The RSC’s acclaimed production Matilda The Musical has officially become the 15th longest-running show in West End history.

The musical has just taken over from We Will Rock You, which had previosuly been in the 15th place slot. Although, this was closely followed by Thriller Live and Billy Elliot The Musical.

Still holding the top position as the West End’s (and in fact the world’s) longest running show is The Mousetrap, currently playing at the St Martins Theatre. In second place is the long running musical Les Miserables, playing at the Sondheim Theatre.

The show is based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book. The musical is written by Dennis Kelly, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.

The current cast of Matilda The Musical includes ​Angelica Scott, Anna Deikalo, Ava Posniak and Sophia Saravanan sharing the role of Matilda. Moreover, they are joined by Tiffany Graves as Mrs Wormwood and Neil McDermott as Mr Wormwood. In addition Eve Norris as Miss Honey, Kieran Hill as Miss Trunchbull.

Furthermore, the young performers in the cast include Pasquale Aben-Danan, Elyza Alderton, Beatrice Armitage, Joseph Burrows, Maddy Collings, Sienna Culm, Joey Grady, Blake Graham, Alexandra Horner, Adam Hussain, George Jones, Amber Koduah-Hutchison, Tristan Marwa, Isabelle McLatchie, Anayah Thomas, Kobe Warmington, Nesim Adnan, Ryo Appadu, Amelia-Grace Cambridge, Max Garlick, Jesamine-Bleu Gibbs, Kaylen Luke, Charlie Man-Evans, Yvie Moore and Marnie Rae Warren-Baker.

Matilda The Musical recently extended it’s West End run all the way to 24 May 2026. Now playing at the Cambridge Theatre, book your Matilda tickets now. Book tickets online via the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square.

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The West End is host to a dazzling array of productions – from extravagant musicals to intimate plays. However, one genre in particular remains hugely popular, comedy shows. Comedy plays and musicals offer something for everyone and guarantee a great night out in the West End. Here’s a closer look at some of the funniest, most entertaining comedies currently lighting up the West End stage.

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The Play That Goes Wrong

The iconic comedy play that does exactly what is says on the tin recently celebrated its tenth anniversary in London’s West End.

The Play That Goes Wrong first premiered in the West End in September 2014 and since has won a ton of awards including the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy in 2015. Written by Mischief Theatre Company members Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, the comedy play is a must see in London.

The play follows an amateur dramatic group during their performance of a murder mystery play when chaos ensues. You know you’re in for a fun and riotous night out with any Mischeif play and this is no different. There’s no wonder it’s been running for so long.

Currently booking all the way int 2026, book your tickets for The Play That Goes Wrong now. See the mayhem for yourself at the Duchess Theatre.

Mrs Doubtfire

Another laugh out loud production is Mrs Doubtfire. A new musical based on the 1993 film of the same name. Brought to life with music and lyrics by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick and a book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell.

It follows the story of out of work actor Daniel Hillard who goes through a messy divorce and loses custody of his kids. In order to try and stay in their lives he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire and becomes their nanny! The character then takes on a life of its own and teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about being a father.

The show first opened in May 2023 at the Shaftesbury Theatre where is has been playing since. Book your Mrs Doubtfire tickets now for a fun filled night out in Londons West End.

The Book of Mormon

Brought to life by the minds behind South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, along with Robert Lopez (co-writer of Avenue Q), The Book of Mormon is an irreverent, boundary-pushing musical comedy. The musical tackles themes of religion and culture with biting satire.

The story of the show follows two Mormon missionaries who are sent to Uganda to spread the word of God. They instead encounter more problems than they ever expected.

The Book of Mormon is a fun filled show packed to the brim with catchy tunes and sharp humour. Despite its controversial subject matter, The Book of Mormon remains a solid fan favourite. With its clever dialogue and witty songs, the raucous comedy is an undeniable hit.

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Keep up to date with all things London theatre here with LSBO news. Book your london theatre tickets online via the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the funniest shows in the West End right now?

Some of the funniest West End shows right now include musicals like Mrs Doubtfire and The Book of Mormon. Both are sure to provide lots of laughs and entertainment.

What are some of the best Comedy shows for families?

