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!

The Producers, by Mel Brooks, full cast has now been announced. The show is to begin previews at the Garrick Theatre on the 30th of August after Mrs Warren’s Professions closes on the 15th. With the official opening on the 15th of September. But we now have the full cast list and a bit more information about this West End transfer.

The Producers is based on the cult film by Mel Brooks. Which was his first film to win the academy award for Best original Screenplay. Overall the story follows two producers who down-on-their-luck decide to create the biggest flop in theatre history. Hilarity will ensue however, when ironically the show is beloved by the audience and opens to thunderous applause. Packed with Mel Brooks signature humor the Producers guarantees to be a hilarious night out.

After announcing the principal cast in March. With most actors from the London transfer reprising their roles for the West End run. This includes Andy Nyman as Max Bialystock, Marc Antolin as Leo Bloom, Trevor Ashley as Roger de Bris. Raj Ghatak as Carmen Ghia, Harry Morrison as Franz Liebkind and Joanna Woodward as Ulla.

The cast is completed by Alex Lodge, Kelsei-Rae Marshall, Megan Armstrong, Olly Christopher, Gabrielle Cocca. Nolan Edwards, Michael Franks, Matt Gillett. Esme Kennedy, Sinead Kenny, Josh Kiernan , Kate Parr, Emma Robotham-Hunt, Pierce Rogan, Hollie Jane Stephens, Jermaine Woods and Ryan Pidgen. Furthermore Ryan Pidgen will be Max’s standby and Matt Gillett is the Resident Director. Additionally with Gabrielle Cocca and Josh Kiernan as Dance Captain and Vice respectively.

Book tickets in advance to see The Producers at the Garrick theatre now! The midweek performances usually have the best availability.

Burlesque the musical has officially finished it’s previews and has had their opening night at the Savoy Theatre. The show opened to some controversy online after there was a big change in the creative team after the director and Choreographer left the production which meant Todrick Hall who was starring in the show then took on both roles. The opening preview also generated some buzz for starting quite late and ending after 11pm despite the original runtime. Now that the press night has happened and the reviews are in the show is showing it’s true merits.

The Guardian ★★★★★

“What a tremendous breath of fresh air. Amid the indefatigable rise of movies cynically re-spun for the stage, this musical adaptation of the 2010 film … goes its own eccentric way.”

“Todrick Hall’s choreography is a sensation, with jaw-dropping athleticism, balletic moves and circus acrobatics, while Marco Marco’s “more is more” costumes deserve an award.”

“The show as a whole bares it artifice every now and again, but without indulging in knowingness.”

“The whole thing is very RuPaul. There is no lip-syncing, as in the film, but enough leather, feathers, sequins and disco ball lighting for a season of Drag Race.”

“It is over-adrenalised and messy in its plotting, but you forgive the blips. This is a production stuffed with personality, spectacle and wow factor. Come for the nostalgia, perhaps, but stay for the new kicks: bigger, naughtier and camp as hell.n.”

Arifa Akbar

The Telegraph ★★★★

“Christina Aguilera’s raunchy Burlesque musical is a cult hit in the making“

“Well, this is a surprise…. this knowingly daft riff on the 2010 Christina Aguilera and Cher movie emerges as a strange sort of triumph.”

“Hall embodies the show’s meta-lite theatricality by turning the fact he plays both Tess’s queeny right-hand man Sean, and Ali’s vodka-swilling gospel teacher Miss Loretta into a running gag. He makes a virtue out of the show’s scrappy DNA and madcap, extemporaneous air”

“… sometimes it’s hard to know if the show is being wink-wink referential or simply derivative… Yet the buzz is infectious. Folley is formidable as Ali, easily Aguilera’s equal”

Claire Allfree

The Times ★★★

“Car crash? Actually it’s rather compelling“

“Connoisseurs of theatre car crashes are going to be disappointed… despite its rough edges — the book, by the film’s director, Steven Antin, gets hopelessly tangled in the second half — Todrick Hall’s production has more vim than that other recently arrived contender in the hen party stakes, The Devil Wears Prada. And in the pairing of Jess Folley and the American singer Orfeh (who is making her West End debut) the evening unfurls some powerhouse vocals.

“… whenever Folley gets her moment centre stage, she’s utterly compelling. You only wish, too, that the petite Orfeh had more opportunities to showcase a voice that’s a mixture of granite and bourbon.”

“Aguilera’s Express gives Act II an explosive opening kick as Ali discovers her inner vamp. It wasn’t always possible to make out the lyrics to the songs, but the ensemble’s sheer energy made amends.”

Clive Davis

The Stage ★★★

“Messy, over-extended movie musical adaptation with star turns from Jess Folley and Orfeh”

“For all the dramas on stage and off, Burlesque is an upbeat, sassy story packed with astounding vocals – extensively from Folley and Orfeh – and some genuinely exciting dance routines choreographed by Hall.”

Paul Vale

City AM ★★★★

“Rachel Zegler is enthralling as Evita in this gorgeous sensory overload of a show”

“this populist gesture is emblematic of Jamie Lloyd’s big, bold, stadium rally of a staging. With its virtuoso star Zegler romancing a rapt audience both inside and outside the theatre’s walls.”

“this gorgeous sensory overload of a show is its own comment on the rising tide of fascism. Populism is sexy, captivating, overpowering – a way for weary people to escape the dull realities of right and wrong. You know there’s something deeply twisted under that pretty shiny surface, but, like the audiences of Evita, you’re powerless to resist.”

Alice Saville

The Theatre Talk ★★★★

It recieved similarly positive reviews back when it was on at the Manchester Opera House with the same cast reprising their roles.

“The show itself opens with one of the more successful changes. A prologue penned and performed by Todrick Hall (as Sean) whips the audience into frenzied excitement”

“Burlesque is a spectacle with dazzling choreography, tantalising costuming and impressive staging.”

“Even the most devoted Aguilera fans cannot deny that Jess Folley is an absolute revelation as Ali, single handedly stealing the show. Even on a sweltering June evening, she manages to give you goosebumps with her powerhouse vocals.”

“A particular highlight is ‘Bound To You’, in which she beautifully duets with leading man Michael Mather (Jackson). Never putting a foot wrong, she is worth the ticket price alone.”

Overall from the Burlesque Review Round-Up we see it has received overall good reviews and it shows we shouldn’t judge a show in it’s preview stages too harshly. As that is when changes and errors are more permissible. The show is running for a strictly limited season at the Savoy until Paddington takes over!

So don’t miss your chance and see the acclaimed cast in this production!

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.

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.

Don’t miss this dazzlingly bold production of EVITA playing for 12 weeks only at the Palladium. Book tickets here for the best prices!

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.

Tina Turner

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.

My Master Builder

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!

Mrs Warrens Profession

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

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.

EVITA

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.

Book tickets to see Hercules now at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane

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 Comedy about Spies

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’.

Titanique

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.

Fawlty Towers

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.

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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!

For the humor

The Comedy of Spies – Noel Coward Theatre

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.

The Book of Mormon – Prince of Wales Theatre

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+.

For the Songs

MJ the musical – Prince Edward Theatre

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.

Just for one day – Shaftesbury Theatre

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

TINA – Aldywch Theatre

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.

For the Spectacle

The Lion King – The Lyceum Theatre

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.

My Master Builder – Wyndham’s Theatre

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.

Back to the Future – Adelphi Theatre

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!