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When I learned that we would be moving to the United Kingdom, I quickly Googled how far our new base was from London. Less than an hour by train, London’s West End beckoned. As a lover of all things musical, I couldn’t wait to catch a show! The only question was, which one to watch? With so many choices, here is a list of must-see musicals on your next trip to London.
42nd Street Theatre Royal Drury Lane
The iconic tale of a bright-eyed girl from Allentown, Pennsylvania with dreams of making it big on Broadway is a must-see. With dazzling choreography and songs such as “We’re in the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway” and “I Only Have Eyes for You,” this West End revival features the musical talents of Sheena Easton. https://42ndstreetmusical.co.uk/
Aladdin Prince Edward Theater
Transport yourself to the dusty streets of Agrabah and discover the tale of Aladdin and his three wishes. Complete with the exuberant Genie, villainous Jafar and lovely Jasmine, you’ll find yourself singing along and enjoying this magic carpet ride. https://aladdinthemusical.co.uk/
Hamilton Victoria Palace Theatre
“Hamilton” tells the story of ill-fated founding father Alexander Hamilton. With a narrative told from his frenemy, Aaron Burr. The hip-hop based musical makes this history lesson amazing to watch. http://hamiltonmusical.com/london
Kinky Boots Adelphi Theatre
Winner of multiple Tony awards and inspired by true events, meet Charlie Price — a down-on-his-luck man who recently inherited a shoe factory from his father. Struggling to keep the business going, Charlie meets Lola, a cabaret drag queen in need of new, sturdy stilettos. As their strange partnership forms, this unlikely pair discovers that they have more in common than they think. http://www.kinkybootsthemusical.co.uk/
Les Misérables Queen’s Theatre
Based on the Victor Hugo novel of the same name, “Les Misérables” opened on the West End in 1985, making it the longest-running musical on London’s West End. Set in the gritty 19th century, witness the struggle of Jean Valjean, a man who spent 19 years imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread. After breaking parole, he is relentlessly hunted by police inspector Javert. With classic tunes, “I Dreamed a Dream,” “One Day More” and “On My Own,” this story is one of love, courage, sacrifice and redemption. https://www.lesmis.com/uk/
The Lion King Lyceum Theatre
Join Simba, the heir apparent to the Pride Lands, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and courage back to his kingdom. Based on the 1994 blockbuster, “The Lion King” transforms the majestic Lyceum Theatre into the lush plains of the Serengeti. Featuring the music of Sir Elton John and Tim Rice, you’ll be amazed by the sheer herds of zebras, giraffes and more. http://www.thelionking.co.uk/
Mamma Mia! Novello Theatre
Sophie is a newly engaged woman, searching for her father. Unbeknownst to her mother, she’s written three potential candidates — all of who show up at the same time. This hilarious and heartwarming show features tunes from Swedish pop group, Abba. http://mamma-mia.com/london.php
School of Rock New London Theatre
Dewey Finn has dreams of being a rock star, but reality comes crashing down. Needing extra cash for rent money, he impersonates his roommate as a substitute teacher. He discovers a wonderfully talented group of musically inclined students and plots to enter the Battle of the Bands. Rock on! https://uk.schoolofrockthemusical.com/
Wicked Apollo Victoria
See another side to “The Wizard of Oz” that you haven’t seen before! Before Dorothy Gale, Lion, Tinman and Scarecrow made their debut, there was another story to be told. Two opposing schoolmates, Glinda and Elpheba, forge an unlikely friendship that will be tested as they fulfill their destinies of good and wicked. https://www.wickedthemusical.co.uk/london
