December is in full-force, which can only mean one thing—the C word. Whether you hate Christmas with a burning passion or absolutely adore it, theatre-goers can agree on one thing: musical theatre can make it 10x more enjoyable (or at least a bit more bearable!). So, I have compiled a list of 5 must-see West End musicals to help kick off your Christmas season (starting with the non-christmassy ones, in case you’ve had enough).
1. Oliver!
One of my personal favourites, Cameron Mackintosh, has once again revived “Oliver!” for the fourth time since its original West End premiere on 30th June, 1960. There’s a reason this classic keeps returning!
The clearly much-beloved story follows Oliver, an ex-workhouse orphan who makes his way to and navigates the brutal streets of 1830s London and is “adopted” by a gang of child-pick-pocketers led by the cunning Mr Fagin. The musical features some iconic songs, such as “Food Glorious Food,” “As Long as He Needs Me,” “Consider Yourself” and of course, “I’d Do Anything.”
The musical opens on the 14th of December, 2024- just in time for Christmas!
Click here for the Oliver! official website.
2. The Phantom of the Opera
Did you think I’d pass up the opportunity to mention the icon that is Phantom?
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” tells the story of a haunting romance between Christine, an orphaned chorus singer and dancer, and the enigmatic Phantom, as he trains her to sing the music of the night whilst also dealing with his fears and desires. Will their love remain when heir when a figure of Christine’s past reemerges?
The musical features legendary songs such as: “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again”, and, of course, the hauntingly beautiful title song.
For the Phantom of the Opera website, click here.
Wicked
In case you’ve been living under a rock, the much beloved Wicked the Musical has been transformed into a live-action movie musical. The production is in London and is currently embarking on its fourth UK tour. What better time to see it?
The enchanting story of Wicked takes place in the fictional universe of “The Wizard of Oz” and tells us how the dynamic of Ginlda, the good, and Elphaba, the wicked witch of the West, came about and, ultimately, shaped their destinies.
The songs feature “What is this feeling”, the bubblegum pop “Popular,” the heartbreaking “I’m not that girl,” and the uplifting belter “Defying Gravity.”
For the Wicked Website, click here.
White Christmas
If you’re craving a truly magical Christmas theatre experience, look no further than ‘White Christmas’! This heartwarming production is sure to fill you with the festive spirit. In addition to that, it’s celebrating its 70th birthday!
“White Christmas,” based on the classic film of the same name, follows the story of two friends and World War II veterans, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who become a popular singing and dancing duo. Their journey leads them to cross paths with two charming sisters, Betty and Judy Haynes, and romance blossoms. Set against the festive backdrop of Christmas, this musical will surely get you in the holiday spirit!
The musical features songs such as “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” “I Love a Piano,” and the classic title song, “White Christmas.”
Click here to get tickets.
Aladdin (Christmas pantomime)
Looking for something interactive to enjoy with the whole family? A pantomime might be the perfect choice for you, and you’re in luck! Aladdin is flying on a magic blanket to Lyric Hammersmith this festive season, running until 5th January 2024.
The pantomime of “Aladdin” is a magical retelling of the classic tale set in the fictional city of Agrabah. The story follows Aladdin, a kind-hearted but impoverished young man who dreams of a better life. When he discovers a magical lamp, Aladdin embarks on a journey to win the heart of Princess Jasmine while thwarting the evil plans of the sorcerer, Jafar, who wants the lamp for himself.
Click here to get tickets.
For more theatre thoughts, click here
Have a lovely Christmas season (hopefully filled with a musical dotted here and there) and as always, have a lovely day!
