We’ve reviewed over 30 London theatre shows, musicals and plays this year – here’s how they rank

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You hear it every December, but 2025 was truly an incredible year for London’s West End theatre district.

Popular TV shows reached major achievements, well-loved stories were brought to life in spectacular ways, and many famous actors came to London, sometimes causing traffic disruptions.

This year saw exciting firsts on stage, with both Paddington and Katniss Everdeen making their theatrical debuts. Les Misérables also marked a major milestone, celebrating its 40th anniversary. On television, Inside No. 9 continued to deliver thrills to a new viewership, and a fascinating crossover occurred as the new Doctor Who, Ncuti Gatwa, shared a scene with Shakespeare.

The season featured a mix of beloved British shows, such as Midsomer Murders, alongside popular American tales like Clueless and The Great Gatsby. It also introduced fresh stories, including Clarkston by Joe Locke and Inter Alia featuring Rosamund Pike.

This year also marked a significant return to accessible theatre in London’s West End, thanks to directors like Jamie Lloyd offering affordable tickets and easier access. The incredible talent of Rachel Zegler certainly helped make this possible.

We’ve reviewed a lot of shows this year, and now we’re sharing our rankings! The TopMob Going Out team has rated every show, highlighting what we enjoyed and what we didn’t. Here’s a look at our favorites and not-so-favorites.

Best London theatre shows of 2025 ranked

32. The Tempest

Run dates: 19th December 2024 – 1st February 2025

Jamie Lloyd is already a highly acclaimed West End director, but this year his work has reached a new level of success. He’s known for brilliantly combining famous movie stars with classic, often traditional, plays, consistently creating award-winning productions. However, even with his talent, he doesn’t always achieve perfection.

Sigourney Weaver starred as Prospero in Shakespeare’s The Tempest in his debut production that year, a futuristic take on the classic play. While the show’s grand, dystopian setting and supporting actors like Mason Alexander Park were strong points, our reviewer found Weaver’s performance somewhat underwhelming and the production lacked consistent energy, earning it a two-star rating. Fortunately, subsequent productions proved to be much better.

31. Unicorn

Run dates: 4th February– 26th April 2025

As a big fan of British dramas, I was seriously excited when I heard Nicola Walker and Stephen Mangan – who were fantastic together in The Split – were teaming up again with Erin Doherty from Adolescence! The play, Unicorn by Mike Bartlett, dealt with a couple trying to fix their marriage by exploring a three-way relationship. Honestly though, while the premise sounded steamy, the actual show didn’t quite deliver. It just didn’t have the heat I expected, and the dialogue felt a little awkward, which was surprising given how talented those actors are.

30. Noughts and Crosses

Run dates: 28th June– 26th July 2025

This summer, Malorie Blackman’s popular Noughts & Crosses series came to life on stage at the Regents Park Open Air Theatre. The play, like the books, presents a thought-provoking world where roles are reversed – Black people hold the power, and white people face discrimination. The central story follows Calum and Sephy, whose forbidden love is deeply touching, though our review noted the play sometimes felt a bit hurried. Adapting such a large and well-known novel into a two-hour performance inevitably means some parts have to be cut or changed.

29. Every Brilliant Thing

Run dates: 1st Aug – 27th Sep 2025

Every Brilliant Thing was a unique theatrical experience, using a relay-style performance where different actors took turns sharing a list of all the wonderful things that make life worth living. The show, which ran for 75 minutes this autumn at @sohoplace, featured a rotating cast including Sir Lenny Henry, Sue Perkins, Ambika Mod, and Minnie Driver. This meant each performance felt fresh, as the actors’ individual personalities shaped how the story unfolded. Our reviewer attended a performance with Lenny Henry, praising his excellent comedic delivery. While the show was often funny and lighthearted, our reviewer felt it could have benefited from a few more emotionally resonant moments.

28. Clueless

Run dates: 15th Feb – 23rd Aug 2025

Turning popular ’90s and early 2000s romantic comedies into musicals remains a popular choice, though whether it’s a good thing is still up for debate. The musical adaptation of ‘Clueless’ offered a mix of both success and shortcomings. Featuring music and lyrics by KT Tunstall, the show captured a fun, youthful vibe and plenty of nostalgic appeal for millennials, but ultimately lacked the depth and excitement to truly stand out, feeling somewhat superficial compared to the original film.

27. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Live

Run dates: Now – 15th Feb 2026

A live, interactive version of Douglas Adams’ classic ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ is currently playing at Riverside Studios. The show lets audiences meet characters and creatures from the story as Arthur Dent embarks on his chaotic journey through space. While devoted fans will love this accurate and engaging adaptation, those less familiar with the series might find it a little confusing – it helps to be prepared, like knowing to bring a towel!

26. Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical

Run dates: 1st Aug – 7th Sep 2025

This summer, Rydell High transformed Battersea Park into the world of Grease with an exciting, outdoor show. Featuring energetic dance numbers and actual fairground rides, it was a fantastic experience we’d happily repeat yearly. However, to truly enjoy it, you need to fully embrace the interactive nature of the performance and participate!

25. The Hunger Games: On Stage

Run dates: Now – 25th Oct 2026

The Hunger Games continues to expand its reach! Following the release of the prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, a stage adaptation premiered in London this October. The production made a big impression with a specially-built theatre in Canary Wharf, featuring seating arranged by District and a video performance by John Malkovich as President Snow.

Okay, I have to say, Mia Carragher – Jamie Carragher’s daughter! – was incredible as Katniss Everdeen. She really blew me away with how easily she moved between really emotional scenes and all the action stuff. But honestly, like with the Noughts and Crosses show, trying to fit a whole book series into one evening just felt a bit rushed and clunky in places. They tried to do a lot, and it didn’t always flow perfectly, you know?

24. Dear England (2025 National Theatre Run)

Run dates: 10th Mar – 24th May 2025

Since its debut in 2023, ‘Dear England’ continued its success with a spring run at the National Theatre and is now touring the UK. The play, which explores the intense world of professional sports and the impact of the national football team on the country’s identity, consistently delivers powerful moments and strong acting. It’s exciting news that it will be adapted into a TV series next year, starring Joseph Fiennes.

23. Backstroke

Run dates: 14th Feb – 12th Apr 2025

This winter, Celia Imrie and Tamsin Greig starred as mother and daughter in the moving play Backstroke. The play powerfully explored the complex and often difficult relationships between parents and children, especially when they have very different personalities, and how illness can deeply impact a person. Both actresses delivered outstanding performances, capturing all the nuances and emotions the story demanded. It was a deeply affecting and personal production that audiences would welcome a return of.

22. The Great Gatsby

Run dates: 11th Apr – 7th Sep 2025

London experienced a wave of 1920s extravagance this year with the arrival of the Broadway hit, The Great Gatsby, at the Coliseum. Featuring Jamie Muscato as Gatsby, Corbin Bleu (known from High School Musical) as Nick Carraway, and Amber Davies (from Strictly Come Dancing) as Jordan, the show was full of dazzling displays and energy, enhanced by a talented group of dancers portraying flappers.

Although the new version captured the glamorous surface of The Great Gatsby well, it largely missed the deeper meaning that made the original novel so powerful. Simply including flashy dances isn’t enough to call something an adaptation if it ignores the book’s important themes of loneliness, social class, and obsessive desire.

21. The Seagull

Run dates: 26th Feb – 5th Apr 2025

Chekhov’s play, The Seagull, was written in 1895 and first performed in 1896. It’s a story about the complicated relationships and rivalries between four characters – a struggling, overly dramatic actress, her well-known writer partner, their unhappy son, and a promising young actress. This recent production, featuring Cate Blanchett and Emma Corrin, proved just as captivating as previous versions.

This production cleverly played with the idea of theater itself, directly addressing the audience and referencing its own constructed nature. The talented cast delivered a fresh take on a familiar story, proving that even classic productions can still be innovative and thought-provoking, particularly when exploring the roles we all play in life.

20. The Devil Wears Prada

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: Now – 26th Sep 2026

Although it premiered last year, Vanessa Williams’ performance as Miranda Priestly is still a highlight, cementing her status as a West End star. Our initial review raved about how the ‘Desperate Housewives’ actress clearly enjoys playing the demanding role, portraying an icy character who is passionate about her work, fashion, and the world of magazines.

