If you have a passion for theatre then the next holiday destination to head to is the theatre capital of the world – London!
If you have a passion for theatre then the next holiday destination to head to is the theatre capital of the world – London! While Broadway may have earned its fair share of accolades, the West End in London is arguably the most famous theatre location in the world. With shows like Les Miserables and The Phantom of the Opera enthralling audiences for decades, this is the city to enjoy some of the finest musicals.
If you want to enjoy the best of theatre of your trip, why not stay at any of the luxury hotels in London’s West End itself. The location is apt and within a stone’s throw from some of the best theatres in the area.
Stay at The Piccadilly London West End Hotel and you can take a leisurely stroll to any of the top theatre venues to watch some of the finest musicals in the world. Some of the best musicals to watch on holiday in London are:
The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre: There is no better way to spend an evening then to enjoy the musical extravaganza – The Phantom of the Opera a masterpiece by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. It has captivated audiences in London for more than three decades and stills draws in the crowds. The show is based on a Gothic horror story with the same name and is a romantic musical that has the distinction of the longest running musical of all time. The story revolves around a mysterious ghost at the opera who is besotted with a stunningly beautiful soprano. The special effects, set designs and haunting musical scores which include Angel of Music, All I Ask of You and Think of Me make the show an unbelievably fascinating experience. It attracts visitors from all corners of the globe with many returning for see the musical on repeated occasions. Her Majesty’s Theatre is one of the most venerable theatre venues in London as well.
Wicked at the Apollo Theatre: The show has been going on at the Apollo Victoria since 2006 and is considered to be out of the most watched and popular musicals to be seen in London. The storyline is based on a novel of Gregory Maguire. The musical transports visitors to the world of Oz and all that takes place before Dorothy pops-in. The show has garnered more than 90 international awards and is the 16th longest-running musical in the West End. Its decade long celebration on 27 September, 2016 was a smashing hit and seen by about 6 million people. Its storyline that features love, acceptance and friendship strikes a chord with audiences and the fabulous musical score includes the smash hit Defying Gravity.
The Lion King at the Lyceum: Another blockbuster that has captivated audiences for more than 17 years is Walt Disney's Classic - The Lion King staged at the iconic Lyceum Theatre. The musical follows the same story as the 1994 animated movie with the same title. The show features the same musical score as the movie including the smash hits The Circle of Life, Be Prepared and Can You Feel the Love Tonight. It premiered in 1997 on Broadway and ever since then has captured the hearts of millions of viewers from across the globe, through various productions. The costumes and puppetry has won numerous awards through the years. One of the most iconic of musicals, The Lion King gives life a whole new perspective and meaning that has made it touch the hearts of millions who have watched it.
Les Miserables at the Queen’s Theatre: The honour of the longest running musical at the West End goes to Les Miserables, and still shows no signs of losing steam. The show was first performed at the Barbican Theatre in 1985, and then moved to the West End. It has mesmerised fans as well as critics alike with stunning performances from its cast and crew. It earned immense fame and recognition over the years that it was adapted to the big screen with an Oscar Nominated movie to follow. Its romantic story amazing musical creations and outstanding stage designs has won it a legion of fans across the globe. It features smashing musical hits like I Dreamed a Dream, At the End of the Day and On My Own among other famous musical numbers. While there have been several versions produced across the world there is nothing like seeing the original production at the hallowed Queen’s Theatre in the West End.
The Book of Mormon at the Prince of Wales Theatre: Among the many musicals featured at the West End this is one of the newer shows. After its resounding success on Broadway, where it won multiple Tony Awards it then shifted the Prince of Wales Theatre in London. The same team that created South Park created the show. A frivolous musical comedy with downright naughty and at times shocking moments it leaves the viewers in splits. It has achieved an incredible amount of popularity despite its relatively new status having opened in 2012. Its rather cheeky storyline with its funny moments and fabulous music has it playing to packed houses.
Aladdin at Prince Edward Theatre: Another new show that only premiered at the West End last year in 2016. Based on the original Disney's movie with the same title, Aladdin casts a spell on all those who have seen it. It was a smashing success on Broadway and the storyline has some new characters and musical compositions apart from the original music. The ensemble consists of exceptionally talented dancers and singers who bring the show to life with their outstanding performances. With a magical carpet, magnificent music and fabulous special effects the audience is transported into magical world of the Arabian Nights.