Looking for inspiration on what to see in London this month? February is the shortest month of the year but it's packed to the rafters with some absolute must-see productions. Here are the 10 hottest shows that you can check out.
Whether you are looking for a gripping play or fresh musical adaptations, this is the month for it. Tennessee Williams' iconic A Streetcar Named Desire returns to captivate London audiences once again before heading to Broadway. Fans of nostalgic rom-coms can indulge in the charm of Clueless: The Musical, while theatre legend Brian Cox takes centre stage in The Score, a dazzling new play by Oliver Cotton. Find out why these shows and seven others deserve a spot on your calendar in February.
A Streetcar Named Desire, Noel Coward Theatre
A Streetcar Named Desire previous production image. Photo by Marc Brenner.
Almeida Theatre’s sell-out production of A Streetcar Named Desire returns to the West End for a strictly limited run, before its US premiere. Paul Mescal and Patsy Ferran reprise their roles in Rebecca Frecknall’s presentation of the show’s themes of desire, class conflict and mental instability. If you get the chance to grab a ticket, make sure you do!
A Streetcar Named Desire Tickets
Figaro, London Palladium
Artwork for Figaro at London Palladium.
There’s something beautiful about being able to witness the foundations of a new musical and you get the perfect chance this month with Figaro. The original musical makes its premiere at the London Palladium with two fully staged concert performances. Jon Robyns and Aimie Atkinson star in the tale of love, ambition and mystery.
Unicorn, Garrick Theatre
Artwork for Unicorn at Garrick Theatre.
The arrival of Mike Bartlett’s latest play, Unicorn at the Garrick Theatre this month is set to take audiences through a bold, humorous and thought-provoking exploration around a seemingly perfect marriage. It stars Nicola Walker, Stephen Mangan and Erin Doherty.
Much Ado About Nothing, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Much Ado About Nothing artwork.
Jamie Lloyd presents a bold new production of Much Ado About Nothing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane as part of his limited Shakespeare season. Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell star in this savagely funny and beautifully tender battle of wits in the West End for a limited time.
Much Ado About Nothing Tickets
Richard II, Bridge Theatre
Jonathan Bailey. Photo provided by production.
Want to enjoy more from Jonathan Bailey ahead of the second installment of the Wicked movie later this year? Then you can as he stars in the Bridge Theatre’s production of Richard II from 9 February. Shakespeare fans can enjoy this timeless exploration of power and identity in London for a limited time.
Clueless The Musical, Trafalgar Theatre
Clueless The Musical artwork.
If you loved the iconic film of the 90’s then the musical adaptation is well worth making plans for in February. The story which puts a modern twist on Jane Austen’s novel, Emma follows the wealthy and charming Cher Horowitz as she navigates the challenges of high school, matchmaking and self-discovery. This is sure to be hilarious and deliver a joyous dose of nostalgia!
Alterations, Lyttelton Theatre (National)
Artwork for Alterations at National Theatre
Michael Abbensetts’ classic play Alterations returns to the stage for the first time in 40 years at the National’s Lyttelton Theatre this month. Set against the backdrop of 1970s London, the play explores the experiences of Guyanese immigrants, offering a powerful story of change, identity, and resilience while honouring the legacy of the Windrush generation. The production also features an epic cast as its helm!
The Score, Theatre Royal Haymarket
Previous production image for The Score.
The multi-award-winning actor Brian Cox stars in The Score - a dazzling new play by Oliver Cotton. Originally presented at the Theatre Royal Bath, the play is set against the backdrop of historical turmoil in the 1700s. This gripping drama will take audiences through the tension-filled world of classic music.
The Last Laugh, Noel Coward Theatre
The Last Laugh production image. Photo by Pamela Raith.
Want to grab a dose of comedy in February? The Last Laugh is the perfect antidote. The production heads to the West End following a sell-out run at Edinburgh Fringe Festival and we think audiences here in London will adore the show just as much. The Last Laugh takes on the themes of life, death, comedy and the meaning of being funny through three of Britain’s most iconic comedy legends - Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse.
The Seagull, Barbican Theatre
The Seagull at Barbican.
Rounding up the month's theatrical highlights is Russian dramatist Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull at the Barbican Theatre. Starring Cate Blanchett, this production masterfully weaves comedy and drama, exploring themes of human longing, artistic ambition, and emotional complexity. Written back in 1895, Thomas Ostermeier presents this new production in London.
Whatever February brings your way, this collective promises to captivate and delight audiences throughout the month. Be sure to check out our guide to the best new shows to see in London to keep up with the latest in town.
