The Best Musicals In London

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

Ever dreamed of being more than just a spectator at your favourite musical? Now's your chance to join the action with the West End Musical Brunch, a high-energy, immersive experience where the audience becomes part of the performance.

Expect dazzling live numbers from West End legends - think Wicked, Les Misérables, Hamilton, and more. After kicking things off with an hour of unlimited cocktails and soft drinks, you'll sing, dance, and relive iconic moments from the stage, from Defying Gravity to Greased Lightning, all while tucking into a delicious two-course feast.

• Where: Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, Kingsway, WC2A 2HT

Chaka Khan's electrifying life hits the stage in I'm Every Woman: The Chaka Khan Musical, a powerhouse celebration of one of music's most iconic voices. With 25 chart-topping hits, over 70 million records sold, and a legacy that spans five decades, this world premiere dives deep into the story behind the sound that defined generations.

Directed by Racky Plews and written by Nia T. Hill, the show is packed with Chaka's unforgettable anthems like Ain't Nobody, I Feel for You, and Sweet Thing, alongside hits from the legends who shaped her journey - Prince, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder and more. It's bold, it's soulful, and it's Chaka Khan like you've never seen her before.

Looking for something totally unique? Part comedy and part concert, The Diana Mixtape is ed by a cast of RuPaul's Drag Race UK stars, including Courtney Act, Divina De Campo, Rosé, Baby and Kitty Scott-Claus.

This is the ultimate tribute to the People's Princess, complete with hits by the pop princesses of today - we're talking Britney, Gaga, Dua, Kylie and beyond.

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

Get ready for the ultimate feel-good experience at Mamma Mia! - the world's sunniest smash-hit musical. Set against the stunning backdrop of a Greek island paradise, this irresistible show brings to life a heartwarming story of love, friendship, and identity, all told through the timeless hits of ABBA.

Follow Sophie on her mission to discover the father she's never known, which leads her mother, Donna, to reunite with three men from her past - all just days before Sophie's wedding. The result? A fun-filled, unforgettable comedy that will have you laughing, singing, and dancing along.

• Where: Kit Kat Club, Playhouse Theatre, Northumberland Avenue, WC2N 5DE

Leave the outside world behind and step into the glittering shadows of 1930s Berlin at the Kit Kat Club, where Cabaret takes over the Playhouse Theatre. This critically acclaimed, multi-award-winning production transforms the venue into a decadent playground, where the Emcee keeps a watchful eye over all.

As the threat of fascism looms beyond the velvet curtains, you'll be swept up in dazzling burlesque, provocative performances, and unforgettable numbers like Willkommen, Mein Herr, and Maybe This Time. With tickets starting from just £37, now's your chance to step into a world where nothing is quite as it seems.

• Where: Lyceum Theatre, 21, Wellington Street, London, WC2E 7RQ

Since opening in 1999, Disney's The Lion King has become a cornerstone of London theatre, enchanting audiences with its blend of African rhythms, colourful costumes, and groundbreaking theatrical innovation.

Directed by Julie Taymor, whose visionary artistry reimagined the beloved film, the musical immerses viewers in the Serengeti with captivating performances and intricate masks and puppets. Featuring iconic tunes like The Circle of Life and I Just Can't Wait to Be King, this show remains one of the West End's top-selling productions and a true celebration of storytelling.

• Where: Gielgud Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1V 8AR

Fancy grabbing tickets to a classic musical? London's Gielgud Theatre can help with that, as it's showing Cameron Mackintosh's dazzling production of Oliver! Based on Charles Dickens's cherished novel, this iconic musical is brimming with unforgettable songs, including the cheeky and timeless Food Glorious Food.

Originally making its Broadway debut in 1963 as the first British musical to hit the stage, it went on to win three Tony Awards and run for an impressive 774 performances. A heartwarming tale of hope, mischief, and the power of kindness, it'll sweep you away with its vibrant music and poignant story. 

