Top Theatre Breaks In London

London is one of the world’s great cities, has some of the most recognisable landmarks, and is visited by millions each year. It has a fantastic mix of history and culture, as well as a really interesting mix of people and cultures. It has something for everyone, from museums to restaurants, designer boutiques to shows. In fact, there are a plethora of shows running at the West End all year round. With something for everyone why not book a weekend break to soak up some culture? Here’s a round-up of some of the most popular shows running…

The Lion King – whether you have children or not, you’ve probably seen the moving Disney animation. But the stage production is another spectacle entirely, and one not to be missed. The songs are the same, happily, but the dancing is a welcome departure, and a spectacular one. All round it’s great fun for kids and adults alike.

Backbeat – essential viewing for music lovers. Almost everyone loves the Beatles and you cannot deny the cultural impact of this band, who went from their roots as a skiffle act, to a pop sensation that got everyone screaming, to psychedelic pioneers. Backbeat tells the origins of the band, and is full of sing-along tunes to boot.

Mamma Mia – you’d have to be hiding underneath a rock to have not noticed the success of the ABBA-fest that portrays a mother and daughter on the eve of the daughter’s marriage. If you love catchy and exquisitely crafted Icelandic pop music you shouldn’t let this one go by.

Chicago – a perennial stage favourite, for the high-kicking show-tunes and the smouldering sexuality, Chicago is a long-running show of serious credentials. It is usually playing at one of the premier venues in London.

The Ladykillers – if musicals aren’t your thing, and they’re not everybody’s, then maybe this adaptation of the classic Ealing comedy is more up your street. Darkly humorous and full of smart laughs.

Cool Hand Luke – a story of the strength of the human spirit, and stomach. An imprisoned world war II veteran is the focus of this tale of one man’s struggle to stay afloat under impossible circumstances.

The Woman in Black – a heartbreaking and eerie tale based on Susan Hill’s best-selling novel. Unforgettable and not for the faint hearted.

King Lear – Shakespeare’s study of madness, power and jealousy needs no introduction, and the production at the Alameda is worth viewing for the inventive and lavish set alone.

Omar is a freelance writer working for Hotelshop, specialists in cheap hotels. He is a keen writer and blogger, and loves finding out more about his native London.