The brand new stage show is set on the books and hit film franchise of the same name. The show is opening at the brand new venue in Canary Wharf. The new venue can seat 1200 people. The venue is purpose built to host the World Premiere of the stage adaptation of The Hunger Games. Seating is split into districts so spectators will feel a part of the action in this dynamic in the round arena, developed with blockbuster entertainment in mind.
The Hunger Games Show it is based on a dystopian novel where every year 24 young people aged 12 – 18 are pitted against each other in a deadly arena. This is in an attempt to keep control over the people of Panem. The story centres on Katniss Everdeen. She is a fearless and resourceful heroine, who emerges as a symbol of rebellion as she fights for both her life and the hope of a nation oppressed by a ruthless Capitol.
Above you can see The Hunger Games show already announced cast with Mia Carragher as the heroic Katniss Everdeen. They also announced Euan Garrett as Peeta Mellark and Joshua Lacey will play Haymitch Abernathy.
Today the production announced further lead casting with Tristan Waterson as play Gale Hawthorne. Sophia Ally will play Primrose Everdeen who is Katniss’ sister who she sacrifices herself for. Lastly, Ruth Everett will play Mrs Everdeen, Primrose and Katniss’ mother.
There are a lot of changes happening to West End Shows this August. It can be hard to keep up but here at LSBO we have all the information you need in one handy place.
New West End Shows August 2025
There are 4 shows which are opening this month and we have the run down for all of them below!
A Man For All Seasons opens at The Harold Pinter Theatre for a limited run from 6th August until 6th Septmeber this year. The show is a play written in 1960 which in turn, was adapted into an Oscar award winning film in 1966.
This revival is currently on tour and has recieved rave reviews. It stars famous actor Martin Shaw as Sir Thomas More. The play is about Sir Thomas Moore who was a scholar, ambassador, Lord Chancellor and friend to King Henry the VIII. When Henry demands a divorce from Catherine of Aragon, clearing the way for him to marry Anne Boleyn, the staunchly Catholic Thomas is forced to choose between his loyalty and his own conscience, committing an incredible act of defiance for which he eventually pays the ultimate price.
This show already broke records across the country in it’s tour so be sure to catch it’s limited run as on of you West End Shows this August.
Featuring stars who started out in Netflix’s Sex Education, Born With Teeth is opening this August. Ncuti Gatwa is set to play Kit Marlowe along with Edward Bluemel as Will Shakespeare in this brand new play.
Born With Teeth is set across three secret meetings in a period which was dangerous for artists. In the backroom of a pub, writing sensations Kit Marlowe and Will Shakespeare are forced together in a creative union. The literary rivals duel and flirt like their lives depend on it.
The show is based on the idea these two literary icons may have collaborated on the Henry VI history plays. It is a playful and daring imagining of their relationship and is produced by The Royal Shakespeare Company.
This comedymusical is the first major London revival of Mel Brooks’ musical adaptation. This musical is actually based on the Mel Brooks film from 1967 of the same name.
The Producers is a satirical black comedy about a producer who plan to put on the worst show to avoid the taxman looking into their accounts. Unfortunatley, the show proves to be a wild success despite the producers best attempts.
This production is opening at The Garrick Theatre following a successful, sold-out run at the fringe venue, The Menier Chocolate Factory. All of the principle cast members are the same as the initial popular production.
This 5 star reviewed show closed just last night! The Comedy About Spies is the latest work from the Mischief Theatre Company. This hit comedy play featured some of the original Mischief Theatre team who are the writers of The Play That Goes Wrong which is in fact, the longest running West End Comedy play.
The Comedy About Spies is closing to make room for The Importance of Being Earnest which opens in September. Meanwhile, the Mischief Theatre team will wok on opening their new show, A Christmas Carol Gone Wrong in time for the festive season.
This is another one of the West End shows which close this August. It moved to The Harold Pinter Theatre following a sold-out run at The Royal Court. This show also won 3 Olivier Awards, including Best New Play.
