This is particularly true of shows which haven’t opened yet. Given these shows are new and may be unfamiliar to you, we thought we’d take a closer look at shows in the New Year Sale which are opening in the coming months…

January

Gerry & Sewell opens on 13 January. This heart-warming comedy about friendships and underdogs follows two Newcastle United fans desperate to get a season ticket. After a sell-out run in the North East, the play transfers to the West End for only two weeks.

Chichester Festival Theatre has a strong record of West End transfers – think Half A Sixpence, Quiz, revivals of Gypsy and Caroline, Or Change – and it shows no signs of slowing down.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry is a new musical based on Rachel Joyce’s profound and funny novel, with music by indie musician Passenger. It had rave reviews in Chichester last summer and transfers with original cast members Mark Addy and Olivier Award winner Jenna Russell, with previews from 29 January and New Year Sale prices in February, too.

Theatre company Frantic Assembly celebrate their 30^th anniversary with a new play, Lost Atoms, written by Anna Jordan who wrote episodes of Succession and One Day. The play charts the life-changing relationship of Jess and Robbie and focusses on how differing memories can change our stories. It runs at the Lyric Hammersmith from 30 January – 28 February, taking part in the New Year Sale for February performances.

February

For one night only, X Factor contestant turned West End star Lucie Jones is Live At The London Palladium. Blending her live gig roots with the drama of her stage career, including regular performances in Les Miserables and the leading role in Waitress, this will be a unique concert that showcases her incredible vocal talent. Expect surprise appearances and unique collaborations. 16 February only.

Evening All Afternoon is a brand new play by American playwright Anna Ziegler, who had a hit on the West End with Photograph 51, starring Nicole Kidman. This play explores the relationship between a stepmother and stepdaughter, confronting the human dilemma about facing loss and opening up to new connections. The play runs from 19 February – 11 April at the Donmar Warehouse, an intimate and compelling space with a storied history.

March

Sibling duo Nina and Moses Raine (Consent and Donkey Heart, respectively) team up for a new translation of Summer Folk, by Russian dramatist Maxim Gorky. 1905 was a hot, beautiful summer in Russia, but while the elite wine and dine, a storm is on the horizon. The story is fitting for the Raines, whose great uncle was Boris Pasternak, author of Doctor Zhivago. Summer Folk runs from 12 March – 29 April at the National Theatre.

While you can find opera and ballet at the London Coliseum for much of the year, London’s largest theatre stages a big musical each summer. This March will see the first West End revival of Kinky Boots.

The show is based on the British film and true story of a Northampton shoe factory that hits hard times, then takes a chance on becoming a specialist in shoewear for drag artists. With music and lyrics by pop star Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein (La Cage Aux Folles), this production will be led by Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe in the role of Lola.  It runs from 17 March – 11 July with New Year Sale offers on most April, May and June performances.

Stephen K Amos will play the role of Alfred P. Doolittle. Stephen is a BAFTA award-winning comedian whose stage work includes My Night With Reg and One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest. Malcolm Sinclair will play the role of Colonel Pickering. Malcolm has performed in more than 50 theatrical productions and was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the 2019 Olivier Awards for his performance in Pressure at The Ambassador’s Theatre.

They join the previously announced Amara Okereke who will star as Eliza Doolittle, Harry Hadden-Paton who reprises his performance as Henry Higgins, Dame Vanessa Redgrave who will play Mrs Higgins, Maureen Beattie who will play Mrs Pearce and Sharif Afifi who will play Freddy Eynsford-Hill.

The full company is completed with the ensemble cast: Dammi Aregbeshola, Bernadette Bangura, Joseph Claus, Jordan Crouch, Jamie Cruttenden, Francessca Daniella-Baker, Barry Drummond,  Bethany Huckle, Heather Jackson, Emma Johnson, Charlotte Kennedy, Sinead Kenny, Jenny Legg, Tom Liggins, Rebekah Lowings, Carl Patrick, Tom Ping, Dominique Planter, Joseph Poulton, John Stacey, Joshua Steel, Oliver Tester, Adam Vaughan, Annie Wensak and Paul Westwood.

The production opens on 18 May for a strictly limited run until 27 August, with previews from 7 May. It marks the first major West End revival of the show for 21 years.

And that’s a direct quote from when Jess and Martha went to see Hairspray on Press Night earlier this week. Both long-life fans of the movie-musical, they headed to the iconic London Coliseum to see Michael Ball and co #BackOnStage!

With Hairspray themed cocktails (Jess enjoyed the ‘Beehive’) and an exciting choice of show merch, there’s plenty to enjoy before you even take your seat!

F24 and 25 of the Dress Circle were our seats with a an incredible view of the stage, with a nod to our favourite Tracy Turnblad. 

Have a watch of our vlog to hear everything about our experience:

And here’s a glimpse of the dance-along ending you won’t be able to stop yourself getting to your feet for. As Jess says: Hairspray is “guaranteed to make you happy”. So book your tickets now!

Channing Tatum and his co-producers are delighted to announce the full cast for Magic Mike Live, which will be returning to its London home of The Theatre at the Hippodrome Casino next Friday 21 May 2021, making it one of the first West End shows to reopen this year and the perfect way to celebrate the end of lockdown!

The cast for the revamped production of Magic Mike Live in London includes Daniel Blessing, Courtenay Brady, Jake Brewer, Harry Carter, Ellie Clayton, Hannah Cleeve, Matt Jordan, Charlie Knight, Mark Lace, Sophie Linder-Lee, Jack Manley, David Morgan, Theo Oloyade, Ross Sands, Josie Scamell, Manny Tsakanika and Aaron Witter.

All tickets are priced at £79.00 and £96.00 and will include complimentary bottomless Prosecco during the show; a limited and incredibly popular offer which must end on 1 August.  Tickets are selling quickly but there are still some great seats available and patrons are advised to visit the website for best availability.

Magic Mike Live will feature new songs and new dance sequences in a Covid-safe environment with a socially distanced audience. New VIP packages are also available at the time of booking that allow guests to extend their stay and take advantage of everything the Hippodrome Casino has to offer.

Conceived and co-directed by Channing Tatum, Magic Mike Live, which has already wowed over 200,000 people in London alone and almost 750,000 worldwide, is a large-scale, live production show based on the hit films Magic Mike and Magic Mike XXL, which opened at The Theatre at the Hippodrome Casino in London’s Leicester Square in November 2018.  Magic Mike Live has inspired a new television series on HBO Max, The Real Magic Mike, set to begin filming this summer.

From the bespoke entrance off Cranbourn Street, to the specially curated lounge and bar experience, to the cast of world-class performers, Magic Mike Live is a complete evening of unparalleled entertainment for guests aged 18 and up.  Audience members enter Magic Mike’s mythical club and marvel as a group of extraordinary artists from around the world perform a 360-degree dance and acrobatic spectacular in front of, behind, and above them.  Sexy dance routines intertwined with one-of-a-kind acts, are presented by a diverse cast of performers from around the world.

Magic Mike Live has become an international sensation since opening in Las Vegas in April 2017.  In addition to breaking box office records and performing to sold-out audiences in Las Vegas and London, the show premiered in Berlin in 2020 and the Australia national tour opened in Sydney in December 2020.

Keep your eyes peeled as tickets for Magic Mike will be available to purchase on Official London Theatre this week!

