Musicals in London 2023
Get ready for some amazing new Musicals in London in 2023, as well as continuing runs for some of the greatest musicals of all time. Highlights of the 2023 season include Sunset Boulevard, the return of Mrs Doubtfire, and Aspects of Love. More highlights include, Dirty Dancing, Ain’t Too Proud. From heartwarming love stories to fun musicals for kids, there’s something for everyone. Whatever musical you decide to see this year, we’re sure you’ll have a toe-tapping time!
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Famous West End Musicals
London theatre is filled with many famous musicals that are showing in the West End. This is London’s equivalent to New York’s Broadway, where all of the major theatres are located. Some of these shows have been running for decades, and continue to delight audiences both young and old. Whilst tickets for these musicals can be expensive, it’s worth looking for mid-week shows and booking well in advance to find the lowest prices.
The Lion King
First, there’s the Lion King, and then comes everything else! London’s West End musical scene wouldn’t be the same without The Lion King. A firm fixture on the theatre calendar, this show is one of the most popular in history. Millions of viewers from all over the world will have seen the film, but there’s something about this performance at London’s Lyceum Theatre that captures the hearts and minds of audiences of all ages. The timeless story of Simba, the cute and cuddly cub who makes his way to become king of the lions! In the late Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations of 2022, the cast of the Lion King appeared, singing one of the all-time favourite songs. If it’s fit for a Queen, then it’s fit for you! See it now, and remember it forever.
Book Tickets: The Lion King >>>
The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon is another firm box office favourite in London’s West End. The show is sure to bring joy and happiness and will make you laugh silly. The story sees some young Mormons heading to Africa, and two Mormons attempt to preach their faith to a far-off village in Uganda, but soon find out that the locals are more concerned about issues closer to home. This musical has won a whole host of titles and awards, from Tonys to Grammys so you really can’t go wrong.
Book Tickets: Book of Mormon >>>
Phantom of the Opera
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s name is synonymous with West End London theatres. The two go together like symbiotic twins and Phantom of the Opera is one of his greatest musicals showing at Her Majesty’s Theatre The Haymarket. It is geared towards adult and grown-up audiences, although it is permitted for ages 8+. It’s the second longest-running West End musical that first opened its doors way back in 1986. Audiences will be amazed to learn that the Phantom takes 2 hours …. the show doesn’t take two hours…. but rather it takes a whopping two hours to put on the make-up of the Phantom, and each mask is custom-made to fit the face of each Phantom! An astounding 250 kilos of dry ice is used IN EACH PERFORMANCE to create the eery and mysterious atmosphere.
Book Tickets: Phantom of the Opera >>>
The Tina Turner Musical
Tina Turner the musical celebrates the life of the queen of rock ‘n’ roll. The show goes into the life of Tina behind the stage, as well as including classic hits such as Proud Mary, Let’s Stay Together and What’s Love Got To Do With It. There’s one song above all that is sure to delight fans, River Deep Mountain High. It was this hit that transformed Tina’s career and made her discover her own voice and style and brought her name to millions of fans all over the world. Tina even involved herself in the creation of this sensational production and flew into London back in 2016 for the first workshop presentation before it hit the stage for the first time in 2018. Fans will be delighted to know that Tina the Musical is showing in 2023 at the Aldwych Theatre in London’s West End.
More info: Tina >>>
Jersey Boys
Jersey Boys tells the story of the iconic band Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, taking you on an epic journey from the early days to global fame with number one hits that took the music world by storm. It’s an emotional tale from rags to riches that is sure to inspire and encaptivate audiences. Get ready for some amazing songs, including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk like a Man, Oh what a Night, Bye Bye Baby, and Can’t take my eyes off you. Jersey Boys has been showered with multiple awards over the years, including a Grammy, Olivier Award and 4 Tony awards. The show is on at the Trafalgar Theatre in Soho, Central London throughout 2023.
More info: Jersey Boys >>>
Wicked
Wicked is another all-time London favourite musical that has been dazzling audiences for years at the Apollo Theatre Victoria. This show has won well over 100 awards, although when it first came out many years ago, the reception was lukewarm by critics. Thankfully, the stellar production team made some important changes before Wicked’s Broadway debut, and the rest is history. Over 10 million people have seen the show in London! It’s the fifth longest show running in the West End, delighting audiences both young and old.
