The biggest collaborative theatre event is almost upon us and the official schedule has been released! Held in Trafalgar Square West End Live is back for another year and it’s the 20th anniversary of this event.
Almost all shows will be in attendance with EVITA announcing their participation last week. This will mark Rachel Zegler’s first appearance at the free event! You’re find the full West End Live schedule below.
Both days the West End Live schedule will be opening with a Disney musical. As is tradition with Hercules kicking off the event as a whole on Saturday. As previews have all sold out now until July. The crowds are anticipated to be huge in order to get a look at this new musical.
Other crowd favorites include Hamilton which always has the crowd singing along word for word as well as Operation Mincemeat one of the most successful home grown musicals now playing in Broadway and the West End. Although Saturday might seen slightly more stacked with most long running shows performing then Sunday is not to be left behind with Titanique, The Great Gatsby and The 20 years of West End Live Concert to end the day. Although the lineup hasn’t been revealed for that performance it’s safe to say there will be familiar faces and incredible vocals.
If you want to catch any of these shows before or after the event book here for cheap tickets!
The hit musical by Disney Hercules has made it’s much anticipated debut in the West End. Making it’s lightening debut in The Theatre Royal Drury Lane there is officially two Disney shows back on in London. Hercules was announced last year in November after Frozen closed following a successful 3 year run at the same theatre.
Based on the classic 1997 Disney animated film, Hercules. Which is subsequently based on the Greek myth of the demi god. The story follows Hercules as he struggles to live up to his birthright and strength. Alongside his rivalry while against the villain Hades. Although based on the film there is a new book by Robert Horn( Shucked) and Kwame Kwei-Armah (The Visitor). The music is by Alan Menken and lyrics by David Zipppel. Popular numbers within the show include “Go the Distance”, “Zero to Hero” and “I Won’t Say”.
The titular role is played by Luke Brady. He will be starring opposite Mae Ann Jorolan who originated the role of Meg in Hamburg. Furthermore the rest of the principle cast include Trevor Dion Nicolas as Phil, Stephen Carlile as Hades, Craig Gallivan as Bob and Lee Zarrett as Charles. Excitingly the five muses will be played by Candace Furbert, Sharlene Hector, Brianna Ogunbawo, Malinda Parris and Robyn Rose-Li.
The official opening night is the 24th of June and previews have now sold out. The show is clearly already garnering a lot of attention having just announced their first extension. They are now booking until March 2026.
For best availability check from early July onwards and book your tickets now with theatrebookings!
Tina -the longest running show at the Aldwych is preparing to roll out on the 13th of September! Ahead of their final performances they have announced the final West End Cast as well as some new rehearsal photos.
Alongside current star Karis Anderson, singer and presenter Fleur East will be joining the show as alternate Tina. Performing on select dates all summer. Based on the life of Tina Turner the role is very challenging vocally and has historically been shared by two actresses. Joining this will be Natasha J Barnes as the manager and Chrissie Bhima as Alline Bullock. Furthermore James Chrisholm as Richard Bullock and Matt Dempsey as Phil Spector and Terry Britten.
Also joining the cast will be Christian James as Roger Davies, Samuel Sarpong-Broni as Raymond Hill and Erwin Bach will be taken over by Dan O’Brien. The other roles will be continued with with the current cast.
The final West End Cast will be starting performances on the 24th June.
The show is directed by Phyllida LLoyd known for her work on Mamma Mia! and written by Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall. Anthony van Laast choreographed the show and set and costume designed were by Mark Thompson. The show started back in 2018 at the Aldywch and has stayed ever since. Though the closing announcement came as a shock this is hardly the end for the musical. The UK and Ireland tour is still going strong after starting on the 6 March 2025.
Book tickets here with no booking fee to see TINA before it closed on the 13 September 2025.
The annual Tony Awards happened last night and even from the West End it was very exciting to see what theatre is being celebrated across the pond. Here’s a round up of some of the Tony awards highlights, winners and other memorable moments.
Cynthia Erivo was the host, who was catapulted to a more mainstream stardom last year with Wicked the movie. Although she is no stranger to the Tony’s and was well known for her win back in 2011 for The Colour Purple. She started the ceremony with the original song “” where some stars were welcomed to sing along. Notable mentions are Kristin Chenoweth, Aaron Tveit and Adam Lambert all of whom are Wicked alumni.
Hamilton was probably the most talked about and shared performance from the show to celebrate their 10 year anniversary. The original Broadway cast reunited to perform a medley of all of the most iconic songs such as, non-stop, Schuyler sisters and my shot.
Notable cast members include, Lin Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr, Renee Elise Goldsberry and Ariana Debose who was part of the ensemble. The performance incurred a standing ovation and has once again shown what a cultural phenomenon it is. Subsequently the show has now played for almost 10 years in Broadway and 8 in the West End at the Victoria Palace Theatre.
Book tickets to see the show in the West end with the fantastic new cast that are starting next week.