It starred famous actor, known for his work on Neflix’s The Crown and the award winning film Conclave, John Lithgow. Lithgow led the show as Roald Dahl in this play about the world famous childrens author. Dahl famously wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda. However, this play follows him and those around him in the wake of a scandal where he has one chance to make amends.
Out of the West End Shows this August which are closing, Mrs Warren’s Profession is the final play to close this month.
Starring Imelda Staunton and her real life daughter playing her on stage daughter, this play is a reimagining of the classic play by George Bernard Shaw. Mrs Warren and her daughter are estranged. When her daughter realises how her mother actually made herself a self made business woman, it challenges them even more.
Clueless is based on the hit 90s film which is also based on Jane Austen’s novel Emma. It is set in Beverley Hills and focuses on Cher. A preppy school girl who loves to play match maker. Mostly, she wants to be a good person and have the “perfect day”.
Back To The Future is welcoming a new cast this month. What’s more they’re welcoming two famous faces too! Brian Conley is joing on 13th as Doctor Emmet Brown run a limited 12 weeks with the London company. The current “Doc”, Cory English will return on 5th November. Conely is an actor, comedian, singer and also, TV presenter! He’s well known for hosting the Royal Variety Show multiple times and for starring in Eastenders. Not only that, but he is no stranger to the West End. He previously performed in Hairspray and Oliver just to name a few!
Another celebrity joining this show in in August is Tiktok influencer Maddie Grace Jepson. She has nearly 2 million followers on TikTok. Jepsen has already made her TV debut with Channel 4’s Big Mood and this marks her West End Debut. She joins the cast on 13th August as Lorraine Baines.
This West End Shows August Cast Change also will see Caden Braunch staying on as Marty McFly. You can catch Orlando Gibbs as George McFly, CJ Borger as Goldie Wilson and Marvin Berry with Alex Runicles as Biff Tannen. Talia Palamathanan plays Jennifer Parker and Oliver Halford as alternate Marty McFly. Lastly, there’s Liam McHugh as Dave McFly, Lee Ormsby as Strickland and alternate Doctor Emmett Brown, and Gracie Caine as Linda McFly.
Born With Teeth Rehearsals are in full swing and the production have dropped their fresh rehearsal images. Opening on 13th August, Born With Teeth is set to be the hottest new play this summer. Keep reading to find out more about the production, and to see the first look, rehearsal images.
The brand new play is led by stars Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel. Gatwa is most known from Sex Education on Netflix and as the most recent Doctor in the BBC’s Dr Who. Bluemel also starred in Sex Education and most recently was in the Amazon Prime Fantasy Series, My Lady Jane.
The Born With Teeth Rehearsals are led by the RSC. In fact, the co artistic director of the RSC Daniel Evans is directing this new play. Written by Liz Duffy Adams, Born With Teeth imagines the relationship between legendary writers Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare. Gatwas plays Marlowe in this production with Bluemel as Shakespeare. The play is set in the winter of 1591at a time of political danger and artistic rivalry. In the back room of a pub, the two writers meet in secret, developing a tense and complex connection against a backdrop of conspiracy and surveillance.
The show only has two actors in however the company have confirmed the understudies today. Matt Pettifor will understudy Willam Shakespeare and Justice Ritchie will understudy Christopher Marlowe.
Check out the images from the Born With Teeth Rehearsals below, for the first look of Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel in action:
Stephen Fry will star in The Importance of Being Earnest which opens this September. Fry will join the production as Lady Bracknell in Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy. TV star and comedian Hugh Dennis will also join the cast as Reverend Canon Chasuble.
The Importance of Being Earnest will open at The Noel Coward Theatre on 11th September. It is making a West End transfer from The National Theatre. The previously announced pop-star, Olly Alexander will lead this exciting production as Algernon Moncrieff. You can read more about that initial announcement here.
