The Best Musicals In London

Calling all demi-gods. The Unofficial Grease Parody is taking to the stage at The Vaults Theatre.

At Olympus Academy, term is about to begin, and this year graduating won't be the only climax. As the Gods writhe and the nymphs jive, you're invited to rev your chariot and lose yourself to the swinging tunes of Ancient Grease.

• 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: 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. And afterwards? The Cumberland Hotel are hosting a fantastic themed afternoon tea.

• 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.

• 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. 

Featuring iconic hits like “Hungry Eyes” and “(I've Had) The Time of My Life”, Dirty Dancing is an all-time classic. Inspired by the beloved film, this musical promises all the dance numbers that you know and love, with plenty of drama and romance thrown in. You can catch the show at Capital Theatre in Shepherd's Bush, starting from £103 per person.

• 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: 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.

• 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.

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: 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.

Get ready to singalong with everyone's favourite undead demon as Beetlejuice takes to the stage at the Prince Edward Theatre. With a fantastic cast, jaw-dropping effects and a killer score, it's got all the glorious gothic charm of the Tim Burton classic. 

You'll join offbeat teen Lydia Deetz as she tries her best to navigate life while being haunted by a recently deceased couple - along with our stripe suited hero. Get your ticket to this once in an afterlife-time show from just £25.

• 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: 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.