Top 10 West End Musicals

You can't visit London without taking a trip down the West End to see some of the world's best musicals. There is such an astonishing array of musicals that it's difficult to choose which one to see. We give you a helping hand with a list of our own top ten musicals.

Top 10 West End musicals

If you're out and about in London, there's such a variety of theatre shows to see, it's hard to know where to begin. We think you can't go wrong with a good old (or new) musical. What better way to lift your spirits than with the song and dance of the glamorous West End?

If you're unsure what to spend your hard-earned money on, here's our guide to the very best musicals London has to offer.

1. Mamma Mia

So much better than the movie of the same name

One Mother. One daughter. Three possible fathers. The ultimate feel-good show has been enjoyed by more than 10 million people worldwide.

If you like the songs of Abba (and if not, why not?), you'll love the way the songs are woven into the story, set on a sun-drenched Greek island. Poignant, funny, and exhilarating - it's just about perfect.

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2. The Wizard of Oz

Hard to fault, unless you don't like monkeys.

Danielle Hope - the winner of BBC talent show 'Over the Rainbow' - stars as Dorothy in this classic retelling of the MGM musical film. Older fans will enjoy seeing Michael Crawford return to the stage as the Wizard himself, but this is a show for all the family.

With so many accomplished performances, fantastic visuals, and an abundance of great songs, it's hard to fault this musical extravaganza. Unless you don't like flying monkeys

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3. Les Miserables

The longest running musical in the world

There hasn't been a better time to see this award-winning production. Recently celebrating its 25th anniversary, it's now the longest running musical in the world.

Even if you've seen it before, it's an invigorating experience, with a new cast, featuring Alfie Boe and Matt Lucas. Passionate songs and memorable performances unite for a thrilling evening of entertainment.

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4. Billy Elliot

Winner of four Oliviers, it's arguably more powerful than the film

If you've seen the film, you'll know the story. The son of a coal miner with a passion for ballet fights to prove his doubters wrong. A major success on film, it's arguably more powerful in the theatre.

With music by Sir Elton John and lyrics by Lee Hall, the musical has already picked up four Oliviers. While it's very moving, it does feature strong language, so it's only really suitable for older children.

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5. We Will Rock You

More than 30 songs from one of the world's most famous rock bands

You want rock music? You want futuristic fun? This is the only musical for you, featuring more than 30 Queen songs, and a story from Ben Elton that makes it necessary to suspend disbelief for a while. (The plot: musical instruments have been banned, and some anarchists must rediscover rock.)

Forget the original poor reviews - this is a well-crafted production with brilliant music.

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6. Jersey Boys

Featuring music from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Even if you're too young to remember Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, you can still enjoy this timeless story of a group of working class boys becoming one of the biggest pop bands of their generation.

Set in the 1960s, it features famous songs like 'Sherry' and 'Big Girls Don't Cry.' There's some strong language, so the recommended age limit is 12 years old.

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7. The Lion King

Transport yourself to another enchanting world full of African colour and music

Had enough of all the hustle and bustle of London town? Spend the evening with some musical animals!

Adapted from Disney's spectacular film, this will transport you to another enchanting world full of African colour and music (with a score by Sir Elton John). Definitely one for all the family.

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8. Legally Blonde The Musical

Tony award-winning musical featuring great music, dynamic visuals and clever comedy

With seven Tony award nominations for its broadway production, this hilarious musical has been dazzling London audiences with its mix of clever comedy, great music, and dynamic visual set pieces.

If you fancy an evening of romance, music, and witty one-liners, this is the one for you!

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9. Ghost The Musical

Dave Stewart's Oscar-winning film script makes its way to the West End stage

A tale of tragedy, love, and hope, Ghost The Musical features music by Dave Stewart, and incredible illusions by Paul Kieve.

Adapted from the original oscar-winning film script, this clever interpretation is proving to be a big hit with West End audiences. A ghost story for romantics everywhere.

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10. The Phantom of the Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical continues to wow audiences with haunting songs and moving lyrics

This is a truly romantic, tragic love story. Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical continues to wow audiences all year round.

The story of love between a beautiful opera singer and a composer ashamed of his physical appearance is told with haunting songs, moving lyrics, and beautiful sets. If you haven't yet seen this masterpiece, what are you waiting for?

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There are so many great musicals in the West End at the moment, it's hard to whittle it down to a meagre top 10. But we think this list has something for everyone - children, teenagers, and the more mature amongst us.

If you're looking for a great night out, one of these musicals will surely fit the bill. If your favourite isn't on our top ten West End musicals why not check out our theatre ticket pages to compare prices for theatre tickets.