Joining Stephen Fry in this cast are Nathan Stewart-Jarrett (Dr Who) as Jack Worthing, and Shobna Gulati (Mamma Mia) as Miss Prism. Also joining this star studded cast is Kitty Hawthorne as Gwendolen Fairfax, Jessica Whitehurst as Cecily Cardew and lastly, Hayley Carmichael as Merriman/Lane.
Max Webster is directing this hit production. Webster is known for his work on Macbeth and The Life of Pi to name a few.
Stephen Fry gave this statement regarding the exciting announcement:
“I was delighted to be asked by Max Webster to join his jubilant National Theatre production and play the formidable Lady Bracknell in the West End. Oscar Wilde has been a hugely important figure in my life and career and The Importance of Being Earnest is a play that changed my life when I first saw it aged 10. It made me understand what language can do and absolutely transported me. Wilde is a beacon to people who still believe in open thinking and adventuring with the mind and spirit.”
Secure your cheap tickets now to catch Stephen Fry, Hugh Dennis and Olly Alexander live on stage now to avoid disappointment.
The Producers Cast is officially confirmed as the show prepares to open at The Garrick Theatre later this month.
The Producers is based on the Mel Brooks film whic tells the story of some producers trying (and failing) to make the worst musical you’ve ever seen! The West End transfer marks this as the first major London revival of Mel Brooks’ musical adaptation. It is an extremely satirical musical which uses dark comedy. That didnt stop the original Broadway production from winning a record twelve Tony Awards! The Producers skewers theatrical traditions and takes no prisoners as it proudly proclaims itself an “equal opportunity offender!”
The show transfers to The Garrick following the smash-hit run at The Menier Chocolate Factory last year. The Producers cast include Andy Nyman as Max Bialystock, Marc Antolin as Leo Bloom and Trevor Ashley as Roger de Bris. Also, Raj Ghatak as Carmen Ghia, Harry Morrison as Franz Liebkind and Joanna Woodward as Ulla. All of whom are reprising their roles from the original run at The Menier Chocolate Factory.
Announced today and joining them in The Producers Cast are Alex Lodge as Storm Trooper, Kelsie-Rae Marshall as Hold-Me-Touch-Me and Ryan Pidgen as standby Max. The swings are Megan Armstrong, Olly Christopher, Gabrielle Cocca who is also the Dance Captain and Matt Gillett also doubling up as Resident Director. The ensemble include Nolan Edwards, Michael Franks, , Esme Kennedy, Sinead Kenny, Kate Parr, Emma Robotham-Hunt, Pierce Rogan, Hollie Jane Stephens, Jermaine Woods and lastly Josh Kiernan who’s also assistant dance captain.
You can catch the new The Producers cast from 31st August when the show opens.
Look no further for the Best Summer Holidays shows for 2025. With the summer holidays kicking off we have the best West End Shows for you and all the family to enjoy this year. Last week we covered the shows with the lowest age restrictions. So, if you are thinking about treating your family with children below 7 to the theatre then click here.
Mamma Mia is one of the best summer holidays shows as it is set in sunny Greece! Since premiering in the West End over 26 years ago, the show has been seen by 65 million people worldwide.
The musical features all songs by the global sensation that is ABBA. It follows Sophie on the run up to her wedding. When she finds her mothers old diaries, she invites three men to join her big day as her potential fathers! Chaos and fun ensues as guests arrive and the wedding gets underway. This musical is a celebration of ABBA, alongside a joyous and fun story.
Travel back in time with this show! This is one of our summer holidays shows which are based on a film. This beloved 80s film turned musical entertains across generations which makes it a great choice for families this summer.
When Marty McFly’s eccentric neighbor “Doc” transforms a DeLorean sports car into a time machine, things get out of control! Marty finds himself trapped in the 1950s and has to ensure his parents fall in love to guarantee his survival. All the while, he needs to get back to the future. The musical features songs from the film alongside an original score for this adaptation.
