It has just been announced that Clueless is to close early in the West End. The musical started its run in the Trafalgar Theatre earlier this March and has been highly successful. To the point of announcing a massive extension and booking till March 2026. However, the musical has just announced they will be closing earlier than anticipated. Playing its final performance on Saturday 23rd August. The show is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and opened to mostly positive reviews with high praise for the actors, choreography and music.
The closure announcement comes around the time rumors have been flying. Over shows which have announced their premiere in the West End despite a lack of available venues. Most notable is the play Clarkston by Samuel D. Hunter which has confirmed their UK premiere and star cast but not the venue. It is now speculated heavily that the show starring Heartstopper’s Joe Locke will go to the Trafalgar Theatre.
Emma Flynn as Cher Horowitz
The West End has been lacking in available playhouses for a few years, with many shows that opened at theatres that normally and quite often turnarounds proving to be huge hits. Some examples would be Back to the Future, which has now run for 4 years at the Adelphi, Hadestown at the Lyric and even The Devil Wears Prada, which is continuing to sell out at the Dominion. This lack of playhouses likely means theatre owners are even more inundated with options. This could sadly be one of the reasons Clueless is to close early as a more promising option is waiting in the wings for a free theatre.
Book tickets for Clueless now to catch this super fun show before it closes in August! For discounted prices and special offers book on theatrebookings.
The Summer Holidays are almost here! And so begins the West End’s busiest season. Why not buy in advance to secure you and the whole family the best seats at the best prices. Before it all inflates from demand. Here’s a list of all the best family friendly show currently playing or about to start in the West End. From no age limit to a low age limit of 3+ these are shows the whole family will be able to enjoy and understand. And it’s not just shows directly made for kids. With classics like The Lion King and Matilda it’s guaranteed to be a fun day out.
CoComelon Live Sing-a-long
From the hit YouTube channel Cocomelon, this phenomenon has caught children by storm. The stage show will be a great way to introduce your babies and toddlers to the wonderful world of live musical theatre. With classic characters like JJ, Cody and Ms Appleberry appearing for not just the show but a meet and greet afterwards. It will be a memorable and exciting experience for any child. The show includes songs like “If you’re happy and you know it” and takes place at St Martin’s Theatre. To read a bit more about this show check out this article from when it was announced.
The Lion King
The Lion King has been playing all over the world for decades and remains one of the most successful musicals for good reason. The magic captured with the props and set alongside the always phenomenal cast has made The Lion King unforgettable. Based on the classic Disney Film the story follows Simba. A young lion cub as he grows up and finds his place in the world as king. The show is recommended for 6+ and children under 3 won’t be admitted as it is a full length 2.5 hours west end show. However with the classic songs like “Circle of Life”,”Hakuna Matata” it’s sure to capture your child’s attention the entire run.
Hercules
Disney’s Hercules has just landed in the West End and it’s all anyone’s talking about. The reviews have come out and it’s been unanimously agreed that it’s the perfect show for the whole family. The story is based on the Disney cartoon about Hercules the demi-god trains to live up to his birthright. While falling in love with Meg. The Muses shine in this story with powerful vocals addicting songs and striking stage presence. Hades played by Stephen Carlile has also been praised for his humour and almost panto like actions that brings a lot of levity to even the slightly darker moments of the show. Here’s a review round-up of all the praise and recommendations for Hercules if you’re still not completely sold!
Matilda
Matilda is now on it’s 14th year in the West End and is the 15th longest-running production in London. The show based on Roald Dahl’s Matilda is about a remarkably gifted little girl who uses her intellect and magical powers to create a better life for herself. For kids the show thrills with it’s large talented cast of children who make up the majority of the ensemble as well as the titular character. The choreography is bold and imaginative with relentless energy while the songs are beautifully sung, it is truly wicked and glorious fun for all.
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Based on the iconic children’s book. The Tiger Who Came to Tea is an Olivier nominated play about when Sophie and her mum had a very unusual guest over. The show is back again for a limited run at the Theatre Royal Haymarket this summer. And promises to be filled with sing-a-longs, chaos and magic. With careful attention to detail particularly regarding the costumes, sets and staging. This truly will feel like the story book brought to life.