English National Opera offer free tickets to all under 21 years olds

A few years ago, English National Opera (ENO) made the headlines when they offered completely free tickets to Under 18’s for weekend performances in the balcony of the London Coliseum. Like many arts organisations, they are keen to keep broadening out their audience and this seemed a radical way of doing it: to do for young people what many of us had when we were young – a first opera experience from which one catches the opera or arts or “creative industries” bug.  Fortunately the scheme was a big success, something that was only possible thanks to the investment from the Arts Council and the DCMS.

English National Opera are today delighted to announce that they will be extending the scheme from next season by offering completely free tickets to all Under 21 year olds in the country. Not only that, they will be also be available for every single night performed, not just on weekends, and – significantly – they will be for every level of the theatre, from the Balcony to the most expensive seats in the Stalls.

Tickets are available from the 2nd June, when all tickets go on general release. Simply go to eno.org.

Additionally, ENO are also extending discounts for Under 35s across the entire auditorium (£35 in the Stalls, £25 in the Dress Circle, £15 in the Upper Circle) and, as ever, our cheapest seats (available for everyone, whatever your age) are frozen for another year at just £10.

Please help us to spread the word if you can and send on to anyone who might be interested or even shout about it on social media hash tagging #ENOUnder21s. ENO are determined to continue opening up this art form to as many people as possible and would love it if you could be part of that mission!

Disney’s The Lion King announces new cast members including a new Simba

The West End production of DISNEY’S THE LION KING will welcome 14 new members to its cast of over 50 actors, singers and dancers when it reopens its doors this summer. The award-winning landmark musical is set to return to the Lyceum Theatre on 29th July 2021, where the production has been seen by over 16 million people in the last two decades.

Londoner Kayi Ushe, will take on the iconic role of ‘Simba’. Kayi joins the show having performed in The Book of Mormon, Motown The Musical and Crazy For You, as well as touring extensively as ‘Lola’ in Kinky Boots.

Click below to read the full story!

As a comedian, impressionist, game show host, reality TV star, soap, screen and stage actor, Les Dennis’ showbiz career has spanned 50 years. Now, he is to return to the West End in the multi-award-winning smash hit musical as Wilbur Turnblad having previously performed the role on tour. He stars alongside Michael Ball, who returns to his legendary, Olivier Award-winning role of Edna Turnblad.

Les replaces Paul Merton in the role of Wilbur. Following the delay to the production because of the pandemic, Paul is unfortunately not able to join the company due to long-standing scheduling commitments.

Lizzie Bea will star in the iconic role of Tracy Turnblad. Lizzie’s credits include a UK Tour of Kinky Boots and a performance in the world premiere production of Becoming Nancy in Atlanta (Alliance Theatre).

Acclaimed West End star Marisha Wallace will take the role of Motormouth. Marisha won rave reviews when she took over from Amber Riley in the smash hit Dreamgirls (Savoy Theatre), and also starred in the original West End cast of Waitress (Adelphi Theatre).

Her spine-tingling lockdown recording of a gospel-inspired version of the Strouse and Charnin track ‘Tomorrow’ was originally released in support of struggling theatre professionals – but its message of hope in troubling times proved a tonic for the nation. Following BBC Radio 2 airplay and the track reaching Number 2 in the Download Charts, Wallace was subsequently signed by Decca where the release of her debut album (Tomorrow) saw powerhouse performances follow on Strictly Come Dancing and the Royal Variety Performance.

Rita Simons (Eastenders’ Roxy Mitchell) and Jonny Amies (Granchester on ITV; Sex Education on Netflix/Eleven Film) will also join the cast as Velma Von Tussle and Link Larkin respectively.

Liverpool born Les Dennis came to prominence as a comedian in the 1970s after honing his craft on the northern Working Men’s Club circuit and turning pro after a winning set on New Faces. He became a stalwart of Saturday Night TV in the 80s and 90s, starring in TV comedies including The Russ Abbot Show and The Les Dennis Laughter Show performing sketches and impressions, and most famously as the host of Family Fortunes between 1987 and 2002 on ITV.

In recent years Les has enjoyed a busy career as an actor, starring with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and in numerous hit plays and musicals in the West End and on tour, as well as playing a regular role for two years on Coronation Street.

Despite the pandemic, Les has kept busy, filming a travel series for Channel 5, a guest lead in the Jimmy McGovern drama Moving On and a starring role in the Christmas Special of Birds of a Feather. He is excited to be able to return to the stage in 2021.

The full company includes Georgia Anderson, Kimani Arthur, Dermot Canavan, Lori Haley Fox, Mari McGinlay, Ashley Samuels, Michael Vinsen and Imogen Bailey, Pearce Barron, Jordan Benjamin, Joel Cooper, Luke George, Christopher Gopaul, Bradley Judge, Winny Herbert, Lily Laight, Madeleine Lawton, Holly Liburd, Will Luckett, Mireia Mambo, Kody Mortimer, Robyn Rose, Tinovimbanashe Sibanda, Amy West and Natalie Woods.

Baltimore, 1962. Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Can she make it on the local TV dance show, win the heart of teen heartthrob Link Larkin and bring everyone together – whatever their colour, size or hairdo? Well if you want a change, you’ve really got to shake things up!

With the original award-winning creative team of director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, and featuring the infectiously feel-good songs ‘Good Morning, Baltimore’, ‘Big, Blonde and Beautiful’ and ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’, this inspirational, fun-loving and fabulously uplifting musical sensation is back and bigger than ever.

The original New York production of Hairspray won three Tony Awards, including Best New Musical, whilst the original West End production won four Olivier Awards, also including Best New Musical, as well giving Michael Ball one of his two Olivier Awards for Best Actor in a Musical.

The Young Vic announces their highly anticipated production of Hamlet, starring Cush Jumbo and directed by Greg Hersov, will begin previews from 27 September 2021, with Press Night 4 October.

This new version of Shakespeare’s great tragedy will see Cush Jumbo (The Good Wife, The Good Fight) make her YV debut as a new kind of Hamlet, reuniting with her long-time collaborator Greg Hersov, to bring us this tale of power, politics and desire.

Kwame Kwei-Armah, Artistic Director of the Young Vic, said: “I am delighted that this extraordinary new version of Hamlet will play at the YV this autumn. I want to take this opportunity to thank each audience member who kept their tickets in the show through this period of uncertainty; I can’t wait to have you back into our house, to step into the extraordinary world Cush, Greg and the company will create. Finally, I look forward to sharing more detail on the rest of our 2021 season, including more imminent plans for welcoming you back to the YV, very soon. Until then, peace and love.”

Hairspray announces new dates

Hairspray the Musical announces today rescheduled performance dates for the multi award-winning smash hit musical at the London Coliseum.

The production will now begin its run on Tuesday 22 June, playing through until Wednesday 29 September.

Current ticketholders will be contacted and given a priority booking period for certain exclusive performances reserved for their use. 

The rest of the performances are available to be booked now!

Jersey Boys extends booking period to 2022

Tony and Olivier award-winning smash-hit musical Jersey Boys opens the new Trafalgar Theatre on 28 July 2021. The show has now announced that it’s booking until 2 January 2022, with tickets now on sale.

Whether you’re a fan of the iconic musical The Phantom Of The Opera or Les Misérables, or want to learn about some of the new musicals in London including Six or Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, the celebration is packed with showstoppers from the very best of West End musical theatre alongside the BBC Orchestra Concert. There is also a number of performances from special guests Elaine Paige, Michael Ball, Amanda Holden, Nicole Scherzinger, Josh Groban and Lea Solanga – what a treat!

