What are the top London theatre shows in 2023-2024?

The second half of 2023 into 2024 is an exciting time in Theatreland. Prestige, star-driven plays in London such as Lyonesse with Lily James and Kristin Scott Thomas offer poignant and stimulating evenings out while staple, crowd-pleasing West End musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera , Les Misérables and Wicked continue to delight huge audiences. This year has also seen the long-awaited return of classic musicals such as Sunset Boulevard , Crazy For You and Guys & Dolls and revivals of comedies including Private Lives and Noises Off .

What are the showtimes for West End Theatres?

Most West End shows start at 7.30pm for their evening performances, while 2.30pm or 3pm are standard for London matinee shows . There are some exceptions to this, such as Matilda and Frozen , which start evening performances at 7pm. Shows aimed specifically at young children may adhere to even earlier showtimes. Always check showtimes thoroughly when booking London theatre tickets and planning your visit.

Where in London is the West End?

The West End is located in the Western region of Central London; West of the City of London and East of Mayfair. Many West End theatres can be found along major thoroughfares such as the Strand, Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road. Popular tourist areas such as Leicester Square and Covent Garden are part of the West End. Tube stations that are well located for West End theatres include Tottenham Court Road, Leicester Square and Covent Garden.

Why is the London theatre district called 'The West End'?

The theatre district is located in Central London, but just to the West of what is known as 'the City of London'; the commercial district surrounding tube stations such as Bank and Monument. In the early 19th Century, areas West of Charing Cross were highly fashionable and this is when the term 'the West End' became widely used. While the urban sprawl of London now extends much farther West than the theatre district, the majority of popular theatres are located in what was traditionally the Western end of the city, before it merged with the nearby city of Westminster to become the city recognisable today.

Where can I listen to West End musical soundtracks?

Many popular music streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music hold a wide selection of musical soundtracks from both the West End and Broadway. Original Cast Recordings are a fantastic way to enjoy songs from your favourite musicals even long after they have closed. Using data from Spotify, we have compiled the Ultimate Musicals Playlist for you to enjoy.

London Theatre Shows in April 2024

The 2024 Olivier Awards are held on 31 March this year, and in April the winners will be some of the hottest shows in town. Some of the year’s most popular musicals that are tipped to win include Bridge Theatre’s immersive Guys and Dolls and Mrs. Doubtfire at Shaftesbury Theatre. The Easter Holidays dominate the first half of April, and families can make the most of their time off together with a trip to see long-running shows like Matilda and Wicked.

Little ones can also enjoy their first-ever show in a West End theatre this month! Every year, picture book classics like The Gruffalo and The Snail and the Whale come to London, especially for those under 5 and their families.

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Mrs. Doubtfire

April is the time to have a good laugh and there is no better way than with his heart-warming musical adaptation of one of the most popular comedy films of all time. Mrs Doubtfire recreates the hilarious moments from the film while adding fantastic songs that liven the story even further. Described as a “sure-fire hit” by The Daily Telegraph, Mrs Doubtfire is a fantastic show to watch in April.

The Play That Goes Wrong

Learn the true meaning of “April Fools” with the inept and madcap antics of The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they try (and fail) to stage a murder mystery. The Play That Goes Wrong is the longest-running West End comedy ever and that kind of longevity can’t come without some big belly laughs! A masterpiece of slapstick and timing, with pitch-perfect performances, The Play That Goes Wrong is an excellent choice for West End shows in April 2024.

Wicked

Discover the untold story of the witches of Oz, with spellbinding songs, a powerful story and incredible visual spectacles. Best for age 7+.

ABBA Voyage

The Swedish pop group are projected into the ABBA Arena in a cutting-edge digital performance, promising a concert experience like no other.

Frozen the Musical

Experience Disney's modern classic on stage in this spectacular musical, featuring hit song “Let It Go”. Best for age 6+.

Matilda the Musical

Tim Minchin's mischievous musical adaptation is a hilarious, heart-warming modern classic for the whole family. Best for age 6+.

Mamma Mia!

Dance the night away to ABBA’s greatest hits at the hilarious West End musical that inspired the film.

Cabaret

A daring revival of the hit musical welcomes audiences to 1930s Berlin, via the immersive Kit Kat Club.

The Mousetrap

Agatha Christie’s classic whodunnit is the world's longest running show. Can you keep the secret?

Six the Musical

Henry VIII’s embattled ex-wives reign over the West End with their fist-pumping histo-remix.

Witness for the Prosecution

The landmark production of Agatha Christie's courtroom thriller is set inside the magnificent council chamber of London County Hall.

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.

Magic Mike Live

Let your hair down with a night of irresistible, temperature-raising entertainment, inspired by Channing Tatum’s sizzling film franchise.

MJ the Musical

Discover the creative mind and artistry behind the King of Pop in this Tony Award-winning musical, opening in 2024.

Sister Act

Hallelujah! The heavenly musical, based on the hit film, returns to the West End starring Beverley Knight and Alexandra Burke.

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+.

The Duchess Of Malfi

Ten years after it opened the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Webster’s iconic and chilling revenge tragedy returns to the candlelit theatre.

Bronco Billy

The Wild West meets the West End as this rollicking new musical, based on Clint Eastwood’s film, opens in London.