on the music and lyrics for the show.
Directed by Parker and Casey Nicholaw (also additionally head choreographer), The Book of Mormon has gone on to win many awards since it opened on the West End in 2013, including four Olivier Awards, with one for Best New Musical.
Not its first premier, it initially opened on Broadway with crazy success in 2011 before hitting the London scene.
- The Book of Mormon tickets
6. Back To The Future The Musical
If you’re a long-time theater-goer and are on the hunt for fun new West End musicals, look no further than Back To The Future: The Musical — the 1989 cult classic movie-turned-award-winning-production by Bob Gale (who wrote the book and co-wrote the original movie alongside Robert Zemeckis).
Launching in London in 2021, it immediately was a smash hit right off the bat, scoring Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards, WhatsOnStage Awards and Broadway World Awards less than a year later.
Take a journey with 17-year-old Marty McFly who is inadvertently transported back in time to the year 1955 — as fate would have it — in a time machine built by the zany scientist, Doc Brown.
Without knowing it, he alters history and his present reality as he knows it, now in dire need to find the solution and ultimately return back to the year he came from … 1985!
Directed by John Rando and with music and lyrics by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, the comedic sci-fi-inspired showpiece first premiered in 2019 at the Manchester Opera House but closed on account of the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Once our actual world was rescued to reality, it transferred straight to the West End, opening at the Adelphi Theatre.
- Back to the Future tickets
7. Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Ooh-la-la … Welcoming Satine to the stage on the West End it’s the lavishly brilliant, enticingly romantic, emotionally charged, feet-tapping Moulin Rouge! The Musical.
If you instantly fell in love with the blockbuster, Oscar-winning movie Moulin Rouge! (starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor) like most of the world, prepare yourself for a bohemian-loving evening of song and dance, and all that comes in between!
Featuring all of the beloved favorites, plus an updated score comprising some new additions by 21st-century pop icons like Beyoncé and Adele; sing along to ‘Come What May,’ ‘Your song’ and ‘Elephant Love Medley.’
Based on the screenplay by Baz Luhrmann, the Piccadilly Theatre was remodeled for the production, adding a splash of glitter, glam and pizazz with that iconic red-shaded Moulin Rouge-y feel — because “If ya can, can, can! If ya can, can, can, can, can, can, can, can, can!” as Harold Zidler would say.
The book for this West End musical is by John Logan, with Alex Timbers as director, the incredibly talented Sonya Tayeh leading choreography, and Justin Levine in charge of music, orchestra arrangements and additional lyrics.
- Moulin Rouge the Musical tickets
8. Mamma Mia!
If you’re in the mood for a serious sing-along, then this one’s for you honey, honey!
So much more than just a tribute to ABBA, Mamma Mia! took the world by storm, premiering for the first time ever to London audiences in 1999 as a full-on musical, enjoying a crazy successful open run.
Since the movie is centered around a mother-daughter relationship (and all the other close ladies in the bride-to-be’s world), it’s fitting that the show was brought to life thanks to the brilliant minds of three women: writer Catherine Johnson, creative producer Judy Craymer and its director, Phyllida Lloyd.
(Interestingly, all three helped develop the film adaption, employing their same theater duties for the big screen.)
One of the longest-running musicals in West End history; the original jukebox show enjoyed its opening night at the Prince Edward Theatre, transferred to the Prince of Wales Theatre in 2014, and then over to the Novello (its current home). To date, more than 8 million have seen the London flagship production.
Two years after showcasing in the UK, it hit the Broadway stage where it enjoyed the same success.
Dance, shake, sing and move with the cast as they burst out into song featuring ABBA chart-toppers like Dancing Queen; The Winner Takes It All; Honey, Honey and Knowing Me, Knowing You.
- Mamma Mia! tickets
9. Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Taking not just one continent but the entire globe by storm (thanks, Netflix), the 80s-inspired sci-fi series Stranger Things has become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon, gaining a cult-like fan base, and is now one of the streaming site’s most-watched programs — ever!
When the fourth season came to an end in 2022 and the filming of the fifth season was postponed due to the Hollywood strike, die-hard fans of Stranger Things wondered how to get through this waiting period. Fortunately for them, there is good news, as the Duffer brothers announced that the immensely popular TV series will move to the stage in the form of Stranger Things: The First Shadow.
Except this time, we’re in Hawkins in the 1950s when young Jim and Joyce are teens and this version has been written and produced for the grand West End stage, making its first-ever debut right here in London!
Working with Kate Trefry on this new original story, it’s all about the main adult characters as kids, providing more of a back-story leading to the Upside Down world taking over this Indiana town. It all starts to go awry when new kid on the block, Henry Creel, arrives in Hawkins.
Familiar faces and new characters are introduced, and the play is directed by Justin Martin.
- Stranger Things: The First Shadow tickets
10. Tina The Musical
Working closely with the legend, the icon, the rock n roll superstar miss Tina Turner herself to produce the singer’s untold life story as you’ve never heard — or seen before — Tina: the Musical is fresh on the West End and already making waves.
The moving jukebox musical chronicles the intimate journey of Turner, from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee to her rise to stardom, including her infamous relationship with ex-husband Ike Turner.