Feeling SO overwhelmed by all your beautiful messages. My phones popping off. Thanks so much and big love to you all! 💙💙💙#MusicalsTheGreatestShow 🎭 https://t.co/FY5yoPx0QY pic.twitter.com/771dH3hBYo

— Layton Williams (@LaytonWilliams) February 7, 2021

And because we are still buzzing from the incredible performances and all the razzle-dazzle, we’re recapping all the wonderful musicals in London that were featured so that you can be reminded of all the exciting theatre you can enjoy once venues can reopen. It’ll be just the tonic we need!

Six

If you’ve not already heard, Six is a fresh British musical that everyone (we mean literally, everyone) is losing their heads over.

Think: Beyonce and Ariana Grande meets Tudor Queens. Yes, that’s right – this pop-tastic musical is all about the six wives of Henry VIII, who in true 21st century girl power-mode, take to the mics to tell their tales. In this pop-fuelled concert, the Pop Princesses remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of true female empowerment! With an incredibly strong and powerful message, this homegrown musical is not one to be missed.

If you’d like to know more about the musical, click the video above for an exclusive performance alongside a Q&A with some of the cast members. And if you’re still wondering whether to grab your tickets, check out our roundup of Six ways Six stunned us here.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie

Layton Williams’ performance of Over The Wall gave us major goosebumps last night and was a big reminder of why show this is one of the most wonderful musicals in London. If you need a dose of inspiration or something that’s going to get you up on your feet and clicking your fingers with sass, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at the Apollo Theatre is a winner! Inspired by a documentary about a real boy named Jamie Campbell, the musical follows the tale of 16-year-old with a secret to tell – and dreams to make true.

We don’t want to give away too much, but when Jamie New found himself the target of bullies, he decides to tell his truth and share his story with the world. In an act of bravery, adversary and fabulousness, and with the help of his Mum and friends, he steps out of the darkness and owns the spotlight, becoming the school sensation and making his dreams come true.

Want to learn more about the true story that inspired the musical? Click here to learn all about the real-life Jamie New, or get your red heels ready and hit play to the trailer above! We’ve even got an Instagram takeover from the cast of the musical so if you want to have a nosey as to what goes on behind-the-scenes, be sure to check it out.

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical

As corny as it sounds, Aisha Jawando’s powerful performance on Musicals: The Greatest Show was a big reminder that theatre simply is the best! Would you agree? The iconic number is just one of many featured in the new biographical musical, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical.

Nominated for Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards 2019 with Mastercard, the musical reveals the untold story of global icon, Tina Turner, who dared to challenge the bounds of her age, gender and race.

From humble beginnings in Tennessee to rising up as the global Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical features all your favourite showstopping songs. From River Deep – Mountain High to A Fool In Love, this stunning musical is well worth a watch at the Aldwych Theatre.

For exclusive performances and the inside scoop, check out our episode of Behind The Curtain with Tina – The Tina Turner Musical or boogie along to more of her iconic tracks over on our YouTube channel here.

Mamma Mia!

Enjoyed the movie and want to see the action live on stage? Or are you big ABBA fan and want to bop along to some of their iconic songs? Check out the trailer above – it’s one of the best feel-good musicals in London and we’re certain it’ll tick all the boxes!

More than two decades after it first premiered at the Prince of Wales Theatre, Mamma Mia! continues to offer theatre fans a bucket load of the feel-good factor at the Novello Theatre.

Set in stunning Greece, the hilarious and heartwarming story follows a young woman named Sophie who is planning her wedding. While her mother assists, the brides focus soon changes to tracking down her real father. Unbeknownst to her mother, Sophie ends up inviting three possible suspects to the wedding and they all turn up! Question is; which one will take her down the aisle and will any of them rekindle relations with her mother?

Featuring a number of ABBA’s most famous songs, Mamma Mia! is one of those musicals that you can keep returning to again and again because it simply never gets old! Like to see more? Head to Official London Theatre’s YouTube channel to watch exclusive performances and a Q&A with cast members here.

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Jac Yarrow had us dreaming of being at musicals in London again in last night’s incredible performance of Any Dream Will Do from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Over fifty years on from its release as a concept album, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has well and truly taken its place as one of the world’s most loved family musicals. It’s hard to imagine that the multi-award-winning show began life as a small scale school concert, having since been performed in over 80 countries as far afield as Zimbabwe and Peru!

Lucky for us, the show is to be re-imagined in a spectacular new production to tell the story of Jacob’s favourite son, Joseph, and his eleven brothers. Sold into slavery out of the jealousy of his kin, Joseph finds himself in Egypt, where his reputation burgeons under Potiphar. But when he rejects the advances of Potiphar’s wife, Joseph is thrown into jail, where he discovers a unique ability to interpret dreams. Can he use this to resolve Egypt’s family and reunite with his family once more?

Starring Jason Donovan (as Pharaoh) and Jac Yarrow (as Joseph) and back by popular demand, the legendary musical promises to feature an epic score including renowned pop and musical theatre songs Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me, Jacob And Sons, There’s One More Angel In Heaven, and Go Go Go Joseph.

What are you waiting for? Check out the showstopping performance above and grab your tickets now so that you have something exciting to look forward to when musicals in London reopen.

If you’re uncertain which show to book but would like to support the industry and have something to look forward to, Theatre Tokens are a great alternative. They have no expiry date and can be used at more than 260 venues nationwide. Click here to find out more!

We hope this roundup has got you feeling super excited for all the incredible theatre that we have to look forward to but in the meantime, we’ve got plenty of things to keep you entertained. From our online calendar showcasing virtual theatre fixes to theatre quiz rounds and West End theatre spot the differences, there’s so much fun to be had. If what you’re looking for is more along the lines of interviews, performances and behind-the-scenes exclusives, don’t forget to check out our Official London Theatre YouTube channel here.

Mischief Movie Night In returns to our screens from this Friday

Due to the phenomenal success of the first week of Mischief Movie Night In, the Mischief team (The Play That Goes Wrong, Magic Goes Wrong) will be returning to our screens for more hilarious improv, streaming from their emergency comedy bunker live into homes from 23 – 31 January with BSL and captioned options available on 29 January and a further Valentine’s Day Rom-Com special on 14 February. Passes are from £10 and are on sale now.

Starring cast members of the original Mischief team, Mischief Movie Night In is all about interactivity with audience suggestions making each movie and show unique.

Those with participation passes (now sold out) are the ‘on-screen’ audience who choose the genre, title and name of the movie. Other audience members can engage with the show by sending suggestions via social media – and follow along with the fun on Twitter with #MischiefMovieNightIn.

Our Media and Marketing Manager, Megan treated herself to a ticket to the Mischief Movie Night In last year and said: “I treated myself to this for New Year’s Eve and I loved it, so I can highly recommend booking your tickets for the new Jan-Feb dates now! In fact, with no performance being the same…I’d book to watch a few if you can.”

So, if you’re looking for a stagey pick-me-up or a Valentine’s treat for your loved one, click here to grab your tickets now!

Enjoy a first-look at new musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change

Lambert Jackson Productions have today shared a first-look video of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, a new musical filmed on stage at the London Coliseum and streaming for three nights only from 28 – 30 January.

Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts’ clever and witty musical revue about the pitfalls and joys of romantic relationships played over 5,000 performances off-Broadway and has been produced all over the world but this virtual production is the first of its kind.

Starring Simon Lipkin (First Date, Nativity), Brenda Edwards (X Factor, We Will Rock You), Alice Fearn (Wicked, Come From Away) and Oliver Tompsett (Kinky Boots, & Juliet), I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change will have audiences laughing, singing along and shouting ‘This is my life!’

