If you are looking to book a short break to a destination in the UK, then why not choose a break to the capital city of England? London has plenty of things to do, from shopping to sight-seeing and of course, taking in a high-scale production at the West End.
There are countless productions filling the historic theatres on the streets of London, and it is often difficult to choose just which show to see. If you are stuck and need some ideas, then check out these suggestions!
If musicals are your thing, then you should definitely check out the latest show taking Theatreland by storm – Matilda the Musical. Based on the classic Roald Dahl book, this new production by the Royal Shakespeare Company has received constant five-star reviews, praise for all actors involved and has sold-out shows since it first premiered at the Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon in 2011. Matilda tells the story of a girl-genius, neglected by her parents and desperate to go to school and learn. When her dream of education is realised and she meets her cruel headmistress Miss Trunchball, Matilda finds a special power within herself that enables her to give the grown-ups a lesson themselves! If you are a fan of the Roald Dahl book, or you grew up with the 1996 movie version starring Danny DeVito, then you will love this take on the classic tale. Matilda the Musical currently shows at the Cambridge Theatre in London.
Musicals are not for everyone, and you may be visiting London to see a play instead. If you do not mind shedding a tear or two then go along to the New London Theatre to catch the astonishing War Horse. Originally a children’s book by author Michael Morpurgo, and then transformed into an incredible show by the National Theatre featuring life-sized puppetry of the horses, War Horse tells the heartfelt story of a boy named Albert. After striking up a bond with his horse Joey, Albert finds his horse taken from him and sold into the First World War. The play shows the journeys they both go through in order to find each other. War Horse has recently been adapted into a feature film by Steven Spielberg and has been nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Be sure to catch this incredible piece of theatre if you are in the capital!
There are numerous other plays, musicals, comedies and dance spectacles to see in London. These are just a tiny selection of what’s on offer, to get you started!
Alice Bzowska writes for Cheap Theatre Tickets.com, where you can find great deals on Matilda the Musical tickets.
