26 Shows to Watch in London 2026
26 Shows to Watch in London 2026
2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for theatre shows in London, particularly in the first half. From January through to June, a wide range of productions are opening across the city, spanning drama, musicals, dance and large scale spectacle. Some are long-awaited revivals, while others arrive as premieres or West End transfers.
We have selected 26 shows opening in the first six months of 2026 that audiences are already paying attention to, and that you should consider watching!
This list focuses on opening dates, even though many of these productions will continue running well beyond the spring.
Summerfolk opens at the National Theatre’s Olivier Theatre from 6 March to 29 April. This new adaptation of Maxim Gorky’s play brings the Russian elite’s summer retreat to life on stage, exploring their holidays marked by pleasure and an undercurrent of unrest. The production, reimagined for 2026 by Nina and Moses Raine, with direction by Robert Hastie, explores social tension as change begins to surface.
Deep Azure arrives at Shakespeare’s Globe in early February in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse and runs until April. The play, written by the late Academy Award nominated actor Chadwick Boseman, has its UK premiere here. It centres on a young woman whose world is thrown into grief and struggle after her fiancé is killed by the police, and blends Shakespearean influence with modern theatrical urgency.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest plays at The Old Vic from 1 April to 23 May. Based on Ken Kesey’s novel and adapted for stage, the production examines life within a psychiatric institution and the impact of Randle P. McMurphy’s rebellious energy on the patients confined there. Directed by Clint Dyer, this staging invites a powerful engagement with themes of control and humanity.
Angel’s Bone makes its UK premiere in May at Aviva Studios in Manchester (yes Manchester, the only one there we’ve suggested as it’s one of our sets!) Staged by English National Opera in collaboration with Factory International and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, this Pulitzer Prize winning contemporary opera by Du Yun and Royce Vavrek arrives from 12 to 16 May. The dark and immersive work blends elements of opera and theatre to tell a harrowing tale that challenges conventions of staging and narrative.
Mass opens at the Donmar Warehouse in April and runs into June. This world premiere play by Fran Kranz, directed by Carrie Cracknell, brings two couples together in a conversation about loss and reconciliation following a tragic event. The cast includes Adeel Akhtar and Monica Dolan, and the production emphasises powerful, intimate storytelling in a compact Covent Garden space.
Ivanov comes to the Bridge Theatre with a new adaptation of Chekhov’s classic play, starring Chris Pine in his London stage debut. The story follows Nikolai Ivanov as he struggles with his marriage and his sense of purpose, in a version directed by Simon Stone. This production brings a contemporary energy to the early 19th century world as it explores questions of identity and personal crisis.
Shadowlands opens at the Aldwych Theatre in February. Hugh Bonneville stars as C S Lewis in William Nicholson’s deeply personal play. The story follows Lewis as he forms a relationship with American poet Joy Davidman, later confronting the emotional and spiritual impact of her illness and death. The play moves carefully between tenderness and loss, asking how belief survives after grief reshapes a life.
Arcadia arrives at the Old Vic under the direction of Carrie Cracknell. Tom Stoppard’s play moves between two time periods, linking a young student’s curiosity in the past with academic investigation in the present. The writing balances humour with reflection, allowing ideas around knowledge and desire to sit alongside human vulnerability. This revival runs until March.
Opening at the Peacock Theatre in April, this production by English National Ballet is designed for children aged three and above. Cinderella’s story is told through a combination of narration and dance, making it easy for young audiences to follow the action. The production focuses on imagination and self-discovery, offering a welcoming introduction to ballet.
Jonathan Lynn brings the final chapter of his political satire to the West End in January. Opening at the Apollo Theatre, the play revisits Jim Hacker and Humphrey Appleby as older men whose instincts remain unchanged. The humour is rooted in character and dialogue, continuing the tone that made Yes, Minister such a lasting success.
This adaptation opens at the Lyttelton Theatre in March under the direction of Marianne Elliott. Based on the French novel by Choderlos de Laclos, the play explores seduction and power within an elite society driven by status. Aidan Turner and Lesley Manville star as two figures who manipulate others for their own gain, gradually exposing the cost of control.
Inter Alia opens at Wyndham’s Theatre in March and marks a world premiere starring Rosamund Pike. The play is described as an exploration of modern masculinity and motherhood, engaging directly with contemporary experience. It reunites the creative team behind Prima Facie and arrives with strong anticipation, running into June.
Kinky Boots returns to London in March at the London Coliseum after a sell-out UK tour. The musical follows a struggling shoemaker whose future changes after meeting a drag performer with a very different outlook on life. Johannes Radebe stars in a production that combines humour and warmth, with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper.
Opening at the Harold Pinter Theatre in March, this new production is directed by Robert Icke. Sadie Sink and Noah Jupe make their West End debuts as the young lovers. Shakespeare’s tragedy is approached through a contemporary lens while retaining its emotional intensity and focus on youthful impulse.
This musical opens at the Peacock Theatre in March and traces the life and career of Chaka Khan. Alexandra Burke stars as the music icon, following her rise to fame alongside the challenges she faced. The production draws on well known songs that shaped her journey and legacy.
Opening at the Garrick Theatre in February, this comedy show sees Garry Starr attempt to perform every Penguin Classics novel ever published. The performance leans heavily into physical comedy and absurdity, treating classic literature with playful affection. The result is intentionally chaotic and energetic.
Opening at Theatre Royal Haymarket in January, this musical transfer stars Mark Addy as Harold Fry. The story follows an ordinary man who unexpectedly walks across England, driven by hope and quiet determination. Music by Passenger supports the reflective tone of the journey.
David Hare’s new play opens at Theatre Royal Haymarket in April after a successful run in Bath. Ralph Fiennes and Miranda Raison star as Henry Irving and Ellen Terry, exploring their creative partnership and personal connection. The play reflects on theatre history through the lens of a complex relationship.
OVO returns to the Royal Albert Hall and runs into March. Set within an insect world, the production uses acrobatics and visual storytelling to create movement driven scenes. The show continues to attract audiences looking for large scale spectacle.
Opening at the Peacock Theatre in February, TUTU is choreographed by Philippe Lafeuille. The production plays with expectations around dance by combining technical skill with humour. Its tone is light while remaining physically demanding.
Opening at the Barbican Theatre in May, this revival of Cole Porter’s musical comedy stars Felicity Kendal and Helen George. The story unfolds around a society wedding that begins to unravel, revealing social tensions beneath the surface. Porter’s songs remain central to the production.
This drama plays at the Royal Court Theatre until February. The story follows a couple facing difficult choices as their circumstances change. Love remains at the centre of the narrative, even as uncertainty grows. The production forms part of the theatre’s anniversary season.
Opening at the Peacock Theatre in February, The Opera Locos presents well-known opera moments through a comedic lens. The format is designed to feel accessible while still celebrating the music. The tone remains playful throughout.
Beetlejuice The Musical opens at the Prince Edward Theatre in May, following its Broadway success. Based on Tim Burton’s film, the story follows Lydia Deetz as she encounters a mischievous ghost who disrupts her world. The production blends dark humour with spectacle.
Opening at The Other Palace in February, this parody musical retells The Little Mermaid from Ursula’s perspective. Fresh from the Fringe, the show embraces camp humour and pop influenced songs. The retelling shifts sympathy toward a character usually seen as the villain.
Tango After Dark opens at the Peacock Theatre in April. Led by German Cornejo, the production focuses on Argentine tango supported by live music. The performance centres on intensity and emotion, told through movement.
Part 2 of shows to watch will be released in June, focusing on productions opening later in 2026!
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