The allure of Broadway has captivated theatre lovers for generations, showcasing a dazzling array of musical and dramatic talent. Here are 6 Broadway hits that theatre enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating to see on UK stages.
Photo by Vlad Alexandru Popa.
New York City’s famed theatre district boasts iconic productions but there’s an undeniable excitement when these shows make their way to London’s West End. In recent years we’ve seen this success through Wicked, Hamilton, Hadestown, Moulin Rouge and now MJ The Musical! The energy between these two cultural epicentres not only broadens the audience for these remarkable performances but also enriches the global theatre landscape. From groundbreaking musicals to poignant dramas, these are the shows we can’t wait to experience in the UK.
1. Beetlejuice
Beetlejuice The Musical production image. Photo by Matthew Murphy.
Rumours that this musical would make it to London have been on the lips of people for quite a while, and we’re still waiting for it to arrive!
Inspired by Tim Burton’s iconic film, Beetlejuice The Musical follows the story of a strange and unusual teenager called Lydia Deez. Her life takes a wild turn when she encounters a recently deceased couple and a rambunctious demon named Beetlejuice. Together, they embark on a hilarious and chaotic adventure to scare away Lydia’s insufferable parents and reclaim their home.
Featuring a whole host of catchy tunes, eccentric characters, and visually stunning sets - Beetlejuice The Musical immerses audiences in a whimsical, ghostly world. The combination of the show’s irreverent humour and high-energy performances gained it a cult following on Broadway and no doubt it’d do the same here in the UK.
2. The Notebook
The Notebook Musical production image. Photo by Julieta Cervantes.
You’ve been living under a rock if you haven’t been utterly captivated by Joy Wood singing “My Days” from the soundtrack (written by none other than the American singer-songwriter, Ingrid Michaelson) because it’s definitely caught the attention of UK theatregoers.
Based on Nicholas Spark’s beloved novel, The Notebook tells the enduring love story of Noah and Allie, two people from different backgrounds who fall deeply in love but are separated by life’s circumstances. As they navigate the trails of time and memory, their profound connection and unwavering devotion are poignant to this story.
Bekah Brunstetter’s book has transformed the iconic love story into a poignant and lyrical stage production. Fans of the novel and newcomers alike will be drawn into this touching portrayal of love, memory, and the passage of time.
struggles that come with chasing stardom.3. Stereophonic
Stereophonic production image. Photo by Julieta Cervantes.
The five-time Tony Award winner, including Best New Play, dives into the vibrant and tumultuous world of a 1970s rock band as they navigate the highs and lows of recording their breakthrough album. Stereophonic has a gripping narrative and electrifying score that captures the era’s raw energy and the complexities of fame, relationships, and artistic integrity.
London audiences will love how Stereophonic can offer more than just entertainment but a deep, resonant exploration of the personal and professional struggles that come with chasing stardom.
4. Suffs
Suffs Musical production image. Photo by Joan Marcus.
Suffs is a powerful musical that chronicles the determined fight for women’s suffrage in the United States during the early 20th century. The musical also really snapped up three wins at the 2024 Tony Awards, including Best Book of a Musical.
Shaina Taub’s brings together a compelling blend of historical narrative and vibrant musical numbers to deliver the stories of the fearless women who led the charge for voting rights.
This is a musical that captures the passion, struggles, and triumphs of these suffragists, shedding light on their relentless activism and the significant obstacles they faced during that time. Suffs will educate and inspire audiences, drawing parallels to the ongoing struggles for equality and justice today.
5. Little Shop of Horrors
Little Shop of Horrors production image.
If we’re going to talk about any London revivals then we most certainly need the return of The Little Shop of Horrors which was last in the West End at the Duke of York’s Theatre in 2007, with Paul Keating and Sheridan Smith starring. With huge success on Broadway, is it time for it to return to the London stage?
The Little Shop of Horrors is a darkly comic musical that follows the story of Seymour, a hapless floral shop worker who discovers a mysterious plant with a sinister appetite for human flesh and blood. As the plant grows increasingly demanding and powerful, Seymour has to navigate moral dilemmas and desperate measures to satisfy its craving while pursuing his romantic interest, Audrey.
The show blends quirky characters, memorable songs like “Suddenly Seymour”, and a unique storyline that has made it a beloved favourite with theatre fans over the years.
6. The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby production image. Photo by Matthew Murphy.
The Great Gatsby reimagines F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel with a vibrant score that melds jazz, blues, and contemporary rhythms, capturing the opulence and decay of the Roaring Twenties.
Set against the backdrop of the 1920s, the musical tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy and enigmatic businessman who throws lavish parties in hopes of rekindling a romance with Daisy Buchanan, his former lover.
The Great Gatsby is known for its dazzling choreography, stunning visuals, and a rich, evocative soundtrack, bringing the Jazz Age to life on the stage, Offering a gorgeous blend of nostalgia and innovation, this production honours and reinvents the timeless story that London audiences with lap up the opportunity of seeing.
With such a vast array of exceptional shows on Broadway right now, we hope it won’t be long before some of these leap onto the London stage in the future. Keep up to date with any news of any incoming transfers through our guide to the Best New London Shows which will keep you in the know.
