When it is time to go out in London, there are many exciting options for you to do. If you have been sitting at home and playing on an online casino, you can actually go to one of the numerous land-based casinos in and around Leicester Square. Alternatively, you could choose to head to one of the incredible shows London has to offer. With a huge theatre scene, there are multiple shows and musicals to enjoy. While 2023 was a particularly good year, it looks like 2024 will be no different.
So, which top musicals should you be putting into your calendar and getting an early booking for so that you don’t miss out?
1. Hello, Dolly!
For a truly fantastic night at the West End, there’s nothing better than Imelda Staunton returning to the stage in Hello, Dolly! This is a classic musical tale featuring a socialite who becomes a matchmaker, meddling in the lives of everyone around her. It is full of laughs, offering up the chance for Staunton to shine once again. And of course, Staunton excels in this role, offering a powerhouse performance in one of the most perfect roles she’s ever had. Taking place in the London Palladium, it’s only got a limited run time, so it’s essential to book early with performances underway from July 2024.
2. Mean Girls
No, this is not the film, nor is it a remake. Instead, this is an exciting musical version of this iconic teen coming of age comedy. No time to be a loser now, get ready for its West End arrival in June 2024 when it finally hits the stage. Get your best pink foot forward as this Broadway hit is ready to wow Londoners too. Packed with catchy songs and keeping the tone and rivalry of the movie very much alive, this opens in the Savoy Theatre with tickets on sale soon.
3. MJ the Musical
For Michael Jackson fans, this is a can’t-miss opportunity. Celebrating the famous singer, this popular Broadway hit delves into the mind of the global megastar. The play stars Myles Frost, a Tony winner, as the titular star. Not only will you be dazzled by the array of different songs from this singing legend, but treated to a look behind what made this musical genius tick. A five-star show with a difference, this is one you won’t want to miss when it opens in March 2024.
4. Opening Night
Sheridan Smith’s latest endeavour is one of the biggest theatre events in the city. Opening Night is the stage production of John Cassavetes’ 1970s film. It’s all about an actress who comes to Broadway, but her play is haunted by a wide array of different issues behind the scenes. The story has been impressively adapted into a musical by Ivo van Hove, a Tony award-winning directer, and the singer/songwriter, Rufus Wainwright. Smith, taking on the role of a lifetime, will play the iconic Myrtle Gordon making this one of the must-see musicals for March 2024 in London.
5. Hadestown
From singer/songwriter, Anais Mitchell comes this hugely successful Broadway folk opera. Running for five years, this show is finally making the move to the West End. And it’s about time. Inspired by the Eurydice and Orpheus, Hades and Persephone myths, this show heads down deep into the underworld. It’s another Tony Award-winning show on this list and will be running at the National Theatre from February 2024.
6. Just For One Day
One of the most famous concerts ever, and one that brought huge bands and people together, is being brought back in the form of a spectacular musical. The Live Aid concert itself was watched by more than 1.5 billion people across the live broadcast. While none of the big names are back, Bob Geldof and Midge Ure have curated this musical, and are using it to raise money for the Ethiopian famine. The musical itself takes place in the run up to the big day itself, so expect drama and songs galore. Head to the Old Vic for the January 2024 launch.
7. The Devil Wears Prada
If you loved the film, then this musical version is a must. The play is packed with new songs from Elton John, and debuts in the West End before it makes the move to Broadway. As you might imagine from the film, this is all about drama, glitz, glam and more. All of this will be available in October 2024, so keep your eyes peeled for when these hot tickets go on sale.
8. Cruel Intentions: The 90’s Musical
Kicking off in January 2024, this musical is launching from the Other Place theatre in London. It’s had a sold out run in other venues prior to arriving in London, proving extremely popular in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2019. It’s based on the film, but adds in a ton of 90’s classics in a slight reimagining. Think Britney, Christina Aguilera and Boyz II Men, and you’re in for a lot of fun for the night.
9. Next to Normal
It’s been a long time coming, but this hit Broadway musical is finally making its way to the West End. And, it’s everything that it’s cracked up to be. It originally opened in the Donmar Warehouse for its UK premier, but for the rest of its run time it will play in Wyndham’s Theatre. You will need to move quickly though as this has a limited season, and you won’t want to miss out on this show all about bipolar disorder. Opening in June, it’s never too early too scout for tickets.
10. Starlight Express
The popular musical from Andrew Lloyd Weber is back. As is the norm with Webber’s musicals or operettas, each one is a little bit quirky, and none more so than the iconic Starlight Express. Performed at speed — the cast is on rollerskates — it’s all about a steam train that wants to be the fastest train in the world. It’s been here before, but this is a welcome return for this musical, and one you won’t want to miss when it opens in June 2024.
