London is rich with theatrical heritage. The city contains over 200 professional theatres, encompassing grand West End establishments and alternative, independent venues.
Make your stay in one of London’s boutique hotels even more spectacular by snapping up tickets to see one of London’s top, West End shows. Read our guide to find out what’s on at the best West End Theatre Shows in London in 2020.
1. Adelphi Theatre
Located in Covent Garden, the Adelphi Theatre has changed names and hands many times in the 200+ years it has been functioning as a playhouse. The current owner is the one and only Andrew Lloyd Webber!
What’s On?
The Waitress – An uplifting and hopelessly romantic musical about Jenna, a waitress who dreams of escaping her loveless marriage. When an attractive newcomer arrives in town, life gets complicated. Jenna soon finds that laughter, love and friendship can provide the perfect recipe for happiness. (Until 4 July 2020)
Where?
Strand, Covent Garden WC2R 0NS
2. Apollo Victoria Theatre
The impressive interiors of this Victoria-based theatre are a testament to Art Deco design and still retain the glamour the theatre exuded at its opening in 1930.
What’s On?
Wicked – The Apollo has been the home of the hit West End and Broadway musical for the past 12 years. Wicked reveals the untold stories of the two witches from The Wizard of Oz in an all-singing, all-dancing sensational stage production. With lashings of brains, heart and courage! (Until 23 May 2020)
Where?
17 Wilton Road, Victoria SW1V 1LG
3. Cambridge Theatre
At the crossroads of Seven Dials, the Cambridge Theatre is triangular shaped due to its odd location, making it one of the most visually remarkable theatres in the city.
What’s On?
Matilda – The multi-award-winning adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic children’s novel about a little girl with big powers has captivated the hearts of Londoners. Perfect for Marble Arch Hotel guests with children! (Until 20 Dec 2020)
Where?
Earlham Street, Covent Garden WC2H 9HU
4. Lyceum Theatre
You won’t be able to miss the entrance to to one of London’s most prominent theatres. A porticoed front gleams against the backdrop of the lively Covent Garden neighborhood.
What’s On?
The Lion King – The hit musical adaptation of Disney’s beloved cartoon has mesmerised West End goers since 1999. Glorious costumes, stunning effects and enchanting music give life to Simba’s quest to become king of the Serengeti. A roaring success! (Until 5 July 2020)
Where?
21 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7RQ
5. Palace Theatre
One of the most iconic buildings in London’s theatre land, the Palace Theatre dominates Soho’s Cambridge Circus. Originally built as the home of English grand opera, it has hosted a string of musicals and plays.
What’s On?
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – The eighth story in the best-selling series was written specifically for the stage, and follows Albus Potter and Rose Granger-Weasley starting their Hogwarts studies. The play is presented in two parts, which are intended to be seen in order on the same day (matinee and evening) or on two consecutive evenings. Mull over the first part with afternoon tea at one of the London hotels nearby. (Until 24 Jan 2021)
Where?
113 Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho W1D 5AY
6. Piccadilly Theatre
The Piccadilly Theatre begun its life as a cinema, and since then has presented most forms of stage entertainment, spanning musicals, ballet and drama.
What’s On?
Pretty Woman: The Musical – Launched to coincide with Valentine’s Day, one of Hollywood’s biggest romantic tales is finally on the West End! With a toe-tapping score from Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, the musical features all the charm of the film from 1990 about an unlikely modern-day romance. (Until 2 Jan 2021)
Where?
16 Denman Street, Soho W1D 7DY
7. Prince Edward Theatre
Practically neighbours with your Marble Arch Hotel London, this is a refurbished theatre from the 1930s.
What’s On?
Mary Poppins – Everyone’s favourite nanny has flown into the West End with her magic umbrella, and is one of the most anticipated new productions of 2020. The dates have already been extended – giving everyone a chance to get their spoonful of sugar. It really is supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! (Until 26 July 2020)
Where?
Old Compton Street, Soho W1D 4HS
8. The Prince of Wales Theatre
With a track record of French-style revues, this theatre gained a reputation as London’s Folies Bergère! The theatre in its most recent guise was reopened by HRH The Prince of Wales himself in 2004.
What’s On?
The Book of Mormon – This smash musical has been making London theatregoers roar with laughter since 2011. Laced with naughty humour, the performance raises a few eyebrows and has some tap-dancingly catchy songs. (Until 2 May 2020)
Where?
Coventry Street, Leicester Square W1D 6AS
9. Theatre Royal Haymarket
This opulent theatre dates back to the 19th-century and is one of the oldest London playhouses still in use. It has a record hosting drama with established stars.
What’s On?
Only Fools and Horses: The Musical – This acclaimed, 80s British sitcom has a firm place in the heart of any Londoner. Following the original premise, the musical is about two roguish brothers on their mission to become millionaires through questionable get rich quick schemes. With comic songs ringing with cockney charm, you’ll have a right knees up! (Until 27 June 202)
Where?
18 Suffolk Street, St James’s SW1Y 4HT,
10. Victoria Palace Theatre
This elegant theatre was constructed in 1910, to replace an earlier theatre of a smaller scale. It is currently owned by Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, and previously was the theatrical home of hit musicals Billy Elliot and Fame!
What’s On?
Hamilton – The Tony-winning, star of Broadway, Hamilton, has stormed the London West End since it opened two years ago. The musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers. Besides more traditional musical anthems, the production uses songs that incorporate elements of rap, hip-hop, pop, R&B and soul. (Until 20 June 2020)
Where?
79 Victoria Street, Westminster SW1E 5EA
