So You're Not A Musical Theatre Fan... The Best Introductory Musicals!
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| By
Jasmine Richards
(Updated on Sep 8, 2025)
Not everyone shares the same passion for the theatre as us thespians do, but for those who really don't fancy watching a hardcore musical, there are plenty of shows on offer that can serve as introductory musicals. Read on to find out which ones you should book!
Six: The Pop Concert Disguised as a Musical
One show that tends to be a firm favourite with anti-thespians is Six. This is a musical that doesn’t fall into the classic stereotype of a musical. The 90-minute, fun-filled show feels like stepping into a pop concert. Starting at the Edinburgh Fringe, this musical has become a global phenomenon that will blow you away with its incredible spectacle and catchy songs. Based on the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives, Six tells their stories in a refreshingly unique way.
Disney’s The Lion King: A Spellbinding Experience for All Ages
Another show that is very well received is Disney's The Lion King. This show is spellbinding and suitable for people of all ages. A true anti-thespian that I know very well told me that this was one show he really enjoyed. 'Once you get over the fact that they're all wearing masks, you really begin to appreciate it.' He added. This show is one that a lot of people know about due to the award-winning film, so why not give it a shot?!
The Book of Mormon: The Best Comedy Musical
Another great show that is most certainly my no.1 is The Book Of Mormon. This show, by the incredibly talented Matt Stone, Trey Parker and Robert Lopez, is the best comedy musical I have ever seen! This musical is perfect for both thespians and non-thespians, as the lyrics and libretto are beyond funny. You can't help but laugh from start to finish and once it's over, you want it to begin all over again! The content is not really suitable for very young audience members, but for those looking for a really good laugh, this is one for you! It is currently living in the Prince Of Wales Theatre and if I were you, I'd book my tickets right away.
The Shows for the Hard-Core Musical Fans
Now to the other side of the spectrum, say you're a huge musical fan but it's your first trip to the West End, what do you see first? Well, if you're a hardcore fan, Les Misérables or Wicked are great ones to go and see. The casts are immense in both of these shows and the music is spine tingling. Another show I absolutely fell in love with was Hamilton. The storytelling is powerful, the performances are electrifying, and the music blends hip-hop, R&B, and classic musical theatre in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Hamilton is definitely one of my favourites!
Want to find out more about the best shows for you? Read our article on the Best Theatre to Book for in 2025. And now, in 2025, there’s a whole new way of booking and discovering the right theatre for you, through none other than your favourite app! London Theatre Direct and TikTok have teamed up to bring you the latest and greatest West End shows. Read our article to find out more!