Back to the Future
Meanwhile this ones for the slightly older crowd but if your children are over 4. And you want to introduce them to one of the classics from the 80’s in a flashy and fun musical adaptation. Back to the Future is the show for you. Sticking to the original story faithfully while adding stage comedy and musical numbers. This would be a great chance to relive a great story and introduce it on. The show doesn’t just rely on nostalgia it stands out in it’s own right. Having won the Olivier and WhatsOnStage awards for best new musical back in 2022. It has also garnered wide spread praise for it’s direction, lighting and sound design with many saying the stage effects are the most magical and mind-blowing on the West End.
Book now for the best prices on the best family shows and secure your place before the summer rush!
New EVITA Production Photos have just been released following their press night on the 1st of July. Although we’ve all seen the balcony scene by now this is a first look at the actual stage, costumes and staging from inside the palladium.
Undoubtedly the theatre event of the summer the show is playing to sold out theatres every night. While an extra few hundred people wait outside. To watch Rachel Zegler serenade the crowd with Don’t Cry for me Argentina. It was a topic of controversy for the last few weeks. With many arguing it was unfair for the crowd inside to miss out. With the New EVITA Production Photos released we see how the screens incorporate the song. And how effective the staging is in representing the two sides of Eva.
The show stars Rachel Zegler as Eva Peron, Diego Rodriguez as Che and James Olivas as Juan Peron. Along with Aaron Lee Lambert as Agustin Magaldi and Bella Brown as Alternate Eva/The Mistress.
An outstanding ensemble support them: Carl Au, Damian Buhagiar, Deangrelo Jones, Gabriela Benedetti, Shakara Brown, Kyeriah D’Marni. Sally Frith, Lucas Koch, Nataha Leaver, Michael Lin, Diante Lodge, Louis Mackroot, Mireia Mambo, Mia Mullarkey, Perry O’dea, Alysha Sontae, Monica Swayne, Jon Tsouras and Harrison Wilde. The ensembles energetic execution of the choreo highlights the tension and drama of the musical.
The show has received glowing reviews across the board. And you can read about what the critics thought in this review round-up.
London’s West End is vibrant and ever changing, although some shows like The Lion King and Les Miserables‘ remain staples for decades. Most of the theatres are home to a great variety of shows that typically change every few months. And even the long running shows aren’t guaranteed to stay forever. With some big closures coming up here are some West End shows closing soon that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Number one on the list has to be TINA which is also probably the most shocking close announced in recent years. The heart warming musical based on the life of music sensation. And now Tina is rolling out of the Aldwych this year after 7 successful years. It’s not all sad news though as the show has it’s next life touring the UK regional theatres. The show follows Tina’s entire life and how her career and life went. Featuring all of her most popular songs such as “What’s Love Got to Do with It”,”The Best”,”I Don’t Wanna Lose You”,”Proud Mary” . The show is the perfect night out and gift for any Tina Turner fan.
The inspired by Ibsen play starring Ewan Mcgregor is at the Wyndham theatre for another 2 weeks until the 12th July. The show marks Mcgregor’s return to the West End after 17 years. Set on the night of the star architects unveiling of his biggest project yet. The play explores the turmoils of marriage and how the grief can impact a relationship. This all comes to a head when Elena (Kate Fleetwood) invites over Mathilde (Elizabeth Debicki) who once had a short-lived affair with Henry Solness .
Once student and teacher the play also delves into navigating the world as a woman in typically male-dominated industries. As well as how the systems in place are designed to protect men and those already in power. Both Fleetwood and Debicki deliver haunting real performances that steal the show. Don’t miss your chance to catch this magnetic trio in their final 16 shows. Book here now!
