How To Spot A Stellar West End Show
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Charlotte O’Growney
For many, a trip to the theatre is a rare and treasured occasion. Between the ticket, travel, programme and the obligatory interval ice-cream, even with discounts, a night in London’s Theatreland rarely comes cheap. So after weeks - or even months - of anticipation, it's only natural to hope the show you’ve chosen is worth every penny. But is there a foolproof way to guarantee your night at the theatre will be unforgettable?
While there’s no absolute certainty, there are a few tricks to help you pick a winner before you book — and one of the most reliable is to pay attention to accolades.
Award-winning shows tend to earn their hype for good reason. In recent years, juggernauts like Hamilton, SIX and Moulin Rouge! The Musical have swept up Olivier and WhatsOnStage awards while still packing out theatres night after night. Meanwhile, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues to dominate as one of the most decorated plays in West End history.
Another reliable indicator? The fanbase. Jukebox musicals remain unbeatable when it comes to sheer feel-good factor, powered by nostalgia and instantly recognisable hits. Mamma Mia! is still dancing into its 25th year, while Back to the Future: The Musical taps into pure retro joy - both practically daring you not to sing along on the way home.
But what about newer productions? That’s where the West End’s secret weapon comes in - star casting. Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club continues to lead the charge, regularly reinvigorating its run with high-profile guests like Cara Delevingne, Luke Treadaway, Aimee Lou Wood and most recently, Eva Noblezada. Meanwhile, The Devil Wears Prada musical features the iconic Vanessa Williams stepping into the stilettos of Miranda Priestly.
So is there a perfect formula for choosing the perfect show? Probably not. But between award recognition, strong fan followings and exciting casting, you can definitely stack the odds in your favour.
One thing is certain — with the sheer variety currently lighting up London’s stages in 2025, from spectacle-filled mega-musicals to intimate storytelling gems, there truly is something for everyone. And when you do find that stellar show, the magic is more than worth the price of entry.