Want to know how to get discounted theatre tickets but don’t know where to start? Don’t stress, we’ve got you! We have all the best tips and tricks to stay in the loop and make sure you see a west end show you love with a price tag you love too.
To find out about other shows we have discounts for you can simply call us on 020 7087 2998. You can call any day of the week as our telephone booking lines are open from 10am until 7pm.
Try to go on off peak periods
This is the biggest issue people face when trying to book discounted tickets. Theatres follow a dynamic pricing structure. This means that prices change frequently! As a general rule, the best time to see a show is Monday – Thursday and outside of the school holidays. Most shows only offer discounts Monday – Thursdays anyway so you’ll usually get the best prices then.
Be spontaneous
Spontaneity is always risky but can see you grabbing the hottest tickets for the lowest price. This is the best option if you don’t have a particular show in mind. For example if you’re planning on seeing a specific show, you’re best researching if that show is discounted ahead of time. Otherwise, you may be disappointed due to the venues dynamic pricing. However, if you’re open then by all means pop in to our physical box office on Charing Cross road and ask what our cheapest shows are for that day and we should be able to find you something for a great price!
We hope you know have a better idea on how to get discounted theatre tickets. If you have any more questions, feel free to give our friendly team a call and we’ll be happy to assist you.
There are plenty of ABBA and Mamma Mia Experiences in London, but these in our opinion are the best! Each of these experiences offer something different whilst featuring all those hit ABBA songs we all know and love. These events are extremely feel-good and will have you tapping those toes and humming the tunes the whole way home!
Its easily one of the most popular shows in London and in fact, you have probably already watched the blockbuster film adaptation of the musical starring Pierce Brosnan and Meryl Streep!
The story for Mamma Mia follows a young woman getting ready for her wedding. However, when she stumbles across her mother’s old diary she discovers she has 3 possible fathers! Chaos ensues when she decide to invite all three of them to her big day!
Secondly, ABBA Voyage is one of the biggest ABBA and Mamma Mia Experiences in London. Now in its fourth year in London, it is at home at the ABBA arena in Stratford, East London which also has the Olympic Village and a Westfield shopping centre.
To create this concert, they used motion capture technology as well as a team of visual effects artists who captured ABBA’s performances over five weeks using 160 cameras. The result is realistic holograms of ABBA!
There is also a live band and vocalists who add to the concert. So, not only is this a once in a lifetime opportunity to see ABBA perform, you also get to hear great live music.
How to book ABBA Voyage tickets?
In order to book you will have to call us as they are exclusively sold in person or via telephone. This is because we have access to great discounts so they have to stay limited!
Mamma Mia the Party
Mamma Mia the Party is one of the most sought after ABBA and Mamma Mia Experiences in London. This Summer, it’s even more so as none other that Peter Andrea is performing in it. Also, you receive a delicious 4 course Greek Meal as a part of your ticket. This is all along with a show, singing, dancing which goes into the night!
This immersive show is set on Nikos Taverna on the beautiful island of Skopelos, where the first Mamma Mia! movie was shot. As the sun sets on the island, a secret romance is blossoming amongst the hustle and bustle of Nikos’ family-run taverna. Features ABBA’s legendary music, this shows hilarious new story is adapted by Sandi Toksvig!
What dates will Peter Andre NOT be performing?
Peter Andre’s last scheduled performance is 30th July 2026.
The dates he is not scheduled to perform are:
Friday 12th June Saturday 13th June
Friday 19th June Sunday 21st June
Friday 26th June
Saturday 11th July Sunday 12th July
Thursday 16th July Saturday 18th July Sunday 19th July
Saturday 25th July Sunday 26th July
Please note, these dates are subject to change and the production also cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist.
You can only book this through our sister company by clicking this link for Leicester Square Box Office‘s website. You can also book through Theatre Bookings friendly team in person or over the phone. Once you have booked you will receive an email from the venue directly to inform them of any dietary requirements.