Following the highs and lows of first dates, first loves, marriages, babies, in-laws, and growing old together, this hilarious and poignant show pays tribute to those who have loved and lost and to those who have dared to ask someone out on a date. Check out the sneak peek below and click here to get your tickets!

The first look at #ILoveYouMusical is here ❣️

Filmed onstage at the beautiful @LondonColiseum 🎥

Staring @brenda_edwards, @alice_fearn, @simonlipkin & @OliverTompsett 🤩

🎟 28, 29 & 30 Jan https://t.co/QFCdoM0Xtz pic.twitter.com/tH4tOdY40k

— Lambert Jackson Productions (@LJProds) January 18, 2021

If you’ve had enough of Blue Monday and need a little stagey magic in your lives, check out our roundup of 5 ways to treat yourself during lockdown! You can also pop over to our online calendar here that’s packed with everything from livestreams, on-demand playbacks,  podcasts and more! And if you’re in the mood for a quiz, we’ve got plenty of theatre rounds that will keep you entertained. Just click here!

Booking advance tickets is a great way to support theatres at the moment, and you can get a date in the diary to get excited about! And because we know it’s important to have flexibility in these times, we stand by our ‘Book with Confidence. Exchange with Ease‘ pledge.

You can also look out for our See It Safely mark which means you can feel confident the show you are booking for is Covid-secure and following the latest Government guidance for live arts events. In case you have any questions, we’ve popped together a handy guide to Everything you need to know for your next theatre trip.

Whether you’re looking for debut plays or classic West End shows reopening for us all to enjoy once again, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this list. Theatre is nothing without its audiences and we are thrilled to welcome our you back! Please show your support by sharing your theatre experiences using #BackOnStage.

Shows playing up to 19 July:

All of these shows will be playing with social distancing measures in place.

[priced-shows-grid title=”” columns=”2″ reopening-or-opening-start-date=”2021-05-17″ reopening-or-opening-end-date=”2021-07-18″]

Shows playing from 19 July onwards:

Here are the shows we can confirm will be going ahead later in the year.

[priced-shows-grid title=”” columns=”2″ reopening-or-opening-start-date=”2021-07-19″]

Filmed on stage at the London Coliseum, the production will be available to stream between 28 – 30 January 2021. Kirk Jameson directs Trevor Dion Nicholas (Man 2), Brenda Edwards (Woman 2), Alice Fearn (Woman 1) and Oliver Tompsett (Man 1).

Following the highs and lows of first dates, first loves, marriages, babies, in-laws, and growing old together, this hilarious and poignant show pays tribute to those who have loved and lost and to those who have dared to ask someone out on a date.

Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts’ musical revue played over 5,000 performances off-Broadway and has been produced all over the world.

Jamie Lambert and Eliza Jackson, CEO and Creative Director of Lambert Jackson Productions, today said: “During a time when theatre is in such peril, we are really proud to be continuing the work we have done since the very beginning of the first lockdown, bringing new productions of shows to audiences all around the world, and to be doing so with this spectacular cast and this amazing piece is a source of great happiness for us.”

The production features Musical Direction by Nick Barstow and Associate Direction by Julie Atherton. Click here to grab your tickets or for more information.

Cast announced for Edition 2 of The Royal Court Theatre’s Living Newspaper: A Counter Narrative available to watch online this month

The Royal Court announced today that Moronkẹ Akinola, Hammed Animashaun, Ayesha Antoine,Alex Austin,  Lisa Hammond, Mariam Haque, Zachary Hing, Siu-see Hung, Wendy Kweh, Tasha Lim, Ntonga Mwanza, Rochelle Rose and Liza Sadovy have been cast in Edition 2 of the Royal Court Theatre’s Living Newspaper: A Counter Narrative.

Living Newspaper is a weekly live newspaper running over six weeks. It is urgent, responsive and fast – with writers filing their pieces by Tuesday and actors performing from Thursday, script-in-hand, hot off the press. Each edition will include performances relating to the moment we are in with local and global perspectives, longer form pieces, dating columns, a cartoon of the week, the world in pictures, a weather room, agony aunts, horoscopes and much more. It will be performed in promenade, taking audiences around the Royal Court building on a journey never before available to the public in this way.

Due to Monday’s government announcement that London will be moved to Tier 3 restrictions from Wednesday 16 December 2020, Edition 2 of the Living Newspaper will now be available as an online event only and is available to stream from 5pm Sunday 20 December 2020 – 4pm Sunday 27 December 2020.

Edition 2 has been written by Ryan Calais Cameron, Si’an Chen, Yuqun Fan, Tom Fowler, Nick Gill, Ruby Holder, Emteaz Hussain, Jammz, Yasmin Joseph, Anchuli Felicia King, Tife Kusoro, Mark Ravenhill, Ruby Thomas and Tom Wells, with Si’an Chen’s contribution translated by Jeremy Tiang.

More than 200 freelance artists will work on the project – as well as the writers – over 60 actors (including a commitment to cast a 2020 graduate each week as part of the company), animators, choreographers, composers, designers, illustrators, lighting designers, sound designers, stage managers and technicians.

Click here to find out more and grab your tickets now.

First look: production pictures from The Old Vic’s In Camera: A Christmas Carol

The Old Vic have today released a selection of beautiful images from A Christmas Carol.

Directed by Matthew Warchus, the festive favourite returns for its fourth year and this time will be streamed live from The Old Vic stage from 12-24 December for just 16 performances. As with previous OLD VIC: IN CAMERA streams, the empty auditorium will be the show’s backdrop but this production will be, for the first time in the series, presented as a full-scale show with live musicians, theatrical lighting, set and costumes, and with a cast of 18 performers.

Click here to get your tickets to see this epic show that’ll having you feeling festive in no time!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show will be available to stream online from this weekend

The smash-hit stage production The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show will be available to stream for the first time this festive season! Filmed in front of a live audience at Hertford Theatre this month, the never-before-seen Christmas edition of the show features four of Eric Carle’s classic stories; Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, the addition of the festive tale Dream Snow and, of course, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. It will be available to stream on demand for two weeks only from Saturday 19 December.

A theatrical recreation of Eric Carle’s beautifully imaginative stories, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show has become a global sensation. Four master puppeteers weave their way through Eric Carle’s stories, bringing to life a menagerie of 75 enchanting puppets in a magical show that faithfully recreates the wonderfully colourful world of Carle’s illustrations.

Eric Carle’s books have captivated generations of readers with their iconic hand-painted illustrations and distinctively simple stories, introducing millions of children to a bigger, brighter world, and to their first experience of reading itself. Carle has illustrated more than seventy books, most of which he also wrote, and more than 169 million copies of his books have sold around the world.

Grab your tickets here and snuggle up for the perfect family night in!

If you’re looking for more virtual theatre fixes to enjoy over the holidays, be sure to check out our online calendar here as well as our Family Theatre Fun page which is packed with fun activities and games to keep your little ones entertained.

Friday 18 September: Sharon D Clarke
Friday 25 September: Carrie Hope Fletcher
Friday 2 October: Cassidy Janson
Saturday 3 October: After You – A new musical starring Alexia Khadime & Bradley Jaden
Friday 9 October: Kerry Ellis
Friday 16 October: Sharon Sexton & Rob Fowler
Friday 23 October: Ramin Karimloo

All tickets cost £15 with a portion of each ticket sold going to the ENO Contingency Fund, a charity that is committed to bringing opera to as many people as possible.

