Best Theatre Shows In London

• Where: a secret Central London spot (revealed the week before the show)

Ever got an urge to stand up and join in when watching your favourite musical? Well now you can with the West End Musical Brunch. This one-of-a-kind event invites you to step into the spotlight alongside the stars of London's iconic West End, and features live performances from the biggest names, including past stars of Wicked, Les Miserables, Hamilton, and more.

But here's the twist - the audience is part of the show. After an hour of bottomless cocktails and soft drinks, you'll be belting out Defying Gravity, singing Fame at the top of your lungs, and dancing to Grease Lightning, all while enjoying a delicious two-course meal. It's your chance to become part of the magic and immerse yourself in the world of musical theatre.

• Where: 2 Shepperton Road, London, N1 3DT

Nestled next to Regent's Canal in Islington is the characterful Rosemary Branch Theatre, an award-winning pub that's just waiting for your visit. From comedies to plays and improv, this artsy spot has a little something for everyone to be dazzled by.

Bring your friends along, nurse a cold pint and catch some of the best up-and-coming comics as they try out their new material, or watch independent shows that creatively tackle interesting themes and get your mind spinning hours after it's over. What's more, for some of the best theatre plays in London, tickets are super affordable, typically starting from around £8 per person.

Where: Prince Edward Theatre, Old Compton Street, London, W1D 4HS

Beetlejuice is trading the underworld for the West End stage at the Prince Edward Theatre this May. Packed with jaw-dropping effects, a killer score and bags full of fun, it puts all the magic of the Tim Burton classic right before your eyes.

Expect comedy, chaos and a loudmouthed demon who just won't stay buried. Tickets to the gloriously gothic show start from just £25.

• Where: Savoy Theatre, Strand, London, WC2R 0ET

Step into the world of one of Britain's most beloved characters in this unmissable new production at the Savoy Theatre. Paddington The Musical is packed with catchy songs, dazzling dance numbers and, of course, plenty of marmalade sandwiches.

With music from McFly's Tom Fletcher, incredible costumes and stunning sets, this is Paddington as you've never seen him before. Grab your tickets to the action from just £55.

• Where: His Majesty's Theatre, Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4QL

Often considered to be one of the most amazing productions in history, Phantom of the Opera is Andrew Lloyd Webber's masterpiece. You can see it at His Majesty's Theatre for as little as £37 per person, starring Dean Chisnall as The Phantom, Lily Kerhoas as Christine Daaé and Joe Griffiths-Brown as Raoul.

This performance has been seen by over 160 million people all over the world, in 21 different languages. Expect a stunning show, featuring songs like Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and more.

• Where: Lyceum Theatre, 22 Wellington Street, London, WC2E 7RQ

The multi-award-winning Lion King has wowed audiences on the West End for the past three decades. With stunning sets, innovative costumes and incredible performances, you're immediately transported to the Pride Lands.

On top of the iconic songs you know and love, from I Just Can't Wait to be King to Can You Feel The Love Tonight, there's new, exciting additions to the score for the stage. Join the 110 million people have already experienced the show worldwide – grab your tickets from just £39.

• Where: Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES

Back on the West Stage for a strictly limited run, The Gruffalo is live at the Lyric Theatre. You'll join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's classic picture book.

Expect sensational songs, big laughs and monstrous fun from start to finish. It gets even better - tickets start from a bargain £13.

• Where: Novello Theatre, Aldwych, London, WC2B 4LD

Take a chance on a night full of sunshine and ABBA hits with Mamma Mia! - the world's most fabulous musical. Set on a dreamy Greek island, this feel-good extravaganza brings together love, laughter, and a whole lot of Dancing Queen energy, all set to ABBA's timeless tunes.

Join Sophie as she embarks on a quest to find her father, throwing her mom Donna's past into the mix, just days before Sophie's wedding. The result? A delightful Mama Mia moment of love, confusion, and reunion that'll have you super trooping your way through a show packed with hilarious twists, heartfelt moments, and of course, dancing in the aisles. 

• Where: Cadogan Hall, Sloane Terrace, 5 Sloane Terrace, London, SW1 XDQ

Ballet Nights 012 at Cadogan Hall is celebrating its third birthday with its boldest production yet. It's an incredible opportunity to see principal dancers from The Royal Ballet and the English National Ballet share a single stage in an intimate, uniquely compèred setting.

Seamlessly guided by new compère Anaish Yilma-Parmar, the evening flows between classical elegance, raw, physical contemporary dance from James Wilton Dance, and the historic UK debut of Cape Town City Ballet. Paired with gorgeous live music from Quartet Concrète all evening, it's a brilliant theatrical experience that's a must-book.