5 West End Musicals You Should Be Getting Excited About Right Now
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| By
Charlotte O’Growney
(Updated on Oct 1, 2025)
Whether you love fresh new writing, powerful revivals, or blockbuster musicals, there’s always something exciting happening in London’s Theatreland. With so many productions opening (and, sadly, closing), it can feel overwhelming to choose your next night out. To help you plan, here are five of the most exciting West End shows opening in late 2025 and early 2026 that you should be booking for right now.
📅 2 December 2025 - 18 April 2026
Stephen Sondheim’s masterpiece Into the Woods is making a magical return, this time at the Bridge Theatre. With its interwoven fairy tales, sharp wit, and haunting score, this production promises a spellbinding evening for both Sondheim devotees and first-timers. If you’ve never seen “the woods” up close, this is your chance to experience one of the greatest musicals of the 20th century brought to life in an intimate, innovative space.
📅 17 December 2025 - 7 March 2026
Tony Award-winner star Billy Crudup (The Morning Show) joins Olivier Award-winner Denise Gough (Andor) in this gripping new stage adaptation of the Hollywood Western classic. Written for the stage by Oscar-winning screenwriter Eric Roth (Forrest Gump, A Star Is Born), this version of High Noon reimagines the iconic showdown for a new generation of theatregoers. With a stellar cast and a script from one of cinema’s greatest storytellers, this promises to be one of the most talked-about openings of the season.
📅 29 January – 18 April 2026
Based on Rachel Joyce’s best-selling novel and the acclaimed film, this new musical adaptation features original songs by Passenger. Starring BAFTA nominee Mark Addy (The Full Monty) and Olivier Award-winner Jenna Russell (Sunday in the Park with George), it follows Harold’s unexpected 600-mile walk across England - a journey filled with heart, humour, and healing. With such a powerful creative team behind it, this looks set to be one of 2026’s most moving West End premieres.
📅 17 March - 11 July 2026
After a critically acclaimed UK tour, the much-loved musical Kinky Boots is strutting its way back into London. With music by Cyndi Lauper, the show tells the story of a struggling shoe factory that finds salvation in glittering stilettos. This new West End run stars Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe, bringing dazzling choreography and unstoppable energy to the Coliseum stage. Expect laughter, joy, and a heartwarming message about acceptance and identity.
📅 28 October 2025 – 3 January 2026
Christmas just got even more magical. Elf the Musical returns to London, starring real-life couple Joel Montague as Buddy the Elf and Carrie Hope Fletcher as Jovie. Packed with festive fun, toe-tapping tunes, and all the heart of the beloved Will Ferrell film, this production is the perfect seasonal outing for families and theatre fans alike. With tickets already in high demand, don’t wait until December to secure your seats!
Whether you’re planning a Christmas treat or looking ahead to spring 2026, London’s West End is bursting with must-see productions. From glittering fairy tales to heartfelt journeys and high-kicking drag queens, these shows prove there’s truly something for everyone.