Tonight At The London Coliseum is produced by Jack Maple and Brian Zeilinger, on behalf of Take Two Theatricals, in association with Jamie Chapman Dixon and John-Webb Carter on behalf of Carter Dixon Productions. Photography by Danny Kaan

The intimate, acoustic concerts will be filmed on stage at the London Coliseum and streamed this September, with specific dates yet to be announced.

Sharon D. Clarke, Kerry Ellis, Carrie Hope Fletcher, Rob Fowler, Cassidy Janson, Ramin Karimloo and Sharon Sexton will each headline one of the seven concerts streamed over the course of a week. 

One of the seven concerts will be a performance of a new British musical, After You, written by Alex Parker and Katie Lam and starring Alexia Khadime and Bradley Jaden.

Tickets will be £15, and a portion of each ticket sold will go to the ENO Contingency Fund, a charity that is committed to bringing opera to as many people as possible. Tickets will go on sale on Friday 14 August and viewers can sign up for more information on the Take Two Theatricals website.

The London Coliseum has also recently announced that Hairspray will open 22 April 2021, and tickets have now gone on sale. Grab yours through the link below!

Until 26 July 2020, all existing ticket holders have priority to move their tickets to a new date. All new ticket purchases can be made from 27 July, so mark your diaries!

Fans will be pleased to know that Michael Ball returns to his legendary, Olivier Award-winning role of Edna Turnblad, alongside one of the UK’s greatest comedians, Paul Merton (BBC Radio 4’s Just A Minute, Have I Got News For You), who will be making his West End musical debut as Edna’s husband, Wilbur.

Michael Ball said: “Just like Edna’s famous roll-on foundation garments, it’s been a struggle but it’s finally going on, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Hairspray is the perfect show to help the West End rediscover its joy, energy, talent and relevance. Nothing says “we made it through” better than sitting in a theatre, watching a community facing the huge social issues of their day and conquer them with the help of family, friends, commitment and love….oh and some brilliant songs, spectacular dance routines and huge belly laughs. It’s just the antidote we need. See you there.”

Starring alongside him will be West End star Marisha Wallace (Dreamgirls, Waitress), who will take the role of Motormouth, Lizzie Bea who will be making her West End debut in the role of Tracy Turnblad and Rita Simons (Eastenders’ Roxy Mitchell) and Jonny Amies (Granchester on ITV; Sex Education on Netflix/Eleven Film) will also star as Velma Von Tussle and Link Larkin respectively.

The smash-hit all-singing all-dancing production is set in Baltimore, 1962 and follows the story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Can she make it on the local TV dance show, win the heart of teen heartthrob Link Larkin and bring everyone together – whatever their colour, size or hairdo? Well if you want a change, you’ve really got to shake things up!

With the original award-winning creative team of director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, and featuring the infectiously feel-good songs Good Morning, Baltimore, Big, Blonde and Beautiful and You Can’t Stop the Beat, this inspirational, fun-loving and fabulously uplifting musical sensation is back and bigger than ever.

Tickets will be available on Official London Theatre from 27 July, so keep your eyes peeled!

Directed by Anthony Banks and starring Kara Tointon (Relatively Speaking, Absent Friends, Pygmalion), Steel Magnolia tells the story of six women who regularly hang out at Turvy’s beauty salon in small-town Louisiana. Packed with laugh-out-loud humour, follow the group of ladies as they joke about life’s highs and lows until a tragic event leaves them and the whole town reeling.

Based on the true story of Robert’s mother and sister, this play ran for over one thousand performances Off-Broadway and was even adapted for the screen. 

Both powerful and heartwarming, this fast, funny and vibrant dialogue brings alive the strength of female friendships. To find out more information and to book tickets, head to Rose Theatre’s website.

The Prince Of Egypt today released some stunning portraits for the principal cast.

The brand new musical which is currently previewing at the Dominion Theatre was pleased to reveal some beautiful portraits taken by Darren Bell.

If you loved the classic Dreamworks movies, you’ll definitely want to snap up tickets to this unmissable show where you’ll be transported to the sands of Egypt for the adventure of Moses and Rameses. Featuring a cast and orchestra of almost 60 artists, the screen-to-stage adaption opens on 25 February for a limited time until 12 September 2020. With tickets in demand, be sure to snap up your tickets to avoid missing out!

La Cage Aux Folles [The Play] opened at the Park Theatre last night to a star-studded audience.

Celebrities such as Sir Ian McKellen, Sir Derek Jacobi, Vanessa Redgrave and many more came to celebrate the much-awaited opening night of Simon Callows English adaption of Jean Poiret’s classic farce for the stage.

Directed by Jez Bond, Artistic Director and Founder of Park Theatre, and starring Michael Matus (The Phantom Of The Opera) and Paul Hunter, the play follows the story of nightclub owner Georges and his drag artiste partner Albin who create the most spectacular shows in St. Tropez. But the real performance only begins when George’s son Laurent announces his engagement to the daughter of a right-wing politician who is on a mission to bring down the town’s vibrant nightlife.

If you want to see the original, riotous play for the first time in English language, head to the Park Theatre’s website now to grab your tickets. 

Tuckshop today announced the opening of Drag! Live At The London Coliseum on Sunday 5 April.

Starring RuPaul’s Drag Race UK finalists Baga Chipz and Divina De Campo, The Family Gorgeous from Channel 4’s Drag SOS along with a host of the UK’s other best drag performers, this drag variety extravaganza is sure to be a hit!

Producer Christopher Clegg said: “I remember my first time at the London Coliseum, I was blown away by the talent, the people and the building… so to be the first EVER drag show in history taking over this iconic venue is just an incredible honour. We have an amazing line up of drag performers and we will be filling the theatre with TuckShops signature brand of madness, music and mayhem.”

If you fancy some glitter, sass and fabulousness, head to the London Coliseum’s website as tickets are now on sale!

Soho Theatre will look to reschedule where they can. You can stay up to date by following their twitter account.  

Earl Carpenter and Daniel Boys were today announced as the final stars to be cast in a charity gala performance of Boublil And Schönberg’s The Pirate Queen. 

The special star-studded performance will take place at the London Coliseum on Sunday 23 February with all proceeds going to Leukaemia UK.

Earl (Les Misérables, The Phantom Of The Opera, The Witches Of Eastwick, Evita) will star in the role of Dubhdara, widowed father of Grace, while Daniel (Falsettos, The Boys In The Band, Avenue Q) will play Lord Bingham, confidante and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I.

They will be joining the previously announced Rachel Tucker (as Grace O’Malley), Hannah Waddingham (as Queen Elizabeth I), Steph Parry, Emma Norman, Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall and Matthew Pagan from Collabro as headliners.

The Pirate Queen is based on the real-life story of Grace O’Malley – an Irish Chieftain and notorious pirate – and follows the adventure of the inspiring heroine in 16th-century Ireland. In order to protect her people and to save her one true love, she must confront the one woman more powerful than her – the fierce Queen Elizabeth I of England.

From the writers of Les Misérables and Miss Saigon, this must-see show features classic storytelling and stunning Irish dance and song. To book tickets or find out more, visit the listing on London Coliseum’s website.

Shelagh Delaney’s A Taste Of Honey enters its final four weeks!

Directed by Bijan Sheibani (Barber Shop Chronicles) and playing at Trafalgar Studios, the ground-breaking British classic is back in the West End for the first time in 60 years! Written by Shelagh when she was just 19, the reimagined production explores the turbulent relationship between a single mum and her feisty teenager who falls pregnant with a mixed-raced baby before moving with her homosexual friend. Though this taboo-breaking play was written in the 1950s, its honest look at love and surviving in poverty still remains relevant today.

