SeatPlan Logo

Friday Matinees In London

Friday matinees are a fantastic way to start your weekend early, so book a half day at work and head into London for world-class entertainment. More shows are now playing on Friday afternoons including the hilarious The Book of Mormon and the West End’s own version of drinks at your local, Choir of Man. Performances start any time between 2pm and 4pm on Fridays, so if you can get into London in the mid-afternoon, you can enjoy a show before dinner. This is the perfect way to kick off a mini-break and leaves even more time for other activities the next day. If you are in town all weekend, check listings for Saturday matinees too.

19 Shows in London

The Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon

From the creators of South Park this outrageous, multi-award winning musical tells the hilarious story of two naïve Mormon missionaries.

Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Discover the thrilling origins of the Upside Down in this incredible new prequel to the Netflix series, co-created by the Duffer Brothers.

Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice

The smash-hit Broadway comedy, based on Tim Burton’s cult classic film, finally makes its London debut.

The Hunger Games: On Stage

The Hunger Games: On Stage

Join Katniss Everdeen as she battles for survival and self-discovery in this immersive adaptation of the smash-hit book and film series.

Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular

Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular

Step under the big top! Iconic songs from The Greatest Showman meet breathtaking circus acts in this brand‑new immersive family spectacle.

The Truth

The Truth

Ardal O’Hanlon and Stephen Mangan lead this revival of Florian Zeller’s sharp relationship comedy about truth, lies and infidelity.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

J. K. Rowling's Wizarding World is transformed on stage, offering fans a unique return to their favourite fantasy world. Best for age 10+.

Now You See Me Live

Now You See Me Live

The highly anticipated UK premiere of the stage illusion show, Now You See Me, plays at the London Coliseum for a limited summer run.

A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Love’s logic unravels, identities shift, and magic reigns in this sunlit summer dream, as Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy returns.

Much Ado About Nothing

Much Ado About Nothing

Sharp tongues, sparring lovers and mischievous plots abound in this stylish, status-obsessed new staging of Shakespeare’s timeless rom-com

Dog Man: The Musical

Dog Man: The Musical

Crime-biting capers and comic book chaos await in this hilarious musical adventure for kids, based on Dav Pilkey’s hit series!

Paranormal Activity

Paranormal Activity

A couple are haunted by their past in this terrifying new play set in the spine-chilling universe of the Paranormal Activity film franchise.

As You Like It

As You Like It

Escape into the Forest of Arden with this revelatory and joyous festival-themed staging of Shakespeare’s beloved pastoral comedy.

Horrible Histories - Barmy Britain

Horrible Histories - Barmy Britain

Enjoy history with all the nasty bits left in at this brilliant kids’ show! From Boudicca to Queen Victoria, best for ages 5+.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea

The Tiger Who Came To Tea

Join the tea-guzzling tiger this summer, in this Olivier Award-nominated family show that is now a West End favourite! Best for age 3+.

The Gruffalo

The Gruffalo

Introduce your children to the magical world of live theatre as their favourite picture book bursts onto the stage! Best for age 3+.

Brainiac Live!

Brainiac Live!

The Olivier Award-winning, explosive family show heads to the Garrick Theatre. Best for age 5+.

The Enormous Crocodile

The Enormous Crocodile

Gobble up a fantastic family musical this summer! Roald Dahl’s book is turned into a snappy show with songs and puppets. Best for age 3+.

There's a Bear on My Chair

There's a Bear on My Chair

Are you sitting comfortably? Laughs, entertainment and lots of puppets in this fantastic family show, based on Ross Collins’ picture book.

Discover More London Theatre

London theatre New Shows

20 Exciting New Shows in London in 2026

Hot new shows coming soon to London's West End
London theatre Best Musicals

10 Best Musicals in London 2026

Unmissable West End musicals to book this year.
London theatre Best Plays In London

Top 10 Best Plays in London 2026

The most exciting plays to book in London this year.
Your basket is empty.