Family favourite comedy shows in London include Mischeif’s The Play That Goes Wrong and the new comedy musical Mrs Doubtfire.

Where can I book tickets for Comedy shows in London?

 You can book your London theatre tickets at www.lsbo.co.uk. Book tickets in advance to save on dissappointment or see what last minute deal you can grab nearer to the time!

The new musical Why Am I So Single? will be releasing a cast recording early next year. The show is currently playing at London’s Garrick Theatre but is set to close in January 2025.

Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the writers of SIX, Why Am I So Single follows the story of two young writers as they attempt to write a new musical and discuss their dating dramas.

The West End cast that will be featured on the album includes lead performances from Jo Foster as Oliver and Leesa Tulley as Nancy. Alongside them is Noah Thomas as Artie.

The ensemble consists of Jemima Brown, Josh Butler, Natasha Leaver, Ran Marner, and Joshian Angelo Omana. With Natasha Wilde, Rhys Wilkinson, Jamel Matthias and Olivia O’Connor. The swings are Callum Bell, Owen McHugh, Caitlin Redpath and Ebony Clarke.

Songs from the recording that have already been released include ‘8 Dates’, ‘Just In Case’ and ‘C U Never’. It also features the title song ‘Why Am I So Single’ and most recently ‘Disco Ball’, released on Monday.

Book tickets for Why Am I So Single now on the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square. Now playing at the Garrick Theatre, must end 19 January.

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The London cast of Oliver! have announced that they will be releasing a cast recording by First Night Records. The new production recently opened at the Gielgud Theatre in the West End.

A CD and digital release will be available from 10 January 2025. However is currently available to pre-order. Additionally the first single from the album, “Food, Glorious Food” is already available to stream on all digital music platforms.

The album was recorded in front of live audiences at Chichester Festival Theatre earlier on this year. It includes all of Lionel Bart’s iconic songs including ‘I’d Do Anything’, ‘Consider Yourself’, ‘As Long As He Needs Me’, ‘Food, Glorious Food’ and ‘Oom Pah Pah’.

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The West End cast of Oliver! includes Simon Lipkin as Fagin, Shanay Holmes as Nancy, Aaron Sidwell as Bill Sikes, Billy Jenkins as Artful Dodger, Oscar Conlon-Morrey as Mr. Bumble, Katy Secombe as Widow Corney, Stephen Matthews as Mr. Sowerberry/Dr. Grimwig, Jamie Birkett as Mrs. Sowerberry/Mrs. Bedwin, Philip Franks as Mr. Brownlow, and Billy Byers as Alternate Artful Dodger. Oliver Twist is played by Cian Eagle-Service, Raphael Korniets, Jack Philpott and Odo Rowntree-Bailly.

Furthermore, young adult cast are Callum Hudson (Noah Claypole), Isabelle Methven (Bet), Lochlan White (Charley Bates) and Harry Cross (Dandy). The ensemble members/swings are Rachael Archer, Tegan Bannister, Adam Boardman, Lois Craig, Stephen John Davis, Bethany Huckle, Ebony Jonelle, Bethan Keens (Charlotte), Danny Lane, Peter Nash, Josh Patel-Foster, Sam Peggs, Jasmine Sakyiama, Wendy Somerville (Old Sally), Charlie Stripp, Leah Vassell and Matthew Whennell-Clark.

In addition, the younger roles in Fagin’s gang are shared by Toba Agbelusi, Zoe Akinyosade, Ben Birch, Preston Cropp, Kylan Michael Denis, Sebastian Elton, Liam Findlay, Rudy Gibson, Stanley Guy, George Hamblin, Lily Hanna, Sammy Jones, Grace King, Jonny Niland, Hugo Pechey, Alex Prior, Teddy Probets, William Skinner, Ethan Sokontwe, Dylan Xavier and Aaron Zhao.

This adaptation of the musical is produced Cameron Mackintosh alongside director and choreographer Matthew Bourne.

Oliver! is playing at the Gielgud Theatre from 16 December 2024, and is currently booking to 28 September 2025.

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Mischief’s new play The Comedy About Spies has announced the full cast for the upcoming West End production. The comedy play is set to open at the Noël Coward Theatre on 14 April 2025.

The new play is written by the team behind The Play That Goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery.

