October 1, 2025 | Posted in Blog
Theatre has been how we’ve entertained ourselves for centuries, and even if you’re not a theatre kid, it’s still fun to go see something new. You can even make a full day of it with a shopping trip and dinner before the curtains come up.
From classic West End musicals to new smash-hit plays that everyone’s talking about, there’s something for everyone, but with so much choice, it can be hard to pick what you want to go see. That’s why we’ve put together a list of our absolute favourite new shows that are currently on in theatres across London, perfect for your next trip or night out.
We’ve even included a few reviews from the team as we’re big theatre lovers here at Your Dream Bag.
A fabulous selection of new and about-to-open shows that we’re so excited to see.
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Best for: 90s kids
Disney’s Hercules, which originally came out in 1997, was an instant animated classic with a soundtrack that we could play over and over again (Zero to Hero will always hit different). This makes it unsurprising that it’s now a West End musical, opening in June 2025.
Yes, you can now sing along to all of the iconic songs you know and love while watching live and trust us, it’s amazing. The show has been choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw, and the songs have been adapted so even those who know the original soundtrack off by heart will have something a little new to look forward to.
Your Dream Bag Review: “If you’re looking for a new show to watch in London’s West End, then pop down to Drury Lane theatre to watch the latest Disney film-turned musical, Hercules, for a night of pageantry, pomp and, best of all, catchy songs that you’ll be singing all night long and adding to your playlist.
“The stage version of the classic Disney film has a slight twist on the ancient Greek tale. The show kicks off as you meet the real stars of the show: The Muses. It’s full of laughter, outstanding outfits and more importantly, a fantastic cast. However, I was fairly disappointed with the fact Pegasus does not make an appearance.
“I’d never been to a West End show before, but I couldn’t think of a better introduction to musical theatre than Hercules. By the end, not only will you be tapping your foot, humming the tune of ‘I can go the distance’, but you’ll also have a smile on your face that’s broader than Hercules’ shoulders.”
Where: Savoy Theatre
Best for: A day trip with the kids
Paddington Bear has been beloved by children since 1958, with a new generation being captivated by the recent film series. Now the little bear has made his way to the stage in his very own musical, and even we adults are buzzing.
It’s set to be a show that the whole family can enjoy, and we already know the songs are going to be stuck in our heads as soon as it debuts. It premieres on November 1st 2025, so get your tickets ASAP!
Where: Dominion Theatre
Best for: Fashion lovers
It’s not a shocker to learn that here at Your Dream Bag, we love all things fashion, so this musical speaks to us on many levels. Based on the 2006 film of the same name, which follows young journalism graduate, Andy Sachs, as she finds her way through the intense world of Fashion magazine, Runway, working as an assistant to the legendary but cutthroat Miranda Priestly, The Devil Wears Prada musical is an unexpected gem.
It’s fun and fabulous with an amazing cast that knows how to play these characters perfectly. It’s hard to follow a Meryl Streep performance, but the fantastic Vanessa Williams as Miranda is a masterclass. If you go for anything, go for her. That’s all…
Where: Young Vic
Best for: Theatre fans who want something different
Joe Orton’s Entertaining Mr Sloane hasn’t had a London production in around 16 years, and it’s back with a bang. This black comedy is thrilling and bound to keep you gripped, plus the cast is an eclectic mix of household names.
Jordan Stephens from Rizzle Kicks (what a throwback) is making his stage debut here as Sloane, while Tamzin Outhwaite and Daniel Cerqueira play twisted siblings Kath and Ed. It only has a limited run, so get your tickets fast.
Where: Aldwych Theatre
Best for: Some Christmas magic
Who doesn’t love watching Elf at Christmas time? It’s such a lovely comfort film, and now you can experience it live on stage as it’s coming to the West End in October 2025. Buddy the Elf is set to light up the stunning Aldwych Theatre for the whole festive season, and we’re looking forward to seeing what made it so popular on Broadway in 2024.
It’s almost guaranteed to be heaps of fun with a dash of feel-good vibes, so if you’re looking for something to do with the family this Winter, this show should be on your list. And remember, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear, so don’t feel any shame if you find yourself blasting the soundtrack on repeat.
