The Top 10 Best London Musicals
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London Theatre Direct
(Updated on Oct 11, 2023)
Are you in need of a sweet city escape? Well, right in the heart of London's West End, you have the chance to immerse yourself in the best London musicals on offer. We've carefully listened to the most infectious melodies, gotten lost in the most timeless stories, and witnessed the most marvellous spectacles on stage. The result is this list of the top 10 best musicals in London, many that you’ll find are West End best sellers! It's a well-known fact that the West End is synonymous with delivering larger-than-life performances, and these shows are a must-see for individuals of all ages. So, without further ado, let's explore the top 10 best musicals to see in London.
1. TINA: The Tina Turner Musical
Venue: Aldwych Theatre
TINA: The Tina Turner Musical is a high-energy production that tells the incredible life story of how the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, Tina Turner, made music history. With powerhouse performances, striking fashion and thunderous hits like ‘Proud Mary’ and ‘What's Love Got to Do with It’, TINA: The Tina Turner Musical is a story of hope and resilience, told from the point of view of a small-town girl from Tennessee who redefined music itself.
2. Back To The Future The Musical
Venue: Adelphi Theatre
The DeLorean is revving its engines, will you hop in for an epic time-travelling adventure? Join Marty McFly and Doc Brown in Back To The Future: The Musical, this electrifying show which effortlessly combines the nostalgia of the beloved film with a new score. Great scott! It’s going to be a wonderful ride!
3. MAMMA MIA! The Musical
Venue: Novello Theatre
This super feel-good musical takes all of the classic ABBA and turns them into a gorgeous Greek island party. In this sun-kissed tale of family and love, MAMMA MIA! sees a bride-to-be who's on a mission to find out who her real father is. As soon as the opening notes of 'Dancing Queen' and 'Waterloo,' soar through the theatre, you'll be up on your feet like a true dancing queen.
4. The Lion King
Venue: Lyceum Theatre
A roaring adventure to the African savannah awaits with The Lion King! This mind-blowing musical takes Disney’s treasured animated film and transforms it into a real-life spectacle with jaw-dropping costumes, masterful puppetry, and a soaring score by Elton John and Tim Rice.
5. Crazy For You
Venue: Gillian Lynne Theatre
Crazy For You is a blast from the past, an ode to old-school American Showbiz and an irresistibly toe-tapping good time! Superbly charming and giddy, this romantic comedy follows Bobby Child, a man who falls head over heels for the girls of his dreams as struggles to save a decaying theatre. Set beside the dusky pane of a Small Nevada town, this show-stopper is filled with music from the great George and Ira Gershwin.
6. Phantom of the Opera
Venue: His Majesty's Theatre
In Andrew Lloyd Webber’s tragic love story, a troubled musical genius lurks beneath the Paris Opera House and haunts those who attend the show. The Phantom of the Opera tells the haunting and passionate tale of the masked man known simply as The Phantom. When The Phantom meets a beautiful young soprano, Christine, he begins to nurture her talents, but soon, lessons lead to obsession…
7. Frozen The Musical
Venue: Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Frozen The Musical is the phenomenal stage version of one of Disney's most popular animated movies. The story follows two sisters, Elsa and Anna, as Elsa attempts to figure out how to control her ice powers. On a crazy adventure which includes a sassy reindeer, a snowman who loves to tan and a rugged love interest, Frozen the musical is set to the songs of the original movie, including the phenomenal ‘Let It Go’, and includes new songs and one of the best dress changes of all time.
8. Matilda The Musical
Venue: Cambridge Theatre
A little bit witty, a little bit magical, a little bit naughty - Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is one of the most famous children's stories of all time. Unlike anyone else around her, Matilda Wormwood decides that one day, it’s time to take a stand against her telly-loving parents and the wicked old Trunchull. Matilda The Musical is a lesson to kids everywhere that even if you’re little, you can do a lot!
9. The Book of Mormon
Venue: Prince of Wales Theatre
Some of the best musicals in London are the ones that make us laugh! From the creators of South Park comes The Book of Mormon, a hilarious and irreverent musical that follows two young missionaries sent to Uganda. With its witty humour and catchy songs, this show is a comedic masterpiece.
10. Wicked
Venue: Apollo Victoria Theatre
Discover the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West in Wicked. This enchanting musical explores the friendship between the witches of Oz and tells their untold story, the decisions that shaped their destinies, and the events that led to a pair of unlikely but profoundly close friends becoming Glinda The Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West.
Which is the best London musical?
Call us old-fashioned, but the best musical in London can’t be ranked or researched - what is considered to be the best London musical is down to personal preference. If you’re all about rebellion and rock ‘n’ roll, then you’ll definitely enjoy singing along to TINA: The Tina Turner Musical. If you’re seeking a trip down memory lane, then Back To The Future The Musical is will give you a much-needed dose of nostalgia. Or, if you’re just in the mood for some timeless ABBA tunes and impeccable vibes, then you should definitely plan a getaway to the sunny islands of MAMMA MIA!The Musical. The West in London is known for its incredibly diverse selection of musicals, each with its own special little something, just waiting to be explored.
What is the most popular West End show?
The most popular West End show can change every season, and as we all know, some favourites disappear for a little while, but they always return. You can count on crowd-pleasers like The Lion King and The Phantom of the Opera to pack the house year after year. These timeless classics are always a hit with theatre lovers in London. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to stay updated on the latest news (which you can sign up to here) to find out which show is currently blowing everyone's minds, both the audience and the critics.
What musicals are in London right now?
London's vibrant theatre scene is constantly evolving, so it's essential to check the latest listings to see which musicals are currently running. You can visit our musicals page for up-to-date information on all the musicals in London, including showtimes, venues, and ticket availability. Don’t forget you can also catch a last-minute musical and get fantastic tickets for fabulous discounts! Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of live theatre in one of the world's most bustling entertainment hubs!