Interesting fact: Born Anna Mae Bullock, the up-and-coming singer changed her name to Tina Turner whilst dating Ike Turner and performing for his band. Later married, the couple endured a rocky marriage shadowed by infidelities and abuse until Tina finally left Ike in 1979.
Each part of her life is told through one of the eight-time Grammy-awardee iconic songs, like ‘A Fool in Love,’ ‘Proud Mary,’ ‘River Deep Mountain High,’ ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It?,’ ‘I Don’t Wanna Fight’ and many more hits.
With a book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins, and directed by Phyllida Lloyd, its first curtain raise was in London at the West End’s Aldwych Theatre in 2018.
- Tina the Musical tickets
11. SIX The Musical
What’s one way to turn an ancient, somewhat boring historical event into something captivating? By procuring it into a musical of course!
Meet the wives (and lives) of Britain’s second Tudor King, Henry VIII — who infamously married six women in his 55 years of living — when all queens come together to form a sensational all-girl pop group, rapping and singing their personal stories away.
It’s Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard and Catherine Parr like you’ve never seen them before, busting out tunes with dance moves to boot fit only for 21st-century folk.
Written and created by Lucy Moss and Toby Marlow, naturally, the production first appeared on British shores at the 2017 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Officially inaugurated onto London’s West End one year later at the Arts Theatre, it instantaneously wooed audiences.
Since then (and with its arrival on Broadway in NYC) it’s been nominated for five Laurence Olivier Awards, as well as multiple Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards, as well as nominated for the upcoming Grammys for the category; Best Musical Theater Album.
Currently showcasing at the Vaudeville Theatre, audience members are encouraged to arrive dressed as your personal favorite Queen, or, if you’re lucky, become crowned ‘Queen for the Night’ — no, seriously!
12. Hamnet
Hamnet? Don’t you mean Haml…? We’ll just stop you right there; the spelling every bit intentional.
For those left thinking this has got to do something with Shakespeare, you’re not far off, except it’s a far cry from the 16th-century play we grew up reading in English or drama class.
However, Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet does center on ol’ William. Bardolators will notice the nuances straight away, and Shakespearean fanatics revel in the quirks, anecdotes and puns mixed into the plot.
The play begins as a story of lust between William Shakespeare and Agnes Hathaway (not Anne) when they first meet as young hopefuls, eventually marrying. But much like most of the literary genius’ works, the tale ends in tragedy after the loss of their son, Hamnet.
Shakespeare trivia: The revered writer did have a son named Hamnet, but he passed away in 1596 at the age of 11 (his exact cause of death was never fully known). Shakespeare began writing Hamlet in 1599 – was his son’s death and his own pain the inspiration for this melodrama?
Published in 2020, O’Farrell’s original best-seller was converted for the stage by Lolita Chakrabarti (Life of Pi) and is directed by Erica Whyman.
Expect classic period piece costume design, sets and delicious words coined by the world’s greatest writer in the English language.
- Hamnet tickets
13. The Play That Goes Wrong
If you’ve always considered yourself quite the Sherlock Holmes, join the cast of The Play That Goes Wrong and see if you can solve this murder mystery before the final act!
The Olivier Award winner (for Best New Comedy in 2015) now officially owns the title of West End’s longest-running comedy, and it takes less than one scene to understand why.
Join the mind-boggling performance where the actors are actors and nothing is quite ever as it seems — you’re even left to question your own sanity at times when props (intentionally) break, or actors shuffle clumsily around the set, even “forgetting” their lines at times.
The fictional plot unfolds as a group of actors belonging to the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are sent to an old manor where a murder has just ensued!
Well, that’s the storyline anyway for the play that they’re all working on, titled The Murder at Haversham Manor. Of course, all things start to go wrong during the hilarious and genius ‘play within a play.’
Opening on the West End in 2014 at the duch*ess Theatre, the play — written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields and directed by Mark Bell — has enjoyed a triumphant open run since then.
- The Play That Goes Wrong tickets
14. Matilda the Musical
Bringing back all of our childhood nostalgia to the stage … The insanely popular smash hit Matilda the Musical, based on the original Roald Dahl novel, also happens to be a Guinness Book of Records breaker!
Following the same storyline as the children’s book, you will meet Matilda, a misunderstood five-year-old bookworm who attends Crunchem Hall School — run by a tyrant headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. Luckily for Matilda, she has the sweetest teacher in the world, Miss Honey (the only person who seems to get Matilda) and who later adopts her.
Debuting in London for the first time ever in 2010 at the Courtyard Theatre, the show was an instant smash hit, selling out to audiences every night! One year later, it moved to West End’s Cambridge Theatre for its open run.
The record-breaking production was imagined for the stage by the Royal Shakespeare Company, bringing in Dennis Kelly to create the book, Tim Minchin on music and lyrics, and Matthew Warchus as director.
Among its ridiculous amount of more than 100 international awards, it owns seven Laurence Olivier Awards (including Best New Musical), five WhatsOnStage Awards (also for Best New Musical and Best West End Show) six Broadway World Awards (also including Best New Musical), two Mousetrap Awards (including Best Family Show), a Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, and and and …
Plus, that’s only its UK prize-winnings, nevermind global achievements.
