We’ve already seen a massive wave of brilliant new shows hit the West End, and there’s still more to come. From new productions of classic shows to exciting revivals and stage adaptations of cult films – there’s a little bit of everything to tickle anyone’s fancy.
To help you get the most out of musical theatre, here are the top musicals in London. Some you may have seen already, and some you’ll be eagerly looking forward to like the rest of us. Just be quick, as plenty are on for a very limited run!
2019
& Juliet at Shaftesbury Theatre
Ever thought Juliet deserved a better ending? So did David West Read – the writer of Netflix’s Schitt’s Creek. That’s why he wrote & Juliet. It takes off where Romeo And Juliet leaves off. But this time, instead of succumbing to the dagger, Juliet decides to go on a trip to Paris with Nurse and her friends on a journey of self-discovery.
Using music from the past three decades, & Juliet features songs from Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Justin Timberlake and Katy Perry. So get ready for a pop-infused night of fun and see how anyone can rewrite their story.
Booking Until: 30 May 2020
Mary Poppins at Prince Edward Theatre
If you’re looking for a musical that’s practically perfect in every way, then look no further! The multi-award-winning musical Mary Poppins, based on the books by P.L. Travers and the original Disney film, is blowing back into the West End with an umbrella, medicine bag and stellar cast in tow.
The magical tale of two children and their slightly peculiar nanny has been seen by over 12 million people worldwide. When it last played in London, it won two Olivier Awards and now it’s back to win over even more musical lovers.
Starring Zizi Strallen and Charlie Stemp, this show is bound to be supercalifragilistic.
Booking Until: 7 June 2020
2020
Be More Chill at The Other Palace
If you’re into 80s music and love a little romance, Be More Chill will tick all your boxes! This weird and wacky musical features a Tony Award-winning score and follows the story of a girl (who wants to be noticed), a boy (who wants to fit in) and the supercomputer inside his head (who wants to take over the world!)
Opening from: 12 February 2020
Booking until: 3 May 2020
Carousel at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel – lauded for its innovative approach to classical musicals – is coming to London in the stunning surroundings of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Set in a coastal New England town, the multi-award winning love story follows that of a carousel barker, Billy and a mill worker named Julie. When Billy commits a failed armed robbery, what will their future entail?
Opening from: 31 July 2020
Booking until: 19 September 2020
City Of Angels at Garrick Theatre
After its successful run at Donmar Warehouse in 2014, Josie Rourke’s critically acclaimed production of musical comedy City Of Angels returns to the West End for a limited season. Set in 1940s Hollywood, City Of Angels tells two stories simultaneously – a screenwriter with a movie to finish (played out in full colour) and a private eye with a case to crack (with a film noir feel). Packed with plenty of glamour and jazz, this swinging show is set to be a musical masterpiece.
Opening from: 5 March 2020
Booking until: 5 September 2020
The Drifters Girl at Garrick Theatre
Calling all R ‘n’ B and soul fans: West End’s leading lady Beverley Knight is coming to town in this brand new musical. Follow the remarkable story of the world-famous vocal group, The Drifters, and Faye Treadwell, the trailblazing woman who created them. The inspiring show will feature an unbelievable soundtrack of some of the most iconic songs in history including Save The Last Dance For Me, Under The Boardwalk and Stand By Me.
Opening from: 1 October 2020
Booking until: 13 January 2021
Pretty Woman: The Musical at Piccadilly Theatre
Think: Julia Roberts, Richard Gere and one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time. Yes, you’ve got it…Pretty Woman: The Musical is coming to the West End in 2020, and just in time for Valentine’s Day! With original music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner-Bryan Adams and his long-time songwriting partner, Jim Vallance, the soundtrack is as incredible as you’d expect. Having broken the box office record four times and winning three Audience Choice Awards, grab your tickets for the UK premiere of this classic rom-com turned musical!
Opening from: 14 February 2020
Booking until: 2 January 2021
The Prince Of Egypt at Dominion Theatre
Fans of the classic DreamWorks animated film, The Prince Of Egypt, will be excited to hear that the musical adaption will be gracing us all at the Dominion Theatre. Take a seat and be transported to the sands of Ancient Egypt where two young brothers live in a kingdom of privilege. When a secret is revealed, they are divided and find their destinies changed forever. With music and lyrics by the renowned Stephen Schwartz of Wicked, the show will include 5 of the acclaimed songs from the film including Deliver Us, All I Ever Wanted, Through Heaven’s Eyes and the Academy Award-winning hit, When You Believe.
Opening from: 5 February 2020
Booking until: 12 September 2020
There are loads of other musicals playing in London right now! Find out more about London musicals here or book theatre tickets here.