Sinatra the Musical begins previews just tomorrow for its upcoming run at The Aldwych Theatre. The show is set at the start of the stars story in 1942, a skinny 27-year-old Italian-American singer is about to step onto the stage of New York City’s Paramount Theatre and give a performance that will change music history. But as Frank Sinatra’s voice captures a nation, his heart is torn. Torn between his wife, Nancy, and movie star, Ava Gardner. When scandal and a hostile press send his career into a tailspin, the young crooner fights back and stages the greatest comeback in show business history. Featuring over twenty classic hits, including That’s Life, One For My Baby and The Best Is Yet to Come, Sinatra The Musical is the most revealing portrait ever told about the legendary singer.
The cast includes Joel Harper-Jackson as Frank Sinatra, Ana Villafañe as Ava Gardner and Phoebe Panaretos as Nancy Sinatra. You can read more about them by clicking here. This musical is scheduled as a long runner at The Aldwych Theatre with booking until April 2027.
This star studded revival is also beginning performances this month! The comedy play, The Truth is written by Oscar-winning writer Florian Zeller. It follows two couples which are played by Stephen Managan as well as Sarah Hadland. They are joined by Janie Dee and Ardal O’Hanlon. This star-driven revival of the Olivier-nominated play peels back the lies we tell the people we love, and the ones we tell ourselves
This revival is only running in the West End for a strictly limited 14-week season.
There is only one week left to catch this show at The Duke of York’s Theatre! This play with original music stars Rebecca Lucy Taylor (Self Esteem) as Maggie.
Maggie Frisby was once the roaring voice of 60s counterculture but is now broke and disillusioned. We see a band’s youthful dreams of anarchic rebellion collapse into bitterness. Amidst the wreckage, lead singer Maggie tears through the night fuelled by booze, fury, and a voice that refuses to die.
This trailblazing play by David Hare is returning 50 years it set The Royal Court alight, Teeth ‘N’ Smiles is ready to burn things down all over again. The ship is sinking but the music remains the same.
Inter Alia could easily slot in our what’s hot section for this month! Starring Rosamund Pike Inter Alia is one of the most talked about and sold out shows in London. This production also earned Pike won an Olivier Award for her performance. Following a successful run at The National, Inter Alia is now playing at The Wyndham’s Theatre. The story is that of a Crown Court Maverick Judge who also balances life as a wife and mother. However, when her son is accused of a crime she prides herself on fighting for justice for, her world spins. This play is also only playing for a limited run. Therefore it must end on 20th June 2026. It is a hard ticket to get so we advise booking now to avoid disappointment!
Not only is Kinky Boots a discounted show with us, it also stars two celebrities! You can catch Strictly Come Dancings Johannes Radebe as well as X factors Matt Cardle lead this feel good show. Another pop icon is involved in this production is Cyndi Lauper who wrote the songs for this new musical. The story is based on a true story and the subsequent film adaptation. The show follows Charlie Price who unexpectedly inherits his family’s failing shoe factory. Unfortunately, saving the company feels like an impossibly tall order. Until he meets Lola (played by Johannes). She is a sparkling, larger-than-life drag queen with the unlikeliest of answers. Can they work together to save the day?
Kinky Boots has discounts available with online and even better ones if you come and see us in person.
Returning to the West End after 20 years and receiving 5 star reviews, Avenue Q is so back! It also recently announced its extension into January 2027. This Tony award winning musical explores how adulting is so hard. Naturally, it’s easier to hear from puppets singing about it!
Fresh out of college and searching for his purpose, Princeton ends up in a shabby apartment on New York’s rundown Avenue Q. He quickly meets his new and colourful neighbours where together they navigate the life struggles of work, love and paying the bills in their own hilarious way.
Avenue Q is now performing at The Shaftesbury Theatre until January 2027 and you can book discounted tickets with us at Theatre Bookings. WARNING: may contain puppet nudity.