Stranger Things : The first shadow was the most awarded play of the season. They picked up awards for Best Scenic Design of a Play, Best Sound Design of a Play and Best Lighting Design. Therefore they also won a special Tony Award to acknowledge the insane illusions and technical effects.
In addition the show is currently playing in the Phoenix Theatre and has garnered much praise for the direction and effects. Make sure to catch this outstanding play before the 5th season comes out with our special offers tickets. Book here to save up to 50% off.
Notable Tony Award Winners:
Best musical – Maybe Happy Ending
Performance by an actress in a leading role in a musical – Nicole Scherzinger (Sunset Boulevard)
Best performance by an actor in a leading role in a musical – Darren Criss (Maybe Happy Ending)
Best revival of a musical – Sunset Boulevard
Performance by an actor in a leading role in a play – Cole Escola (Oh, Mary!)
Best play – Purpose
Performance by an actor in a featured role in a musical – Jak Malone (Operation Mincemeat)
Best costume design of a musical – Paul Tazewell (Death Becomes her)
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!
The new Wicked: For Good trailer is finally out! Part 2 of the critical and box office hit, Wicked, is coming out November 21st this year. The trailer has been eagerly awaited and it’s here offering fans a glimpse into part two.
The trailer starts with Elphaba in hiding as her opposition to the wizard’s scheme has made her a fugitive. We see Glinda and Elphaba reminiscing on their times together at Shiz in separate scenes. As well as their continued complicated relationship with Fiyero. Dorothy and her friends are shown on the famous yellow brick road. But who plays the characters remains a mystery for now. There’s been a lot of speculation on who would play Dorothy with rumors of Alisha Weir (known for Matilda) and some even jokingly saying it’ll be cgi Judy Garland.
Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande the trailer offers us a first listen of their anticipated duet for good. The trailer also shows Jonathon Bailey as Fiyero and a look at the extravagant wedding between him and Glinda. This is one of the scenes which appear to be film exclusive, the movie is theorized to be 2hour 30mins like part one. As the stage show is only 2 hours 40 mins, there will likely be a lot of brand new scenes in this film. Jon Chu the director has confirmed there will be two new songs although none were teased in the Wicked for good trailer.
Don’t want to wait till November to see the conclusion? Catch the stage show in London with cheap tickets here!
Check out these new Stereophonic Production Images which they released this week. The show opened on 24th May at the Duke of York Theatre. The show is a highly anticipated West End transfer of the multi Tony Award Winning play. In fact, it is the most Tony Award nominated play of all time! Stereophonic is about a band on the cusp of a major breakthrough as they record their next album. It is set in the 70’s and we follow the band dealing with pressure that is either see them break through or break up.
The Stereophonic Production Images show the cast in action for this epic play running at The Duke of York Theatre until 20th September 2025. The stars of the original Broadway production, Andrew R. Butler as Charlie, Eli Gelb as Grover and Chris Stack as Simon have joined the West End cast. Also joining them are Zachary Hart, as Reg, Lucy Karczewski as Diana, Jack Riddiford as Peter, and Nia Towle as Holly. The understudies are Sam Denia, Rima Georges, Lucy Gray and Steve Shirley.
Stereophonic is written by David Adjmi and is directed by Daniel Aukin. Also, it has original songs by Oscar nominee and Grammy Award-winner Will Butler who was in the band Arcade Fire.
The New Stereophonic Production Images can be seen below:
Stereophonic is currently playing at The Duke Of York’s Theatre until 20th September 2025. The play is 3 hours and 10 minutes long including an interval so evening performance start at the earlier time of 7pm with matinees at 1pm.
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!
CoComelon the children’s phenomenon from YouTube is coming to the West End this summer. In the form of a sing-a-long concert called CoComelon sing-a-long live. Starting July 15th it will play at the St Martins theatre from Tuesday – Sunday at 10.30am with an additional 1pm performance on Fridays and Sundays.
CoComelon started out on YouTube with a cast of original characters singing songs to educate and entertain children. Now it has come to the capital with some of their most popular characters. Ms Appleberry, JJ, Cody and Nina to name a few. It is also possible to upgrade to photo experience tickets and meet Ms Appleberry and JJ.
Cocomelon sing-a-long live is a brand-new production, designed as the perfect first live show experience for children and their families. Furthermore with engaging characters, catchy songs like “Wheels on the bus” and “If you’re happy and you know it” and fun surprises this show promises to create an unforgettable day out for grown-ups and children alike. Suitable for all members of the family 0-4 recommended.
What is CoComelon?
Cocomelon is a global phenomenon for kid’s entertainment amassing over 4 billion views monthly on YouTube. It is watched by children in other 80 countries and is available in 20 languages. In addition they have multiple successful spin-offs such as Cody Time, CoComelon Classroom and a netflix series CoComelon Lane. This will be the first live show they have created. Last November it premiered in South Africa and will have toured the US and Canada before landing in London.
Be sure to book tickets to this fun family show here!
The St Martins theatre has been home to the Agatha Christie classic The Mousetrap for 70 years and the show will continue to play in the evenings after CoComelon Live.