Beyond the performers, this musical really shines because of its grand scale. With impressive sets, vibrant lighting, and elaborate costumes, it’s a dazzling show focused entirely on providing audiences with a fantastic evening of entertainment.

19. Farewell Mister Haffman

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 5th Mar – 12th Apr 2025

Nigel Harman, known for his role in EastEnders, delivered a haunting performance in “Farewell Mister Haffman,” a World War II drama. The play follows a Jewish jeweler hiding during the Nazi occupation of Paris. With unexpected twists – from Nazis who appreciate art to a tap-dancing subplot – the production was consistently suspenseful and kept the audience captivated.

18. 50 First Dates: The Musical

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 14th Sep – 16th Nov 2025

This winter, the popular romantic comedy 50 First Dates, starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, has been adapted into a new musical and premiered at the Other Palace.

Despite often being wary of so many adaptations, this one was truly special. It stood out thanks to its delightful charm, clever humor, and engaging energy. The entire cast delivered fantastic performances, with a clear and genuine connection between each actor. Our reviewer also praised the songs as charming and heartwarming, and the story worked beautifully on stage.

17. Clarkston

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 17th Sep – 22nd Nov 2025

Joe Locke, known for his role in Heartstopper, recently starred in his first West End play, Clarkston. This touching story follows two young men facing difficult situations in the American Midwest. Alongside Ruaridh Mollica, who will soon be appearing in a Marvel film, Locke delivers a powerful performance in a play that honestly explores themes like addiction, serious illness, class differences, and sexuality. Clarkston skillfully balances humor with heartbreaking moments, and many believe it’s destined for a Broadway run in the near future.

16. Second Best

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 24th Jan – 22nd Feb 2025

Asa Butterfield, known for Sex Education, gave a fantastic performance in the clever and humorous play, Second Best – a true story about an actor who nearly played Harry Potter. Despite being his first West End show, Butterfield confidently captivated the audience, and the cozy setting of Riverside Studios helped create a connection with them. He skillfully moved the audience from laughter to more thoughtful emotions, proving he’s a natural for the stage.

15. Mrs Warren’s Profession

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 10th May – 16th Aug 2025

Imelda Staunton and her actual daughter, Bessie Carter, powerfully acted opposite each other in this well-crafted production of George Bernard Shaw’s Mrs. Warren’s Profession. The play, set in Victorian times, tells the story of a mother who made her fortune through sex work and eventually opened a chain of brothels.

This production was a standout, earning four stars from us, and the best parts were definitely the scenes featuring Imelda Staunton and daughter Imogen Carter. Their powerful performances, set during intense, face-to-face conversations, drew the audience in as they explored disagreements rooted in different generations and social views – including Carter’s disapproval of her mother’s work. While neither character clearly ‘won’ the argument, the scenes showcased the incredible chemistry and talent of the Staunton-Carter acting family, leaving us eager to see what they do together next.

14. Born with Teeth

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 13th Aug – 1st Nov 2025

Ncuti Gatwa, known for Doctor Who, delivered a captivating performance in the new play, Born with Teeth. The play stars Gatwa as Christopher Marlowe and Edward Bluemel as William Shakespeare, and explores the hidden world of Tudor spies – a network that often used artists and playwrights for secret missions. The story follows the two writers as they attempt to collaborate on Henry VI, but their work is complicated by a fierce rivalry and undeniable attraction. This reimagining of a historical period was both exciting and filled with tension, breathing new life into a subject that can sometimes feel stale. Both actors were excellent, particularly Gatwa, who commanded the stage with a powerful, restless energy. We gave the play four stars for its surprising plot and fresh take on history.

13. Midsomer Murders

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: Now – 30th May 2026

The popular ITV detective series, Midsomer Murders, recently transitioned to the stage with a new adaptation of ‘The Killing at Badgers Drift.’ The stage show is currently touring, and original cast member Daniel Casey has taken on the role of DCI Tom Barnaby, previously played by John Nettles. Casey admitted to feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about the role. He noted he’s now the same age Nettles was when the series began, and while acknowledging the challenge of following such a well-known actor, he’s thrilled to be taking on the part.