Here’s some special occasion gift ideas, theatre edition! Of course, we believe the best gift you can give someone is that of theatre. whether is it a birthday, anniversary or just a fun weeekend away, getting someone theatre tickets tells them just how much they mean to you. Luckily, this doesn’t have to cost a fortune either. Our Discount & Economy Theatre Tickets are a great option for the best prices. Here we go!
When looking for special occasion gift ideas for a traditionalist you can’t go wrong with tickets to Les Miserables. It is London’s longest running musical after all. This musical is entirely sung through and is based on the classic Victor Hugo novel of the same name. Set during the French Revolution, The musical has been running in The West End for over 40 years and is still a fan favourite for both regular theatergoers and non-theatre-goers alike.
It tells the story of Jean Valjean, a French peasant, and his desire for redemption.following his release from jail in 1815 after serving nineteen years for stealing a loaf of bread, Valjean decides to start a new life. However, a police inspector named Javert refuses to let him escape justice. Alongside this, a group of young idealists attempts to overthrow the government at a street barricade in Paris.
Seen by over 160 million people worldwide Les Miserables is full of beautiful music and heart-breaking storylines. It’s no wonder it has been running for so many years. The show has a reputation of being sophisticated and popular, if that sounds like the person you’re buying for then book ahead to avoid disappointment. If you can go and watch the show Monday – Thursday why not visit us in person or call us? We may be able to source you same week discounted tickets exclusively in person.
Book your tickets now for Les Miserables playing at the Sondheim Theatre. The show is currently booking until March 2027.
This musical is sexy, spectacular and soulful! From the moment you step into the venue it is clear that no expense was spared as the venue is transformed into the Moulin Rouge! That being said, like Les Mis if you can come Monday – Thursday we might be able to source you same week discounts, exclusively in person or on the phone.
Moulin Rouge! is Baz Lurhmann’s revolutionary film which comes to life on stage. It is based on the 2001 hit film starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan Mcgregor as Christian. The two young lovers are from two very different worlds but their worlds collide at Paris’ iconic Moulin Rouge!. We follow the lovers as they start a secret relationship behind the back of the evil duke who holds the deeds to The Moulin Rouge and sees if love really does conquer all.
The jukebox musical includes songs from legendary artists such as David Bowie, Elton John, The Police, and Christina Aguilera.
Surprised? Didn’t think so! The Lion King is a top choice for families visiting London and even couples and tourists. Based on the Disney animated movie and with iconic music by Elton John and Tim Rice, this show creates memories to last a lifetime. This much-loved tale has become one of the most successful musicals of all time. It follow the courageous lion cub Simba on his captivating journey from naive youngster to destined king of the Pride Lands. It’s a sweeping drama of friendship, deceit, sorrow, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
With catchy tunes and a familiar story, it’s a great pick for many different types of people.
For this show we always advise booking in advance to get the best prices and choice of seats. Sitting in the stalls is extra special for this one but we don’t want to give away the secrets too much!
Book great seats for The Lion King today which is playing at the Lyceum Theatre and booking until December 2026.
When looking for special occasion gift ideas for thrill seekers and cinema fans, then look no further than The Hunger Games On Stage. All the excitement and action from the film and the book played out live in front of your very eyes. The astounding special effects, cinematic soundtrack and moving performances come together to tell the action-packed story of Katniss Everdeen in the dystopian world of Panem. In the story young people are chosen to enter the Hunger Games. A reality show where the contestants must literally fight to survive! When her sister who is only 12 is selected, Katniss volunteers to take her place. The show is based on the best-selling novel and film franchise of the same name.
The venue is purpose built like an arena. The cinematic experience uses multimedia in the story telling and the seats even have cupholders! If you sit in District 1 & 2 be prepared for more action as the seats move!
For someone who’s seen a lot of shows – Beetlejuice
This is the newest big show in London. For a hardcore theatre fan, it’s almost certain they are keen to see this show. Theatre fans have highly anticipated the transfer of this Broadway show and it is finally here!