Where: Trafalgar Theatre
Best for: A thoughtful watch
Many of us know Joe Locke from Heartstopper or Agatha All Along. He’s an amazing young talent and is now making his West End debut in Clarkston. For a limited time, you can see Locke star alongside co-stars Ruaridh Mollica and Sophie Melville, as Jake, a man looking for adventure and self-discovery in rural America.
Described as a modern frontier story, it’s an intimate but hopeful play, highlighting the beauty of love, friendship and looking within ourselves. You’re going on a trip with these characters, and that is truly special.
Where: Royal Albert Hall
Best for: Those who love a true spectacle
Yes, Cirque du Soleil is back in London in 2026, and we’re more than excited. Constantly reinventing itself for 41 years, Cirque du Soleil is all about the wow factor. This edition is all about bugs and insects which may sound a little weird but that’s what makes this show so fantastical, it embraces the weird and makes it something beautiful.
If you want to watch a show full of colour, laughs, creativity and moments that will leave your jaw on the floor, OVO should be on the top of your list.
Where: Formerly the London Coliseum
Best for: Those who love a glam stage production
Coming from Broadway to the West End, The Great Gatsby musical has been a viral sensation. You’ve probably seen it all over TikTok, and yes, it starred Chad from High School Musical himself, Corbin Bleu, and Love Island alumni turned West End icon, Amber Davies, who, yes, gets to sing the viral sensation, ‘New Money’.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a tragic novel with a touch of glamour, and this musical brings the story to life, which is probably why the Broadway version won some awards during its original run.
It had a limited run in London in 2025, but we predict it may come back (we’ve got our fingers crossed), so when it does or if it tours, grab those tickets!
Your Dream Bag Review: “An entertaining show filled with utter showbiz! From the extravagant costumes and dazzling pyrotechnics to the life-sized cars being driven around the stage – the Roaring Twenties were certainly brought to life at the London Coliseum theatre. Not to mention the A list cast including some of the biggest names in the West End – the talent on stage was some of the best I’ve seen! “
London may be filled with shiny newness, but there are also some classics still running that we just love!
Where: Apollo Victoria Theatre
Best for: A legendary soundtrack
How could we not mention this worldwide phenomenon? Wicked has had a home in the West End for nearly two decades now and, with a soundtrack that few can rival, a fantastical story, and a beautiful set, it isn’t shocking that it’s so popular.
A story of friendship, magic, and doing what’s right no matter what, two hours and 45 minutes just fly by (on a broom) when you watch this. After watching this award-winning, critically acclaimed musical, you will certainly be changed for good.
Your Dream Bag Review: “I have seen this show twice, and it was amazing both times. I was lucky the first time to not know the story, so it truly blew me away but thanks to the level of talent in each cast, the moving songs, and sheer amount of fun included, I still enjoyed every moment the second time around.
“I know the films are huge right now, so I hope it will encourage others to go see the original stage version. It’s just something so special and I’d go again, no question.”
Where: Vaudeville Theatre
Best for: A bit of girl power
Ever wondered what the reimagined stories of each of Henry the 8th wives would look like as a musical? Well, even if you haven’t, this show is so much fun and each song deserves a place in your favourites playlist. The reviews don’t lie.
Since its inception in 2019, Six has become a favourite of theatre-goers here and across the pond, and we see it sticking around on the West End (and beyond) for years to come. It gives all the power back to Katherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleeves, Catherine Howard, and Katherine Parr and we’re completely here for it. Some of the songs have even had their own viral moments so, the hype is real here.
Where: Sondheim Theatre
Best for: A true classic
Les Misérables has been at the Sondheim for over two decades now but it first debuted in 1985. You may have seen the 2012 movie but there is just something about the stage show that can’t be beat. It has made an impact on generations of musical fans and doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.
Set in 19th-century France during a period of political unrest, Les Mis will break your heart and inspire you all in one. Each character is always immaculately cast, and some of the vocals featured have to be heard to be believed.