Sadly, A Taste Of Honey will be closing on 29 February, but with performances still available in our New Year Sale (ending 13 February) now is the perfect opportunity to snap up some tickets!

Kiln Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company today announced the full cast for the London run of A Museum In Baghdad. 

Opening at Kiln Theatre on 28 April and directed by Erica Whyman, the cast will include: David Birrell (as Professor Leonard Woolley), Houda Echouafni (as Layla Hassan), Emma Fielding (as Gertrude Bell), Ali Gadema (as Kidnapper, Prime Minister), Rendah Heywood (as Ghalia Hussein), Zed Josef (as Salim), Nadi Kemp-Sayfi (as Nasiya), Debbie Korley (as Sam York), Riad Richie (as Mohammed Abdullah), and Rasoul Saghir (as Abu Zaman).

Running until 23 May, the play begins in 1962 Iraq and follows British archaeologist Gertrude Bell who is founding a museum in Baghdad. Fast-forward to 2006, Ghalia Hussein is attempting to reopen the museum after looting during the war. Though decades apart, the two women share the same goals; to create a sense of unity and to make the world anew through the museum and its treasures. But in such unstable times, many questions remain. Who is the museum for? Whose culture are we preserving? And why does it matter when people are dying?

To purchase tickets or to find out more about the play, head to Kiln Theatre’s website.

Katherine Parkinson and Kayla Meikle cast in the world premiere of E.V Crowe’s Shoe Lady at the Royal Court. 

Directed by Vicky Featherstone and running from Wednesday 4 to 21 March, Shoe Lady tells the story of a lady name Viv who has lost a shoe. They’re her work shoes, her weekend shoes, her only pair of shoes, and she doesn’t know what to do. The curtains are falling, her foot is bleeding, and she’s starting to feel a little overwhelmed. But all will be well in the world once she finds that missing shoe.

Katherine Parkinson (Theatre: Dead Funny, Absent Friends, The Seagull; TV: The IT Crowd) will star in the role of Viv while Kayla Meikle (All My Sons, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Jack & the Beanstalk) will step into the role of Elaine.

Tickets are now on sale! Head to the Royal Court website to find out more about this exciting new production.

Musical fans, if you’re yet to see Mamma Mia! you’ll be pleased to know that we’ve still got tickets in our New Year Sale ending soon. 

Cosy up with a trip to the Novello Theatre where you will be transported to sun-soaked Greek for the hit ABBA Musical that’s been seen by over 65 million people around the world! Sky has been on a mission to find out who her father is and on the eve of her wedding she is surprised when 3 men from her mother’s past return to the island. Question is; which one will take her down the aisle and will any of them rekindle their love with her mum?

Packed with ABBA’s timeless songs, this feel-good show tells the tale of love, laughter and friendship. If you loved the movie, you’ll definitely want to see this. But be quick, as our New Year Sale offer ends on 13 February!

If you’ve already ticked Mamma Mia! off your musical bucketlist but fancy seeing what else is on offer, check out our roundup of the 10 must-see shows to see in our New Year Sale.

Mamma Mia! announced today that tickets for the Olivier Awards 2020 with Mastercard are now on sale!

If you’re a Mastercard cardholder and want to celebrate the best of London theatre while experiencing the glitz, the glam and once-in-a-lifetime performances, visit www.priceless.com or check out our article which gives you all the best tips on how to get your tickets.

British comedy enthusiasts, brace yourselves…comedy icon, Paul Merton will be making his West End musical debut as he joins the new production of Hairspray The Musical.

Known as one of the UK’s greatest comedians and for starring in BBC’s Have I Got News For You, Paul will be making his West End musical debut as Wilbur Turnblad, starring alongside Michael Ball who returns to his legendary Olivier Award-winning role of Edna Turnblad in the huge-hearted, multi-award-winning smash-hit musical playing at the magnificent London Coliseum from 23 April – 29 August.

Joining Paul and Michael in the lineup is Lizzie Bea (Kinky Boots UK Tour, Becoming Nancy) in the iconic role of Tracy Turnblad, acclaimed West End Star Marisha Wallace (Dreamgirls, Waitress) as Motormouth, Rita Simmons (Eastenders) as Velma Von Tussle and Jonny Amies (Granchester, Sex Education) as Link Larkin.

The show-stopping, all-singing, all-dancing show tells the story of Tracy Turnblad; a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Can she make it on the local TV dance show, win the heart of teen heartthrob Link Larkin and bring everyone together – whatever their colour, size or hairdo? 

Packed with infectiously feel-good songs, this inspirational, fun-loving musical is back and bigger than ever! It’s the show that gives maximum lift.. but for 18 weeks only. Don’t miss out – book your tickets now.

The Comedy About A Bank Robbery today announced its closure after four years in the West End.

The critically acclaimed West End production will play its final performance on Sunday 3 May after completing a successful four-year run at the Criterion Theatre, and playing for over 2,000 performances in London and on tour. The smash-hit show opened at the Criterion Theatre on 21 April 2016 and went on to be nominated for Best New Comedy at the 2017 Olivier Awards.

Producer Kenny Wax said today: “After a fabulous four-year run at the Criterion Theatre, we have decided that now is the right time to draw an end to this incredible production. A four-year run is a remarkable achievement from which we all take much pride in. Mischief Theatre continue to have a magnificent presence in the West End and we hope audiences who enjoy The Comedy About A Bank Robbery will go on to see their other productions playing at venues across the UK.”

If you’ve yet to see the show, it’d be criminal to miss it! Don’t miss your last chance to see this Olivier Award-nominated West End comedy about one enormous diamond, eight incompetent crooks and a snoozing security guard. Full of twists on genre tropes, and packed with daring set-pieces, The Comedy About A Bank Robbery is a hilarious showcase of slick theatrical inventiveness and hilarious, quip-filled word play.

As the saying goes… all good things must come to an end. But don’t fret, as you’ll still be able to catch Mischief’s work across the UK with The Play That Goes Wrong playing at the Duchess Theatre and Magic Goes Wrong recently extending its run at the Vaudeville Theatre as part of the Mischief residency.

On a brighter note, Only Fools And Horses The Musical has extended its run for a further two months at the Theatre Royal Haymarket until 27 June.

The show – which opened in February last year to an array of fantastic reviews – has sold over 400,000 tickets so far and the extension means there will be a further 50,000 on sale!

Having recently returned to the musical to play the role of Grandad until the end of April, Paul Whitehouse said: “After a bit of a break from the show I was itching to return to the stage and it’s a great feeling to be back in Grandad’s armchair. After almost a year we’re still playing to packed houses throughout the week at the Theatre Royal Haymarket and to be extending the show for a fourth time is incredible. Mange Tout!”

John Sullivan’s iconic and record-breaking television series has been turned into a home-grown West End musical spectacular.  With a script and original score by John’s son, Jim Sullivan, and Paul Whitehouse, the musical reacquaints fans with Britain’s most loveable rogues, to experience the classic comedy brought to life once again through 20 ingenious and hilarious songs.

Sound cushty? Don’t be a plonker and book your tickets to see Only Fools And Horses The Musical now! Bonjour!

We caught a first look at production images from John Kani’s highly acclaimed play, Kunene And The King ahead of its first West End performance tonight.

