London offers a wealth of Shakespearean shows and we’ve got a round up of the best to check out in 2024!
David Tennant in Macbeth. Photo by Marc Brenner.
From the iconic Globe Theatre to the modern stages of the West End, London offers a wealth of opportunities to experience the brilliance of Shakespearean drama firsthand. Tom Holland’s highly anticipated performance in Romeo and Juliet at the Duke of York’s Theatre and Twelfth Night in the idyllic setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre are just two of what the city offers. Join us on a journey to discover the best Shakespeare shows in London in 2024.
1. Romeo and Juliet
Tom Holland (Romeo) and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers (Juliet) in Romeo and Juliet. Photo by Marc Brenner.
Global superstar Tom Holland has returned to the London stage in Jamie Lloyd’s pulsating new vision of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. Romeo and Juliet explores love, fate, and family conflict. Selling out in just two hours, this is definitely one to watch!
- Playing at Duke of York’s Theatre
- Booking until 3 August 2024
2. Twelfth Night
Twelfth Night. Harry Waller, Jon Trenchard, Sally Cheng & Katherine Toy. Credit - Richard Lakos
Twelfth Night is a Shakespearean comedy that blends romance, humour, and mistaken identities, creating an engaging and entertaining narrative. Set in the idyllic surroundings of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Twelfth Night ensures laughter and amusement throughout for its audiences.
- Playing at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
- Booking until 8 July 2024
3. Player Kings
Ian McKellen in PLAYER KINGS artwork.
A new version of Shakespeare’s Henry IV, adapted by the award-winning writer and director Robert Icke is heading into the West End for a limited time. Ian McKellen takes on the role of Falstaff, delivering some of the most powerful and memorable monologues with exceptional skill and passion. Player Kings offers audiences a profound experience at the theatre!
- Playing at Noel Coward Theatre
- Booking until until 22 June 2024
4. Kiss Me, Kate
Adrian Dunbar and Stephanie J Block, photos supplied by the production.
A classic take on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew; Kiss Me Kate arrives in London this summer. The fresh new production of Cole Porter’s classic musical is a must-see for its dazzling blend of witty dialogue, sophisticated humour, and unforgettable songs, which together create a vibrant and entertaining theatrical experience.
- Playing at Barbican Theatre
- Booking until 14 September 2024
5. The Taming of the Shrew
The Taming of the Shrew promotional image.
Head to The Globe this summer for Shakespeare’s vicious comedy, The Taming of the Shrew. This is a must-see for its timeless exploration of love, power, and gender roles, all brought to life with wit, humour, and biting social commentary by William Shakespeare.
- Playing at Globe Theatre
- Booking until 26 October 2024
The Taming of the Shrew Tickets
6. Macbeth
David Tennant in Macbeth. Photo by Marc Brenner.
Shakespeare’s extraordinary psychological drama Macbeth is heading to the West End this Autumn starring David Tennant and Cush Jumbo. Performing at the Harold Pinter Theatre following the acclaimed run at the Donmar Warehouse, expect cutting edge sound design in an unforgettable take on the story that has captivated audiences since 1606.
- Playing at Harold Pinter Theatre
- Booking until 14 December 2024
8. The Comedy of Errors
The Comedy of Errors promotional image.
Returning to The Globe due to popular demand, The Comedy of Errors is popular for its hilarious farce, mistaken identities, and uproarious slapstick comedy. Known for being one of Shakespeare’s most beloved and accessible plays, The Comedy of Errors will leave you in stitches!
- Playing at Globe Theatre
- Booking until 27 October
With so many brilliant Shakespeare plays in London, you’ll be spoilt for choice on what to see. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your next theatre trip, check out our guide to the best London plays.