Bessie Carter as Vivie (Left) Imelda Staunton as Mr’s Warren (Right)
Starring Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter this real life mother and daughter duo delivers a impactful moving performance as Mrs Warren and her estranged daughter. Set in the unassuming British countryside Mrs Warren’s Profession takes you on a journey. As Vivie learns of her mothers profession and how this will affect their already strained relationship. The play moves on to criticize the lack of professional opportunities afforded to women in this time period and the inherent morality of the industry. The heartfelt realistic fights and emotions the duo displays leaves the theatre on the edge of their seat. With the haunting ensemble’s unnerving stares adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the whole show
The Great Gatsby is currently scheduled to end on the 7th of September and though there’s talks of an extension it’s best to catch it now to avoid disappointment. The greatest party on London’s biggest most extravagant stage the Broadway hit has finally made it’s debut across the pond. Jamie Muscato, known for his roles in Heathers, Les Miserables, Moulin Rouge and Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, stars as Jay Gatsby a mysterious millionaire who is known for his lavish parties. Even though he himself never attends. His main goal is to entice former lover Daisy Buchanan over to his Long Island mansion but that flame has long been extinguished. Alongside him is Corbin Bleu, known for playing Chad in High School Musical and his extensive theatre work in broadway. His role as Nick Carraway marks his long-anticipated West End Debut.
The new revival of Evita starring Rachel Zegler and directed by Jamie Lloyd is in the London Palladium for 12 weeks only. The show has generated a bit of controversy by the directors choice. To have the arguably most famous track ‘Don’t Cry for Me Argentina’ sung on the balcony to the crowd outside. This has resulted in huge crowds every night waiting at 9pm to hear Zegler perform the song. But while beautiful this is just one element of a daring and energetic revival which is definitely worthy of a visit.
With a powerful ensemble the choreography stands out as modern and powerful. The set is in Lloyd’s signature stripped back aesthetic. But for this show it works well to highlight Eva and the ensemble. With the powerful vocals and thrilling performance they don’t need the glamour. This also marks Zegler’s West End debut after her golden globe win for West Side Story and Broadway debut last year in Romeo & Juliet. For performances on the 14, 28 of July and 11, 25 of August Bella Brown will take on the role of Eva. Brown is currently playing the mistress in Evita and has previously played Fate 1 and Eurydice in the Original West End Cast of Hadestown.
So, here’s my complete round-up of West End shows closing soon that I think is definitely worth a visit before it ends. For affordable tickets and discounts book tickets on theatrebookings here!
Hercules has stormed into the West End after much anticipation and hype! The previews are officially over and the reviews are out. It’s been a mixed bag with the general consensus being it’s a spectacular visual show with amazing songs and dance. But the book hasn’t quite captured the heart and magic of the original story. Here’s the new West End musical Hercules Reviews Round-up
The Critics:
The Telegraph – ★★★★
“This fun-filled adaption has retained the Disney animation’s goofy knockabout humour and refusal to take itself seriously”
“Best of all, it boasts a truly heaven sent quintet of Muses who sashay their way through Alan Menken’s still radiant gospel-driven score with just the right amount of sass to make your average tween squeal in delight.”
“Luke Brady is an endearing wannabe hero, sporting a goofy grin worthy of Jim Carrey and singing the show’s stand out song Go The Distance with palpable tenderness. The beefed up character of Meg doesn’t come off so well”
“Nothing to scare the gods then, but for families with young children, an excellent tip for summer.”
Claire Allfree
The Evening Standard – ★★★
“This adaptation of the Disney film is slick with some fun songs but somewhat lacking in strength”
“Stephen Carlile’s outrageously camp, scene-stealing Hades gets all the best lines: “People die all the time: I should know, I kill them.””
“… the show chugs along agreeably enough, powered by the attitude and powerhouse vocals of the Muses.”
Nick Curtis
The Guardian – ★★★
“Luke Brady is an incredible singer, as Hercules navigates his journey between godliness and humanness with sidekick Phil”
“The cast around Brady is just as strong vocally, but breezy in their dialogue.”
“Go the Distance is a lovely solo by Hercules but you do not feel quite enough emotion from it. The upbeat numbers work better… there is astolidity to the story, as if an ancient tablet of stone has taken the place of a flesh and blood heart.”