The adaptation has truly delivered! It’s stayed remarkably true to the source material, pleasing fans with its wonderful blend of charming English scenery and gripping mystery.

12. Burlesque

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Run dates: 10th Jul – 6th Sep 2025

Burlesque The Musical is inspired by the 2010 film starring Christina Aguilera and Cher, which quickly became a beloved classic, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. This stage adaptation has been further enhanced by co-writer and director Todrick Hall, who brought a dazzling level of spectacle to create a truly impressive show.

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11. Till the Stars Come Down

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 1st Jul – 27th Sep 2025

We were so impressed with this show that our critic is adding an extra star to its rating! Originally premiering at the National Theatre in 2024 to enthusiastic reviews, Till the Stars Come Down has now moved to Theatre Royal Haymarket. The play centers around a family in Mansfield celebrating the wedding of Sylvia and Marek, though not everyone fully supports Marek’s background as a Polish small business owner. Throughout the wedding day, amidst the festivities, the bonds between family members are strained and tested.

This play felt incredibly authentic and easy to connect with – the characters were so well-developed, they felt like a real family, complete with all the typical arguments, outbursts, and affection you’d see at a family gathering. The writing was superb, skillfully addressing important topics like prejudice, the historical miners’ strike, and concerns about climate change without becoming too heavy-handed, and it was genuinely funny too.

10. Hercules

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: Now – 18th Jul 2026

Disney’s new stage show, Hercules, recently opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, taking the place of the popular production of Frozen. While opinions from critics were varied, the team at TopMob absolutely loved it! We were impressed by how well it stayed true to the beloved ’90s movie, and it was simply a fun and dazzling show.

This show is classic Disney – incredibly grand with huge sets, dazzling special effects, and wonderfully sparkly costumes. Hades and the Muses really shine, delivering both flawless singing and perfectly timed humor. And with a fantastic soundtrack already known and loved, this is a must-see production.

9. Much Ado About Nothing

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 10th Feb – 5th Apr 2025

After a disappointing The Tempest, Jamie Lloyd’s production of Much Ado About Nothing was a brilliant comeback. Starring Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell, the show exploded onto the stage with vibrant energy, proving Shakespeare isn’t stuffy or outdated. It was a surprisingly effective mix of a Renaissance comedy and an 80s rave, complete with lively parties, music, and a constant shower of confetti. Hiddleston and Atwell were incredibly funny, particularly in their witty banter and Hiddleston’s physical comedy. Despite all the fun, the production still told a touching love story, offering a realistic portrayal of finding romance later in life. It was easily one of the best plays of the year.

8. The Importance of Being Earnest

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: Now – 10th Jan 2026

Olly Alexander joins Hugh Dennis and Stephen Fry in a new production of Oscar Wilde’s classic play, The Importance of Being Earnest. This version cleverly stays true to Wilde’s original writing, letting his brilliant humor take center stage. It’s a hilariously sharp show and is running until January, so be sure to catch it if you can!

7. Punch

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 22nd Sep – 29th Nov 2025

James Graham’s play, Punch, was a powerfully moving and insightful piece of theatre. Based on the true story of Jacob Dunne, a man from Nottingham who tragically killed someone with a single punch, the play explored the devastating consequences of impulsive actions and the ripple effect of a single moment. Featuring outstanding performances and a perfectly timed narrative, it was a truly captivating experience.

6. Inside No. 9 Stage/Fright

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 18th Jan – 5th Apr 2025

Following the conclusion of the television series last year, Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith adapted their hit show, Inside No. 9, for the stage with a new installment titled Stage/Fright.

The show blended classic moments from the original series with fresh, unsettling stories, and featured a different celebrity guest each night. True to the creators’ style, it was full of unexpected twists and so self-aware it was often hard to tell where the story ended and the game began. It was a hilarious, heartbreaking, scary, and brilliantly clever addition to an already fantastic series – the perfect finale.

5. Inter Alia

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 10th Jul – 13th Sep 2025

This summer, Rosamund Pike collaborated with Suzie Miller, the writer behind the acclaimed play Prima Facie, on a new one-person show called Inter Alia. The play centers on Jessica, a judge who presides over difficult cases, often involving sexual assault. Her life is turned upside down when she experiences a personal crisis related to the same issue, and she fights to keep her professional and family lives from unraveling.

