True story shows
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MJ The Musical
Musicals
4.8(1.3K)
from
£31.80
Six
Musicals
4.7(1.3K)
from
£41.40
TINA: The Tina Turner Musical
Musicals
4.6(3.0K)
from
£12
Retrograde
Plays
4.8(9)
from
£24
The Moonwalkers
Immersive Theatre
5.0(2)
from
£20
The Elvis Years
Musicals
from
£22.80
Kyoto
Plays
5.0(1)
from
£114
Punch
Plays
Punch
Opening on Sep 22, 2025
from
£24

Perhaps there are no facts, only interpretations. Or perhaps the truth is stranger and sometimes more entertaining than fiction. London's West End offers a captivating array of productions that transform real-life experiences into powerful narratives that drive change. These London shows based on true stories offer a unique lens through which we can explore historical events, personal triumphs, and complex human experiences. Whether it's a musical celebrating a music legend or a play dramatizing a pivotal moment in history, these productions invite audiences to witness extraordinary narratives that have shaped our world.

The best musicals based on true stories

Six musical
Hamilton
TINA: The Tina Turner Musical

The best plays based on true stories

Lehman Trilogy

The Lehman Trilogy

The real story

The play follows the Lehman Brothers' saga from immigrant origins to global financial powerhouse, tracing three generations' journey through American capitalism and culminating in the firm's 2008 collapse.

What makes it special?

  • Profound exploration of American economic history
  • Tony award-winning production
Kyoto

Kyoto

The real story

A Royal Shakespeare Company production exploring contemporary themes, directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, promising a nuanced theatrical exploration of real-world issues.

What makes it special?

  • Royal Shakespeare Company production
  • Single set-up staging in a conference room
The Score london

Frequently asked questions about London shows based on a true story

What to expect from London shows based on a true story?

London shows based on a true story feature remarkable tales of people and historical events, from the captivating life of a famous artist like Bob Marley or a historical or political figure like Alexander Hamilton. 

Which London musicals are based on true stories?

London musicals based on true stories include Six, Hamilton, TINA: The Tina Turner Musical, MJ The Musical, and Just For One Day.

Are all London shows based on true stories?

No, London's West End features a diverse range of shows including fictional stories, adaptations of books and films, as well as those based on true stories.

What is the best play based on a true story?

The Lehman Trilogy is widely considered one of the best plays based on a true story, with its critically acclaimed portrayal of the rise and fall of Lehman Brothers.

Where can I buy tickets for shows based on true stories?

Tickets for shows based on true stories can be purchased online, where you get the flexibility of choosing your preferred date and the chance to grab the best deals.

Are these shows recommended for first-time theatregoers?

Yes, many true-story shows are excellent for first-time theatregoers as they offer engaging storytelling with real-world connections that can make the theatrical experience more accessible.

Are shows based on true stories family-friendly?

Some shows based on true stories are family-friendly, but others deal with mature themes; for example, Six is generally appropriate for older children and teens, while shows exploring more complex or adult themes may be better suited for mature audiences.

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