The cast will include original Mischief company members Dave Hearn, Chris Leask, Henry Lewis, Charlie Russell, Henry Shields, Greg Tannahill and Nancy Zamit. They will in addition appear alongside Adele James, in her Mischief debut.

Written by Lewis and Shields, The Comedy About Spies is a farse set in 1960s London. It follows a British agent who plans to steal a top secret file. Chaos ensues when spies from the CIA and the KGB come together to track down the stolen socuments. The plot thickens when a British couple arrive and an actor audietion to be the next James Bond.

With direction by Matt Di Carlo, The Comedy About Spies will open in Spring next year. Before then you can get your Mischeif dose by booking tickets for The Play That Goes Wrong. Currently playing at the Duchess Theatre. Book tickets online via the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square

Keep an eye out for further announcements here with LSBO News.

The West End offers a wide variety of London Theatre shows that cater to all tastes. Among the many productions, those based on real-life stories are particularly captivating. They allow audiences to connect deeply with history, people, and events, offering a compelling mix of drama, inspiration, and emotion. If you’re a fan of theatre that brings the true stories of extraordinary lives to the stage, here are some of the top London Theatre Shows based on real-life stories.

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The Lehman Trilogy

A stunning portrayal of one of the most significant financial crashes in history, The Lehman Trilogy takes audiences through the rise and fall of the Lehman Brothers investment bank. This critically acclaimed production was originally performed by the National Theatre. It follows the lives of the Lehman family and their role in the American financial landscape, ultimately leading to the catastrophic collapse of 2008. This show, directed by Sam Mendes, offers a gripping and thought-provoking look at the forces that shaped modern capitalism.

Currently playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, The Lehman Trilogy is running until 5 January 2025. Book your tickets now via the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square.

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical tells the story of the extraordinary life of music legend Tina Turner. From her early days in the segregated South to her rise as a global superstar. This musical demonstrates Turner’s resilience and incredible talent. The musical features an array of her iconic hits like What’s Love Got to Do With It, Proud Mary, and Simply the Best. The show is both a celebration of Tina Turner’s legacy and a powerful reminder of her personal struggles.

Both a beautiful story and a great night out, this is one London Theatre Show you really can’t miss. Tina showcases the life of an incredible woman. Throughout her life she overcame immense adversity to become one of the greatest performers of all time. Her journey is both inspirational and empowering.

Book your Tina tickets now online via the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square. Now playing at the Aldwych Theatre along the Strand.

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Hamilton

One of the most iconic London Theatre Shows in recent years, Hamilton tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers. The musical uses a dynamic mix of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional Broadway to create a whole new genre of musicals. The show brings to life the story of Hamilton’s rise from an orphaned immigrant to a key figure in shaping the United States.

Hamilton is not just a musical; it’s a revolutionary approach to American history. The real-life figures of Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington are re-imagined through a modern lens. This makes the show relevant and exciting for a new generation. The global phenomenon is a blend of historical accuracy and creative innovation.

Currently playing at the Victoria Palace Theatre, book your Hamilton tickets now with LSBO. Book online via our website or at our box office located in the heart of Leicester Square.

MJ The Musical

One of the greatest music artists of all time, Michael Jackson has left us with a huge amount of legendary hits. Combine those with the story of his life and you get MJ The Musical.

With a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and choreography by Tony Award-winning director/ Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, MJ takes the audience behind the scenes of Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour. The new musical features some of Jackson’s most iconic songs in music history. Hits like Beat It, Billie Jean, Man in the Mirror, Bad, Thriller, and Smooth Criminal.

The musical opened in the West End in March 2024 with Myles Frost reprising his role as Jackson after opening in the show on Broadway.

Book your MJ tickets now online via the LSBO website or at our box office in Leicester Square. Currently playing at the Prince Edward Theatre.

Operation Mincemeat

New musical Operation Mincemeat took the West End by storm last March when it opened at the Fortune Theatre. The show received over 67 five-star reviews and rave reviews from audiences. The production has extended multiple times since then and remains a West End fan favourite.

Operation Mincemeat follows the true story of a Second World War MI5 deception operation. It’s the year 1943 and a group of agents plot to strategically use a stolen corpse and some forged papers to distract the Nazis. They use the body of a tramp and dress him in a Royal Marines uniform to mislead German attention from a planned Allied invasion of Sicily.