Not to fear … If you’re in the mood for a delicious slice of decadent chocolate cake, no Trunchbull will stop you, nor sit you down under her watchful eyes and make you stuff your face — as the iconic scene goes. That one is saved for Bruce.
- Matilda the Musical tickets
15. Opening Night
Do you believe in ghosts?For eons, the allure of a night out at the theater has wooed audiences. With its giveaway title, Opening Night is the latest musical from singer, songwriter, and composer Rufus Wainwright.
Think of it as a combination of a whodunit and eerie backstage inspirations from plays like The Phantom of The Opera.The musical is based on the 1977 movie of the same title by John Cassavetes, with the book and direction from Ivo van Hove.
Starring Sheridan Smith, the two-time Olivier® award-winning actress is no shy away from the stage; the role befitting for the West End star who knows the ins and outs of theater productions.
The storyline sticks closely to the original film, centered on an up-and-coming actress and her latest Broadway play. After a tragic incident occurs, she’s plagued with misfortune, constantly fighting spirits from the other side – and her sanity.
Things go awry during dress rehearsals, and when the lead takes center stage on opening night all befuddled, the words “the show must go on” couldn’t be more clearly echoed (and showcased).
While the audience has no clue of her misgivings, spectators think it’s all part of the act, and the premiere — much to the cast’s horror — ovates the performance.
16. Harry Potter and The Cursed Child
Hey, all you Potterheads; if you’ve already watched the movies a bajillion times and read the books so much that the pages have tattered; there’s a special something in store for you … on the West End!
Set 19 years after Harry, Ron and Hermonie have left Hogwarts and are now adult wizards — Harry works for the Ministry of Magic and is married to Ginny, and Ron and Hermione are happily married too (with Hermione now Minister for Magic) — the storyline is centered around their children as they embark on their first day at Hogwarts, particularly Albus Potter.
J.K. Rowling wrote the original story with the idea of it being a play, along with Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, and Thorne adapted the plot for the stage.
Apart from all of the magic, mystery and mischief that arises, the production is the only one currently on the West End that is unveiled as a two-part play. Split into two, you have the option to witness both acts on the same day or over two consecutive evenings.
It premiered to the world at the Palace Theater on West End in 2016, and two years later made its Broadway debut. Since then, it has raked in the rewards, among them a stellar, record-breaking nine Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Play, Best Director, Best Costume, Best Set, Best Sound and Best Lighting Design.
Directed by John Tiffany, the lighting design is by Neil Austin, the set designer is Christine Jones, the sound designer is Gareth Fry, with Magic and Illusions by Jamie Harrison.
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets
17. Cabaret
Transforming the entirety of the Playhouse Theater like you’ve never seen it before, forget everything you once knew about the venue as it’s been converted to the iconic ‘Kit Kat Club’, especially for the production of Cabaret!
The 1966 Broadway musical became a sultry sensation, traveling to the West End by 1968 where it launched at the Palace Theatre, starring leading-lady Dame Judi Dench as Sally Bowles.
Travel back in time to Berlin in the roaring 20s during the peak of the Jazz Age and join the cabaret singers and the band at the Kit Kat Club — a place free from judgments and where your wildest dreams can come true. Involving elements of love, lust, music and dance, the tale is intertwined between staff and members at the club … and then some!
When a show is this good, the audiences keep wanting more, and theaters around the world have taken note.
Cabaret was revived on the West End in 1986, again in 1993 (starring Alan Cumming as Emcee), and once more in 2006 with Dame Sheila Hanco*ck as Fräulein Schneider (which won her an Olivier Award for Best Supporting Performance in a Musical).
It was refreshed in 2012 with Will Young as Emcee this time and Michelle Ryan as Sally, and then, yet again in 2021 with Eddie Redmayne as Emcee. The latest cast stars Aimee Lou Wood (Sex Education) as Bowles.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early and explore the ins and outs of the Kit Kat Club. As the show begins, nine dancers and musicians perform the prologue in the bar areas and throughout the rest of the building. To date, it has won seven Olivier Awards, including Best Musical Revival.
- Cabaret tickets
18. Hamilton
Well, if all history lessons went this way, there would certainly be a lot more history boffs around, guaranteed! Rap battles and spitting facts, say what?!
Iterating the story of America’s Founding Fathers like you’ve never heard before, delight in a recounting from Alexander Hamilton as he began his former years working for George Washington until he helped America gain independence. But with a twist — the plot is rapped through a splurge of R&B, hip-hop, rap, blues and jazz beats.
(Hamilton is one of the five Founding Fathers of America, playing a pivotal role in the country’s fight for freedom from Britain.)
Originally an immigrant from the West Indies, the 21st-century production rehashes Hamilton’s conquests but this time with another spin to it. Hamilton is African American and the cast stars all persons of color.
Bursting onto the stage in 2015, the musical was only supposed to be a hip-hop album after its creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda was so inspired by the Alexander Hamilton biography by Ron Chernow. Thankfully, it was converted for theater in 2015 and hit the London scene by 2017.
The book, lyrics and music are all by Miranda, with Andy Blankenbuehler working on choreography and Thomas Kail directing the multiple-award-winning show.
Ridiculously well received, it’s the sort of production that suits our current present and couldn’t arrive at a more fitting time in our own history books. It has claimed seven Oliviers, 11 Tonys, the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album!