Following its premiere in Stratford-upon-Avon and a sold-out run in Cape Town, Kunene And The King will be playing at the Ambassadors Theatre until 28 March.

The story is set in South Africa, 2019. Twenty-five years since the first post-apartheid democratic elections, two men from contrasting walks of life are thrust together to reflect on a quarter century of change. Jack Morris is a celebrated classical actor who’s just been given both a career-defining role and a life-changing diagnosis. Besides his age, Jack has seemingly little in common with his at-home nurse Lunga Kunene, but the two men soon discover their shared passion for Shakespeare.

With a strictly-limited London run, this refreshingly funny and vital new play is one to add to your diaries!

Frantic Assembly are celebrating their 25th Anniversary with a brand new production, I Think We Are Alone by Sally Abbott, co-directed by Kathy Burke and Scott Graham.

Playing at Theatre Royal Stratford East from 25 Feb – 21 March, I Think We Are Alone is a bitter sweet and funny take on our ache to connect with those voices we need to hear again, those arms we need to feel around us and those faces we need to see again. It is about letting go and holding on to what we love the most. If you’re looking for a delicate and uplifting play, grab your tickets now! 

Yesterday, Hampstead Theatre hosted a special 60th birthday fundraising gala to celebrate its rich history and look to an exciting future.

Hosted by Zeinab Badawai and Lloyd Owen, the event featured a special reading of Mike Leigh’s iconic play Abigail’s Party – which premiered at Hampstead Theatre in 1977 – by former cast members Abigail Steadman, Janine Duvitski and Wendy Nottingham. There was also live music from Abiona Omonua (Caroline, or Change) and a live auction hosted by Christopher Biggins. All funds raised will support Hampstead’s Under 30s £10 tickets, helping the theatre to continue making ambitious new theatre for a new generation of artists and audiences.

Roxana Silbert, Artistic Director of Hampstead Theatre, said: “It is astonishing to think that it is sixty years since James Roose-Evans started the Hampstead Theatre Club at Moreland Hall in Hampstead Village.  From modest beginnings, Hampstead Theatre has grown into an internationally respected theatre, presenting world class productions of distinctive new work. I feel so privileged to be part of its history and I look forward to what we can achieve in the future.”

Marisha Wallace has just finished a starring as Becky in Waitress, a role she’s held since the show opened in March 2018. She also received rave reviews as Effie White in Dreamgirls in 2017.

Lizzie Bea is currently performing in the UK Tour of Kinky Boots. She has just returned from Atlanta, where she performed in the world premiere production of Becoming Nancy at the Alliance Theatre.

They join Michael Ball as he returns to his Olivier Award-winning role of Edna Turnblad.

The show also announced that it will extend its run at the London Coliseum to 18 weeks, now booking until 29 August 2020.

The Jamie Lloyd Company announced today an exciting new production of Ibsen’s A Doll’s House at the Playhouse starring Jessica Chastain. Check out our full article below:

Initial casting was announced today for the world premiere of Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt. The cast will include Sebastian Armesto, Jenna Augen, Rhys Bailey, Joe Coen, Mark Edel-Hunt, Clara Francis, Ilan Galkoff, Caroline Gruber, Sam Hoare, Natalie Law, Noof McEwan, Dorothea Myer-Bennett, Jake Neads, Aaron Neil, Alexander Newland, Yasmin Paige, Adrian Scarborough, Griffin Stevens, Ed Stoppard, Luke Thallon, Eleanor Wyld and Alexis Zegerman.

The children’s cast, comprising three sets of five children, includes Toby Cohen, Zachary Cohen, Olivia Festinger, Tamar Laniado, Maya Larholm, Daniel Lawson, Louis Levy, Libby Lewis, Jack Meredith, Chloe Raphael, Beatrice Rapstone and Montague Rapstone.

Producer Sonia Friedman said: “We are thrilled to announce initial casting for Leopoldstadt, the remarkable new play from one of the world’s greatest living playwrights. Our company of 41 actors will come together in Patrick Marber’s production, to tell Tom Stoppard’s powerful and humane story spanning several decades during one of the most turbulent periods in world history. Focussing on endurance, survival, assimilation and resilience, it is a privilege to be producing this potent and timely new work.”

The production also announced a four-week extension, and will now play at Wyndham’s Theatre until 13 June 2020.

Last-minute shows to catch this February:

Touching The Void

Duke of York’s Theatre – Until 29 February 

Based on the internationally best-selling memoir and the adapted BAFTA-winning film by ​Joe Simpson​, the critically acclaimed production charts the extraordinary story of Joe and Simon Yates’ struggle for survival on the perilous Siula Grande mountain in the Peruvian Andes.

As they fight against all odds, David Greig’s thrilling adaptation takes the audience on a legendary adventure that asks how far you’d be willing to go to survive. If you want to be part of the gripping experience, book now.

Cyrano De Bergerac

Playhouse Theatre – Until 29 February 

Jamie Lloyd kicks off his year-long residence at the Playhouse Theatre with Cyrano De Bergerac starring screen-star James McAvoy (X-Men series, Atonement, IT Chapter Two).

Set in 1640s France, this reimagined romantic classic tells the story of a French nobleman who is quick witted, rapid with a sword and has a huge heart, but just can’t get past his own appearance – in particular, his big nose. Feeling certain that nobody will ever love him, will his self-doubt hinder his chances when he meets the woman of his dreams?

Don’t miss your last chance to see this famous face in the West End. Grab your tickets now!

A Taste Of Honey

Trafalgar Studios 1 – Until 29 February

Shelagh Delaney’s ground-breaking British classic returns to the West End for the first time in 60 years! Fresh, frank and a tad emotional, this drama tells the story explores the turbulent relationship between a unmarried single mother and her wayward teenager who falls pregnant with a mixed-raced baby before moving with her homosexual friend. Written back in the 1950s, you can only imagine how incredibly shocking and controversial this story must have been.

Starring Jodie Prenger (Oliver!, One Man, Two Guvnors) and Gemma Dobson (Best Actress in a Play winner at The Stage Debut Award), this honest but bleak study of loving and surviving in poverty still remains relevant today. With the celebrated show closing at the end of the month, be sure to get your tickets now. 

Shows closing in March:

School Of Rock – The Musical

Gillian Lynne Theatre – Until 1 March

If you’re into rock or are a die-hard musical fan, this drum-rolling, guitar-bashing classic is one that shouldn’t be missed. Based on the iconic hit movie featuring Jack Black, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Olivier Award-winning School Of Rock – The Musical is a true celebration of the power of rock. When wannabee rock star Dewey Finn takes on the job of a substitute teacher at a prep school, he discovers that his fifth-grade pupils are pint-sized rock star prodigies and decides to sign them up for The Battle Of The Bands. But the ultimate question is, can they make it to the competition without their parents and school headmistress finding out? Featuring some mini world-class rebellious superstars, this iconic musical is guaranteed to have you rockin’ the whole way through!

The Wedding Singer

Troubador Wembley Park Theatre – Until 1 March

For rom-com fans, we’ve got another rockin’ screen-to-stage adaption in The Wedding Singer starring the multi-talented Strictly Come Dancing star Kevin Clifton (Dirty Dancing, Rock of Ages) in the lead role of Robbie Hart. When his fiancee leaves him at the altar, Robbie decides to make every wedding a disaster, just like his own! Can the sweet Julia bring New Jersey’s once-famous wedding singer out of the darkness or will he lose her to Wall Street bad boy Glenn? Follow the party of the year in this hilarious and heartwarming musical. 

