I’ve shared my top shows to see in Hull and Yorkshire next year but theatreland in the UK means the West End. Of course, I love staying up north but London hosts most new shows first. It’s getting expensive to stay there now (both the trains and hotels are extortionate) so I won’t be visiting as much. However, here are 13 shows to see in London in 2024.
A Chorus Line
It’s not a show that I’ve seen many people say they like but it’s one of my all-time favourite movie musicals. As most of you know, I grew up in the dance world so I always appreciate choreography. A Chorus Line has some of the best in musical theatre history so I can’t wait to finally see it on stage. I hope they keep it simple because the songs and the dancing deserve the spotlight!
Bronco Billy
I mean, I’ve never seen the original film (not really a Clint Eastwood fan) so I’ve no idea what to expect. However, I’ve been swayed by the casting because it’s incredible. I’ve yet to listen to any songs from the show but I’m hoping they keep it country-themed! Who knows what to expect when it’s getting its UK debut?
Cruel Intentions
So I’ve only ever seen the film once when I was back in school and used to go to film club. I remember it being pretty sexy and a little bit weird. Does it translate into a musical well? I’ve no idea but I’m mostly just intrigued. I’ll definitely have to watch the film again before seeing the musical because I honestly can’t remember much else about it. It’s another jukebox type of musical (like Moulin Rouge and & Juliet) so there’s a 50/50 chance I’ll either love it or hate it,
Hadestown
This is probably one of the most anticipated West End shows in years. Until writing this blog post, I didn’t realise it had already been in London before, back in 2019. Once again, it’s a show I know nothing about. I really need to listen to the soundtrack because, from the clips I’ve seen, it looks epic. Sometimes, sung-through shows (like Les Mis) can be hit or miss for many but I’m expecting that I’ll love it.
Hello, Dolly!
We’ve been waiting years for this production to finally come to life after Covid took it from us! I already know Imelda Staunton is going to be iconic and expect the show to feel extravagant. The Palladium is the perfect venue for the show and I know the tickets are selling like hotcakes already.
Just for One Day
What I’m most excited about about Just for One Day is the cast singing some epic songs. I’ve no idea if they’ll be playing the artists from Live Aid or behind-the-scenes types of people. I’ve also never been to the Old Vic and it looks like a great, traditional theatre. I’m really hoping I can get to London before it closes because I’m really intrigued by it!
Mean Girls
One of my favourite musical soundtracks for the past few years has been Mean Girls. Whilst we won’t talk about the movie (I have many opinions on them cutting out vital songs), I’m desperate to see it on stage! Of course, I’ve always been a fan of the original movie and have loved every clip I’ve seen of the Broadway show so far. I feel like I’m going to become as obsessed with this show as I am with Six and Come From Away.
MJ the Musical
I know he was a very controversial figure but I grew up listening to his music. I’m hoping for some improvements from the Broadway production as it didn’t get the best reviews! However, Myles Frost seems like a stunning performer so I’m excited to see him transfer from the US. I imagine it’s quite a demanding role because MJ is in most numbers!
Next to Normal
I was so sad not to catch it at the Donmar a few months ago because it sounds like it was a phenomenal show. It’s a musical that is very deep, which I’m sure people who hate musicals would be shocked to hear. I don’t know lots about the musical having only listened to the soundtrack but it’s a multi-layered show. It’s only on the West End for a short time so I anticipate me making a summer trip!
Standing at the Sky’s Edge
A musical that’s definitely divided opinions lately, I missed the original run in Sheffield and in London. It’s been on my list ever since then! I love shows with multiple storylines intertwining too because it keeps it so fresh and interesting. I can’t say I’d call myself a Richard Hawley fan personally but the idea of a musical about Yorkshire? Count me in!
Starlight Express
Oh, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brain works in mysterious ways. Starlight Express is another show that I know very little about, apart from the odd song and the fact that rollerskates are involved. It looks absolutely bonkers but if one can sing and dance on rollerskates, you can bet I’ll be impressed with any cast. Gabriella Slade from Six is on the costumes so that’s another element that will be incredible!
The Devil Wears Prada
If you’re a 90s baby, you’ll probably adore this film. However, in its original showing in the US, it didn’t get very good reviews. Now, Jerry Mitchell and Elton John have had well over a year to work on the show. Movie-to-musical adaptations don’t always work but the movie is such a great story, I hope they can capture that on stage. Hands up who wants Hannah Waadingham to play Miranda?!
The Time Traveller’s Wife
Now I know this is already on the West End stage but it’s still on my list for 2024 because I haven’t been to London in months! I mostly want to see it for the cast because David Hunter is one of my favourite leading men. However, when I’ve seen the reviews, they don’t seem too positive. However, they all state just how fantastic the production side of the show is. I can’t wait to make up my own mind!
And there are my 13 shows to see in London in 2024. It’s quite a mixed bag but I love to see new shows. London is a treat for me now so I’ll be aiming for a couple of longer trips rather than just an overnight stay.
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