Fan favourites: Wicked, The Lion King, Matilda
Some shows are classics for a reason, and these fan favourites are guaranteed to impress. Wicked tells the untold story of the witches of Oz with heart, humour, and spectacle—Part 1 of the movie has already thrilled audiences, and Part 2 is set to continue the story later this year. The Lion King dazzles with its iconic visuals, unforgettable music, and sweeping story, while Matilda the Musical brings Roald Dahl’s beloved tale to life with wit, charm, and incredible performances. All three are based on films or familiar stories, making them perfect for first-time theatre-goers or anyone looking for a guaranteed West End hit.
Those who love good music: MJ the Musical, Hamilton, Just For One Day
One way of easing someone into musical theatre is by picking shows that feature songs they already love! These musicals provide just as much fun but aren’t too far out of their comfort zone. Got a friend who loves Michael Jackson? Take them for an unforgettable night at MJ the Musical. Or introduce them to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton, blending history, hip-hop, and memorable tunes that can capture anyone’s imagination. And if your friend loves iconic anthems for a cause, Just For One Day—celebrating the songs and spirit of Live Aid—offers an uplifting musical experience packed with hits.
Those who love a boogie: ABBA Voyage, Mamma Mia!
An important part of musical theatre is the fun factor—the energy and enthusiasm that radiates throughout the theatre. ABBA Voyage and Mamma Mia! provide excitement and entertainment in bucket loads, perfect for capturing the heart of that Dancing Queen or King in your life. With infectious music and high-energy choreography, these shows are impossible not to enjoy.
Those who love a chuckle: Titanique, The Book of Mormon
For comedy fans, shows packed with wit, parody, and clever lyrics are a perfect introduction. Titanique is a hilarious campy parody combining the story of the Titanic with Celine Dion’s music, while The Book of Mormon remains a laugh-a-minute musical thanks to its genius writing and brilliant comic performances. If your friend can’t stop laughing, they might just fall in love with musicals on the spot!
Those who love a film adaptation: The Devil Wears Prada, Back to the Future, Moulin Rouge, Hercules
If your friend loved a particular film, bringing it to the stage with music can be the perfect next step. The Devil Wears Prada transforms the iconic fashion film into a sharp and entertaining musical, Back to the Future: The Musical brings the classic 80s movie to life with beloved characters, memorable songs, and thrilling stage effects, Moulin Rouge! dazzles with its cinematic spectacle, romantic story, and electrifying score, and Hercules delivers high-energy choreography and Alan Menken’s unforgettable tunes. Familiar stories can make the jump into theatre feel effortless.
Those who love epic storylines: Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera
Big musicals with sweeping narratives can really make you feel transported to another time and place. Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera both create spectacle while drawing you into deeply emotional character arcs. If your friend is fascinated by history, romance, or loves a story with high stakes, these musicals are a brilliant introduction to the West End.
Those who love plays: Stranger Things, The First Shadow, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Play That Goes Wrong
Not every great West End show is a musical—some plays captivate with thrilling stories, clever twists, and unforgettable performances- the perfect introduction to the theatre scene. Stranger Things: The First Shadow brings the hit Netflix series to life on stage with suspense and supernatural thrills. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues the wizarding saga with stunning stagecraft, magic, and emotional depth. And for something completely different, The Play That Goes Wrong delivers a riotous comedy of errors that proves theatre can be hilarious, chaotic, and utterly brilliant all at once.