Your Dream Bag Review: “The classic tale of misery told completely through song was beautiful and gut-wrenching all at the same time. The theme is in the name, and so I had little expectation of a joyous day out, however it was a bucket-list show, which as a drama student I HAD to see. The well-known numbers, including One Day More and On My Own stole the show for me – Carrie Hope Fletcher played Eponine at the time and was breathtaking!”
Where: Victoria Palace Theatre
Best for: Theatre newbies
When Hamilton hit Broadway in 2015, not to be dramatic but the world changed and now we’re lucky enough to have it on the West End too. There are few modern musicals that have become such a long-lasting pop culture obsession like this has. Lin-Manuel Miranda really struck gold here, and we are forever grateful.
Singing, rapping and the story of America’s Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton, may sound like a combo that doesn’t go together, but Hamilton proves it does and then some. The song lyrics are clever, the story gets you hooked, and it makes you want to get out of your seat and join in. It’s now a contemporary classic, and we can see why it has such a dedicated fanbase.
Your Dream Bag Review: “I was very excited to see Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton, and it didn’t disappoint. It was a brilliant mix of history, hip-hop styled choreography and rap-based songs that makes the story of America’s founding feel fresh and funky.
“The music is sharp, clear, and full of energy, with clever rhymes and rhythms that stick in your head – I’ve listened to the soundtrack many times since seeing the production! Miranda’s writing shines through little touches- witty wordplay, layered references, and emotional depth that make the show not only smart but also really cool and unforgettable.”
Where: Novello Theatre
Best for: Singing your heart out
This feel-good musical feeds the soul start to finish. The whole soundtrack is ABBA songs (no skips here) which already has us sold, but the heartwarming story of Sophie, her fabulous mother Donna and her three possible dads, set on a small Greek island, is also a massive draw.
There have been many jukebox musicals over the years, but Mamma Mia! continues to stand out. It’s just pure joy, and we all need a bit of that.
Where: Lyceum Theatre
Best for: The whole family
Based on the Disney classic from 1994, this show is a must-see for the whole family. Of course, there’s the iconic list of songs that we all know and love but, there’s more than that.
Combining classic musical beats with skilled puppetry and physical theatre, you easily get absorbed into this beloved story, and you probably won’t shut up about it for weeks to come. It’s visual art and child-friendly entertainment all in one, so we couldn’t recommend it enough.
Your Dream Bag Review: “This show is a big WOW. The level of puppetry skill needed to create a world full of animals on stage was honestly incredible to witness. I was a fan of the original film, and this definitely honours that, but you don’t need to have seen that to enjoy it. It’s just so much fun, with all the laughs, gasps and sing-a-long moments you’d want from a Disney musical. The choreography deserves all the awards.”
Where: Cambridge Theatre
Best for: Clever humour
Another viral sensation, if you read Roald Dahl’s Matilda or enjoyed the 90s movie adaptation, Matilda the Musical will be a dream pick for you. It’s another upbeat and vibrant show, full of energy but what sets it apart is the impressively talented cast of young performers. Many are aged between eight and 13 but have the stage presence of stars three times their age.
Fantastic staging? Check. Wonderful vocals? Check. Choreography that has us out of breath from just watch it? Check.
Your Dream Bag Review: “An absolute delight to watch. The talent of those young actors was a privilege to witness! It’s got the perfect mix of humour and seriousness, and the show has a way of making you feel fully immersed in Matilda’s journey. We took seven children, and each one of them loved it. We only wish you could sing along to the songs! “
Where: His Majesty’s Theatre London
Best for: Fans of a little drama
One of the longest-running shows on this list, The Phantom of the Opera is dramatic and tragic, with sensational sets, multiple scene-stealing performances and a plot that keeps you captivated the entire time. No wonder it’s been seen by thousands of people around the world.
This is the kind of musical that sticks with you, with several shocking moments that are guaranteed to truly move you. It’s dark but breathtaking with a romantic edge – we’re sold!
Our list got you craving a trip to London? Well, we’ve got you covered with our London day out prize draw. Not only can you win tickets to a show of your choice, we’re also throwing in £500 spending money so you can really treat yourself.
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