• Where: Trafalgar Theatre, 14 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2DY
• Read DesignMyNight's review of Clueless: The Musical

Clueless The Musical is a nostalgic throwback into the life of Cher Horowitz - a modern take on Jane Austen's equally iconic heroine, Emma. With a script by the same writer-director of the original 1995 teen movie (Amy Heckerling), it stays true to the much-loved narrative and those iconic lines (expect lots of ugh, as if's). 

A cult classic known for its humour, fashion, and quotable lines, the musical takes things up a notch with new music by Brit Award-winning singer-songwriter KT Tunstall and lyrics by Grammy® winner and three-time Tony® nominee Glenn Slater (known for Sister Act The Musical, Tangled, and School of Rock).

• Where: London Coliseum, 33 St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES

Step back in time to the glamorous Roaring '20s with The Great Gatsby at the London Coliseum. This dazzling musical brings F. Scott Fitzgerald's legendary tale to life in a whole new way, blending classic charm with modern flair.

Follow the captivating yet tragic story of Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, and Daisy Buchanan, brought to the stage by the award-winning Korean musical producer Chunsoo Shin. With tickets starting from just £25, it's your chance to experience the opulence, drama, and heartbreak of one of literature's greatest stories in a spectacular new production.

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

We couldn't compile a guide to London musicals in 2025 without including one of the greatest of them all. Grab tickets and experience the hauntingly beautiful world of The Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Lloyd Webber's legendary musical that continues to captivate audiences across the globe.

Now playing at His Majesty's Theatre, this timeless masterpiece stars Dean Chisnall as the enigmatic Phantom, alongside Lily Kerhoas as Christine Daaé and Joe Griffiths-Brown as Raoul. Featuring unforgettable classics like Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, and Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, this brilliant production promises an evening of soaring romance, spine-tingling suspense, and theatrical splendour.

• Where: Piccadilly Theatre, 16 Denman Street, London, W1D 7DY
• Read DesignMyNight's review of Moulin Rouge! The Musical
  

Pop the champagne and let the magic of Moulin Rouge! The Musical sweep you off your feet. It's where glitz, glamour, and the intoxicating energy of Paris collide and Bohemians and aristocrats come together.

Baz Luhrmann's revolutionary film is brought to life on stage in a thrilling new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award® nominee Alex Timbers, it also includes a book by Tony Award® winner John Logan, choreography by Emmy Award® nominee Sonya Tayeh, and music supervision by Justin Levine.

• Where: Other Palace, 12 Palace Street, London, SW1E 5JA

A brand new musical written by David Rossmer and Steve Rosen and directed and choreographed by multi-Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw, 50 First dates is bound to leave you impressed.

Taking place at Other Palace in Victoria, this spellbinding show tells the story of Henry and Lucy, who fall in love again for the first time every day. Starring Georgina Castle (Mean Girls) and Josh St. Clair (Ghost), this is set to be a fantastic show.

Looking for a fantastic performance full of powerful ballads? Then check out the brilliantly camp Titanique: The Musical, which is taking place at Criterion Theatre in Piccadilly Circus.

This camp twist on the classic tale tells the story of Celine Dion hijacking a Titanic Museum tour, putting her own spin on events. Think hilarious jokes, amazing vocals, 90s throwbacks and more.

Burlesque: The Musical is a stunning show full of sass and sequins, promising to be a night to remember. It's taking place at the iconic Savoy Theatre, featuring a soundtrack from Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren and more.

Watch Ali journey through New York's underground club scene, complete with plenty of glitz and glam. we're talking amazing choreography, powerful vocals and non-stop fun.

• Where: Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, Fulton Road, London, HA9 8TS

The Starlight Express takes place at the Starlight Auditorium at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. This high-energy, roller-skating musical - created by Andrew Lloyd Webber - tells the story of Rusty, an outdated steam engine determined to win the championship race and capture the heart of Pearl, a sleek first-class observation car.