The musical comedy features a book, music, and lyrics by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson, and Zoë Roberts (known as the musical comedy troupe SpitLip). The show received 6 Olivier Award nominations last year and won two for Best New Musical and Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical.

Operation Mincemeat is currently playing at the Fortune Theatre and just keeps on extending!

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You can secure your tickets for all London Theatre Shows with LSBO. Book online, over the phone, or at our box office. Keep up to date with all things London Theatre here with LSBO News.

Ryan Calais Cameron’s play Retrograde is set to transfer to the West End early next year. Directed by the Kiln Theatre’s artistic director Amit Sharma, the play will open at the Apollo Theatre in March.

Furthermore, the cast will include Ivanno Jeremiah (Constellations, West End and Humans, Channel 4) as Sidney Poitier, who is reprising his role from the Kiln production. In addition, he is joined by Stanley Townsend (Kaos, Netflix) as Mr Parks and Oliver Johnstone (All My Sons, The Old Vic) as Bobby.

The play is a gripping thriller set in the Golden Age of Hollywood, the 1950s. It follows the young actor Sidney Poitier who is at a pivotal moment in his career. Specifically, Poitier is on the verge of signing a career-defining Hollywood contract that could make him a star.

This play follows Cameron’s previous West End hit For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy. The production enjoyed two sold-out runs at the Apollo Theatre in 2023 and the Garrick Theatre in 2024.

The creative team behind the production includes Frankie Bradshaw (Set and Costume Designer) and Amy Mae (Lighting Designer). Along with Beth Duke (Sound Designer), and Juliet Horsley CDG (Casting Director). Together, they are working to bring this thrilling story to life on stage.

Retrograde will play at the Apollo Theatre for a strictly limited season from 8 March to 14 June 2025. Be sure to stay tuned for further announcements here with LSBO News, as more details are sure to follow.

The award-winning West End musical Cabaret has announced new casting for early next year. The show is currently playing at the Kit Kat Club in London. Cabaret has been a smash hit on the West End since it opened in 2021.

From 28 January 2025, joining the cast will be Tony and Grammy award winner Billy Porter as The Emcee, and double Olivier Award-nominee Marisha Wallace as Sally Bowles. The day before Vivien Parry will return to the role of Fraulein Schneider.

New Cabaret Casting Announced

They join Daniel Bowerbank as Clifford Bradshaw, Fenton Gray as Herr Schultz, Fred Haig as Ernst Ludwig and Jessica Kirton as Fraulein Kost/Fritzie. The cast is completed by Xenoa Campbell-Ledgister, Sam Darius, Damon Gould Adrian Grove, El Haq Latief, Justin-Lee Jones, Ela Lisondra, Hícaro Nicolai, Andy Rees Alexandra Regan, Marina Tavolieri, Ben Simon Wilson, Anne-Marie Wojna, Patrick Wilden and Lucy Young.

The musical won a record-breaking 7 Olivier Awards when it opened and is directed by Rebecca Frecknall. With an iconic score by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and a book by Joe Masteroff, Cabaret includes an array of musical theatre classics. The show features songs such as Willkommen, Maybe This Time, and of course the title number, Cabaret. The musical is based on the play by John Van Druten and the stories by Christopher Isherwood.

Billy Porter and Marisha Wallace will star in the show until Saturday 24 May 2025. Cabaret tickets are available now and is booking until 4 October 2025. Currently playing at the Kit Kat Club (The Playhouse Theatre).

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West End shows are a great way for students and young audiences to experience theatre at its finest. It can be difficult to know what London theatre for students and young audiences is available. So we’ve done the work for you!

London is world-renowned for its varied productions, everything from classical plays to cutting-edge musicals. For young people, it’s the perfect way to experience world-class theatre that’s both engaging and thought-provoking. Here’s a look at some of the best West End shows currently suitable for students and young people.

Tickets for London Theatre for Students and Young Audiences can be booked on the LSBO website

1. Matilda the Musical

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, Matilda the Musical is a heartwarming and rebellious story that is sure to resonate with young audiences. The musical follows a clever and determined young girl, who uses her extraordinary intelligence and telekinetic powers to stand up to her neglectful parents and tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. The show blends dark humor with uplifting themes of empowerment and resilience. It features an array of catchy songs, fun choreography, and clever staging to make it fun for all ages. This thought-provoking yet hilarious production is perfect for students and young people.

