No trip to London would be complete without attending a show in the West End. London has one of the most vibrant theatre scenes in the world, and no matter what time of the year, you’re here, there’s something to please everyone!
One of the longest running shows in the West End is Mamma Mia! which was made into a hit film starring Meryl Streep, Colin Firth, and Pierce Brosnan. The stage version has been an audience favourite since it opened in 1999. It tells the story of a girl trying to discover the identity of her father before her wedding day, all set to ABBA’s greatest hits. The production is already one of the longest-running shows in the history of the West End, and recently announced it is extending its booking through April 2013.
Fellow West End juggernaut, Les Misérables, similarly looks set to run forever as a film version of the popular musical goes into production with an all-star cast including Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, and Anne Hathaway. It is the world’s longest running musical, premiering in 1985 and playing to sold-out houses in London ever since. Set against the backdrop of the events leading to Paris’ peasant uprisings in 1832, it tells the story of Jean Valjean, who after serving nineteen years hard labour for stealing a loaf of bread, manages to escape, only to be pursued by the nefarious police inspector Javert. This epic musical was radically redesigned for its 25th anniversary in 2010 and continues to appeal to modern audiences, receiving standing ovations every night.
For fans of legendary rock band Queen, We Will Rock You is the perfect choice for a night out. The musical features all of their greatest hits, including “We are the Champions”, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Radio GaGa”, and of course the title track. Set in a dystopian future overrun by commercialism and ruled by the evil Killer Queen, this show has been a huge hit with rock fans, tourists, and Londoners alike, playing to packed houses every night.
For families, Matilda the Musical is the hottest ticket in town. Based on the much-loved children’s book by Roald Dahl, it tells the tale of a little girl who loves reading, much to her television-obsessed parents’ dismay. When she starts at a new school with a frightening, child-throwing headmistress, Matilda learns she has more powers than she realised. With new songs added by comedian Tim Minchin, this is non-stop fun for the whole family.
With more than 25 West End shows playing at any given time, there’s always something to see that will make your trip to London even more enjoyable.
Tim Sullivan is a London-based writer and director. He contributes regularly to Cheap Theatre Tickets.