19. Sister Act
Get ready to have your Motown shoes swinging and jiving for the head-bopping rendition of Sister Act! The original musical comedy film was an instant success, hitting big screens in 1992, and the revised play follows the same plot: a “nun” on the run!
Well, not technically a nun, but Deloris van Cartier (a powerhouse lounge singer dating a gangster) does join a convent as part of witness protection after she (unwillingly) gets mixed up in mobster business.
It’s hard to forget Whoopi Goldberg’s original performance in the 1992 musical comedy film, but you’ll soon have a new star to admire after seeing soul singer, songwriter and Olivier® award-winning actress Beverley Knight on the stage as lead.
Making its West End debut in 2009, this time round a new cast and creatives are in charge. Joining Knight are Ruth Jones as Mother Superior and Lemar as Curtis Jackson; with direction from Bill Buckhurst, music by the illustrious Alan Menken (The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and Pocahontas) and lyrics by Glenn Slater.
Gospel, soul, funk … with a score like this, it’s impossible not to feel your body moving and shaking. Hey, music is religion!
FYI: Beverly Knight stars as Deloris van Cartier up until June 8, and then British pop and RnB singer, songwriter, actress and The X Factor winner, Alexandra Burke, takes over from June 1010.
20. Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
Five stars across the board from just about every critic in town, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie couldn’t be a more befitting title, and is the latest on theater-goers’ lips.
Another Sheffield-centric piece for the West End; this time, it’s about an entirely different extravaganza as sixteen-year-old Jamie New dreams of one day being a world-famous drag queen!
That’s right huntayyy, you better werk!
The motivation behind this musical sprung from the BBC Three 2011 documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 by Jenny Popplewell.
While our world is a lot more open-minded about the LGBTQ+ community than it was ten+ years ago, this documentary was released at a time when the topic was still “taboo,” and mother Ru Paul was just beginning to make a change, we mean, waves.
Yet one message remains the same: anti-bullying, and this musical comedy-drama is all about love, acceptance and family. Opening for UK audiences in 2017, the crowds fell in love and since, has enjoyed worldwide tours before landing back on home soil — and with plenty of awards!
This true story is directed by Jonathan Butterell, with the book and lyrics by Tom Macrae. Anna Fleischle is in charge of set and costume design, and Dan Gillespie Sells (leadman from The Feeling) has composed the score.
21. Witness for the Prosecution
“Calling our next witness to the stand … ” While the USA has certainly romanticized the idea of jury duty, it was England’s King Henry II that in fact, invented the jury system way back circa the 12th century.
One only needs to look to the history books and novels to remember, just like Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution.
Her original detective short story (Traitor’s Hands) was adapted by the author into a play in the 50s, captivating audiences with its jury-centric narrative. Cue the 21st century, and this time, the show’s specific location makes all the difference: the London County Hall.
Audience members take their seat inside the real-time courtroom, preparing for the whirlwind court case of Leonard Vole — standing on trial for the murder of a widow. But, did he do it? Is the eyewitness account accurate? Does he have what it takes to convince the jury? Or is his hangman’s noose fate imminent?
Thanks to the impeccable setting, its quintessential Christie dialogue, direction by Lucy Bailey and an outstanding cast, you forget you’re watching a play, becoming warped in the courtroom drama as if it were real life.
22. The Little Big Things
When life gets you down, one of the greatest achievements you can make is to get back up, and this heartfelt new musical is the epitome of an inspiring ending, or rather, new beginnings!
For all rugby fans and those who enjoy memoirs, you may have read Henry Fraser’s autobiography before this, hitting shelves in 2017.
Inspired by his life story, theater worlds soon got ahold of The Little Big Things’ storyline and converted it into a British musical!
In 2009, up-and-coming rugby star Henry Fraser’s life changed forever after a diving accident went wrong, and the flanker became paralyzed from the neck down. No longer an academy player with a premiership Rugby club, this recounts his journey on the road to recovery, defying all odds and succeeding more than ever!
Now an inspirational speaker, artist and best-selling author, this is Fraser’s tale portrayed as life in color on the West End stage — where the production made its first-ever debut in 2023.
With an incredible score by Nick Butcher and Tom Ling, direction by Luke Sheppard and the book by Joe White, it’s already been nominated for four 2024 WhatsOnStage Awards!
23. Frozen the Musical
Just when you thought the world couldn’t get more of the 2013 global sensation, Frozen the Musical arrived to the stage and is still sweeping audiences off their feet — just like the original movie did.
Kids go gaga, adults can’t help but fall in love — even if Let It Go gets stuck in your head for weeks afterward …
Produced by The Walt Disney Company for Broadway, the special effects (led by Jeremy Chernick) and lighting (by Neil Austin) that this magical set has employed are mystically hair-raising, recreating a frozen Arendelle right before your very eyes!
Delighting audiences for the first time in 2019 in the US, it moved to the West End in 2021 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. In just two years since, the West End version has gained tons of accolades including seven WhatsOnStage Awards and four Olivier nominations.
Queen Else is played by Samantha Barks (Pretty Woman: The Musical; Chicago; Les Misérables the movie) and her sister, Anna, by Emily Lane (The Sound of Music; Les Misérables).