Book Now: Wicked >>>
Les Miserables
Les Miserables is about as classic a musical as it gets. Set in poverty-stricken France, Jean Val Jean steals a loaf of bread against the backdrop of the Paris uprising of 1832, climaxing with some fiery songs at the barricades. The show has been on in London for decades but recently underwent a make-over with a refreshed production at The Sondheim Theatre in London’s West End. Complete with a new cast, production team, and sets, even if you’ve seen this one in the past, it’s well worth a second viewing.
Book Tickets: Les Miserables >>>
Hamilton
Who would have thought it? A musical about the US founding father Alexander Hamilton would turn into a theatrical sensation of epic proportions. Everyone has heard of Hamilton the Musical, with its catchy tunes. Get ready for a crossover of musical genres including hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap and R&B. The original Broadway musical was so successful that it made history at the Oscars and won a vast number of awards, including even a Pulitzer Prize. Its transfer to London’s West End has been equally successful. Cameron Mackintosh is behind the West End production, a name associated with other epic success stories including Phantom of the Opera and Cats. Hamilton is showing in London at the Victoria Palace Theatre throughout 2023. This is quite a small theatre and given the shows immense popularity seats do sell out so it’s highly recommended to book this one well in advance.
More info: Hamilton >>>
Mamma Mia!
Here we go again! You might have seen the hit film, but have you seen the sensational musical? Mamma Mia takes you through a tour de force of Abba Songs, with many of the top hits from one of the greatest pop groups of all time. If you’re looking for a feel-good show where you can just sit back, relax and take in the musical splendour, then this might be the one for you. The first performance in London took place at the Prince Edward Theatre way back in 1999, and Mamma Mia has since gone viral with millions of people having seen it around the world. It is now on show at the Novello Theatre in London’s West End.
More Info: Mamma Mia! >>>
New Musicals in London 2023
2023 is shaping up to be a hot year for new musicals in the West End. We are looking forward to some that are likely to be cracking productions. From Oklahoma and Ain’t Too Proud to a Spongebob musical and a Bake Off musical there is something for everyone in 2023. Expect tickets to be in high demand and to sell quickly!
Oklahoma
From 16 February to 2 September 2023
The team at Tourist England were really excited when word first got out that Oklahoma was heading across the pond from a stellar run on Broadway to the West End. Everyone knows the original Oklahoma, that Rogers and Hammerstein classic that stood as a pioneer of the birth of American musical theatre. This award winning production is not the original Oklahoma, but rather a musical revival, where the plot has been freshened up and reimagined for a 21st Century audience. US critics have hailed it as the greatest musical revival of all time, and we in London can’t wait to see it! Oklahoma will be showing in London from 16 February 2023 for almost a 7-month run, ending on 2 September 2023. It’s showing at the Wyndham Theatre, London.
Book Tickets: Oklahoma! >>>
Ain’t Too Proud
31 March to 1 October 2023
A brand new musical is coming to London and there’s already quite a buzz surrounding it. Set in the USA, it follows The Temptations, a vocal group that was known for its amazing harmonies and dance moves as they made their way from the back streets of Detroit to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. But the story of the band goes far beyond their fabulous music. Set against the backdrop of civil unrest in one of the most important periods of American history, the group must navigate their conflicting views – both political and personal. Some of the songs we’re eagerly awaiting to hear include ”Papa was a Rolling Stone”, “Get Ready”, “Just my Imagination” and many, many more. Whilst we’re still awaiting the rest of the details, the show will be on at the Prince Edward Theatre from 31 March to 1 October 2023. So mark up your diaries and prepare yourself for one of the highlights of the 2023 season.
More Info: Ain’t too Proud >>>
Bake Off: The Musical
25 February until 13 May 2023
The great British Bake Off Musical rises in the West End from 25 February 2023! The loved and famous TV baking show has been transformed into a musical comedy that is sure to delight all audiences, whether they are foodies or not! There will be 8 amateur bakers on stage, along with two judges and some fabulously funny presenters. Bakers will have two hours, and each baker has their own special story to tell. One of them will be crowned Star Baker. A hilarious new show that will have you laughing silly, with fabulous new songs perfect for the whole family! Bake Off The Musical comes to the Noel Coward Theatre from 25 February until 13 May 2023. On your marks, get set, BAKE!
More Details: Bake Off: The Musical >>>
Dirty Dancing
21 January – 29 April 2023
Get ready for the time of your life with this musical version of the iconic 1987 film. Dirty Dancing heads to London’s West End. The movie was so popular that it inspired people to even take dance classes to feel the groove themselves. Fans are preparing themselves for some of the most iconic songs of the 80’s including ‘Hungry Eyes’, ‘Do You Love Me?’, ‘Love Man’, ‘Hey Baby’, ‘In the Still of the Night’, and the crowd favourite ‘I’ve Had The Time of My Life’. It’s heading to the West End for a limited run of only 12 weeks at the Dominion Theatre, so don’t miss out!