Prepare to be amazed as the entire show takes place on roller skates, combining electrifying choreography, stunning set designs, and an unforgettable race for the crown of Fastest Engine in the World. With rival engines like Greaseball, the haughty diesel, and Electra, the flashy electric newcomer, Rusty must overcome obstacles and discover the champion within.

Turn up the volume and grab your crown - SIX: The Singalong is taking over the West End with pure pop royalty. With ticket prices starting at £42, this is your chance to join the queens live on stage (vocally, at least) in a show that's part concert, part musical, and all fun.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just love a good singalong, this is the theatre night you've been waiting for.

• Where: Cambridge Theatre, Earlham Street, London, WC2H 9HU

Matilda: The Musical is full of mischief, magic, and mighty imagination; the award-winning sensation has been delighting audiences young and old since 2010. Brought to life by the Royal Shakespeare Company and based on Roald Dahl's beloved book, this joyful production tells the tale of a brilliant little girl with extraordinary powers who dares to stand up for what's right - even when the odds (and the adults) are stacked against her.

Packed with toe-tapping tunes, funny teachers, and a cast of wonderfully 'revolting' children, Matilda is a wildly entertaining tribute to courage, cleverness, and childhood rebellion. 

• Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5JF

Shaping up to be one of the best musicals in London for 2025, Hercules muscles its way onto the stage at Theatre Royal Drury Lane from the 11th of June onwards. This spectacular new musical reimagines Disney's beloved animated classic with fresh energy, dazzling visuals, and a heroic dose of heart.

Brought to life by Tony Award-winning writers Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah, and packed with both fan-favourite tunes and brand-new songs by Alan Menken and David Zippel, this larger-than-life production follows Hercules on his quest to battle beasts, defy the gods, and discover the true meaning of heroism.

• Where: Prince of Wales Theatre, Coventry Street, London, W1D 6AS

A night of uproarious comedy is on the cards with The Book of Mormon at London's Prince of Wales Theatre. This Tony Award®-winning musical, created by the masterminds behind South Park - Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez - takes you on a hilarious journey with two Mormon missionaries sent to a Ugandan village.

The locals are more concerned with their own struggles than the missionaries' teachings, leading to a series of wildly funny and thought-provoking moments. With unforgettable songs like I Believe and Spooky Mormon Hell Dream, this satirical masterpiece delivers sharp humour, catchy tunes, and a surprising amount of heart. 

• Where: London Palladium, 8, Argyll Street, London, W1F 7TF

Evita is back - and it's more powerful than ever. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic masterpiece returns to the stage in a bold new revival, reimagined by acclaimed director Jamie Lloyd. Stripped back, recharged, and more relevant than ever, this is Eva Perón's story like you've never seen it before.

With legendary anthems like Don't Cry for Me Argentina and You Must Love Me, this electrifying production is set to ignite The London Palladium for a strictly limited twelve-week run starting on the 14th of June 2025. Don't miss your chance to experience the rise, reign, and raw emotion of a musical that continues to captivate the world.

• Where: Adelphi Theatre, Strand, London, WC2R 0NS

Blast off into the past with Back to the Future: The Musical at the Adelphi Theatre. This entertaining stage adaptation of the beloved 1985 film follows Marty McFly, an ordinary rock 'n' roll teenager, who accidentally gets transported back to 1955 in his friend Dr. Emmett Brown's iconic time-travelling DeLorean. To get back to his own time, Marty must ensure that his high-school-aged parents fall in love - or risk erasing his entire future.

Featuring all your favourite characters and unforgettable moments from the film, including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode, this musical captures the magic, adventure, and heart of the original.

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

This critically acclaimed Broadway musical, created by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and directed by Rachel Chavkin, takes place at the Lyric Theatre and is not to be missed.

Winner of 8 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, and the Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theatre Album, Hadestown takes you on an unforgettable journey to the underworld and beyond. This stunning production weaves together two powerful love stories: the passionate, tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, and the complex relationship between King Hades and his wife Persephone.