“…in the second half Kwame Kwei-Armah and Robert Horn’s book gets funnier, Hercules turns goofier and his love story with Meg (Mae Ann Jorolan, cool cat to Brady’s golden retriever) grows in chemistry.”
Arifa Akbar
The Times – ★★★
“… it’s hard to work up much enthusiasm about Casey Nicholaw’s musclebound production at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. True, the temperature rises whenever the five muses deliver hand-clapping gospel fervour”
“The good news, though, is that Trevor Dion Nicholas adds mischief as Hercules’ sidekick Phil”
“Stephen Carlile makes an authentically sneering villain as Hades: all hurt pride and flaring nostrils, he brings a touch of panto energy to the proceedings. Whenever he’s on stage, the script co-written by Robert Horn and our own Kwame Kwei-Armah starts to crackle.”
Clive Davis
WhatsOnStage – ★★★
“Hercules, the latest arrival, has all the qualities associated with the brand: it’s slick, it’s colourful, it’s energetic.”
“Hercules smiles at every opportunity and has a nice line in cheek, while Meg enlivens each scene in which she appears.”
“Best of all are the five Muses, who combine magnificent gospel-riffed singing with plenty of humour and knowing sass.”
TimeOut – ★★★
“While there’s a vague nod to Hellenistic art, there were endless opportunities to have done something visually audacious and aesthetically interesting, and they were all passed upon.”
“All that accepted, it’s a sturdy action-adventure romp that absolutely does the trick and is eminently worth taking The Kids to during the hols.”
“It has charm, because it’s adapted from a charming film and talented people have made it, but it’s definitely not going to go down in legend.”
Andrzej Lukowski
RadioTimes – ★★★★★
“This lustre-dusted show-stopper of a musical is everything you could want. Spangled, joyous and gloriously camp”
“The sets are bigger than you could possibly imagine, in one moment you’re basking in the romance of Herc and Meg’s delicate rose garden, the next, Hades is descending dramatically on a rusty walkway in an Underworld that carries the vibe of a sad school disco.”
“then there’s the characters. Without hesitation, the highlight of the show are The Muses. Candace Furbert, Sharlene Hector, Brianna Ogunbawo, Malinda Parris and Robyn Rose-Li are a party in human form, making sure the show is always as irreverent and un-serious as possible, and delivering note-perfect vocals throughout. Without them, the show simply wouldn’t work.”
Conclusion
Overall, while it’s not glowing reviews the show is praised for it’s excellent acting and songs alongside gorgeous sweeping sets. Hopefully you enjoyed the Hercules Reviews Round-up and are excited to see the show playing until 2026 it’ll be the perfect fun night out with the whole family this summer.
The funniest west end shows currently on is quite subjective as all humor is. But I’ve gathered a diverse list of all styles of comedy so that hopefully there’s something for everyone! The West End might be known more for it’s serious and dramatic plays and musicals but comedic shows have also found huge success with some of the longest running plays being pure comedies. Some would argue these shows offer the best escapes for their audiences while having some of the cleverest writing. So from slapstick to word play we have it all and here my top 5 comedic shows.
The newest show by the famous Mischief Comedy group had top be the top of the list! The comedy about spies is a classic comedy instead of their signature gone wrong series featuring original company members. The show follows a fictional British spy organization who are on the hunt to recover a very important missing file. Set in a hotel with a gorgeous two story set the direction and physical comedy takes advantage of the set in unique and daring ways. They performed a small portion of the opening on the royal variety show. This can be seen here if you need some further incentive to see this show. Playing at the noel coward theatre on a strictly limited run until 5th September make sure to catch it while you still can!
The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon is a cult classic as this point. Therefore it isn’t surprising how it has quickly risen up to become the 8th longest show that’s still currently running in the West End. Starting in March 2013 after winning 9 Tonys in 2011 including Best Musical. The show follow Elder Price an exemplary Mormon as he goes on his mission to Uganda. There he has his rose tinted glasses removed and sees some of the horrors that exist in the world. With classic numbers like Hello and Hasa Diga Eebowai the show is a riot throughout and has audiences coming back again and again. Written by the creators of South Park if that’s your style of humor this is the show for you.