More info: Dirty Dancing >>>
Aspects of Love
12 May – 11 November 2023
A retelling of this timeless love story makes its way to the West End in May 2023. Set in France and Italy, the musical explores aspects of love. The music is by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by the very well-known Don Black and Charles Hart. And headlining the cast is Michael Ball from Chess and Les Miserables who is a stellar fixture in the London musical scene. Aspects of Love is showing at the Lyric Theatre from 12 May until 11 November 2023.
More info: Aspects of Love >>>
Mrs Doubtfire
12 May 2023 – 13 January 2024
Mrs Doubtfire was one of the the most loved comedy films of the 1990’s. It’s now heading to the stage with a musical production at the London’s Shaftsbury Theatre. The original film saw the late Robin Williams who in order to get closer to his kids who are living with his ex-wife, dresses up as a Scottish nanny! So Mrs Doubtfire heads to his kids home, and without them knowing … or even his wife, he gets to spend more time with them. But it can’t last forever. Get ready for a hilarious show that is sure to bring a chuckle and a laugh to your evening out.
More info: Mrs Doubtfire >>>
Spongebob The Musical
26 July – 26 August 2023
You’ve heard it right! Spongebob is getting his very own musical in London that is sure to make kids squeal and squeak with delight. Spongebob Squarepants is the iconic Nikolodean series. This musical adaptation features many catchy songs and a storyline that is great fun for audiences both young and old. The show is on for a very limited run in summer 2023 from 26 July until 26 August at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre.
More info: Spongebob The Musical >>>
Bonnie & Clyde
4 March – 20 May 2023
At the peak of the great depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow go from being two small town nobodies to having a run-in with the law, and as their crimes grow and grow their names become known across America. But with this fame comes their inevitable downfall. Many people will recognize the story from the several movies that have set this story to the screen. Get ready for an exhilarating theatrical take when the musical heads to London’s West End. Songs to be expected include “This World Will Remember Me” and “Made In America”.. Showing for a limited run at the Garrick Theatre from 4 March until 20 May 2023.
More info: Bonnie and Clyde >>>
Best Musicals for Kids 2023
There are lots of exciting musicals perfect for the kids and the family this 2023. Some of them we already mentioned in our favourites including the Lion King, Wicked and Les Miserables. Also don’t miss Spongebob which is likely to be the hottest new musical for kids in town this year. Here are a few other delightful musicals that children are sure to enjoy.
Matilda
The story of Matilda has been told many a time, from the original book by Roald Dahl to the latest Matilda music movie. But it’s the musical version of Matilda, showing at London’s Cambridge Theatre that is sure to captivate young minds and perhaps plant a seed that will sprout into a lifelong love of the stage. The musical version has received rave reviews and is expected to be on show throughout 2023.
More info: Matilda >>>
Mary Poppins The Musical
See Mary Poppins in the city where it all began. The story is set in London and is one of the classic tales for kids of all time. Whilst it’s the Disney film that brought it into the homes of millions of children worldwide, the musical version is as delightful and captivating as the screen version. Get ready to hear all those amazing songs including, ‘Chim Chim Cher-ee,’ ‘A Spoonful of Sugar,’ ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,’ and ‘Let’s Go Fly a Kite.’ Mary Poppins is on show at the Prince Edward Theatre in 2023.
More info: Mary Poppins >>>
Frozen: The Musical
When Frozen the movie was released a few years ago, it became an instant hit success. And so when Disney announced a musical version of the film was heading to London’s West End anticipation hit fever-pitch levels! The musical version of Frozen is amazing and received rave reviews from the London press. Get ready for some smash hit songs including Let the Sun Shine On, A Little Bit of You, Do You Want to Build a Snowman? Reindeer are Better Than People and many more! The show is on in the West End at the Theatre Royal Dury Lane, and whilst there isn’t an official dress code, guests both young and old are invited to dress up as their favourite characters. So whether you are a Princess Elsa, or Princess Anna is more of your style, Frozen is sure to be a fun evening out for all the family in 2023!