This highly anticipated musical is officially open in time for summer. This is the second summer holidays show which is set in Greece. However, this is ancient Greece! Just like the animated classic, Hercules follows Demi-God Hercules in his rise from zero to hero!
With music from the original animation, this familiar story is great for the whole family this summer.
This is the most classic of all our summer holidays shows for 2025. Written in 1960, it is based on the Victorian, Charles Dickens Novel.
This revival is extremely popular so book early to avoid disappointment! Oliver! follows a young orphan boy in Victorian England. He falls in with the wrong crowd in the East End who take him under their wing and “look after him”. With classic songs such as “Food Glorious Food” and “Consider Yourself”, this show guarantees a good ol’ Cockney knees up this summer holidays.
Running Time : 2 hours, 45 minutes including an interval.
Discounted tickets are available exclusively at our kiosk in Leicester Square.
Plays at The Apollo Victoria.
Wicked is defying gravity 8 times a week at The Apollo Victoria. This musical was recently adapted into a blockbuster Hollywood film. Part 2 is due to be released later this year. The show is in its 19th year of performances.
Wicked is the original villain origin story. The musical is a prequel to the Wizard of Oz movie and tell audiences how the Wicked Witch came to be wicked. It has many hit songs that have become well known outside of the musical theatre world. At its core, it has messages about tolerance and accepting and embracing diversity which makes this musical which is nearly 20 years old, more relevant than ever.
Clueless is one of the newer summer holidays shows mentioned today however, it’s closing soon! Be sure to catch this musical before it’s too late.
This is the perfect summer musical as it is set in sunny Beverley Hills. Based on the hit 90’s movie, Clueless has an original score and honours the classic movie. It is perfect for older families hence the older age recommendation. It is a joyful and upbeat show!
This musical can really unite the family this summer holidays. 40 years on from the actual event, Just For One Day – The Live Aid Musical is a celebration of Live Aid. The fundraising event brought the world together and the musical tells stories of people who attended and orchestrated the historic day. It also features music by the artists who performed at Live Aid! This includes, Queen, Diana Ross, The Police, David Bowie and many more!
Based on the adorable Studio Ghibli Animation, My Neighbour Totoro transferred to the West End earlier this year. Unlike most of our summer holiday show recommendations, this is a play. Not only that but it is also available for younger audiences and uses puppetry to bring the magical and mythical creatures to life.
The story follows two young girls whose mother becomes ill. When they move to the countryside to help her get better, they meet a magical being including one called Totoro. Totoro is the ancient protector of the forest and becomes their dear friend in this difficult time.
The last of summer holidays shows is Stranger Things: The First Shadow. It is another play and is perfect for fans of the Netflix series and also teenagers. That being said, be sure to check the content before as the special effects on this show can be quite gory (as well as very impressive!)
Stranger Things: The First Shadow serves as a prequel to the Netflix shows. It shows the beginnings of the strange happenings in Hawkins back in 1959. As we see how it all began, the play could provide the key to the end.
MJ the Musical has announced it’s final extension meaning it will close in February 2026. The show has wowed audiences in the West End for 2 years following its transfer from Broadway.
The musical features some of Michael Jackson‘s biggest hits. These include hits such as Beat It, Man in the Mirror, the classic Thriller and many more. It is also an award-winning show for its choreography and was even nominated for The Best New Musical at both the WhatsOnStage and Olivier Awards. The story focuses in on the global pop star on the run up to his 1992 Dangerous World Tour as well as his earlier years.
MJ the Musical is led by Jamaal Fields-Green who also played the role on Broadway. He is joined by Matt Mills, Mitchell Zhangazha, Philippa Stefani, KoKo Alexandra, Joshua C Jackson, Rohan Pinnock-Hamilton, Matt Gonsalves, Michael Conley, Kieran Alleyne, Johnny Bishop and André Phipps.
