Best Plays in London
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Best West End Plays in London | Tickets, Best Seats, Discounts & More
The United Kingdom is home to some of the most famous playwrights in the world. It is no surprise that it is also home to one of the most popular and critically acclaimed theatre districts, the West End.
Many of the biggest names on Broadway once began their run here at West End. Shows such as Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera, both on Broadway’s list of longest-running shows, were first showcased in the West End. Today, this London district runs hundreds of shows, some of which include hits such as The Lion King, Wicked, Mamma Mia, and more!
West End Plays vs Musicals
For the average theatre-goer, every act on a stage is a play. However, this classification is not entirely accurate. Plays are usually performances that involve a narration of the story through monologues and dialogues. Musicals, on the other hand, tell the story through songs. They also utilize the set and production to a great degree, immersing the viewer in the world they are trying to emulate on stage. Plays employ written script and dialogues while musicals use choreography to convey the message.
West End Plays & Off West End Plays
Just like Broadway, West End, too, has theatres that are part of the ‘Fringe’. They are known as Off-West End theatres. While Off-West End does include some theatres that are commercial and mainstream, they are not located in the theatre district in London. Off-West End theatres have a seating capacity of around 40 to 400. If a play is categorized as Off-West End, it means that the play is running exclusively on Off-West End theatres and was produced right there. These plays are generally far more nuanced than big West End productions. They prioritize acting and run scripts that are often wild and off-beat.
Best West End Plays in London
When it comes to the best plays in West End, the verdict is quite subjective. Everyone has their own preference in terms of plot, presentation, individual performance, and various other factors. However, there are some plays that have awed the critics and audiences alike with their near-perfect productions and are considered to be unmissable. To Kill A Mockingbird and The Play That Goes Wrong are two such ongoing London plays that you can still catch in London and witness history.
Longest Running West End Plays in London
Whenever a show debuts on any stage they are expected to run for a couple of weeks and then move elsewhere. However, there are some cult hits that have run for years, decades even. These shows are driven by critical reviews and fan following. For example, The Mousetrap has been running for more than 66 years! Let’s take a look at some of the longest-running plays on West End.
- The Mousetrap (1952-present)
- The Woman In Black (1989-present)
Finding the Right West End Play in London
There is an art to choosing the right seat for a West End play. You cannot sit too close or too far away from the stage if you want to enjoy your theatre experience to the fullest. The sections closest to the stage are called stalls and are by far the most expensive and most coveted seats in the house. For the best views of the stage, the dress circle or the royal circle is the place to be as it looks down upon the stage.
Genre
Reviews
Budget
There are many genres under which a West End play can fall. Theatre-goers can now pick from a wide range of plays based on their personal preference. From comedy to crime, parody to period, West End plays in London have it all!
The most popular factor to consider while choosing a London play is the review of the production. There are several critics and media agencies that are devoted to bringing a detailed review of every London play. You can use these sources to gain more information regarding various productions and have complete information before booking your London play tickets.
If the West End experience is what matters to you and not so much the content of the play or if you are trying to be mindful of your budget, you could search for London plays that offer tickets at a discounted rate. There are many ways in which you can obtain a London play ticket at a cut-price deal. Some of these include London TKTS, Day Seats, Lottery, and Rush tickets.
Discounted London Theatre TicketsChoosing the Best Seats for West End Plays in London
Where you choose to sit for a London play at West End can play a big role in determining the kind of experience you have. Let's take a look at some factors based on which you can select the best seat for watching a play in London.
Best Views
The best seats in the house for almost all of West End’s theatres are near the middle of the stall area. These provide the best view of the stage and lie in the acoustic sweet spot of the theatres. As a result, these seats come at a higher rate than the rest of the seats in the area.
Budget-Friendly
If you are looking for budget options, head over to the Dress Circle, which is the first elevated section at any West End theatre. The middle section of the Dress Circle offers a good view of the stage without being too expensive.
Handy Tips for Watching West End Plays in London
- Watch out for early-bird discounts on London play tickets online.
- Book London play tickets around the best seats in the house for a premium experience at a fraction of the cost.
- Grab a bite at one of the restaurants close to a West End theatre before a show to avoid spending a fortune on theatre food.
- Avoid driving to the theatre as free parking could be very limited or even unavailable at the theatre. Reach the theatre well ahead of time as you may not be allowed entry after the show commences.
- Do not carry or use videography/audiography/photography devices during a London play or any West End show as this is an unlawful act.
- Do not leave during the curtain call as it is regarded as a rude gesture.
- Visit the TKTS booth to score cheap London play tickets.
- Attend all shows in smart casual or semi-formal attire. Baggy tees and sweatpants could make you stand out in the crowd in a bad way.
Frequently Asked Questions About West End Plays in London
Q. What are the best West End plays in London?
A. London is home to a large number of theatres where you will find productions ranging from comedy to tragedy. Find out more about the best West End plays playing in London.
Q. How do I buy tickets for London plays?
A. Purchase tickets to best West End plays in London online for a hassle-free experience.
Q. Where can I buy cheap tickets for London plays?
A. Buy tickets for West End plays in London online for the best deals and discounts.
Q. Are there any discounts available on tickets for London plays?
A. Yes, you can buy discounted tickets for many of the best West End plays in London online.
Q. How is a London play different from a musical?
A. A musical tells a story through song and dance whereas a play may or not have these elements. A play relies on dialogue over songs and dance.
Q. What are the best seats to watch a London play?
A. The best seats in the house for almost all of West End’s theatres are near the middle of the stall area.
Q. What are the best London plays for kids?
A. There are many lovely London plays for kids playing at the West End that your kids are sure to enjoy. Find them all here.
Q. What are the most romantic plays in London?
A. You are sure to have a romantic date night when you pick a romantic play from the best West End shows for date night roundup.
Q. Which London comedy plays are playing on the West End?
A. If you are in the mood for a good laugh, you cannot go wrong with comedy plays in London. Pick from the best West End comedies and have a riotous laugh.
Q. Which plays in London are playing in the off West End theatres?
A. Check out our list of off West End shows in London to know more.
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