THRILLER LIVE, the West Ends high energy, feel good celebration of all things Michael Jackson have just sent out a press release marking the fact that they’re now the 16th longest running musical in West End history (as at Sunday 18 December, 2016).
Looking down the chart it’s surprising the number of other great shows that are still with us. Here’s an “at a glance” guide to which of them you can still enjoy and why they’re still thrilling audiences, and which we may see again.
1. LES MISÉRABLES, 1985 –
still running, over 12,884 performances
I saw the first ever matinee at the Barbican Theatre and every time I’ve seen it since it’s still moved and thrilled me with its blend of an epic, romantic story with stirring music. Celebrating the triumph of good people against adversity it never fails as a great night out.
2. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, 1986 –
still running, over 12,552 performances
This is sheer class. Cameron Macintosh keeps the standard of performance high and although it mostly plays to tourists these days the artistry of the stunning direction, design and score keep this spine tingling story of a misunderstood monster’s obsession with a young singer, as thrilling as ever.
3. BLOOD BROTHERS, 1988 –
(closed, 10,013 performances)
I miss this show. A wonderfully evocative score ensured the dramatic tale of two working class twins, separated, then discovering each other to fulfil their tragic destiny in 1980s Liverpool made me cry every time I saw it. I'm sure we’ll see it return soon and it’ll be admired all over again.
4. CATS, 1981 –
(closed, 8,949 performances)
This favourite has made occasional returns to the West End and Broadway ever since the long, long running first productions closed. You don’t need to know much English to enjoy this spectacular evening of brilliant singers and dancers bringing a tribe of felines to life, so it’s perfect for kids and visitors from abroad. It’s meant so much to so many people who first saw it as children that you can expect it to dip back into town regularly.
5. MAMMA MIA!, 1999 –
still running, over 7,409 performances.
Several people had a go at incorporating the wonderful, ever-green songs of Swedish pop group ABBA into a show but this team got it absolutely right with the tale of a young woman’s relationship with her mother and search for her father as she prepares for a wedding on a sun drenched Greek island. The plot ensures it’s a great show for teenagers, parents and grandparents with the holiday feel of the well-known, much loved songs, reflected in the staging. It’s an instant two hour vacation.
Read Celebrating the West End’s Longest Running Musicals of all Time. Part 2
If big commercial shows and mainstream Christmas entertainment isn't your thing, London Theatre still has plenty of "alternative" choices. Here's two which are worth your attention.