What theatre is worth seeing in London right now?
Published on 9 July 2026
Summary
- The best shows in London right now
- Everything you should see in the West End right now
- Unmissable theatre for London visitors who love musicals
London’s West End is always buzzing with internationally renowned shows. But with so much to choose from, how do you know what theatre is worth seeing in London right now? Whether you’re looking for the best musicals in London or you just want know what the current theatre shows in London are, stick with us.
What’s the best musical in London right now?
There are so many stand-out shows that it’s hard to pick just one. So here are our top 5 must-see theatre shows in London.
Hamilton
Nine years after opening, Hamilton is still one of the top trending West End musicals - with good reason. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rapped-through historical biographical musical (try saying that five times) is unique, clever, fast-paced, and gripping.
Telling the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, we follow the intelligent, charming, and annoying man from his early days in New York through the American Revolution, and finally to his death. Watch as he helps George Washington defeat the British, create the Declaration of Independence, and eventually form the government which shaped the country. Featuring a diverse cast and a groundbreaking score, it’s unlike anything else on stage right now.
Les Miserables
It’s all well and good to want to see the new and trending West End musicals, but when something has been running for almost 40 years, just because it’s that good, you can’t go wrong.
Les Miserables has been one of the top London stage shows since 1985, and is currently the longest-running musical in the world.
Based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name, Les Mis is an epic tale of redemption, survival, and love set against the backdrop of the French Revolution. Telling the tale of Jean Valjean as he reenters society after a 19-year-long prison sentence, we see how one man’s determination for redemption can overpower persecution.
With some of the most celebrated and loved songs in musical theatre history, it’s definitely earned its position in the top London stage shows list.
Cabaret
When Kander and Ebb first wrote Cabaret in 1960, they had no idea their daring show about an underground club in Berlin would strike a chord with so many people. Over 60 years later, Cabaret is still one of the hottest current theatre shows in London.
By entering the Kit Kat Club, you’re becoming part of Cabaret. The immersive theatre show gives you a glimpse into 1920s Berlin - both from an artistic perspective and a political one. Enjoy a drink as the performers share their stories and make you feel like part of their tale. But be warned. Everyone leaves a little part of themselves at the Kit Kat Club and will want to return.
Cabaret isn’t just a trending West End musical. Following Eddie Redmayne’s performance at the 2024 Tony Awards, the show has been a hot topic. Not only was the unique interpretation of the Emcee discussed heavily, but West End and Broadway stars have been drawn to the Kit Kat Club like moths to a flame.
Is it your time to pay a visit to the Cabaret?
The Book of Mormon
Still fresh, cutting and relevant, The Book of Mormon is a must-see for comedy lovers.
Written by South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, along with Avenue Q creator, Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon is a razor-sharp satire that has had audiences shocked and delighted since 2013.
Following two Mormon missionaries who are sent to Uganda to recruit members to the church, we see what happens when ideals are thrown out the window, and real-world problems are faced head-on.
Featuring some of the catchiest, funniest, rudest songs to ever land on a West End stage, it’s consistently been one of the top London stage shows for the past 13 years.
Six
Six The Musical is an era-defying show. Retelling the tale of Henry VIII from the perspective of his wives, all in a singing contest setting… you couldn’t get more now if you tried.
This 90-minute, straight-through show will have you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world. With a cult following, it is one of the top London stage shows for younger theatre-goers.
Current theatre shows in London
Along with the West End staples, there are so many current theatre shows in London that shouldn’t be ignored. From new musicals to limited-run plays, there are plenty of must-see theatre in London.
Beetlejuice the Musical
After its hit run on Broadway, we uttered Beetlejuice enough times for it to finally appear in London. Based on Tim Burton’s iconic film, Beetlejuice The Musical features jaw-dropping effects, outrageous comedy and killer music.
My Neighbour Totoro
Based on the classic Studio Ghibli film, My Neighbour Totoro is a wonder for children and adults alike. Following two girls in rural Japan who go on a magical adventure with a giant creature that offers them friendship and comfort while their mum is in the hospital.
Beautiful, moving, and a lot of fun, My Neighbour Totoro is definitely must-see theatre in London.
Avenue Q
If Sesame Street was made for adults, Avenue Q is what you’d get. Just like The Book of Mormon, it’s full of biting commentary, societal observations, and crude jokes.
Join Princeton as he tries to make it in the real world after graduating college with a BA in English. With no money and few job prospects, he moves into a rundown apartment block in New York, where he meets an… interesting cast of characters. Join these puppets on their very human story.
Unmissable theatre shows coming to the West End
If you’re planning ahead, we have some great news. There are loads of top London stage shows coming soon!
Billy Elliot The Musical
In February 2027, Billy Elliot The Musical is returning to the West End.
Into The Woods
Stephen Sondheim’s dark fairytale, Into The Woods, is always one of the top London stage shows when it comes to the West End, and you can catch it at the Noel Coward Theatre from September 2026.
Rent
The groundbreaking musical is returning to London! This rock classic is bound to be a trending West End musical moment, so don’t miss out. Opens in September 2026.
Heathers The Musical
The cult classic is making its comeback with a limited run starting in July 2026! Choose your colour. Choose your poison. And let’s go, J.D
