The years following the pandemic have been tough for theatres, and though at one point it may have seemed like the fat lady had sung her swan song, the West End is finally getting a second act.
Come catch the curtain call as theatres move into a bright, sequined future. There are all sorts of school-friendly West End shows, so we’ve collated some of the best ones to look out for below.
Everybody's Talking About Jamie
Out of the darkness, into the spotlight! The first show opened its doors in May 2021 at the Apollo. This inspirational coming of age story sees our protagonist overcome prejudice, bullying and homophobia to become a full-blown drag queen.
Hairspray the Musical
This starry production is led by Michael Ball and Lizzie Bea. With 1960s-style dance music and "downtown" rhythm and blues, it follows Baltimore teenager Tracy Turnblad's dream to dance on the local television show. A fantastic feelgood show for any London school trip.
Come From Away
You can be welcomed back to the Rock from July! Described by critics “as a cathartic reminder of the capacity for human kindness in even the darkest of times” and “a triumph of humanity over hate” it follows the stories of passengers on planes diverted to Canada after the September 11 attacks.
Jersey Boys
Slick back that hair, tune up those guitars and take a seat as 1960s sensations the Four Seasons sing you through their rise, fall and eventual break-up.
The Lion King
The circle of life really is coming round again, dazzling audiences for decades, watch as the performers bring the Disney fable to life with scale models, dancing and those famous songs.
Hamilton
Do not throw away your shot... this global juggernaut is showing no signs of slowing down. Following Alexander Hamilton’s life before, during and after the American Revolution, Lin Manuel Miranda’s masterpiece is perfect for students of every age.
Mary Poppins
There have been books, there have been movies, there was Julie Andrews, there was Emily Blunt, but have you seen perhaps the most perfect distillation of this timeless tale? Winner of two Olivier Awards and beloved by school audiences and amdram groups across the country, the practically perfect musical is back in action.
Frozen
This one time, don’t let it go...The Disney smash hit is getting the West End makeover. Expect big set pieces and bigger tunes as this musical unveils its newest iteration.
Mamma Mia!
The original musical that spawned the international movie hit is back. Even for students who might not be fully aware of ABBA’s enviable back catalogue, there is more than enough here to keep them on the edge of their seats, toe tapping away.
Back to the Future The Musical
Great Scot! It’s been a long time coming, but now time has finally started flowing again and the world is reopening, Back to the Future is back into theatres.
Matilda The Musical
Based on the 1988 children's novel by Roald Dahl and with new music by Tim Minchin, this heartwarming musical is all about Matilda, a 5-year-old gifted with very special powers. Audiences have been thrilled for years by Matilda’s battles against her family and school, and her mission to help her teacher reclaim her life.
&Juliet
It’s Shakespeare, but not as you know it. The bard goes pop banger as we take a reinventive trip down memory lane and imagine what would happen if Juliet hadn’t died at the end of the original play. Packed full of 90’s pop masterpieces, this muso-Shakespearean experience has set a September return date, and is perfect for English Literature school trips.
The Woman in Black
Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story comes dramatically alive in Stephen Mallatratt’s ingenious stage adaptation. Now celebrating three decades in the West End, Robin Herford’s gripping production will be back in September and touring soon. Not for the faint-hearted, this spooky tale is better for secondary school trips.
Wicked
Citizens of Oz rejoice! The long-runner has confirmed it will return this autumn. Another clever reimagining, Wicked follows the events of the Wizard of Oz from the perspective of the witches. Laurence Olivier Award–nominated, this West End production is a magical, mind bending experience perfect for students of all ages.
Ready to book your school trip to London’s West End?
Whether you’re looking to reward your students after a tough year, enhance their learning with an English-themed itinerary, or go behind the scenes with specialist backstage tours and drama workshops, our award-winning experts are here to help.
Simply contact WST today to request a quote.
