What’s opening in London theatres this month? (October 2024)

Dr Strangelove (8 October)

"Arguably the best political satire of the century" (Roger Ebert), Stanley Kubrick’s highest rated film, Dr Strangelove, will receive its highly anticipated stage debut this month.

The world premiere stars seven-time BAFTA winner Steve Coogan (I’m Alan Partridge, Philomina) as Dr Strangelove, President Merkin Muffley, Group Captain Lionel Mandrake, AND Major TJ Kong (proving once and for all that he’s more than one - much beloved - character).

The satirical black comed centres on a deranged U.S. Air Force general, Jack D. Ripper, who unilaterally orders a nuclear strike on the Soviet Union, triggering a madcap scramble to stop a nuclear apocalypse. The U.S. President and his advisors, including the eccentric Dr. Strangelove, work frantically to recall the bombers before it's too late.

Often featured in the 100 Greatest Movies of All Time and Greatest Film lists, the stage adaptation, co-adapted and directed by Armando Iannucci (The Thick of It) and Sean Foley (The Crown Jewels) is set to be just as popular.

🎫 Book Dr Strangelove tickets now.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (10 October)

It was only a matter of time, and now it’s almost here! Following a hugely successful, sold-out run at the Southwark Playhouse, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is set to make its West End debut.

The powerful production won the Best Musical Theatre Production at the 2024 Off West End Awards. A stage adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1922 short story, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button follows the extraordinary life of its titular character, a man who is born with the appearance of an elderly person and ages in reverse. As Benjamin grows younger while the world around him ages normally, the show explores themes of love, time, and the fleeting nature of life.

Transporting the story from New Orleans to a small fishing village in Cornwell, the musical features an original score blending folk, blues, and jazz influences. The traditional, humble instruments and bare staging transforms the fantastical tale into something more poignant, human and contained, but just as heartbreaking. Pack the tissues, you’ve been warned!

🎫 Book The Curious Case of Benjamin Button tickets now.

The Devil Wears Prada (24 October)

With the arrival of The Devil Wears Prada, the West End is officially the most fashionable place in the world. But don’t just take our word for it, read Miranda Priestly's guest editorial on why theatreland is serving.

Following a sold-out critically acclaimed run in M̶i̶l̶a̶n N̶e̶w̶ Y̶o̶r̶k P̶a̶r̶i̶s Plymouth, the much anticipated musical will be strutting its way into the Savoy Theatre this Autumn. Starring Tony nominee and multi award-winning singer Vanessa Williams (Ugly Betty, Desperate Housewives) as the formidable editor-in-chief, Miranda Priestly, the stylish show follows the story of the early noughties film.

Fresh out of college, aspiring journalist Andy scores a job at the prestigious Runway magazine working for fashion’s most powerful and terrifying icon. Sacrificing her personal life to meet Miranda’s impossible demands, Andy finds herself seduced by the glamorous world she once despised. How far will she go to succeed... and will it be worth selling her soul to get what she’s always wanted?

Featuring an original score by living legend Elton John (The Lion King) and choreography by 3-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots), you better gird your loins and get ready for the event of the season. That is all.

🎫 Book The Devil Wears Prada tickets now.