The 10 Most Significant Musicals That Landed In London's West End
Whether you’re a musical nut or just visiting London, you must spend a night in Theatreland, aka the West End. Almost 15 million people visit West End theatres every year to take in some of the most spectacular shows in the world. We look back at the 10 productions that put London’s theatre scene on the map and made it the global attraction it is today.
1. Les Miserables
Theatre
2. Cats
Theatre
3. The Phantom of the Opera
Opera House, Theater
4. The Lion King
Theatre
5. Miss Saigon
Theatre
Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz
Based on Gregory Maguire’s interpretation of Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Wicked is from the point of view of the witches of the Land of Oz; how Elphaba falls from grace when her friendship with Glinda the Good is put under strain. Premiered on Broadway in 2003, The Times refers to tihs show as ‘the biggest thing in musicals since The Phantom of the Opera’. Winning 90 international awards and an Olivier, this is probably one of the best shows to have been brought over the Atlantic to London.
See website for locations and venues.
Oliver!
Based on Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist, Oliver! looks at the cruelty inflicted upon Orphans in mid-19th century London and the reality of living a criminal life. This British musical took to the West End in 1960. Composed by Lionel Bart and awarded a Tony, its success has led to such a demand that there have been continuous revivals since the 70s. In its most recent tour 2011 to 2013, its residence in Drury Lane played to 1.5 million people. Although it is not on tour in London at the moment, keep your eyes peeled for another revival.
6. Mamma Mia!
Theatre
7. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Theatre
8. Billy Elliot
Theatre
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