The original Broadway director, Michael Grandage leads the cast on the West End too, with music and lyrics by husband-and-wife team, Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez who wrote the songs for the Frozen blockbuster too.
- Frozen the Musical tickets
24. The Hills of California
After collaborating together for the first time back in 2018 — and following on the ridiculous success of their work on the multi-award-winning The Ferryman — playwright, screenwriter and film director Jez Butterworth and producer, director and screenwriter Sam Mendes are back!
Introducing Butterworth’s brand-spanking-new play; set in Blackpool, England and directed by Mendes. Both born and bred in Britain, the two are a match made in heaven for the West End writer’s UK-favored settings.
Transporting audiences to a sweltering summer in 1976, it’s the driest season in 200 years and this seaside resort town’s beaches are overflowing.
From a distance, its plot reminds one of the classic books you grew up reading about holidays set in simpler times, doused in romance, adventures and friendships. But this is not your ordinary tale.
Amongst the town’s general chaos of people and tourists, the Webb Sisters arrive back in Blackpool — but not for a vacation. Their ill mother is on her deathbed, and they’ve returned home … to her rather ramshackle guest house, “Sea View.”
Except there are no sea views in this home, nor sweet ideologies about a dreamy 70s summer.
25. The Unfriend
When the writer Steven Moffat (Doctor Who) and the director Mark Gatiss (The League of Gentlemen) behind the BBC’s phenomenal Sherlock came together to work on a brand new project, it made mega waves and caused much excitement for audiences. But alas, this one was not for the screen but the stages instead!
Renowned for favoring elements of murder, mystery, crime and drama; The Unfriend is another gripping (dark comedy) piece from the duo.
In 2022, the satirical play debuted at the Minerva Theatre, Chichester. Six months after its first performance, it crossed over to the West End. After an immensely successful run, it’s back to wow viewers (this time at the Wyndham’s Theatre).
What’s the buzz? Set in the 21st century, a suburban English couple, Peter (Lee Mack) and Debbie (Sarah Alexander) meet American widow Elsa Jean Krakowski (Frances Barber) during a cruise ship vacation and agree to stay in touch.
Out of the blue Elsa contacts the couple when she plans to visit the UK.
Before they know it, Elsa is on her way to stay with the couple and their kids. In a flurry, they google her and learn things much to their horror! But it’s too late to say she can’t stay now … or is it???
The craziest part — if not absolutely freakish — about this whole palaver is that it’s actually inspired by a true story!
26. The Choir of Man
A serious celebration of music; join the cast at The Choir of Man pub and enjoy the musical extravaganza featuring songs from rock and pop icons like Queen, Guns & Roses, Luther Vandross, Adele, Katy Perry, Avicii, Paul Simon, Sia and plenty more. There’s a song among the list to suit all music genres.
Born and bred on British soil, the production centers around nine main characters, comprising the regulars and the staff that run the show, ahem, Irish bar. Designed as an interactive composition, the cast, we mean staff!, serve audience members pints during the performance, and you can even grab drinks from the on-stage bar before the show begins.
Filled with a light-hearted atmosphere, join the cast and sing and dance your hearts out! Creators and producers Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay work alongside Jack Blume as musical supervisor, with the monologues written by Ben Norris, and choreography is born from the mind of Freddie Huddleston.
The Olivier-nominated musical premiered on London’s West End in 2021 at the Arts Theatre and was extended shortly after as the crowds fell in love.
- The Choir of Man tickets
27. Mrs. Doubtfire
It goes without saying that Mrs. Doubtfire will forever be ingrained into our “growing up in the 90s” hearts thanks to legendary Robin Williams’ performance as Daniel Hillard (dad actor turned nanny in disguise).
It’s hard to imagine anyone else playing the iconic lead role, but after debuting on Broadway in 2021 to rip-roaring success and reviews, you know you’re in good hands.
Converted into a musical, the book is by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell, with a score by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick. Gabriel Vick (Cabaret, Scrooge, My Family) stars as Daniel, with Laura Tebbutt (Les Miserables, School of Rock) playing Miranda Hillard.
A heartfelt production for all ages; all Daniel wants is for his family to reunite. He cheekily pretends to be a Scottish nanny, Euphegenia Doubtfire, in order to spend more time with his kids, and in the process, his ex-wife.
It certainly does the original 1987 novel by Anne Fine (Alias Madame Doubtfire) and the Twentieth Century Studios Motion Picture justice.
In the words of Mrs. Doubtfire; “Sometimes they get back together and sometimes they don’t, dear.” Well, we’re sure glad this musical is back again on the West End!
28. The Mousetrap
Without further adieu; it’s the play that certainly needs no introduction, it’s the West End’s longest-running play in its history, it’s Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap.
It also owns the current, awe-inspiring title of play with the longest open run in the entire world! In fact, one of the props from the very first production has been conserved and still features on set!
Written as a murder mystery play by Christie, the Queen of detective stories from the 20th century, the show made its first appearance on a West End stage in 1952, where it has safely (and adoringly) remained ever since.
Dubbed a “whodunnit”, as the final curtain calls, a cast member requests that the audience members not share what they have witnessed once leaving the theater, preserving the traditions of a whodunnit. This is to make sure new members don’t solve the mystery before the cast do — or ruin any surprises they have waiting in store.
