Now that the nominees have been unveiled for the highly anticipated Olivier Awards, you are in for a treat as you still have the chance to catch some of the most acclaimed productions before the winners are crowned next month.
Olivier Awards 2023 Hannah Waddingham. Photo by Christie Goodwin
Next month, theatre enthusiasts will gather at the illustrious Royal Albert Hall for the highly anticipated 2024 Olivier Awards. Celebrating the crème de la crème of West End talent, this prestigious ceremony honors everything from stellar performances to the creative minds behind the scenes. As the excitement builds with the event drawing near, we've curated a list of eight Olivier-nominated shows currently captivating audiences in London. From gripping dramas to enchanting musicals, these productions promise to delight theatergoers as we eagerly await the unveiling of this year's winners.
1. Guys and Dolls
Guys and Dolls at Bridge Theatre production image.
With 9 nominations, including Best Musical Revival, Guys and Dolls continues to delight its audiences over at the Bridge Theatre with its immersive style of theatre. The musical itself is a timeless tale of love, luck, and high stakes within the vibrant streets of New York City. Jam-packed with toe-tapping tunes and unforgettable characters, this production delivers a dose of pure entertainment.
- Playing at Bridge Theatre
- Booking until 31 August 2024
2. The Picture of Dorian Gray
Sarah Snook in UK Premiere of The Picture of Dorian Gray
With 2 nominations, including Best Actress for Sarah Snook - this play breathes new life into Oscar Wilde’s iconic tale at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Snook is a tour-de-force in the play as she takes on all 26 characters, making her deserving of the nomination. The Picture of Dorian Gray explores themes of vanity, morality, and the pursuit of eternal youth.
- Playing at Theatre Royal Haymarket
- Booking until 13 April 2024
The Picture of Dorian Gray Tickets
3. Hadestown
HADESTOWN, Lyric Theatre. Photo credit Marc Brenner
Nominated for Best Musical Revival, Hadestown has been delighting audiences since its return to the London stage recently. The Tony Award-winning musical is a spellbinding journey to the underworld, where myth meets modernity in a stunning fusion of music and storytelling. Head to the Lyric Theatre where this musical will transport you to a world where love, hope, and redemption collide amidst the depths of darkness.
- Playing at Lyric Theatre
- Booking until 22 December 2024
4. Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Louis McCartney (Henry Creel) in Stranger Things: The First Shadow. Photo by Manuel Harlan
Nominated for 5 awards at this year’s Olivier Awards, including Best New Entertainment, the prequel to the hit Netflix series that immerses audiences to the heart of Hawkins, Indiana. Stranger Things: The First Shadow has a lot to offer; a captivating storyline, nostalgic nods to the ‘80s and innovative staging. This production has something for fans and newcomers alike!
- Playing at Phoenix Theatre
- Booking until 25 August 2024
Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets
5. Just For One Day
Just For One Day production image. Photo by Manuel Harlan
Time is running out to catch this captivating new musical at The Old Vic, inspired by the iconic Live Aid concert, before it takes its final bow this month, just in time for the Olivier Award ceremony. Matt Brind's musical supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations are integral to the magic of Just For One Day, elevating the production to unforgettable heights. Whether you lived through the '80s or not, the story of this remarkable music event and its inspiring journey is one that transcends generations, making it a must-see for all audiences.
- Playing at The Old Vic
- Booking until 30 March 2024
6. An Enemy of the People
Two nominations for supporting actors shine a spotlight on the current production of Henry Ibsen’s "An Enemy of the People" at the Duke of York’s Theatre. Ibsen's renowned play is celebrated for its enduring relevance, tackling themes of truth, integrity, and the intricacies of democracy, making it a compelling and thought-provoking experience for today's theatergoers.
- Playing at Duke of York’s Theatre
- Booking until 13 April 2024
An Enemy of the People Tickets
7. A Mirror
A Mirror promotional image
Experience the electrifying performance of award-winning actress Tanya Reynolds, nominated for Best Supporting Actress in Sam Holcroft’s darkly comedic political thriller, A Mirror. Following a sensational sell-out run at the Almeida Theatre, this gripping production now graces the West End stage. Set in a totalitarian regime where artistic expression is tightly controlled, the play immerses audiences in a world of rebellion and deception as a clandestine group stages an illegal play disguised as a wedding. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this thrilling exploration of power and resistance.
- Playing at Trafalgar Theatre
- Booking until 15 May 2024
8. Next To Normal
The cast of NEXT TO NORMAL at the Donmar Warehouse. Credit: Marc Brenner
With a stellar four nominations secured after its sold-out success at the Donmar Warehouse, Next To Normal emerges as a must-see production ahead of its highly anticipated West End transfer this summer. Described as a "courageous and deeply moving piece," this musical delves into the raw depths of the human condition, offering a profound and unforgettable exploration of life, love, and resilience.
- Playing at Wyndham’s Theatre
- Booking until 21 September 2024
From the emotional depth of Next To Normal to the timeless charm of Guys and Dolls, there's a diverse array of acclaimed productions awaiting your applause ahead of the awards next month. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the magic of these nominated shows!
