Forget dinner and drinks, why not try catching a West End show on your next romantic evening? If you're stumped about which shows make for a good date night here are our recommendations!
Moulin Rouge! The Musical at Piccadilly Theatre
The ensemble cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical
If you’re both romantics at heart, this heartfelt and epic musical will be the perfect choice for you. Step into the colourful, vibrant world of Bohemian Paris, and follow the forbidden love story of idealistic poet Christian and the beautiful Satine, star of the glitzy Moulin Rouge club. Filled with songs you’ll know and love, brimming with all the glamour and passion of Bohemian Paris, this musical will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience for you both.
Hadestown at the Lyric Theatre
The cast of Hadestown
Another musical for the romantics, Hadestown takes the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Euridyce and adds a modern spin to it, transporting audiences to a dystopian world where the seasons are out of balance and the underworld is one giant factory floor ruled by Hades. With heartrending original songs, a talented cast of wonderfully memorable characters, and an epic story, this musical will give you and your date plenty to talk about as you leave the theatre.
50 First Dates: The Musical at The Other Palace
Georgina Castle and Josh St Clair for 50 First Dates: The Musical
If you want something lighter, why not try this musical adaptation of the beloved 2004 rom com? In this laugh-out-loud, heartwarming musical, permanent bachelor Henry must win over Lucy, the girl of his dreams, over and over when her amnesia causes each day to reset with no memories of him. This has all the ingredients of a classic rom com - charming characters, a quirky meet-cute, and a love story that will bring out the romantic in you.
Four Play at the King’s Head Theatre
The cast of Four Play
Another one for those who want a dose of comedy on date night - Four Play is a new original play by Jake Brunger, in which a couple stuck in a rut decide to open up their relationship, leading to chaos and confusion. This clever, witty play asks all kinds of questions about the nature of love and relationships, while also being rib-ticklingly funny.
Twelfth Night at Shakespeare’s Globe
The artwork of Twelfth Night
Nobody does romance like Shakespeare, especially in his comedies, where love stories are full of humour, misunderstandings, witty banter, sweeping declarations of love, and above all, a happy ending. Twelfth Night has all of those things: Viola finds herself trapped in a love triangle between Duke Orsino and the lady Olivia, both who think she’s a young man. Shakespeare’s Globe is also a perfect date spot, especially on a beautiful day. Soak up the sun in this gorgeous open-air theatre, and have a drink in the grand Swan bar and restaurant. Grab standing tickets if you want to be close to the action (but be prepared for some gentle ribbing from the actors!).
A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
Artwork for A Midsummer Night's Dream.
Another classic Shakespeare comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, will transport you into an enchanted forest outside of Athens, where mischievous fairies wreak havoc on the already tangled lives of four young lovers. The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is a cosy, romantic spot for a date - small and intimate, with beautiful wooden architecture, and lit entirely by candlelight.
Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical at Evolution London
Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical at Evolution London
Maybe you want a bit more activity on your romantic evening. If so, step into the colourful, nostalgic world of Grease - and when we say ‘step in’, we mean it literally. Wander through Rydell High and other locations from the beloved film, and enjoy food, drink, and even a fairground while a talented cast brings to life characters and songs from Grease around you. It’s a truly unique way for you and your date to relive Danny and Sandy’s iconic love story.
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical at the Cambridge Theatre
Artwork for Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
Another immersive show, but this time you get to be part of the storytelling. Put your improvisational skills to the test and impress your date with your quick thinking and wit when the actors call on the audience for suggestions and ideas. Then sit back and enjoy as the whip-smart cast and talented band invent a brand new musical on the fly with your help, complete with comedy, song and dance, and just the right amount of pizzazz.
So, whether you’re looking for something heartwarming and romantic or something that will make you laugh, something activity-based where the two of you can play along or something where you can sit back and lose yourself in a new world, London has you covered. Pick your favourite and treat that special someone in your life to an unforgettable night. If you're looking for more theatrical inspiration, our guide to the 'Best New Musicals in London' and 'Best Plays in London' will help you out!
