The West End is full of exciting musicals — some new, some revivals, some with established names in the world of theatre and some with up-and-coming talent. Among these, a chosen few get themselves into the league of the longest-running West End musicals. These longest-running West End musicals are still in business because they have stood the test of time and changing audiences. If you’re in town or just want to do something exciting on the weekend, get tickets to some of these shows and we’re fairly certain that you will become a fan.
Les Misérables is a sung-through musical based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name. It depicts 19th Century France and is centred on Jean Valjean, an ex-convict, being pursued by a police officer named Javert. The story spans a few decades after Jean is released and the characters get embroiled in the June Rebellion in Paris.
Premier: 8 October 1985
Currently Playing In: Sondheim Theatre
The Phantom of the Opera is based on a novel by Gaston Leroux and has music by the evergreen Andrew Lloyd Webber. It follows Christine Daaé, an orphan debutante, and a masked musical genius, who lives in the sewers under the Paris Opéra House. The masked ‘Phantom’ becomes obsessed with Christine, leading to terrible consequences.
Premier: 27 September 1986
Currently Playing In: His Majesty's Theatre
Based on the songs of the Swedish supergroup, ABBA, Mamma Mia! is a foot-tapping jukebox musical situated depicting the imaginary Greek island of Kalokairi. Sophie lives with her mother, Donna, and she has never known the identity of her father. She invites 3 of Donna’s past lovers to her wedding to figure out the truth and walk down the aisle with him. Hilarity ensures.
Premier: 6 April 1999
Currently Playing In: Novello Theatre
The Lion King is based on the 1994 Disney animated film of the same name. It follows the journey of Simba, the son and heir of King Mufasa, who is tricked by his uncle into abandoning his kingdom. Simba then travels around, makes friends, and embarks on great adventures. But, will he be able to defeat his evil uncle and take back what is rightfully his?
Premier: 19 October 1999
Currently Playing In: Lyceum Theatre
Wicked is the story of Elphaba and Galinda, two university students, who are initially at loggerheads but then become great friends. But eventually, their opposing personalities and ideologies separate them and they turn into great enemies: the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. The backdrop of the story is the famous Land of Oz.
Premier: 27 September 2006
Currently Playing In: Apollo Victoria Theatre
Matilda is based on Roald Dahl’s iconic novel about a super smart 5-year-old, who also possesses the power of telekinesis. Matilda has negligent parents who are often verbally abusive as well as a school headmistress who continuously picks on her. She develops a close bond with her teacher, Miss Honey, and both of their lives change forever.
Premier: 24 November 2011
Currently Playing In: Cambridge Theatre
The Book of Mormon is a scathing satirical comedy musical about two missionaries of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kevin Price and Arnold Cunningham. While Price is devoted to the cause, Cunningham is less so. They are paired up and sent to a Ugandan village to preach their religion, but find it near-impossible to get through to the locals.
Premier: 21 March 2013
Currently Playing In: Prince of Wales Theatre
While these are some of the longest-running West End musicals that you can go watch in London today, there are quite a few musicals that have had long, successful runs but are now closed. Blood Brothers (1988 production), Cats (1981 production), Starlight Express (1984 production), Chicago (1997 revival,) and Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story (1989 production) are a few of them.
