Growing up in London, the theatre has always been my happy place. There’s something magical about stepping into a darkened auditorium, feeling the buzz of anticipation in the air, and watching stories unfold live on stage. Whether it’s a classic Shakespearean tragedy or a brand-new musical, I love the way theatre can make me laugh, cry, or just sit there in awe. And London? Well, it’s the best place in the world for it. From big West End productions to smaller, hidden-gem venues, there’s always something amazing happening.
With 2025 rolling in, I’ve already got my theatre calendar packed with shows I absolutely cannot miss. Some are fresh takes on old favourites, others are brand-new, but all of them have something special that’s drawn me in. Here are the five shows I’m most excited about this year – and trust me, you’ll want to see them too.
Richard II at the Bridge Theatre
First up, a bit of Shakespeare! “Richard II” is coming to the Bridge Theatre from 10 February to 10 May 2025, and I couldn’t be more excited. This is one of Shakespeare’s most poetic and tragic histories, telling the story of a flawed king who loses his grip on power. If you love a good political downfall with plenty of drama, this one’s for you.
What makes this production stand out is the incredible casting. Jonathan Bailey (yes, from Bridgerton!) is taking on the role of Richard, and I cannot wait to see what he does with it. He’s got that perfect mix of charm and intensity that the role needs. Plus, with Nicholas Hytner directing, you just know it’s going to be a fresh and exciting take on the play. The Bridge Theatre is also fantastic for immersive productions, so I’m expecting some innovative staging to bring Richard’s world crashing down around him in the most spectacular way.
The Score at the National Theatre
This one’s a total mystery, and that’s exactly why I’m so excited about it. “The Score” is a brand-new play premiering at the National Theatre in April 2025, written by Lila Raicek – a rising star in the playwriting world. While details about the plot are still under wraps, it’s said to explore themes of ambition, creativity, and the sacrifices that come with success. Sounds intriguing, right?
The main reason I’m desperate to see this is Brian Cox. Yes, that Brian Cox. Fresh off his powerhouse performance in Succession, he’s returning to the London stage, and I just know he’s going to deliver something unforgettable. He’s one of those actors who can make every word feel like it’s loaded with meaning, and I can’t wait to see him tackle a brand-new role in what’s shaping up to be one of the biggest theatre events of the year.
The Seagull at the Barbican Theatre
I love a good Chekhov play, and “The Seagull” is one of his best. This production, running at the Barbican from 26 February to 5 April 2025, promises to bring the classic story of unfulfilled dreams, love, and artistic struggle to life in a way that feels fresh and modern.
The real selling point? Cate Blanchett. Yes, she’s playing Irina Arkadina, the fading actress who refuses to step out of the spotlight, and I’m already getting chills just thinking about her in the role. Opposite her is Emma Corrin as Nina, bringing their own unique energy to this heartbreaking story. Add in Thomas Ostermeier’s direction – he’s known for shaking up classic plays in the best way possible – and this is shaping up to be a “must-see” for anyone who loves powerful performances and emotionally charged storytelling.
The Master Builder at Wyndham’s Theatre
Ibsen’s “The Master Builder” is a fascinating play about ambition, desire, and the cost of success – all things that feel incredibly relevant today. This new adaptation, titled “My Master Builder,” is running at Wyndham’s Theatre from 17 April to 12 July 2025, and I’m so curious to see how it brings a modern spin to the classic.
Ewan McGregor is playing the lead, which is already enough to get me through the doors. He’s one of those actors who can bring so much depth to a role, and I’m eager to see him explore the complexities of a man wrestling with his past and present. He’s joined by Elizabeth Debicki, who was absolutely stunning in The Crown, so I have no doubt she’ll bring something incredible to the production. Plus, with Michael Grandage directing, we’re in safe hands. His productions always feel cinematic in scope while staying intimate and emotionally raw.
The Great Gatsby: A New Musical at the Noël Coward Theatre
Last but not least – and probably the most fun – is “The Great Gatsby: A New Musical,” running from 10 April to 9 August 2025 at the Noël Coward Theatre. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel is a classic, but seeing it turned into a full-blown musical is going to be something special. Imagine all the glitz, glamour, and heartbreak of Gatsby’s world, but with big musical numbers. I’m sold.
The creative team behind it is top-notch, and while we don’t have full casting details yet, I’m expecting some seriously impressive performances. The Jazz Age setting is perfect for a lavish, show-stopping production, and I’m hoping for a soundtrack that blends classic 1920s influences with a modern twist. If it’s anything like Moulin Rouge! The Musical, it’s going to be an absolute spectacle.
So, there you have it – my top five must-see theatre shows for 2025. Whether you’re into Shakespeare, brand-new plays, or all-singing, all-dancing musicals, there’s something for everyone. London’s theatre scene is looking seriously exciting this year, and I can’t wait to dive in.
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