The city of London is known for many pleasant things like afternoon tea, red phone booths, the Buckingham Palace, the royal princes William and Harry, and double decker buses. It’s also famous for a number of iconic attractions put together by two names like Big Ben, London Eye, and West End.
Even if you’re not so familiar with musical theater, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the West End in London. This is where travellers from all over the world come to witness the most amazing theatrical performances that are put on 6 nights a week. This is what makes the West End one of London’s most popular attractions. This is your guide to all the current best musicals in London’s West End, why you should see a show on your next trip to the city, until when you can catch them live, and where to get tickets!
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Most popular musical: Hamilton
Perhaps the hottest musical to make rounds in Broadway in New York and now the West End in London would be Hamilton. As the winner of 11 Tony Awards and the prestigious Pulitzer Prize, it’s no surprise that getting tickets to see this musical live can be very challenging and expensive. Even the musical’s preview tickets were sold out at an instant! Yet anyone who has seen it will tell you that it’s absolutely worth it!
- Schedule: Mondays to Saturdays
- Where: Victoria Palace Theater
- Until when: November 30, 2019
- Tickets start from £75.00
- Book here
Best classic musical: Les Misérables
One of the best musicals in London of all time is Les Misérables. Adapted from Victor Hugo’s French historical novel published in 1862, the musical tells the story of Jean Valjean, a French peasant, and his desire for redemption after serving years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread. Colloquially known as “Les Mis”, it made its debut in the West End in 1985 and to this day continues to amaze audiences making it the longest-running musical in London.
- Schedule: Mondays to Saturdays
- Where: Queen’s Theatre
- Until when: April 4, 2021
- Tickets start from: £48.00
- Book here
Most entertaining musical: The Lion King
The Lion King is perhaps the most successful Disney animated film in history. It has gained even more fans after the recent release of its new live-action film but people who have seen it performed live in theater will argue that the musical is its best adaptation. The elaborate costumes, flawless choreography, and heartwarming songs breathe new life into Simba’s story in Pride Rock. It is a musical that has aged well yet remains timeless!
- Schedule: Tuesdays to Sundays
- Where: Lyceum Theatre
- Until when: February 16, 2021
- Tickets start from £42.00
- Book here
Best family-friendly musical: Mary Poppins
If you’re traveling to London with your little ones, the Mary Poppins is the perfect musical for you! The musical shows a light-hearted story about the wealthy Banks children who are pleasantly surprised by the arrival of a new nanny, the magical Mary Poppins. You’ll leave the theater humming along to the musical’s tunes! Don’t miss this family-friendly musical at the Prince Edward Theater in London!
- Schedule: from October 23, 2019
- Where: Prince Edward Theatre
- Until when: March 29, 2021
- Tickets start from £30.00
- Book here
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Best pop-culture musical: Thriller Live
Thriller Live is a 2 and a half hour spectacle that celebrates the music of The Jackson 5 and the Michael Jackson. This musical has been in production for over a decade with no signs of slowing down. This is the perfect show to see in the West End for anyone who’s a fan of the King of Pop. It’s the perfect opportunity to see Michael Jackson’s most famous songs like Billie Jean, Beat It, and Thriller performed live!
- Schedule: Tuesdays to Sundays
- Where: Lyric Theatre
- Until when: April 26, 2021
- Tickets start from £48.00
- Book here
Best new dramatic musical: Dear Evan Hansen
Dear Evan Hansen tells a beautiful story about a teenager, Evan Hansen, who suffers from social anxiety. Audiences will enjoy the familiar scenes as the characters try to find their way amongst the chaos of high school. This musical received 6 Tony Awards during its first release in the United States and is currently making waves in London! Catch it live in London’s West End at the Noel Coward Theater. Tickets sell out fast so hurry up!
- Schedule: from January 13, 2021
- Where: Noel Coward Theatre
- Until when: April 4, 2021
- Tickets start from £30
- Book here
Closing soon: The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon is musical comedy that has been on stage since 2011 and winner of several awards including 9 Tony Awards! The musical follows two Mormon missionaries as they attempt to preach the Mormon religion to the inhabitants of a remote Ugandan village. The songs are catchy, the cast is stellar, and the plot will have you laughing off your seat!
- Schedule: Mondays to Saturdays
- Where: Prince of Wales Theatre
- Until when: November 9, 2019
- Tickets start from £24
- Book here