Everything Theatre Reviews, interviews and news for theatre lovers, London and beyond
Some London musicals stay on the “must-see” list year after year for their entire runs, while others make a great splash and then go on a world tour. This list of the top musicals playing in London this year provides a good cross-section of the genres. Get a ticket and settle in for a few enjoyable hours if you’re ready for a genuine London musical theatre experience…
Mamma Mia
There aren’t many people out there who don’t know the words to at least one ABBA song. Mamma Mia! gave a new generation of fans the chance to rediscover the Swedish band’s timeless music. You may watch the popular musical Mamma Mia any time you visit London, as it is presented every day. What’s not to appreciate about a three-hour event that features 27 ABBA songs performed by some of London’s most talented musicians? There’s a good reason why “Mamma Mia!” keeps selling out at theatres around the world. I cannot stress the need of purchasing tickets in advance from a human being enough for the extremely high demand for Mamma Mia! the musical in London.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
It’s a two-part show that runs in London’s West End called Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The events of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child take place nineteen years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, in the eighth narrative in the Harry Potter series. Albus Severus, Harry’s youngest son, and the protagonist as they deal with the consequences of Harry’s teenage decisions and learn more about the Deathly Hallows. Harry is now a ministry official. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’s immersive staging and visual effects have garnered high praise from critics, despite the show’s massive cast and staff sizes. Fans of the Harry Potter series now have a greater incentive to attend live theatre thanks to the success of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
The Lion King
Over 800,000 people visit London every year to see The Lion King, making it one of the city’s top tourist attractions. The Lion King’s widespread acclaim is well-deserved, as the production is spectacular and suitable for audiences of all ages. If you are travelling to London with children, you must take them to see The Lion King. As was previously stated, the Lion King musical is one of the most popular shows in the city, thus tickets should be bought in advance. The Lion King is a stage production based on the classic Disney animated picture of the same name, and it is remarkable for its cutting-edge special effects, breathtaking set and acoustics, and superb acting from a fantastic ensemble. The whole thing comes together to provide for a truly special musical experience.
Les Miserables
Les Miserables, which premiered in London and is set in the turbulent 19th-century France, is another perennially popular musical. The musical Les Miserables has sold more tickets than any other show of its kind and is often credited with introducing new elements to the musical theatre canon. If you’re looking for a musical to attend in London, this isn’t a bad option.
Wicked
Wicked The musical is being performed in the Apollo Victoria Theatre, which was formerly a movie theatre. The theatre has 2,500 seats and is conveniently placed near to Victoria Station. The musical Wicked is based on the novel of the same name by Gregory Maguire, which in turn was inspired by L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, a classic children’s book. The musical is one of the longest running musicals in London and has won several major accolades.
Grease
This classic musical about teen love and disobedience never fails to deliver a memorable theatrical experience. It’s easy to see why Grease has become one of London’s most popular musicals. Those who grew up in the 1970s will remember Grease as one of the most popular musicals of the time. The film version, which starred John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, was so successful that it was quickly turned into a stage musical. The Piccadilly Theatre in London’s West End is where you can catch the latest Grease production. The concert has classics like “You’re the One That I Want” and “Summer Nights,” as well as upbeat numbers that will have you dancing in your seat. Whether or not you are a die-hard fan of the 1978 picture, Grease is a fantastic option for a night on the town.
The Book of Mormon
Experience the laughter and excitement of “The Book of Mormon” in London. This hilarious and unforgettable musical follows a group of Mormon missionaries on their journey through Uganda, attempting to convert the locals to their beliefs. With its satirical undertone, the show delivers witty comedy and catchy tunes that will leave you entertained long after the final curtain falls. Don’t miss this captivating theatrical experience that blends humor, memorable songs, and a thought-provoking narrative.
Moulin Rouge
Say “bonjour” to Moulin Rouge the Musical, a Broadway import that is sure to set the West End on fire with its vivacious can-can dances and jukebox tunes. An unforgettable love story set in the legendary Moulin Rouge cabaret in 1899 Paris. The staging, lighting, and costumes are a visual feast, and the show’s mix of familiar tunes and new compositions is sure to get you humming along. Yes, it has the expected amount of romance, melodrama, and razzle-dazzle, as well as a dash of turn-of-the-century enchantment.
The Phantom of the Opera
Spectacular and lavish, Andrew Lloyd Webber‘s version of Gaston Leroux’s novel is the epitome of the West End. The story of Christine, a gifted singer, and the Phantom, an obsessive man who will do anything to possess her, has been performed for nearly 30 years at Her Majesty’s Theatre. The opening rock-infused chords of the title song will convince you that this is one of the best London musicals of all time.
If you live in or around London, or are planning a trip to the capital, and you happen to enjoy musicals, you really must see a show. The West End of London is a fantastic destination for theatregoers from all over the world.