Based on the cult classic Tim Burton film, this musical is the masterful musical adaptation of it. When teen Lydia Deetz moves into a new home, she discovers it is already occupied. By a couple of newly deads! This adventure into the ghostly world leads her to stumble across everyone’s favourite ghost-with-the-most, Beetlejuice. Beetlejuice however spells trouble for everyone involved, prepare for the time of your after-life!
New London theatre images are being dropped left right and centre stage this week. With some new shows opening and casts joining existing shows, these images have the London Theatre Scene in a Buzz! Here’s some of our top picks that have us buzzing to get our hands on some more theatre tickets.
This highly anticipated new London theatre show is opening on 20th May at The Prince Edward Theatre. Yesterday, the production released images of the cast in rehearsal. Beetlejuice is transferring from Broadway. It is a new musical based on Tim Burton’s classic film of the same name. The story follows a troubled teen who moves into a home with her family which is unfortunately already occupied by a newly-dead couple. When she summons the demonic ghost with the most, Beetlejuice, things get out of this world!
Leading the cast in the title role is David Flynn who is well known across TV, Film and Theatre! His most notable credits include originating the lead in the musical adaption of School of Rock, Daddy Issues (BBC) and Lazarus (Amazon). His alternate is Tom Xander, the WhatsOnStage Award Nominee from Mean Girls. For more details on the cast, Click here.
Here are the cast in rehearsals:
Beetlejuice rehearsal images by Matt Crockett – New London Theatre Shows
1536 has just opened at The Ambassador’s Theatre. Currently in previews this show is a hot ticket right now as it transfers from the Almeida Theatre. Starring Sex Education’s Tanya Reynolds, 1536 is a new play by Ava Pickett. Set in Tudor England, three women meet in secret, hungry for gossip from London. The gossip being that of a clash between King Henry VIII and his Queen, Anne Boleyn. And closer to home, another rumour begins to catch fire. As these women begin to see echoes of the royal drama in their own rural lives and a rise in violence spreads throughout the land, the actions of a queen imprisoned in a tower threaten to cost them everything.
The first look images of this new London theatre show is below:
This new RSC musical is coming straight from Stratford-Upon-Avon. The RSC have created many musicals which have gone on to be staples of the West End such us Matilda and Les Miserables. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is based on a true story and subsequent novel. Set in drought-stricken Malawi, a 13-year-old boy dreams of saving his village. Nobody believes he can. Not his father, his friends, nor his community. As crops fail and hope runs dry, William finds inspiration in scraps of old machinery and a handful of library books. What he lacks in resources, he makes up for in determination, grit and imagination, and a windmill begins to take shape.
Here are the first look production images.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind – Photos by Tyler Fayose
Lastly, Into The Woods welcomed new cast members to conclude their stint at The Bridge Theatre. The images feature new cast members Melanie La Barrie, John Owen-Jones, Jack Quarton and Rachel Tucker as they step into their roles, alongside original cast member Hughie O’Donnell.
Into The Woods is the Stephen Sondheim classic which subverts some of the most famous fairy tales. This production is so popular in fact, it one multiple awards this year and also in transferring to The Noel Coward Theatre later this year.
Wanting unique gift ideas? Look no further and give the gift of theatre. here are some of our top picks for gifting and top tips of the best way to gift theatre tickets to the people you love.
It shows the people you’re buying for who much you care about them, Objects are breakable and can be thrown away. Creating memories with the ones you love can last a lifetime. Taking the time out to spend quality time with them, shows them just how much you value them. The shows we’ve chosen are spectacles and affordable when booking tickets with us at TheatreBookings.com. The visual impressions of these shows will blow you away before the show even starts.
From the moment you step into the theatre, it is clear this is a show with high production value. The Piccadilly Theatre has been transformed into the Moulin Rouge is impressive. Based on the iconic Baz Luhrmann’s film, the musical adaptation encapsulated the style of the film perfectly.