The remaining company of MJ the Musical includes Milan Cacacie, Filippo Coffano, Tevin Daniel and Gabrielle de Souza. As well as Hanna Dimtsu, Aden Dzuda, Ike Fallon, Christopher Gopaul and Kalisha Johnson. There’s also Wilson Kiiru, Darnell Mathew-James, Buna McCreery-Njie, Jenay Naima, Nay-Nay, Rishard-Kyro Nelson, George Ross, Lydia Sterling and Fraser Stewart. Charlotte-Kate Warren, Tavio Wright, Ari Adebiyi, Zane Chaba, Cristiano Cuino and Zayne Tayabali. Lastly, Miles Jabbie, Kristiano Ricardo, Ashton Robertson and Asher Swaray-Gray.
Although MJ the Musical is closing in the West End, they will be heading on an International Tour in 2027!
The Phantom of the Opera Rehearsal images have been released, showing the new cast in action!
Earlier this year, the company announced who was staying on at His Majesties Theatre and who was leaving and now we have the first look of them in action!
The Phantom of the Opera rehearsal images mark the cast who will see the show into its 39th year in the West End. The show is the 2nd longest-running show in the West End and it still sells out almost every night! The show written by Andrew Lloyd Webber is based on a French novel. The novel is called La Fantome de l’Opera by Gaston Leroux. It tells to story of the “phantom” a man who lives in the Paris Opera House. He is a musical genius who writes for the theatre and falls in love with his protegee Christine Daee. He will stop at nothing to see her fulfill her potential.
The Phantom of the Opera Rehearsal Images show the remaining cast members in action. They are Dean Chisnall as The Phantom, Lily Kerhoas as Christine Daaé and Joanna Ampil as Carlotta Giudicelli. We also can spot Adam Linstead as Monsieur André, Martin Ball as Monsieur Firmin, Helen Hobson as Madame Giry and Millie Lyon as Meg Giry.
The new cast members include a new Raol played by Adam Rhys-Charles as well as Bradyn Debysingh as Ubaldo Piangi. Lastly joining is Colleen Rose Curran as the alternate Christine Daaé. You can read more about the new cast here.
The new Burlesque Musical released new production images! These images are released following the shows press night. Not only was it a spectacular night but pop legend and producer of the show Christina Aguilera made an appearance!
Aguilera starred in the original film alongside Cher which has a huge hit! The Burlesque Musical is produced by her. It officially opens tonight at The Savoy Theatre. It is playing there for a limited run which must end on 6th September 2025.
Burlesque the musical follows a small town girl with a big dream and a great voice. She gets a job behind the bar at a struggling Burlesque club and we see her revolutionize the genre and the club itself. The show features songs from the original film as well as additional material from Drag Race’s Todrick Hall and X Factor’s Jess Folley. Hall and Folley are also starring in this production as Sean and Ali respectively.
The new production images of the Burlesque Musical show off not only Hall and Folley but also Broadway’s superstar Orfeh. Orfeh is known for her work on Broadway which includes the original cast of Legally Blonde and most recently, Mama Norton in Chicago. Not only that, she is also known for her work as a recording artist and TV and Film work including Sex and the City. For more information on the full cast, click here at LSBO news.
Check out the brand new production images below!
Orfeh as TessCast of BurlesqueJess Folley as AliBurlesque Musical full cast
The production also released these rehearsal images prior to the shows opening earlier this month:
We’ve complied a list of The Best West End Shows For Children over this summer period. We have organised this list in age order so you can see which is best for your children this summer. There are even a few West End Shows this year which are specifically for young children and families so is a great introduction for your little ones to experience the magic of live theatre, especially if they’re too young for some of the bigger shows.
Things to consider when taking your children to their first West End show
All major West End Theatres have age restrictions and recommendations. Even if your little one meets the lowest age restriction they must be able to sit in their own seat without assistance. Its always good to check the age limits before booking a show. Every person attending a West End Show must have their own ticket. Some of the West End shows which are specifically for young families may be an exception to this rule though so this is where booking one of the lesser known shows can be a game changer when considering the best West End Shows for children.