With an audience count of more than 10 million people throughout its 70-year running, the cast has welcomed over 400 actors since its debut on the West End.
Fun facts about The Mousetrap: Penned by Christie as a birthday gift to Queen Mary, it was broadcast as a radio play, titled Three Blind Mice.
Moving to theaters, the author requested that the play not be converted into a movie until it was done showcasing in the West End. And, well, you can automatically assume the outcome to that one … perhaps once it’s finally left the stage that day will come.
- The Mousetrap tickets
29. MJ The Musical
If you ever had the pleasure of watching pop icon Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour, prepare to relive the concert of a lifetime during MJ The Musical.
The legend may no longer be with us, but his music is adored, played and appreciated around the world to this day. All you have to do is say “MJ” and crowds immediately know who you’re referring to — honestly, his passing still feels surreal!
Centered around his world tour, the jukebox musical also takes viewers on a journey through the King of Pop’s creative process (the talented songwriter wrote almost all of his own songs) and behind-the-scenes introspection into his life.
Myle Frost’s reprising role brings Michael back to life, moonwalking across the stage in MJ’s signature white gloves. It’s almost as if Michael is living through the actor. Literally sweeping in the awards for his role, he won a Tony and was nominated for a grammy!
Sing along to all your favorites (the score features 25 of Jackson’s most beloved songs), like “Thriller,” “Bad,” “They Don’t Care About Us,” “Beat It,” “Man in the Mirror” and “Smooth Criminal.”
MJ The Musical is directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, with music and orchestrations by David Holcenberg and Jason Michael Webb, and the book by Lynn Nottage.
30. Hadestown
Prepare to fall down the spooky rabbit hole, in this case, the Underworld, during an ever-captivating performance of Hadestown. Showcasing in London back in 2018, this is the musical’s first time making its West End debut.
For its pure musical genius alone, the production from the mind of American folk singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell has experienced an overwhelming amount of success.
Premiering in 2006 in Vermont, USA, the musical’s soundtrack was transmuted into a concept album in 2010.
Borrowing characters from ancient Greek mythology, it hinges on a story between two young lovers, Eurydice (Grace Hodgett Young) and Orpheus (Dónal Finn), whilst the subplot simultaneously enacts the tale coupling King Hades (Zachary James) and his chosen wife Persephone (Gloria Onitiri), daughter of Zeus.
From the narrative to the song lyrics, the entire performance was imagined and brought to life by Mitchell, and is directed by Rachel Chavkin.
Renowned for its ambient stage setting, excellent lighting design and talented cast that seem to have voices fit for the gods, the Greek tragedy is as bone-chilling as it is enthralling.
Useful to know: Its rather “dark” theme centered around the land of the dead isn’t suitable for young audiences.
31. Long Day’s Journey Into Night
A stellar cast for one of the most recognized American plays of the 20th century (check any list and a Long Day’s Journey Into Night is included without fail), Eugene O’Neill’s subtle masterpiece is something we can all relate to — perhaps that’s why it’s enjoyed such success since first debuting in the 1950s.
(O’Neill was presented the 1957 Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his play.)
Leaning into his own life and family for inspiration, the original playbook is four acts, but just one summer’s day, and is about the life and times of the Tyrones: the good, the bad, the ugly and the beautiful.
The storylines dives into topics such as addiction, betrayal, love, hate and family bonds that tie us together.
Directed by Jeremy Herrin, Brian Cox (Succession, Troy) and Patricia Clarkson (Sharp Objects, Easy A) take on the leads, alongside Laurie Kynaston (playing Edmund Tyrone), Daryl McCormack as James Tyrone Jr. and Louisa Harland (Cathleen).
32. Standing at the Sky’s Edge
There’s something about a synopsis centered around Britain’s idyllic towns that seems to grab worldwide attention — if you haven’t noticed, many hit UK television series have all jumped on this bandwagon … Hello Shetland, Vera, Happy Valley …
An homage to the South Yorkshire town of Sheffield, Standing at the Sky’s Edge has been dubbed a “love letter” to England’s fifth-largest city.
So much so, it was produced by Sheffield Theatres, and the West End production is directed by Sheffield Theatres’ Artistic Director Robert Hastie.
Moving through six decades, we encounter three generations of one family who reside in Sheffield’s famous Park Hill — the former social housing estate built in the 60s in the Brutalist architectural style. It remains Europe’s largest grade II listed building.
Pretty new by West End standards, this latest musical burst onto the scene in 2022 and was an instant success, with reviewers claiming it to be one of the most exciting new UK musicals in the last couple of years.
Ultimately about the history of modern Britain, it seamlessly intertwines themes of love, loss and survival. The book is by Chris Bush with music and lyrics from Richard Hawley.
33. Bronco Billy
Long-gone are the days of outlaws and first pioneers, but Billy Bronco and his traveling troupe of bandits, ahem, showmen, are still living out their Wild West fantasies, even in 1979!
Converted from the Big Screen to theater stages in 2019, this is the musical reshaping of Clint Eastwood’s 1980s flick also titled Bronco Billy (which he directed and starred in).