The show follows two star-crossed lovers, and has a score of some of your favourite pop songs. The two young lovers are from two very different worlds but their worlds collide at Paris’ iconic Moulin Rouge!. They start a secret relationship behind the back of the evil duke who holds the deeds to The Moulin Rouge and sees if love really does conquer all.
Book tickets now for Moulin Rouge at The Piccadilly Theatre. Why not try visiting our in person Box Office and see if you can get discounted seats. The show is currently booking until 3rd October 2026.
This show must end next week so this is one of the gift ideas which is better for if you want to be spontaneous. Again, the visual and special effects on this show are jaw dropping and audiences have loved it for the past 4 years in which the show has played on the West End. Based on the 80s film, it follows Marty McFly and his whacky Neighbour Doc. When Marty travels to the past he finds himself stuck in the 1950s he finds himself responsible for ensuring his parent meet and fall in love. It truly is a race against time to get Back To The Future!
This show is another visual spectacle from the moment you step into the theatre. Not only is the entire theatre transformed, but also, the cast includes a host of prologue performers. The show encourages you to come early and explore every nook and cranny of what they have to offer. With superb food and drink available and professional performers entertaining you before the main show begins, your experience starts as soon as you walk through the door. This classic musical is set in Berlin against the Nazis rise to power. Sally Bowles sings to forget. Cliff Bradshaw writes to remember. And the Emcee reminds us that life is beautiful… until it isn’t.
Book tickets for Cabaret at The Kit Kat Club which is currently booking until 30th January 2027.
Again, this show is closing soon so nab your discounted tickets now. Andrew Lloyd Webbers hit musical sees the entire cast on roller skates! They whizz about the audience as a children’s train set which comes to life. The engines race to become the fastest in the world. It features some of musical theatre’s most beloved songs, including AC/DC, Make Up My Heart, Light at the End of the Tunnel and the iconic Starlight Express.
Starlight Express is playing until 3rd May 2026 at The Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre.
This show truly is a gift for a special occasion. It can get quite expensive so our advise is to book in advance for this one. As London’s 2nd longest running musical, the Phantom of the Opera has been seen by more than 160 million people worldwide. Based on the gothic novel by Gaston Leroux, the storyline follows an opera company and its ghostly, enigmatic phantom who haunts the show, and an aspiring young opera starlet.
Lastly, this theatre gift idea is for those who love plays. This theatre is in London County Hall and Agatha Christies Courtroom drama takes place in a courtroom! We recommend you get their early to explore this beautiful venue. It is also best to book in advance especially if you want to book those juror seats. In this story, Leonard Vole is accused of murdering a widow to inherit her wealth. The stakes are high – will Leonard survive the shocking witness testimony, will he be able to convince the jury, and you of his innocence and escape the hangman’s noose?
Now that 2025 is coming to a close it’s time to get excited about all the incredible 2026 shows that are coming to London! The first quarter is already packed with exciting new openings. Here’s a list of west end shows opening in 2026 that you don’t want to miss.
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is transferring to the Theatre Royal Haymarket in January. following a successful run at the Chichester Festival Theatre last year. The show is based on the novel by Rachel Joyce and features a soundtrack by Passenger. The show has announced its cast list and will star Jenna Russell, Noah Mullins and Mark Addy as Maureen, The Balladeer and Harold respectively. .
Cynthia Erivo stars in Dracula, the one-woman play at the Noel Coward Theatre from the 4th of February. The Wicked star is set to lead this new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s legendary Dracula, adapted by Kip Williams. The Tony, Emmy and Grammy winner will transform into all 23 roles for this re-imagining. And though it is a play, do not fear the final act will feature an original song.
Johannes Radebe best known for his appearances on Strictly Come Dancing will be making his West End debut this Spring. He will be reprising the role of Lola in the London Coliseum’s Kinky Boots. Having previously played the role in the UK and Ireland Tour. Kinky Boots has a book by Harvey Fierstein and a score by Cyndi Lauper. The show is based on the 2005 film and follows Charlie Price who teams up with Lola a drag performer, in order to save his struggling shoe factory.
