As we head into Autumn and start thinking about what 2016 has in store, there are a number of new shows to look forward to next year but what about the West End shows that are sadly closing to make way for the new? Here is Love London Love Culture’s guide to the best things to see before they leave the stage:
1. Hamlet, The Barbican Theatre: easily the biggest production to hit the stage in 2015 and starring the extremely popular Benedict Cumberbatch this is your last opportunity to catch him live on stage in a production that got mixed reviews but hasn’t stopped the crowds from flooding in. Closes 31st October. Read Love London Love Culture’s review here.
2. Memphis the Musical, Shaftesbury Theatre: starring Beverley Knight and Matt Cardle, this musical has proved popular with audiences and critics alike. It follows the story of Dj Huey Calhoon growing up in Memphis during the 1950’s. Closes 31st October.
3. American Idiot, Arts Theatre: the social media buzz surrounding this show has been none stop since it opened and has been received enthusiastically by audiences – many of whom have been to see it more than once! It includes songs such as ‘Wake me up when September ends’ , ’21 Guns’ and of course ‘American Idiot’ . Closes 22nd November.
4. Gypsy, Savoy Theatre: starring Imelda Staunton, this musical could potentially run forever at the Savoy theatre due to its popularity with both critics and audiences alike but sadly it is coming to the end of its run. Plenty of humour and a stunning rendition of ‘Rose’s Turn’ are just a couple of reasons to go and see this before it closes! Closes 28th November.
5. Miss Saigon, Prince Edward Theatre: this is one of the most powerful musicals to ever hit the stage and its return to the West End was hugely anticipated when tickets for its return went on sale. It features some of the most moving and heartbreaking performances ever seen on stage and the memory of seeing it lingers in your mind long after the show finishes. Closes 27th February 2016.
6. War Horse, New London Theatre: this National Theatre production has amazed and moved audiences for bringing to life Michael Morpurgo’s classic novel with the help of some astonishingly realistic puppets. It transferred to the new London Theatre in 2009 after a successful run at the National Theatre and has remained a popular show with audiences. Closes 12th March 2016.