Clueless
Now that mean girls has left the west end it’s good to know we have another classic hilarious high school comedy to fill that void. Clueless is based on the movie of the same name which in turn was loosely based on Jane Austen’s novel Emma. We follow Cher a rich, spoiled yet kind-hearted teen as she sets out to do good deeds at her high school. Starring Emma Flynn who dazzles as Cher Horowitz and manages to pay homage to the original while delivering perfect vocals, acting and comedy. Alongside is Keelan McAuley, who plays the sensible Paul who Cher falls for, delivering powerful vocals in some of the original scores biggest hits like ‘Reasonable Doubts’.
If you’ve ever watched the James Cameron epic Titanic and thought I wish Celine Dion was narrating the story do I have the show for you. Hailed as camp chaos Titanique is a hilarious, outrageous comedy musical featuring stunning vocals and a slightly nonsensical story line. The running gag is Celine Dion interrupting every big moment of the romance and other exuberant twists on both the characters and plots that I won’t spoil. All you need to know is you’ll be in for a good time. Running at the Criterion Theatre which has historically given fringe like shows a chance to shine on the West End. It has also recently become an Olivier winning show. With Layton Williams winning an Olivier for his vital supporting role as the Iceberg.
Although not currently on Fawlty Towers will be making it’s return to the Apollo Thetare on the 24th of June after a incredibly successful sold-out run last year. Based on the classic British comedy which they have successfully transformed into a brand new stage comedy play. Adapting TV shows into a stage adaption is a rarity as it seems impossible to condense down a 12 episode season into a 2 and a half hour play yet the stars have aligned and Fawlty Towers manages to capture the heart and soul of the sitcom. The writing from 1970 holds up well in the modern day with visual gags, punchline delivering the same punch they did all those years ago. The nostalgia aspect helped bring people back to there younger days. Alongside the fantastic costuming and makeup many actors bore striking resemblances to their TV counterparts.
Book now on Theatrebookings for cheap tickets and exclusive discounts on these shows!
Father’s Day is fast approaching and if you’re stuck for gift ideas why not go the tried and tested route of gifting a west end show? London’s West End is a surefire way to treat your dad to an unforgettable night at the theatre.
I’ve gathered a list of some of the best shows that will be sure to delight audiences of almost all ages and most of these play on a Sunday matinee as well so you can treat him on actual fathers day. The shows have been grouped by what is the most important things for you and him. Is it the jokes, the songs or the spectacle? Luckily we have it all!
Chances are if either of you are into theatre you would have already seen mischief’s biggest hit the play that goes wrong. They’ve been around for 10 years now in the west end. If you want to catch the most long-running comedy in London you can find them at the Duchess Theatre. Their newest show though is on a strictly limited run until the 5 September and it’s very different to their goes wrong show as the play does go completely right yet still full of the farcical and absurdist humor Mischief are known for.
If you would prefer to see a musical but one that’s just as funny. The Book of Mormon is really the only choice. If your dad is a fan of south park this will be perfect as it was written by the same creators. And it has it all, shocking jokes, spectacular music numbers and a healthy does of controversy. Although this might be better if you’re a bit older as it does have a age recommendation of 16+.
This was the show I gifted my dad last year and it was one of the most memorable nights. I think anyone who was alive for Michael Jackson’s heyday would remember the iconic songs and dance he created. And this show really does all the dance and music justice. With gorgeous set pieces for iconic songs like Thriller and Billie Jean. It is an uplifting informative story which continues to be very popular especially with the recent cast change.
It’s been 40 years since the live aid musical and there has never been another quite like it. To see the world untie for a good cause. And so many rock icons agree to come together for a charity concert is a true feat. It tells the story of Bob Geldof and how he got people to come together and create the fundraiser for the famine in Ethiopia. The show features songs from all the artists that performed at Live Aid. Such as David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Madonna, Bob Dyland, Queen and more. Whether your dad remembers the event or simply loves the music from these artists, Just for One Day will be a great gift
The final jukebox I have on the list is Tina: The Tina Turner musical. This show tells the story of her life and using her greatest hits such as What’s Love got to do with it and The Best. It is a joyous uplifting celebration of her life. For fans of Tina this is the best way to honor her legacy while have a full party to her best songs. The show has also announced it will be closing in September. So if it’s on the list why not go for father’s day to ensure you don’t miss it.
