As we head towards the end of the year, there are still plenty of shows in London to enjoy. Here are a few of our picks…
Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812, Donmar Warehouse: having gained quite a cult following since its premiere on Broadway in 2016, Dave Malloy’s musical is based on a part of Tolstoy’s War and Peace and is receiving its UK premiere next month. The production also marks the new Artistic Director Tim Sheader’s directorial debut at the Donmar Warehouse. With tickets currently sold out, this has to be one of the most anticipated end of the year shows…
The Producers, Menier Chocolate Factory: hoorah! Directed by Patrick Marber this new revival of the musical by comedy legend Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan about two Broadway producers is certainly going to be a show that chases away the winter blues. In previews from the 26th November, it will officially open on the 9th December and includes in the cast Andy Nyman, Marc Antolin, Harry Morrison and Joanna Woodward.
The Tempest, Theatre Royal Drury Lane: the Jamie Lloyd Company launch its take over of the West End Theatre with a new production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest which will officially open on the 19th December. With a cast led by Sigourney Weaver, this is set not be a traditional production of the play!
Oliver!, Gielgud Theatre: following a successful run at the Chichester Festival Theatre, the Matthew Bourne directed and choreographed production heads to the West End for a run from the 14th December and is currently booking until the 28th September 2025. The cast is set to include: Simon Lipkin (Guys and Dolls, Avenue Q) as Fagin, Shanay Holmes (Miss Saigon, The Bodyguard) as Nancy, Aaron Sidwell (Henry VI, Wicked) as Bill Sikes, Billy Jenkins (Les Misérables, BBC’s Dodger) as the Artful Dodger and Philip Franks (The Rocky Horror Show, Witness for the Prosecution) as Mr Brownlow.
Cinderella, Royal Opera House: the Royal Ballet’s production of this classic fairytale returns the Royal Opera House from the 3rd December. Featuring choreography by the company’s Founder Choreographer Frederick Ashton, it is sure to charm audiences of all ages.
Robin Hood, London Palladium: the festive season wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the London Palladium for its annual pantomime, which this year brings to life the story of Robin Hood. As always prepare for big laughs and plenty of extraordinary moments provided by the cast formed of Jane McDonald as Maid Marion and Palladium Panto royaltyJulian Clary as Robin Hood as well as Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers, Charlie Stemp and Rob Madge.
Homo Alone, The Other Palace Theatre: those who love the Christmas classic film Home Alone might want to pop along to The Other Palace Theatre to catch this parody which has been written by Jodie Prenger and Bobby Delaney!