Must-See West End Shows in London

The Ultimate Guide to West End Shows: Unmissable Productions

Are you ready for a show-stopping West End season that promises to leave you on the edge of your seat? Buckle up because we’ve compiled the top 15 must-see London shows that are set to take the stage by storm. From gripping plays to toe-tapping musicals, this lineup is guaranteed to have something for everyone.

This year stars including Sarah Jessica Parker, Sarah Snook, Keeley Hawes, Matt Smith, Ian McKellen, Sheridan Smith, Brian Cox, Michael Sheen, Steve Coogan and Dominic West have all been on the London stages.

A Theatrical Journey Through Plays

The Hills of California

Harold Pinter Theatre

Kicking off the theatrical extravaganza is “The Hills of California,” directed by none other than Sam Mendes. Jez Butterworth weaves his magic in this Major Event Theatre production, promising an unforgettable experience at the Harold Pinter Theatre.

An Enemy of the People

Duke of York’s Theatre

Join Matt Smith in the English language premiere of Thomas Ostermeier’s adaptation of Ibsen’s “An Enemy of the People.” The Duke of York’s Theatre sets the stage for this thought-provoking exploration led by the acclaimed star of “The Crown.”

The Picture of Dorian Gray

Theatre Royal Haymarket

Sarah Snook takes on Oscar Wilde’s classic in a one-person tour-de-theatre at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Brace yourself for a thrilling adaptation of “The Picture of Dorian Gray” that promises to redefine theatrical brilliance.

Hir

Park Theatre

Hollywood actor Felicity Huffman makes her London stage debut in Taylor Mac’s “Hir” at the intimate Park Theatre. Get ready for a powerful production that delves into the complexities of identity and relationships.

The Human Body

Donmar Warehouse

In an intimate setting, Keeley Hawes and Jack Davenport premiere Lucy Kirkwood’s new play, “The Human Body,” at the Donmar Warehouse. This promises to be a captivating exploration of what it means to be human.

A Long Day’s Journey Into Night

Wyndham’s Theatre

Brian Cox takes center stage in Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize-winning classic, “A Long Day’s Journey Into Night.” Accompanied by the brilliant Patricia Clarkson, this is a performance not to be missed at the Wyndham’s Theatre.

Player Kings

Noel Coward Theatre

Sir Ian McKellen surprises audiences by taking on the role of Sir John Falstaff in “Player Kings.” A new adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Henry IV Parts 1 and 2” by Robert Icke promises to showcase McKellen’s unparalleled talent at the Noel Coward Theatre.

Dr. Strangelove

Noel Coward Theatre

Armando Iannucci and Steve Coogan bring Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film “Dr. Strangelove” to the West End stage. Prepare for a thought-provoking and unique experience at the Noel Coward Theatre.

The Musical Extravaganza

Just For One Day

The Old Vic

Director-of-the-moment Luke Sheppard brings the Live Aid musical “Just For One Day” to The Old Vic. Featuring Bob Geldof as an actual character, this promises to be an extraordinary musical journey.

Hadestown

Lyric Theatre

After a long-awaited arrival, the West End welcomes the Tony Award-winning musical “Hadestown.” Rachel Chavkin and Anaïs Mitchell’s haunting journey through the underworld is set to enthrall audiences at the Lyric Theatre.

Opening Night: A New Musical

Gielgud Theatre

Sheridan Smith takes the stage in “Opening Night: A New Musical.” Directed by Ivo van Hove, with music by Rufus Wainwright, this star-studded event at the Gielgud Theatre is bound to be a theatrical sensation.

MJ The Musical

Prince Edward Theatre

The much-anticipated “MJ The Musical” arrives in the West End, directed by Christopher Wheeldon and supported by Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Lynn Nottage. Get ready for a spectacular show at the Prince Edward Theatre.

Mean Girls – The Musical

Savoy Theatre

Tina Fey’s iconic movie “Mean Girls” gets a musical adaptation, hitting the West End. Brace yourselves for a high school drama filled with wit, humor, and catchy tunes at the Savoy Theatre.

Hello, Dolly!

London Palladium

Imelda Staunton graces the West End with her rendition of Dolly in “Hello, Dolly!” at the London Palladium. Reuniting with Follies director Dominic Cooke, this promises to be a summer sensation.

The Devil Wears Prada – A New Musical

Dominion Theatre

Closing the year with a bang, “The Devil Wears Prada – A New Musical” returns for round two of its Pre-Broadway try-out. With Jerry Mitchell at the helm, get ready for a camped-up and globally dominating musical experience at the Dominion Theatre.

Conclusion

The West End is gearing up for a theatrical journey like never before. These unmissable shows promise to transport you to different worlds, evoke deep emotions, and leave you applauding for more. Secure your tickets early and get ready for a year of theatrical brilliance in the heart of London’s vibrant entertainment scene.

Author Profile

Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com