Inter Alia, starring Rosamund Pike transfers to the Wyndham Theatre after a sold-out run at the National Theatre. The play is written by Suzie Miller and directed by Justin Martin who are most well known for their previous award-winning production of Prima Facie. Prima Facie starred Jodie Comer and went on to win Olivier. BAFTA and Tony Awards. Inter Alia has a similar premise, following a female Judge instead of a lawyer and features two other actors. Although Pike still takes on a few different roles within the story. The show was critically acclaimed and a pro shot was filmed and released in cinemas.
Avenue Q
Avenue Q is finally back on the block! This Tony-winning best new musical is back in London after 15 years. The show famously beat Wicked in the Tony race, and audiences have been clamouring for a return since it left. The show has found a home at the Shaftesbury Theatre, taking over from Just For One Day, the Live Aid musical. The Theatre is planning to undergo some renovations in it’s upper circle. Which has always been the weaker section in the theatre in terms of comfort and sight-lines. During this time, the Royal Circle and Stalls will remain open, and Avenue Q will be playing to a slightly smaller capacity than the Shaftesbury is used to. The show is on a strictly limited
Beetlejuice has finally been transferred to the West End at the Prince Edward Theatre. The show will be staged in the Prince Edward following the closure of MJ the musical. It will be a limited season following it’s third Broadway run. The show was nominated for several Tony’s including Best Musical. The musical is directed by Alex Timbers and features an original score by Eddie Perfect.
So have you ever asked yourself what is the best way to book a West End show for cheap? Or where to find discounted west end tickets? Well you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post I’ll be sharing all the best ways to get great deals to the theatre and how to secure the best seats for reasonable prices.
Q. Where to buy cheap theatre tickets?
A. For special offers to West End shows, theatrebookings.com has a list of offers available. Sometimes to even the hottest shows in town like MJ the musical and Tina Turner! This list is constantly updated, so be sure to check in often to grab deals as they become available. If you’re not sure what you want to see and want to decide on the day visit us in our ticket booth in Leicester Square! We are conveniently located just opposite Leicester Square station before the entrance to the square and will have a special offer list on the window!
Q. How to get reasonable prices for theatre shows?
A. The answer to this might be obvious but it really is always a good option to book in advance. It’s a bit of a myth that waiting till the last second will secure you the cheapest tickets possible. While that can sometimes happen it’s only worth taking the risk if your a solo theatre goer who isn’t too fussed about which show to see. And of course nothing can be guaranteed. If you’re set on a show and date the best option is to book as far in advance as tickets prices will be set at their normal rates and dynamic pricing won’t apply. To book in advance and check prices theatrebookings.com has a very clear and easy to navigate system! We are also STAR certified so customers can rest assured there tickets are genuine and will be delivered promptly.
Q. How to ensure the discounted theatre tickets I buy are real?
A. For peace of mind book with theatrebookings as we are a member of S.T.A.R. and an official ticket agent. This also means the special offers we have are normally exclusive deals with shows and won’t be found elsewhere. S.T.A.R certification means we follow all consumer laws and will provide clear guidance and instruction in buying tickets.
Q. Who are official theatre ticket agents?
A. Theatre Bookings and our partners Leicester Square Box Office is an official ticket agent to buy theatre tickets. We are a member of S.T.A.R which is a ticket selling regulating service. That means you can trust us when buying tickets in London. Not only are we an accredited member but we are also a co-founding member of this regulatory body.
In light of so many show closures and new openings. I thought this would be an interesting time to look back at some of the true long runners of the industry and how they have stayed so popular in such a competitive environment. This list will also show the true history of the West End as the theatre hub officially started with Theatre Royal Drury Lane opening all the way back in 1663. During this time the West End has grown to 39 theatres from massive playhouses like the Apollo Victoria with a capacity of over 2000 to small intimate venues like the Arts theatre with only a 350 capacity. There has been countless shows playing at a near constant turnaround but these are the 6 shows that are the longest-running west end shows.