Miller’s writing was full of life, energy, and feeling, exploring many different ideas without feeling cluttered. Pike delivered a stunning performance, convincingly portraying a woman struggling to balance her personal and professional life. Their combined talent was so impressive that the show will return to Wyndham’s Theatre next spring.

4. The Producers

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: Now – 19th Sep 2026

As a huge movie and stage musical fan, I was thrilled to see Mel Brooks’ The Producers back on stage at the Garrick Theatre! It’s a comedy about Max Bialystock, a Broadway producer down on his luck who comes up with a crazy plan: intentionally create a terrible musical so he can run off with the investors’ money. He and his partner search for the most outrageous show possible, and they end up with Springtime for Hitler – a ridiculously over-the-top tribute to, well, you can guess. The hilarious twist? Audiences think it’s a satire and it becomes a smash hit! It’s just brilliant.

This show, a play within a play, is a joyful celebration of theater. It’s delightfully over-the-top and funny, featuring incredible singing and dancing. It absolutely earns its place among the best shows around.

3. Good Night, Oscar

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 31st Jul – 21st Sep 2025

One of the biggest surprises of the year was “Good Night, Oscar,” a play about the pianist and comedian Oscar Levant. It tells the story of his escape from a mental health facility to be on Jack Paar’s talk show. Though originally an American Broadway production, the play was a remarkably moving and relatable experience, largely thanks to a stunning performance by Sean Hayes of “Will & Grace.”

Throughout the show, we witnessed Levant’s difficult battle with mental health and addiction, compounded by a lifelong sense of inadequacy compared to his musical hero, Gershwin. This internal struggle culminated in an incredibly powerful musical performance, where Hayes attacked the piano with raw emotion. The show also featured sharp, witty humor, particularly in the playful banter between Levant and Paar, brilliantly portrayed by Ben Rappaport.

If this show doesn’t win dozens of Oliviers, we riot.

2. Paddington the Musical

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: Now – 14th Feb 2027

Paddington lived up to the hype! The show, based on the first Paddington movie, was everything we hoped for. It tells the story of the little bear’s journey from the jungles of Peru to London, where he finds a loving home with the Brown family. Despite causing a bit of chaos, Paddington also catches the attention of a taxidermist who is determined to add him to her collection.

This musical, featuring music and lyrics by Tom Fletcher from McFly, is heartwarming and enjoyable for everyone. Its story about the importance of kindness and family feels classic and is a wonderful first theatre experience for young children. The show is visually impressive with large sets and exciting, energetic moments – like the song ‘Don’t Touch That’ – and it also includes genuinely suspenseful scenes that will keep audiences of all ages engaged.

The actors are excellent, particularly Victoria Hamilton-Barritt and Bonnie Langford. However, the real star is Paddington himself! The combination of Arti Shah’s physical performance and James Hameed’s voice work – and skillful puppetry – is truly moving. It’s so well done that it’s likely to bring tears to your eyes whenever Paddington speaks.

1. Evita

A star rating of 5 out of 5.

Run dates: 14th Jun – 6th Sep 2025

As if it would be anything else.

Jamie Lloyd’s new production of Evita, starring Rachel Zegler, briefly captivated audiences in London’s West End and beyond. The show, a revival of the musical about Argentine icon Eva Perón, was a dazzling spectacle. Its minimalist set and costumes put the focus squarely on Zegler’s powerful performance, allowing her to truly stand out.

Everyone was buzzing about the performance of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” which Lloyd Webber staged with Rachel Zegler performing live on the London Palladium’s balcony. The performance was then shown on a screen inside the theatre. This creative choice led to weeks of crowds gathering outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of Zegler, and ultimately brought a lot of attention and excitement back to the West End.

Beyond that one brief lull, the show was full of life and excitement. The dancers moved with captivating energy, and the singers were phenomenal, creating a truly vibrant performance.

The London theatre scene underwent a permanent transformation this year, and it was driven by the contributions of these two individuals.

Looking for affordable options? We’ve got guides on getting discounted tickets for the Harry Potter Studio Tour, the London Eye, and Disneyland Paris.

Authors

Olivia Garrett

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2025-12-12 10:49