London is a theatre lover’s dream, and it's much more affordable than Broadway. You can find great deals, too. London Theatre Week offers discounted tickets, and I usually find last-minute deals on the TodayTix app, as well. London Theatre Week 2022 ran from February 21 to March 14, and again from August 21 to September 11, so expect it to be around the same time in 2023. Without further ado, here are my all-time favorites!
The Phantom of the Opera, Her Majesty's Theatre: Lucy St. Louis, the first Black woman to star as Christine, is my favorite stage star. Her vocals are stunning, and she and Killian Donnelly--who plays the Phantom--have a mesmerizing dynamic. Holly-Anne Hull, who plays Christine on Fridays, is also incredible. For a production like this one, I recommend getting seats as close to the front as possible. If sitting in the front row, avoid the very center seats, otherwise the maestro's head will be in your line of vision. Still, he's a thrill to watch; his passion is palpable. Once the show is over, don't leave so soon. The orchestra gives a tiny encore!
The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre: I am stunned by the creativity that went into making the animals come alive! Prepare to cry. The show features a couple songs that aren't in the movie, which I wasn't a fan of, but classics like Can You Feel the Love Tonight and The Circle of Life are majestic.
& Juliet, The Shaftesbury Theatre: Miriam Teak-Lee is an absolute gem as Juliet. The show is a reimagining of the classic Romeo & Juliet, if Juliet hadn't died and instead gone forth on a journey of female empowerment, self-discovery, and classic pop songs. It's hilarious, heartwarming, and inclusive (leans heavily on LGBTQ+ plot lines).
The Woman in Black, Fortune Theatre: I love classic ghost stories. More contemporary horror often cheapens the thrills with an over-reliance on bad effects, showing too much, and jump scares. True horror is all in the imagination--in what is not seen. Indeed, this play asks a lot of the audience's imagination--we must imagine the pony and trap, the lawyer's office, the creepy facade of the old manor house. Come prepared to scream.
The Play That Goes Wrong, Duchess Theatre: This play had me laughing nonstop. It's a play within a play--we watch as a murder mystery production goes awfully wrong. If you're in a bad mood, this is sure to make you smile. And goofy though it may be, pay close attention, because the dialogue is quick and quite witty!
Witness for the Prosecution, County Hall: Written by Agatha Christie, this is no ordinary courtroom drama. I was taken in by the effects and the quick, engaging dialogue. I recommend getting a seat in the jury box; you get a great view and can also participate! My mom and I, along with the other jurors, were able to vote on whether the defendant was guilty. I guarantee you won't guess the twist ending.
Mousetrap, St. Martin's Theatre: Another Agatha Christie. I love closed door murder mysteries, especially ones set in snowstorms. Very cozy!
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