The Mousetrap – 73 years
The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie is the longest running show in the entire world. Starting all the way back in 1952 the show has become a bit of a legend. And many tourists and locals flock to it daily to see how this murder mystery secret has been kept for all these years. Based on the classic Agatha Christie novel the Mousetrap tells the story of this unlikely group of characters. Who become trapped in a hotel during a snow storm before one mysteriously turns up dead. We then follow along the investigation and the audience is kept guessing over whodunit. The play also famously ends with the cast telling the audience to help them keep the secret.
Tickets for the show are always very hot but everyday they release cheap front row seats in the stalls. Visit us at our ticket booth in Leicester square for £27 seats on the day.
Les Miserable – 30 years
Les Miserable is the longest running musical in the world playing now in the West End for 30 years. The show has played over 15,000 performances. It is now celebrating it’s 30th anniversary with a special cast from alumni of the show. The musical follows Jean Valjean, a french peasant, who is released on parole after 19 years of imprisonment for stealing a loaf of bread. Over decades we follow him on his new life searching for redemption as the revolutionary period in France commences. The musical is the most awarded show in the world with some of the most famous songs being “I dreamed a dream”, “Do you hear the people sing” and “At the end of the day”.
The Phantom of the Opera – 29 years
The Phantom of the Opera is the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical about the tragic story of Christine Daae, who becomes the obsession of the mysterious musical genius. Who live below the Paris Opera House, The Phantom. The show has been seen by 20 million people an is praised for it’s grandeur and simplicity. It also tackles the classic themes of love and obession, which means it connects well with international audiences as well. The show includes the iconic titular song “The Phantom of the Opera” and other classics like “Music of the Night” and “All I Ask of You”.
Mamma Mia – 26 years
Mamma Mia is the first and only jukebox musical on this list composed by Catherine Johnson. And based on the songs by ABBA the Swedish group. The musical is named after the 1975 chart topper “Mamma Mia! and the original band members Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus were involved in the entire process. The musical features all of Abba’s greatest hits like “Super trouper”, “Dancing Queen”, “Knowing me, Knowing you” and “Voulez-Vous”. It has also been adapted into a film starring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried in 2008. The story follows Sophie who is looking for her real father to attend her wedding. Guaranteed to be a fun night filled with joyous songs the show has drawn over 70 million people worldwide.
The Lion King – 26 years
The Lion King is the most successful Disney musical based on original animated film. The show debuted 1997 three years after the film and was an instant success. It feature actors in animal costumes as well as giant hollow puppets. The show won many awards including best musical at the Tony’s but also won Best Costume across the board. For it’s revolutionary use of puppets and animal costumes. The show blends a beloved story with captivating visuals and universally loved music to create a show that has been simultaneously running in the West End and Broadway for over 20 years. It is also the first show on the list to delight audiences across the ocean for this long. As it’s still playing after Phantom, Mamma Mia and Les Mis closed on Broadway.
Wicked – 19 years
Wicked has been running for 18 years at the Apollo Victoria theatre in London and shows no sign of lowing down after the film came out last year to massive commercial success and praise from critics. The musical is loosely based on the book by Gregory Maguire. It tells the unheard story of the Wicked Witch of the West from the classic story The Wizard of Oz. The show has been seen by over 12 million people in London alone. And has won awards all over the world including three tony’s and a Grammy for Best Musical Album. The film Wicked: For Good adapts the second half of the stage show and is due to be released this November.
Honorable Mention: Starlight Express – 18 + 1 years
Starlight Express is an honorable mention for this list as the revival currently playing isn’t the same production as the one that ran for 18 years but it is notable as one of the few cases of a long runner closing and then coming back. Starlight Express is another Andrew Lloyd Webber show and is about a child’s train-set coming to life in his dreams and competing to become the fastest engine in the world. Playing in the specially built Troubadour Theatre the show famously has all the actors on rollerskates. The theatre is split into Platforms, carriages and the locomotive for a immersive experience.