Luisa Miller

London Coliseum – Until 6 March

Luisa and Rob are on the opposite sides of the class divide, but that doesn’t stop them from falling for each other. In a complex web of love, intrigue and oppressive familial relationships, Verdi’s tragedy is a true example of the composer’s natural talent for beautifully fashioned lyrical lines and sensitive orchestration. If you’ve never been to see an opera but would like the opportunity to see one, this new production by English National Opera is sung in English and has surtitles displayed above the stage, making it easy for you to follow. With passion and sincerity at the forefront, this dramatic opera is well worth a watch. 

Opera Undone

Trafalgar Studios 2 – Until 7 March

Whether you’re an opera fan or completely new to the genre, this revolutionary show is simply unmissable.

Radically condensed into two sixty-minute shows and sung entirely in English, Opera Undone: Tosca & La Bohème reinvents opera and opens it up to a whole new generation. The two classic tales of love, heartbreak, and deception come from the producers of 2017’s Olivier Award-nominated La Bohème, which brought Puccini’s story into present-day East London, where it explored the damaging consequences of co-dependent relationships against the challenges of increasing rents and social media. This double-bill brings old favourites into a brand new light and will leave you longing for more.

Message In A Bottle

Peacock Theatre – Until 21 March 

If you combine together the music of Sting and Prince with choreography by triple Olivier Award nominee Kate Prince, what do you get? An extraordinary new dance production called Message In A Bottle!

Bringing together Prince’s signature lyrical hip hop with breathtaking music from 17-time Grammy Award-winning Sting, this exciting new production follows the extraordinary adventures of three siblings who are forced to part when their village comes under siege. This uplifting story of humanity and hope explores what happens when their determination is pushed to the brink.

I Think We Are Alone

Theatre Royal Stratford East – Until 21 March

This bittersweet and funny production follows the tale of two estranged sisters haunted by childhood events, a girl who refuses to let grief get in the way and Graham, who has a person-shaped hole in his heart. From the electrifying moment of connection to the darkness of isolation, I Think We Are Alone explores our need for community, resolution, and learning to let go and hold onto what we love the most.

Endgame

The Old Vic – Until 28 March

Catch Daniel Radcliff and Alan Cumming in The Old Vic’s revival of Beckett’s macabre comedy about hope and cruelty in the double-bill Endgame with Rough For Theatre II. Centred on the master and servant duo, Ham and Clov, Endgame explores the relationship between theatre’s most famous double-acts, as they cling stubbornly to their routine of casual savagery while remaining in their mutual dependence.

Performed alongside Beckett’s rarely-seen short play, Rough For Theatre II, tickets are well sought after. Grab yours now before it’s gone!

Kunene And The King

Ambassadors Theatre – Until 28 March

This refreshingly funny and vital new play is set in South Africa in 2019, 25 years since the first post-apartheid democratic elections. When two men who come from contrasting walks of life are thrust together, they reflect on the quarter-century of change.

Jack is a celebrated actor who has just been given a career-changing role and a life-changing diagnosis and though he seemingly has little in common with his at-home nurse Lunga, the real adventure begins when the two discover their shared passion for Shakespeare.

Following a sold-out run in Cape Town and it’s premiere in Stratford-Upon-Avon, it’s definitely worth catching this exceptionally moving play in its strictly-limited London run.

Based on the John Water film of the same name, Hairspray is the story of love, music, dance and acceptance.

It’s 1962 and Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad is ready to shine. She’s a big girl with big hair and big dreams and nothing’s going to hold her down. With dreams of making it on the local TV dance show, she ignores all her critics and does what she does best: dance. But will she be accepted? Will she win the heart of teen heartthrob, Link Larkin, and bring everyone together no matter their colour, size or hairdo?

This feel-good musical isn’t just a fan favourite for its upbeat message of self-belief and inclusivity, the songs are pretty amazing, too. Featuring the likes of Without Love, You Can’t Stop The Beat, Big Blonde And Beautiful, Good Morning Baltimore, and more, this timely production will leave you feeling upbeat, hopeful and inspired.

The London Coliseum production is brought to you by the award-winning creative team of director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.

The original New York production of Hairspray won three Tony Awards, including Best New Musical, whilst the original West End production won four Olivier Awards, also including Best New Musical, as well giving Michael Ball one of his two Olivier Awards for Best Actor in a Musical.

We’re yet to hear who else will star in the upcoming production and we’re counting down the days until we know who the new girl in town is.

Taking on the iconic roles of Gloria and Emilio Estefan will be Christie Prades and George Ioannides. At certain performances, the role of Gloria Estefan will be played by Philippa Stefani.

Christie will already be pretty prepared to play this role, having played Gloria both on Broadway and on the show’s US tour. No stranger to big shows, Christie’s other credits include Vanessa in In the Heights and West Side Story.

George Ioannides has previously appeared in the West End productions of Annie and Mamma Mia! and was most recently seen as Eduardo Cortez in An Officer and a Gentleman at Curve, Leicester and on the national tour.

Philippa Stefani will be playing Gloria on certain performances.  She recently played the challenging role of Mimi in the national tour of Rent. Just like Christie, Philippa has also performed in a production of In The Heights, playing the role of Daniela. She has also been in several original London casts of successful shows, including Wicked, I Can’t Sing and Sister Act.

Other cast members include Madalena Alberto as Gloria Fajardo, and Karen Mann as Consuelo.

Madalena Alberto has previously played the lead role in Evita at the Dominion Theatre and Grizabella in Cats at the London Palladium. She has also appeared as Fantine in the 25th Anniversary tour of Les Misérables and was most recently seen as Giulietta in Aspects Of Love at the Southwark Playhouse.

Karen Mann’s previous theatre work includes playing the lead role of Golde in the national tour of Fiddler On The Roof, Marley in Scrooge and Mother Superior in Sister Act. She’s also performed in London transfers of successful productions, including Spend Spend Spend and Sweeney Todd.

Completing the cast will be: Hollie Cassar, Francisco Del Solar, Katie Dunsden, Eduardo Enrikez, Laura Friedrich Tejero, Denzel Giskus, Francesca Lara Gordon, Yonly Leyva Desdunes, Elia Lo Tauro, Martin McCarthy, Alicia Mencía, Ciro Lourencio Meulens, Carl Patrick, Clayton Rosa, Julia Ruiz Fernandez, Shanna Michelle Slaap, Dawnita Smith, Frank van Hengel, Despina Violari and Alain Zambrana Borges.

Klaudia Gjergji, Holly McDonagh, Emily Perra will share the role of ‘Little Gloria’ and Santiago Huertas Ruiz, Jonathan Naranjo, Alejandro Puentes Motato will share the role of Nayib/Young Emilio/Jeremy.

On Your Feet! is the true story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan. From their early beginnings and blossoming romance in Cuba to becoming international superstars selling over 100 million records worldwide, find out how Gloria became the most successful Latin crossover performer in the history of pop music. Together they created a new music genre, and they’re responsible for some seriously iconic pop songs, including Rhythm is Gonna Get You, Conga, Get On Your Feet, Don’t Want To Lose You and 1-2-3.

A huge success on Broadway, the show ran for two years and was nominated for a Tony Award.

On Your Feet is directed by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde), with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys) and book by Academy Award winner Alexander Dinelaris (Birdman).

On Your Feet will play seven performances at Curve, Leicester from 3 – 8 June 2019. It will then play a limited run at the London Coliseum between 14 June – 31 August. You can book your tickets right here on Official London Theatre!