This summer, thousands of families will be heading to the capital to make every moment of their school holidays count. To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve created a guide to the top shows hitting London stages - from the smash-hit musicals to limited productions you won’t want to miss.
Disney’s Hercules, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
The cast of Disney's Hercules. Photo by Matt Crockett.
Inspired by the beloved animated film and rooted in ancient Greek mythology, Hercules is the latest addition to Disney’s theatrical offering. Jam-packed with larger-than-life energy, humour, this spectacular stage musical has everything you need from a show on this scale.
Wicked, Apollo Victoria Theatre
Emma Kingston in Wicked.
Before you watch Wicked: For Good in cinemas later this year, make sure to catch the spellbinding, epic musical that started it all. Soaring musical numbers, colourful costumes, and larger-than-life characters collide onstage to tell the untold story of the Witches of Oz.
Matilda the Musical, Cambridge Theatre
The cast of Matilda The Musical. Photo by Manuel Harlan
Based on the beloved children’s book by Roald Dahl, Matilda is a whimsical, enchanting musical about a clever little girl with a brilliant mind. It’s packed with unforgettable songs, dazzling and dynamic set design and stage magic, and powerful lessons about courage, friendship, and the power of stories.
My Neighbour Totoro, Gillian Lynne Theatre
The artwork for My Neighbour Totoro.
My Neighbour Totoro is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that is brought to life with breathtaking creativity and theatrical magic in London’s West End. The multi-award-winning production, based on the timeless Studio Ghibli animated film, is jam-packed with vibrant visuals and jaw-dropping puppetry.
Disney’s The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre
Disney's The Lion King production image.
A staple of the West End, The Lion King is based on the beloved Disney animated classic. It has won hearts all around the world for its spectacular set design and puppetry that bring the African savannah to life, and a score of unforgettable songs to accompany this epic, timeless story.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Theatre Royal Haymarket
The Tiger Who Came To Tea production image.
First published as a short children’s story in 1968, Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came To Tea heads to the West End for its 11th season this year. A delightful family show, experience oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos that is certified to bring your little ones joy over the summer.
The Tiger Who Came To Tea Tickets
101 Dalmatians The Musical, Eventim Apollo
Artwork for 101 Dalmatians The Musical.
From the pages of Dodie Smith’s beloved book comes 101 Dalmatians The Musical - a joyous and vibrant stage adaptation that is set to be a favourite with families this summer. Jam-packed with spectacular puppetry, show-stopping choreography, and hilarious original songs, this feel-good musical follows the journey of Pongo, Perdy, and their adorable puppies as they take on the wicked Cruella de Vil.
101 Dalmatians The Musical Tickets
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show, Theatre Royal Haymarket
Artwork for Peppa Pig's Big Family Show.
The popular children’s cartoon comes to the West End for the first time in this delightfully interactive show that encourages families to sing and dance along. Join Peppa and her family as they prepare for a new baby, all while enjoying catchy musical numbers and dance routines.
Peppa Pig's Big Family Show Tickets
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain - The Best Bits, Apollo Theatre
Artwork for Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain.
Experience British history like never before with Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain! Brought to you by the creators of the smash-hit children’s TV series, this hilariously gruesome stage show dives into the weirdest and wildest moments from Britain’s past (with the nasty bits left in!).
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Tickets
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, Sadler's Wells
Artwork for The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.
This year, the beloved book celebrates its 75th anniversary so what better way to experience the charming children’s adventure than with a trip to see the smash-hit West End production of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. Step into the world of Narnia with this unforgettable show, which plays at Sadler’s Wells from August.
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Tickets
Whatever show you decide to experience this summer, you will not be disappointed by the vast variety that the West End has to offer. Our Best Musicals to see in London and Best Plays to see in London guides for more inspiration for your next theatre trip!
