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Musicals in London
Long-runners and new openings in the West End and beyond, rated by the people in the stalls and the circle.
London and New York are the two capitals of musical theatre, and some West End shows have been running for decades. Les Misérables, the longest-running musical in West End history, plays at the Sondheim Theatre; The Phantom of the Opera has been at His Majesty’s Theatre since 1986; and The Lion King has played the Lyceum Theatre since 1999. Around them, new musicals, Broadway transfers and revivals open every season.
Most musical theatres are clustered around Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and the Strand. A few sit further out, such as the Apollo Victoria, beside Victoria station, long the home of Wicked.
Audience reviews are especially useful for musicals: they tell you about the cast on the night, the sound and the view from the upper levels, where seats in older theatres can be steep or partly restricted. For plays, see theatre in London, and for everything else on stage, what’s on in London.
Just come out humming the songs, or checking your watch? Tell other theatregoers what you thought.
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Love Never Dies
Andrew Lloyd Webber's LOVE NEVER DIES - The Phantom Returns (Touring)
The London Palladium · London
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Frequently asked questions
What is the longest-running musical in London?
Les Misérables, which opened in London in 1985 and now plays at the Sondheim Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. It is the longest-running musical in West End history.
Where are the West End musical theatres?
Most are around Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and the Strand, within walking distance of Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden and Charing Cross stations.
Are there musicals in London outside the West End?
Yes. Smaller theatres across the city produce musicals too, often more intimate shows or early versions of productions that later transfer to the West End. They are listed here alongside the big West End shows.
Do I need to dress up for a West End musical?
No. There is no dress code in West End theatres, and most people wear everyday clothes. Some like to dress up for a special occasion, but it is entirely up to you.