More info: Frozen >>>
Back to the Future
Let’s go Back to the Future! A rock ‘n’ roll teen travels back in time to 1955 by the time travelling Delorean of his friend. In this gripping sci-fi fantasy that is most famous for its film version, Marty will have to make his high-school parents fall in love again before he can head back to the future to the year in which he belongs. The 1985 film was a smash hit that broke box office records and won numerous awards including Academy Awards and Golden Globe nominations. There are lots of new songs written especially for the musical version which premiered in Manchester in 2020, and a few lovely songs from the film have also made their way over to the stage. Back to the Future is showing at the Adelphi Theatre in the West End.
More info: Back to the Future >>>
Christmas Musicals 2023
Whilst Christmas musicals have yet to be confirmed for 2023, here is a taste of what we can expect this year. Many of these shows have returned year after year for Christmas, and 2023 is likely to be no different.
The Nutcracker
Whilst not strictly a musical, it is a ballet, The Nutcracker is a regular during the Christmas period. It is usually performed at the London Coliseum with the English National Ballet. Get into the Christmas spirit with the wonderful sounds of Tchaikovsky’s magical music, choreographed exquisitely with some of the finest ballet dancers. This show is extremely popular, so when tickets do go on sale for the 2023 Christmas season, it’s highly recommended to book early.
More info: The Nutcracker >>>
The Snowman
The Snowman has been playing for over a quarter of a century in London’s West End during the Christmas season. There will be live music, including the blockbuster hit Walking in the Air, as well as heartwarming songs, spellbinding dancing and a beautiful story. It’s a wonderful Christmas show for all of the family.
More info: The Snowman >>>
Jack and the Beanstalk
Jack and the Beanstalk is a classic pantomime that is a regular fixture in the West End’s Christmas season. Everyone knows the story of this classic tale, which is brought to life in the pantomime version and is a great show for kids.
More info: Jack and the Beanstalk >>>
Peppa Pig
Peppa Pig has been showing in London for 9 consecutive seasons at the Theatre Royal Haymarket and 2023 is likely to see its 10th appearance. Join Peppa Pig and all her friends and family for a heartwarming day out. The show is ideal for young children and is a great way to introduce them to the theatre.
More info: Peppa Pig >>>
Circus 1903
When was the last time you went to the circus? There aren’t so many around these days but Circus 1903 has come back to London over the past few years for a limited run during the Christmas holidays. Get ready for an amazing opportunity to see live acrobats, dazzling contortionists, high-wire walkers and knife throwers. See elephants in the ring in ways you’ve never seen before with amazing puppeteers.
More info: Circus 1903 >>>
Musical & Hotel Package Deals
One of the best ways to score cheaper tickets to musicals in the West End is to purchase a hotel and theatre package. There are packages for all of the major shows including Wicked, The Lion King, Mamma Mia, The Book of Mormon and many more. The big advantage of this deal is by booking your hotel and theatre show together, you get a much better price than buying them separately. It’s important to bear in mind that with these packages you cannot choose your specific seats and you cannot choose a specific hotel, but rather specify a class of hotel. This is why the deals work out at such amazing value for money.
More info: Hotel Package Deals >>>
Special offers
We have many discounts and special offers for theatre tickets throughout the year. You can find all the latest deals on our special offer page. Many of these include cheaper priced tickets or tickets with no booking fee. We have offers available every week, with special dates such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday offering an array of deals.
More info: Special Offers on Theatre Tickets >>>
Musicals Ending in 2023
Your last chance to catch these fabulous musicals that are ending in 2023.
Come from Away
Ending 7 January 2023
Come from Away is ending its London West End run on 7 January 2023. This moving tale revolves around the events that transpired in the wake of 9/11, when 38 passenger planes were forced to land in remote areas of Canada. 7,000 passengers were stranded and the local villages came to the rescue by accommodating these people. It has been very well received by London audiences at the Phoenix Theatre. If you haven’t had a chance to see Come from Away yourself, it’s highly recommended.
More info: Come from Away >>>
& Juliet
Ending 25 March 2023
We all know the heartwrenching end to Romeo & Juliet. But, what if that final scene wasn’t all doom and gloom? In this imaginative musical production, Juliet wakes up without a dagger to the chest, and instead, she heads off to the city of lights with her friends. William Shakespeare might have had a thing or two to say about this shocking rewrite, but London audiences certainly approved, and this fun musical has been really well received in the West End over the past few years. & Juliet comes to a close on 25 March 2023 and we’ll be sad to see it go. Showing at the Shaftesbury Theatre.
Book Now: & Juliet >>>
More Musicals in London
Check out our musicals in London listing page to see all of the shows taking place in 2023.