Bronco and his gang are performing their regular tricks and Western antics for eager audiences, traveling from one town to the next. But show life as they know it gets turned upside down when Billy meets Manhattan heiress Antoinette Lilly — who’s on the run for her life!
A classic story of lust, love, friendships, family and dreams, the book for this comedy romance is by Dennis Hackin, who also worked as the film’s screenwriter, and the movie’s original charm has transferred onto the stage seamlessly.
The score is by Chip Rosenbloom and John Torres, with additional lyrics from Michele Brourman and directed by Hunter Bird. The show is produced by Gary Grossman and Hartshorn – Hook Productions.
Tarinn Callender (Hamilton) stars as Bronco Billy, Emily Benjamin (Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club) plays the role of Antoinette Lily, with Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, Gemma Atkins, Jonathan Bourne and Josh Butler comprising some of the other cast members.
34. Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
What happens when a Brit and an American walk into a … wedding?
One of the new-ish kids on the block (Covid felt like a timelapse, and so 2020 and 2021 don’t really count), Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is a musical by Jim Barne and Kit Buchan. With such a delicious title, we’re already intrigued!
The plot?Dougal (Sam Tutty) arrives in the Big Apple for his father’s (second) wedding. The twist? He’s never met his dad before now. Landing in New York for the Big Day, the sister of the bride, Robin (Dujonna Gift), meets him at the airport.
While weddings are usually a good time for falling in love, the two are an unlikely pair from opposite ends of the world. But does their seemingly awkward first-encounter develop into something more as the wedding day nears? You’ll just have to watch the show to find out!
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is directed and choreographed by Tim Jackson (BBC’s Doctor Who: The Giggle and Merrily We Roll Along), and is showing at the Criterion Theatre.
35. Just For One Day
Whether you’ve started singing Bowie’s OG ‘Heroes’ track or the lyrics in Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman’s voice, Just For One Day is the type of musical where you’re left with no voice after busting out one hit after the next and feeling totally invigorated by the power of music!
We think that was the overall aim of writer John O’Farrell (Mrs Doubtfire, Something Rotten!), who based this smash-hitting jukebox musical on the 1988 Live Aid concert — hosted in both London and Philly, USA at the same time!
Featuring some of the greatest rock and roll legends and artists, to this day, it remains one of the most iconic music events in history!
In association with the Band Aid Charitable Trust, this is the story of the people that (were lucky enough) to live the momentous occasion. (Even if you weren’t one of the 70,000+ live audience members, the event was broadcast worldwide on 13 July 1985, reaching over 1.5 billion worldwide viewers!)
It explores all aspects of the historic rockfest, including from a political and social standpoint.
Its immense line-up included Sade, Sting, Paul Young, U2, Dire Straits, Queen, David Bowie, The Who, Elton John, Freddie Mercury and its globally famous closing featuring Paul McCartney, David Bowie, Bob Geldof, Alison Moyet and Pete Townshend.
The musical rendition is no different!
36. Guys and Dolls
Everyone’s favorite New Yorkers are back! Travel in time to when gangsters ruled Manhattan and the mob ran Havana with the reprised musical Guys and Dolls — an absolute classic in the theater world.
(Frank Sinatra even played the lead of Nathan in the 1955 film adaption, with Miss Jean Simmons leading as Sister Sarah Brown.)
Originally landing on Broadway stages in 1950, the musical is based on two short stories by author Damon Runyon (renowned for storylines centered around NYC’s Broadway scene): “The Idyll of Miss Sarah Brown” and “Blood Pressure.”
Nathan Detroit and Sky Masterson are both big-time gamblers, Miss Adelaide has been engaged to Nathan for 14 years (and counting) and Sarah Brown runs a local missionary that’s not very popular …
Detroit (Daniel Mays) is set to host the biggest floating crap game in NYC, there’s just one problem. He needs $1000 to book the venue — which he doesn’t have. But can a bet on love (for $1,000) with his fellow punter Masterson (George Ioannides) solve all that?
The multiple-award-winning musical sticks to the same story and (infamous) characters by Runyon, and the book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. Music and lyrics by Frank Loesser are all there, and this revival is directed by Sir Nicholas Hytner.
37. For Black Boys Who Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too
Plays are often a great way to bring oppressed topics to the forefront, offering audiences a comfortable way to reflect on lesser spoken subjects.
Incredibly insightful and at a poignant time in society, For Black Boys Who Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too was inspired by Ntozake Shange’s 1976 choreopoem, For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf.
Six men in group therapy, discussing the turbulences, trials and tribulations of growing up as a person of color in Britain. Conversations flow over love, music, fashion, father figures and jollof rice, darkening as the talk turns to adultery and what it means to survive in our world’s unfair realities.
Will egos get the better of them, or will they make it through the session having learned something about themselves, their feelings, thoughts and fellow members?
The cast comprises six young men: Onyx (Mark Akintimehin), Pitch (Emmanuel Akwafo), Jet (Nnabiko Ejimofor), Sable (Darragh Hand), Obsidian (Aruna Jalloh) and Midnight (Kaine Lawrence), and is written and directed by Ryan Calais Cameron (Queens of Sheba, Timbuktu).
Composing the score is Nicola T.Chang, with movement and choreo by Theophilus O. Bailey and John Pfumojena as musical director and in charge of vocals.