It is also advisable to check the running time before booking. Most West End shows run for 2 and a half hours including an interval. Therefore, even if your child meets the minimum age limit, if you think they might struggle to sit in one spot and focus for that amount of time, maybe hold off or look for a show specifically made for children and young families.
Key Information: All ages welcome. Children under 12 months do not require a ticket. Running Time : 1 hour and 15 minutes without an interval.
Cocomelon Sing-Along is performing at the St Martin’s Theatre which is also the home of London’s Longest running play, The Mousetrap. Cocomelon started Youtube Children’s Show before landing a Netflix deal. The channel is the 2nd most watched channel on Youtube with more than 4 billion monthly views online. You can now take your family to see their favourite characters on stage. CoComelon Sing-A-Long Live will feature some of your little one’s favourite hits such as Animal Dance, If You’re Happy and You Know It and Wheels on the Bus.
Not only is this West End show purpose made for Children and young audiences but if your child if under 12 months old, they can go for free! The venue may request proof of age on the door.
Key Information: Age Recommendation 3+ Babes in arms allowed. Children under 18 months do not need a ticket*. Running Time : 55 minutes without an interval.
This short and sweet play is based on Britain’s best-loved picture book by Judith Kerr. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem.
Another great thing about this production is that children under 18 months go free as long as they sit on an adults lap. It is another short and sweet show with morning and afternoon performances.
Key Information: Age Recommendation 3+ Running Time : 60 minutes without an interval.
Take your children soaring into space with this West End Show. The exciting Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler – also seen in the BBC TV animation on Christmas Day.
It is a joyful tale of star-crossed aliens. On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?
Music, laughs and interplanetary adventures for everyone aged 3 and up. This purpose made childrens show is sure to bring magic to your family this summer.
Key Information: Age Recommendation 6+ No admittance for children under 4. Every patron needs their own ticket. Running Time : 2 hours and 10 minutes including an interval.
Bless my soul, Herc is on a role this year at The Theatre Royal Drury Lane! The highly anticipated musical opened just in time for summer. Although this West End show isn’t specifically written for children, it has a lower age restriction than most West End shows. It is based on the classic Disney animation about Greek demi-god Hercules on his journey from Zero to Hero.
Disney musicals are a great way for your child to experience theatre for the first time, especially as they’re likely already familiar with the story. Although it has a longer running time, it is the shortest of the full length West End musicals so a good option if you want to take them to a full length musical.
Key Information: Age Recommendation 6+ No admittance for children under 3. Every patron needs their own ticket. Running Time : 2 hours and 30 minutes including an interval.
This classic musical has been many families first West End show for 26 years. It is another Disney musical adaptation of the classic animation of the same name. It follows Lion cub Simba on his journey to recover his rightful place on the throne from his evil uncle Scar.
The beautiful puppetry which brings the animals to life are sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Key Information: Age Recommendation 6+ No admittance for children under 4. Every patron needs their own ticket. Running Time : 2 hours and 40 minutes including an interval.
Lastly, Matilda is our final recommendation for a family. This West End show resonates with children and adults alike! It is based on Roald Dhals beloved book about Matilda. She is a girl with and extraoridinary mind and even telekenetic powers! We follow her journey into a new school as she overcomes adversity and sticks up for herself and her fellow classmates.
This musical adaptation was so popular that it was even turned into a film. Comedian Tim Minch wrote the popular and catchy music for this show. The cast is made up of talented children and adults so is inspiring for young audiences.
How to book the best prices for these shows:
Many of these shows will be extremely popular over the summer period so we advise you to book ahead of time where possible!
You can check out our discount page for the best theatre deals we currently have or alternatively come see us in Leicester Square and we’ll help you secure great seats.