Book in advance with theatrebookings for great prices to these shows!
Here’s part 2 to my previous best theatres to go to for a great views for cheap prices. It’s not easy to find good deals for all the shows we want to see but if you’re on a budget it doesn’t mean you can’t still get a good close view of the show. Here’s three more theatres that offer great views even from the cheapest seats in the auditorium.
Dominion Theatre
Conveniently located right opposite Tottenham Court Road station the Dominion Theatre with it’s huge marquee and bright red heel is hard to miss. But the inside of the Theatre is somehow even more glamorous. With rich red seats and walls the Theatre is truly one of the grandest interiors in the West End. Although originally planned as a musical theatre the venue spent just over 50 years as a cinema. Where it notably hosted Charlie Chaplin London premier of City Lights. In 1981 it became a live venue and has since hosted many musicals. The theatre is huge with a 2000+ capacity spread over two floors. Both floors have decent rake and tiering which means heads are normally not an issue. With multiple aisles separating the blocks of seating access is fairly easy and even the further seats have decent legroom and uninterrupted views.
The current show is The Devil Wears Prada starring Vanessa Williams. Based on the iconic hit film the new musical has finally landed in London’s West End. With music by Elton John and a book by Paul Rudnick who also worked on the screenplay for the original film. The show has been praised for it’s performances. Vanessa Williams said to be a true star and stepping up to the iconic role originally played by Meryl Streep. With Amy Di Bartolomeo receiving an Olivier nomination for her role as Emily. The show is currently booking till January 3rd 2026 and Vanessa Williams will star until 18th October. Don’t miss your chance to see her incredible Miranda Priesley and book in advance now for the best prices.
Shaftesbury Theatre
The Shaftesbury Theatre is located in Shaftesbury avenue and was originally the New Prince’s Theatre before it’s name change in 1963. The Theatre has three floors and the upper circle is always very reasonably priced. Although the seats are not the most comfortable with some complaints about limited legroom the view will hopefully make up for it. The view is clear and still feels quite close with a good span of the entire stage. And the dress circle and stalls are even better with good rakes and tiers to both.
Just for one day is now playing at the Shaftesbury until January 2026. It is a gloriously fun but informative musical about how the Live Aid Concert came about. Starring Craige Els as Bob Geldof we follow the story of Band Aid which became Live Aid. And how this mammoth music event that was like nothing before it and nothing after it came to be.
The Other Palace
The Other Palace is the newest theatre on this list opening in 2012. It’s also the only off West End theatre. When built it was described by the architect as the “first newly built theatre complex in central London for 30 years”. Designed more like a cinema the cinema only technically has one floor the stalls but it is tiered the entire way up which means you’ll never have to look around or over someone’s head. And at only 13 rows deep you’re never too far from the action. This is probably one of the best in London for great views for cheap prices.
The show currently playing at the Other Palace is Saving Mozart, a new musical about the true story of the genius and the people in his life who helped shape him to the musical legend he is remembered as. Starring Aimie Atkinson, Jack Chambers and Erin Caldwell the story delves into Mozart’s life. His family and the extraordinary women who challenged, shaped and ultimately saved him.
After Saving Mozart’s limited 5 week run, 50 first dates will open on the 14th September. Bringing the iconic Adam Sandler rom-com to stage, the musical adapts the heartfelt hilarious story of bachelor Henry meeting Lucy and after an amazing first date where he’s convinced shes the one. She wakes up the next morning with no memory of their first date. Starring Georgina Castle(Mean Girls) and Josh St. Clair(Ghost) the new musical is a heart-warming love story worth seeing over and over.
Hopefully this has helped you with deciding what shows to potentially see on a budget. For Great views for cheap prices book with theatrebookings now!