One the whole family can enjoy The Lion King performs a matinee on Father’s day which will be the perfect time. The Lion King has been one of the most popular musicals in the world. The grand sets, intricate puppetry and creative costumes bring the story to life. The story of Simba’s journey to reclaim his throne from his uncle Scar has been playing now for 25 years.
Celebrities in the West End have become more common this year than ever before. With Imelda Staunton leading Mrs Warrens Profession, Martin Freeman in the Fifth Step. But the biggest buzz was on Ewan McGregor finally returning to the west end after 17 years. The star wars star is leading the Ibsen play My Master Builder alongside Elizabeth Debicki and Kate Fleetwood. The play is a gripping drama about love loyalty and betrayal. Although not a conventional fun and humorous pick the excitement of seeing McGregor live on stage again after so long would make this an unforgettable experience.
And finally one more 80’s classic, Back to the Future the musical is a faithful adaptation of the beloved sci-fi film. With a all new original score and some of the most ambitious and impressive special effects in London. You would seldom find anyone who leaves this theatre that isn’t blown away by the production. The show tells the story of Marty Mcfly and his eccentric friend Doc whose just discovered the miracles of time travel. Shenanigans ensue when Marty has to help his parents fall in love. While also trying to get back to the present. Full of humor and dance this is a great father’s day gift idea and one we have truly fly exclusive discounts on!
I hope this father’s day gift ideas theatre gift guide has been useful and helped you decide what to do for Father’s day this year! To book cheap tickets head to theatrebookings now!
The best way to relive a musical you saw and loved is with an official cast recording. And if it’s with the cast you’ve just seen it can be even more magical. Sadly cast recordings are expensive to produce for shows that have limited runs and long-running shows will seldom make new ones. However with another announcement of a new cast recording fans have been clamoring for. I’ve rounded up some of the most exciting cast recordings from the West End in the last year.
Next to Normal
Next To Normal was only in the West end for 3 months yet has had a huge lasting effect on audiences and the industry. The pro-shot was recently released on PBS in America and has sparked a huge wave of love for this production. Subsequently it was announced that the official West End cast recording will be out May 30th 2025. It will star Caissie Levy in the lead role of Diane, Jack Wolfe as Gabe, Jamie Parker as Dan, Eleanor Worthington-cox as Natalie, Trevor Dion Nicholas as Dr and Jack as Henry
Next to Normal was first played in Broadway back in 2009 led By Alice Ripley and had a remastered cast recording put out last year. However due to the changes to the script, staging and casting a cast recording was very much in demand. As the new cast had a very different take on the characters and therefore the songs. For example Aaron Tveit played Gabe as a vengeful spirit intent on causing havoc in his families lives. Whereas Jack Wolfe’s take was more of a lost golden boy who just wanted his families love and acknowledgment. This greatly influenced how many of the songs sounded and now more people will be able to enjoy this new take.
Following their well-deserved Olivier Win for Best New Musical, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button got a full cast recording. The album recorded live at the Ambassadors Theatre. Darren Clark said they wanted to have a live recording there “surrounded by old storm lanterns and weathered harbourside timbers, with everyone playing and singing together”. Therefore they could capture the feeling that making music together brings. This seems to be a common sentiment regarding live albums as it’s the closest you can come to to preserving the energy of a live show.
The recording features all original West End cast members starring John Dagleish as Benjamin Button and Clare Foster as ELowen Keene.
Another hugely anticipated release is the Just For One Day cast recording set to release on the 11 July 2025. The Live Aid musical recently transferred to the West End following a successful run at the Old Vic. Before the West End run started they hosted a special press event at Wembley Stadium. Jo Whiley then revealed the original cast recording is on it’s way. This jukevox musical features songs from David Bowie, Bob Dylan, Elton John and Queen to name a few. This is exciting news as the msucial remixed and created fun medleys which made even old classics feel new and different.