Where to See It:
The Cambridge Theatre

2. The Play That Goes Wrong

The Play That Goes Wrong is a comedy about a group of amateur actors who attempt to stage a murder mystery and it all goes horribly wrong. The play fills the stage with silly humor, doors falling off, props breaking, and actors desperately trying to salvage the performance. A fun option for young people to enjoy the theatre.

It’s an entertaining, funny, and slightly chaotic celebration of trying your best even when things don’t go as planned. A clever and hilarious production that everyone can enjoy.

Where to See It:
The Duchess Theatre

3. Hamilton

Hamilton redefines what it means to be a musical. Through a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theater, Lin-Manuel Miranda brings the life of Alexander Hamilton and the founding fathers of the United States to the stage.

The show’s revolutionary energy is a brilliant way to engage young people with both history and theatre. It makes complex historical details into an easy-to-understand and entertaining piece of theatre. Moreover, the diverse cast sends a powerful message about representation to young people.

Where to See It:
Victoria Palace Theatre

4. Six the Musical

Six the Musical tells the story of the six wives of Henry VIII and reimagines the story through a modern lens. Each wife is given the chance to reclaim her narrative and tell her story. We see Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr take to the mic.

For students and young people, and especially young women, this musical is an inspiring example of female empowerment. The show brings to light feminist themes and shows women stand up for themselves and each other. Told through catchy pop songs, each queen brings her unique perspective to the stage. The contemporary soundtrack mixed with historical accuracy is great for young people wanting to learn more about history. Exploring themes of identity and resilience, Six reminds us that sharing stories is important.

Where to See It:
Vaudeville Theatre

5. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

For fans of the Harry Potter universe, The Cursed Child offers a magical continuation of the story. 19 years after Harry, Ron, and Hermione saved the wizarding world, they’re back on a most extraordinary new adventure. A new generation has arrived at Hogwarts and the play focuses on Harry Potter’s son, Albus, as he struggles to live up to his father’s legacy.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a production like no other. The play is split into 2 parts and features a huge amount of on-stage magic and special effects. The show explores the importance of friendship and loyalty. It is a reminder to be yourself and carve your own path – a great message for young people today.

Where to See It:
The Palace Theatre

Group Bookings for School Groups

We also offer group discounts for school groups so young people can enjoy West End theatre without breaking the bank. If you’re booking for a larger group, then you can unlock substantial savings on your London theatre tickets. Many West End shows offer discounted rates for school groups – a much more cost-effective way to book for school outings. You can easily book these group offers with us via the group bookings section on the LSBO website. Or you can give us a ring to speak to our group bookings department. Normally the bigger the group, the bigger the savings. Make sure you get your enquiry in as soon as possible so we can get you the best seats for the best price. This is also a great way to encourage young people to get involved with theatre.

Grab Exclusive Deals on London Theatre for Young Audiences Now!

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Mischief Theatre have announced their next West End production, The Comedy About Spies, which will open in London in the Spring of next year. Opening at the Noël Coward Theatre, the comedy play will begin performances from 14 April 2025.

The Comedy About Spies is an action-packed thriller brought to you by the award-winning team Mischief Theatre. Mischief are the brains behind The Play That Goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery. This new play is written by Mischief company members Henry Shields and Henry Lewis.

The comedy play is set in 1960s London and follows a British agent who steals plans for a top-secret weapon. When spies from the CIA and the KGB come together to track down the stolen documents, the stakes reach boiling point. Consequently, a mess of misunderstanding, miscommunication, and mistaken identity ensues.

Cast and further creative team are yet to be announced.

Directed by Matt Di Carlo, The Comedy About Spies opens at the Noël Coward Theatre on 14 April 2025. Keep an eye out for further announcements.

In the meantime, you can book Mischief Theatre’s other comedy play The Play That Goes Wrong. Currently playing at the Duchess Theatre, the show celebrated 10 years in the West End in September this year.

Keep up to date with all things London theatre here with LSBO news.

Book your comedy play tickets on the LSBO website