38. The King and I
There’s something about a true-story-turned-musical that just gets you even more excited, and The King and I is no shy-away from theatrical stages.
Centered around excerpts from the memoirs written by Anna Leonowens (who was governess to the King Mongkut of Siam’s children in the 1860s), these were converted into a novel by Margaret Landon in 1944: Anna and the King of Siam.
A few years later, the iconic Rodgers and Hammerstein team got ahold of the tale and transformed it into a musical set for Broadway stages — premiering in 1951. At the time, it was the longest-running musical on Broadway!
Its latest West End revival stars Helen George as Anna and Darren Lee as the King. The plot follows exact timelines, and this was a particularly poignant period for the then-king.
King Mongkut was the first royal line in Siam (now Thailand) to embrace, with an open mind, westernized principles, and he is known as the “Father of Science and Technology” of the Land of Smiles.
He employs the schoolteacher during his aim to modernize the country, and the relationship between the two deepens and develops over time. It’s a story of love, politics and everything in between.
From the synopsis to the music to the costumes, every bit dazzles and delights audiences. Directed by Bartlett Sher, costume design is by Catherine Zuber, and choreography (based on the original by Jerome Robbins) is by Christopher Gattelli.
39. A Mirror
With such a stellar cast, it’s hard to imagine anything but magnificent; enjoying a continued run on the West End as A Mirror transfers from one theater to the next!
Plus, it’s one of those plays where nothing is quite as you’re expecting. Before you enter the theater, you think you’re here to watch a performance about the wedding celebration of Leyla and Joel, except writer Sam Holcroft has other things in store …
Without giving too much away about this satirical comedy, you soon realize that this isn’t an immersive wedding experience at all. Instead, you’re now involved in an unlicensed production being held in a totalitarian state, and the wedding party are all actors.
A play within a play, it hinders on the ideologies of freedom of expression and speech, creativity, censorship and truth.
Jonny Lee Miller (Elementary, Trainspotting, Hackers) mesmerizes in his leading role as Čelik, as does Samuel Adewunmi playing Adem — a striving writer who uses real conversations heard between his neighbors as narrative. But is this really art?
Joining them on stage are Tanya Reynolds (Sex Education) who plays Mei and Geoffrey Streatfeild as Bax (Macbeth, Kinky Boots).
40.An Enemy of the People
Even if you’ve never watched the cinematic rendition or one of the countless revivals of An Enemy of the People, you’ve probably heard the title before somewhere down the line.
On the flip side, if you have witnessed Arthur Miller’s adaptation of the original play by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, this latest interpretation is unlike any other productions before.
The plot? Meet the protagonist, Doctor Thomas Stockmann (played by Matt Smith from Doctor Who and House of the Dragon), a medical officer dutied to inspect the public baths of his native town.
Upon realizing that the baths’ water is contaminated, he brings it to the attention of local authorities. But the State isn’t so happy about his findings and tries to silence Stockmann, proclaiming the Doc “an enemy of the people.”
Directed by Thomas Ostermeimer, the German director completely reimagines the venerated dramedy for modern-day audiences, converting age-old subjects into contemporary content.
However, at the end of the day, the theme remains the same: the struggle between power and public opinion.
It’s one of those pieces that, no matter the decade, has a message that rings true with many societies. In fact, after touring in Beijing and causing much uproar with agreeing Chinese audiences, the play was banned in China!
41. The Time Traveller’s Wife
From novel to film to television series to stage musical; when a storyline has been adapted into so many versions, you know it’s bound to be a goodie — standing the test of, well, time!
The Time Traveler’s Wife is one for all the helpless romantics out there, encapsulating a love that knows no bounds, or rather, decades.
Based on Audrey Niffenegger’s best-selling 2003 novel under the same title, join artist Clare (Joanna Woodward) and her time-traveling husband, Henry (David Hunter) as they navigate their relationship and marriage, dealing with one teeny tiny extra factor, the whole time-travel business.
It’s gripping, intense and, at times, heartbreaking, losing one another through time and space; Clare is often left wondering when her beloved will return – if ever – and on the other end, watching Henry trying to find his way back to his wife.
Adapted for the stage by playwright Lauren Gunderson (I and You) with direction by none other than Bill Buckhurst (Sweeney Todd; Skyfall), you’re in for a dreamy night of theater.
Wait, it gets better. Original songs were created specifically for this version, brought to life by Grammy winners Joss Stone and Dave Stewart.
As the couple meets at different life stages, and even at different ages, Olivier Award winner Anna Fleischle transports you with her production and costume design.
- The Time Traveller’s Wife tickets
Final thoughts
From improv shows to jukebox musicals, good luck trying to pick which production to watch first on the West End!
A night out at the theater is always magical, and you can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia that goes along with it. When the stages and auditoriums are as historic and extravagant as the ones on London’s West End, there’s nothing quite like it!
Whether you’re here to see your favorite actor, playwright or production, you’re in for a joy ride!
Make sure to check out this list for regular updates as some West End shows and musicals see their final curtain call in a couple of months’ time, and new ones hit the stage for the very first time, or as a revival!
Have you already got a performance in mind? Book your West End tickets, then sit back, relax and revel in an evening of splendor! Enjoy the show!