The original cast includes Julie Atherton, Ashley Campbell, Jackie Clune, James Hameed, Naomi Katiyo, Hope Kenna, Emily Ooi, Rhys Wilkinson, Jason Battersby, Cassiopeia Berkeley-Agyepong, Olly Dobson, Kerry Enright, Jo Foster, Collette Guitart, Eddie Mann, AJ Lewis, Rachel Moran, Jack Shalloo etc.
A recent drop was the Hadestown Cast recording featuring Live From London on Dec 6th 2024. This was announced back in August 2024 when Donal Finn and Grace Hodgett-Young had their final show. Turns out the final show was what was recorded for this Live Album. Hadestown has already had a few cast albums which is quite rare for a successful show. But with the nature of the show and how each iteration there are tweaks to the lyrics and nuances it makes sense to have each stage memorialized.
The West Cast production was also hugely praised for encouraging actors to use their own accents in the role. With the particularly striking Trinidadian Hermes played expertly by Melanie La Barrie who won a Whatsonstage award for the role. This direction means every cast change and swing performance changes the show in ways you cant expect. This adds to the re-watchability of Hadestown as fans go see them “sing it again.” Fans were disappointed when it was announced to only be a highlights album. Notable numbers missed were Flowers, Our Lady of the Underground and Doubt Comes In. Hopefully given the whole show was recorded there is a chance for a extended version in the future! In the meantime book your tickets here to watch the amazing new 2025 cast in action.
A final honorable mention of a newish cast recording is the starlight express cast album that dropped November 8th 2024. This Andrew Lloyd Webber classic is about a child’s train set that comes to life. They then competes to see who can become the fastest engine in the world. The show is infamously performed on roller skates in the Wembley Troubadour theatre. The cast album also featured Hydrogen, the new track added to this revival. Andrew Lloyd Webber said in a statement: “Starlight Express’ return to London has been an absolute joy for me. I knew immediately that we needed a cast album to capture this brilliant show.”
Book now on theatrebookings to see these shows in person before reliving the magic with their official cast recording!
We’re almost halfway through the year and it’s been an exciting year of theatre so far in London’s West End. Over 5 brand new shows have opened and 11 have closed. I thought I would take this opportunity to reminisce and round – up the best west end shows we were saddest to see go and the ones we’re excited are staying.
Olivier Award Winners
Firstly it would be unwise to not mention the Olivier’s that took place a month ago. Best new musical winner, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, saw a huge boost in popularity beyond it’s already dedicated fan base. A home-grown British triumph which extended their run earlier this year and is now booking until August 30th. Alongside this musical, the play that got the most love was Mark Rosenblatt’s Giant starring John Lithgow as Roald Dahl. With Lithgow’s performance being a standout and securing him the Best Actor Award. The show transferred to the Harold Pinter Theatre in April and is playing until the 2nd of August.
Shows closing soon
Some surprising closes this year starts with the shocking announcement that Tina will be ending in September after 7 years. Despite long running success and when it’s run ends it will be the longest show to stay at the Aldwych Theatre. Many people are eagerly awaiting the news of what will be taking up home in the Aldwych instead. It’s not all sad news though as it will be heading off on tour next year. In the meantime, don’t miss your chance to see this uplifting show this summer!
Alongside this, Mean Girls which was even more successful here than on it’s previous Broadway run announced a closing date of 8th June. Despite attracting an audience of 350,000 and garnering an Olivier nomination for Best Supporting Actor for Tom Xander as Damien. This is potentially to make way for the Burlesque Musical and subsequently Paddington the Musical, the Savoy is a very sought after theatre. The musical still has a huge life ahead as a tour in 2026 has already been announced. Make sure you sit with them before then with our exclusively discounted tickets!
