January Shows in London

Navigation guide

1. Top West End shows in January
2. Top musicals
3. Top plays
4. January premieres
5. Shows closing in January
6. Family-friendly shows
7. Timeless shows in London
8. Events in London
9. Visitor tips
10. FAQs

January in London offers a quieter, calmer side of the city, with crisp winter light and a slower pace that’s ideal for thoughtful travellers. The West End comes alive with a mix of long-running favourites and exciting new shows, giving you plenty of options for memorable theatre experiences.

January premieres in London

Kick off 2026 by diving into fresh theatre energy and storytelling that sings, soothes, and surprises. These London shows in January bring dazzling acrobatics, cultural dance, and nostalgic scores, each offering its own flavour of post-holiday magic.

• Cirque du Soleil: OVO (Royal Albert Hall): A playful insect-inspired circus ride packed with gravity-defying acts, vibrant Brazilian rhythms, and immersive visuals. A pure theatrical joy for every age.
• Akram Khan’s Giselle (London Coliseum): A trance-like re-imagining of the ballet classic, where contemporary movement and emotional storytelling collide.
• I’m Sorry, Prime Minister (Apollo Theatre): A polished political comedy with savvy satire, modern wit, and nods to Yes, Minister that still land sharply today.
• Shen Yun (Eventim Apollo): A breathtaking cultural journey through 5,000 years of Chinese history, told entirely through classical dance, orchestral music, and dreamlike staging.

London shows closing in January

Several winter favourites are taking their last bow this month. If you’ve been wanting to watch them, this is your last chance before the final curtain.

• The Importance of Being Earnest (Noël Coward Theatre): Oscar Wilde’s witty comedy of manners, led by Olly Alexander, makes its West End exit on January 10, 2026.
• Disney's Hercules (Theatre Royal Drury Lane): Disney’s lively adaptation of the Greek myth, featuring Alan Menken’s soaring score, wraps up on January 10, 2026, a fitting farewell to its heroic "Zero to Hero" tale.
• Twelfth Night (Barbican Theatre): A witty, bittersweet take on Shakespeare’s festive drama, closing on January 17, 2026. One more chance to catch this mischievous show.

Beat the January blues

January’s chilly evenings call for mood-lifting theatre that warms hearts of all ages. These West End shows wrap you in music, magic, and pure theatrical joy, perfect for lifting spirits during London’s quieter first month of the year.

• Cirque du Soleil: OVO (Royal Albert Hall): A vibrant acrobatic spectacle celebrating bugs, biodiversity, and transformation, OVO dazzles with daring feats, stunning visuals, and a whimsical world that captivates audiences of all ages.
• Matilda the Musical (Cambridge Theatre): Explore the inspiring tale of a young girl with extraordinary cunning and courage, as Matilda the Musical continues to charm West End audiences with its inventive staging and bold, heart-led storytelling.
• Akram Khan’s Giselle (London Coliseum): Experience a mesmerizing reimagining of the ballet classic. Khan blends traditional choreography with contemporary dance-theatre, creating a hauntingly beautiful performance that lingers long after the curtain falls.

Pro tips for visiting London in January

• Dress for cold and wet: January averages 9 °C high, 4 °C low and frequent rain. Pack an umbrella and layers.
• Plan around transport changes: Some lines (e.g., Camden Road–Richmond on Northern Line) see closures early January 2–4.
• Go midweek: With low tourist crowds, Tuesdays–Thursdays offer easier bookings and better seats.
• Matinee option: Afternoon shows let you avoid chilly London nights and extend a shopping or dinner plan.
• Warm pre- or post-show meals: The West End has cosy bistros offering roast dinners or hearty soups—ideal in cold weather.
• Walk instead of the tube when nearby: Cold waits underground can be avoided by walking short distances between theatres.
• Take advantage of January discounts: Look for deals on long-running shows and newly extended runs.
• Enjoy atmospheric winter lighting: London's early evenings (around 4 pm) lend themselves to twilight walks along theatre row.
• Grab tickets early in January: Though quieter, popular shows may still sell out.