New Plays
It’s been the year for plays it seem as a litany of new thought-provoking plays landed. A personal favorite, Kyoto that tackles the key issue of climate change in a human and nuanced way. A newly opened exciting piece is My Master Builder currently on at the Wyndhams Theatre. Starring Ewan McGregor as a genius architect, this spin on Ibsen classic is where you want to be for an exciting night of drama. Set on the eve of July 4th whilst Elena throws a party for her husband Henry Solness. Unbeknownst to him she has also invited Mathilde a former student of Henry’s with who he had a short affair. McGregor’s co-leads are Kate Fleetwood and Elizabeth Debicki. Fleetwood in particular brings a level of passion and real pain to Elena that steals any scene she’s in.
New Musicals
The musicals are not far behind. Just For One Day also recently opened following a successful run at The Old Vic. The Live Aid Musical have just started previews with a special gala performance on the 13th July to honor the 40th anniversary. It is already booking till Jan 2026 and will hopefully be appearing on some best west end shows lists. The latter half of the year is when more musicals will start appearing like The Producers and Disney’s Hercules.
Frozen’s closing last year was a huge loss but soon the West End will have two Disney musicals again with Hercules attracting a new audience at the Drury Lane theater and The Lion King still going strong at the Lyceum after 26 years. With the popularity of all Disney properties it’s always wise to book in advance to ensure the best seats for great prices.
Shows on their way to be classics
It can sometimes feel like theres two categories of shows that get the most attention. The long running classics like Les Miserables or Hamilton and the new shows that have just opened. But not enough attention to the best West End shows that have been successfully delighting audiences for years but haven’t yet become a classic.
Hadestown transferred to the West End in feb 2024 from Broadway and it going strong at the Lyric Theatre. When the original Broadway cast was announced, every ticket for that month sold in just a few hours. And now, with their new cast they are selling well. It will hopefully be a staple on Shaftesbury Avenue for years to come. Back to the Future, although closing on broadway a few months ago, has been going strong at the Adelphi for almost 4 years now. This Tony-winnning musical promises a fun night out with the most outstanding stage production currently found on the West End.
Transfers from Broadway seems to be the trend as MJ the Musical is booking until march 2026 already. Although Tony-award winner Myles Frost has left, the titular role Jamaal Fields-Green replaced him and is garnering positive reviews for his nuanced portrayal of MJ‘s vulnerability and artistry.
Some could argue Six is already a classic having now run at the Vaudeville Theatre since it first opened in July 2019. Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’s hit debut has attracted a dedicated fan base and played successfully to audiences from New York to Sydney.
With talented swings and stunts such as the Japanese queens coming over for a week this is a musical you can watch again and again. The proshot with the original cast was released last month and has further incentivized people to watch this glamorous production. As the performers bring so much of themselves into the role it truly does feel new each time you go. The fact it sells out practiculary every night says it all. If you want last minute exclusive seats book with us here or in person on the day!
Burlesque which is transferring to the west end this July has announced it’s lead cast and creative team. Burlesque was a musical drama film from 2009 about a small town girl Ali Rose who moves to Los Angeles and after a series of unsuccessful auditions comes across a burlesque club. There she meets Tess the owner of the struggling Burlesque club.
The show was first seen on stage in Manchester and Glasgow last year written for the stage by Steve Antin. Antin was the director of the film the show is based on. With songs from Christina Aguilera (who played the main character Ali on screen) Sia and Diane Warren. Jess Folley and Todrick Hall also added additional songs.
New Cast of Burlesque: Todrick Hall, Orfeh, Jess Folley
Furthermore the transfer will star Jess Folley as Ali and Todrick Hall as Sean. The role of Tess will be played by Orfeh who will be making her much anticipated West End debut. Orfeh is a Broadway legend and was Tony-nominated for playing Paulette in the Legally Blonde musical.
Lastly joining the lead Burlesque cast is George Maguire as Vince, Paul Jacob Frendch as Jackson and Asha Parker Wallace as Nikki. The creative team have also been announced with Nate Bertone (set designer), Ben Harrison (Sound Designer), Chris Poon (musical Director) and Rory Beaton (lighting designer).
Don’t miss your chance to see this much anticipated West End transfer and book your cheap tickets here!
