October is on its way - the month of pumpkins, Halloween and the crisp colours of Autumn are truly on their way. However, that doesn’t stop us from enjoying the West End and there is so much to look forward to.
Dear England, Treason The Musical and The Time Traveller's Wife The Musical.
As we look ahead to October 2023, there are several exciting shows set to open in the heart of the city. The Ocean At The End of the Lane returns to London after its hugely successful UK tour and there’s even the arrival of new productions like The Time Traveller’s Wife and Backstairs Billy. So whether you’re a fan of musicals or plays, here are the 7 shows you can look forward to experiencing on the London stage from October:
1. The Ocean at the End of the Lane
The Ocean At The End Of The Lane Production Image
The National Theatre’s smash-hit production The Ocean At The End Of The Lane is returning to the West End in October. With more than 60 five-star reviews to its name, the stage adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s novel by Joel Horwood provides audiences with an unforgettable trip to the theatre this Autumn. Filled with everything you need for an unforgettable theatre experience, The Ocean At The End Of The Lane is performing at the Noel Coward Theatre from 11 October.
The Ocean At The End Of The Lane Tickets
2. Dear England
Dear England Production Image
The National Theatre productions are dominating West End theatres this Autumn, including the arrival of James Graham’s Dear England which heads into the Prince Edward Theatre from 9 October. The production which sold-out during its run at the National Theatre is a wildly entertaining journey through the reformation of the England men’s team under Gareth Southgate. Running for a limited season don’t miss out on the “big-hearted, technically dazzling celebration of football”.
3. Backstairs Billy
Backstairs Billy artwork
Discover this new comedy which explores the friendship of The Queen Mother and her Devoted Butler, opening at the Duke Of York’s Theatre from 27 October. Starring Luke Evans and Penelope Wilton at the helm, audiences will look at a pivotal moment in their 50 year relationship.
4. The Time Traveller’s Wife
The Time Traveller's Wife Musical Production Image
Fans of new musicals do not want to miss this one! The Time Traveller’s Wife heads to the Apollo Theatre after a world premiere success at Chester Storyhouse. Lauren Gunderson has adapted Audrey Niffenegger’s beautiful novel for the stage, with original music and lyrics by Joss Stone and Dave Stewart. Experience for yourself this moving journey of resilience, impossibilities and how two people try to hold on to each other when everything around them is pulling them apart.
The Time Traveller's Wife Tickets
5. Message In A Bottle
Message In A Bottle Production Image.
Electrifying choreography from Kate Prince comes to life in this stunning dance production aligned with songs from 17-time Grammy Award winner, Sting is heading to the Peacock Theatre from 4 October. Message In A Bottle is a poignant tale of humanity and hope that mixes with high-energy footbook and athleticism that will take the audience's breath away!
6. Treason The Musical
Treason The Musical artwork.
Igniting in the Alexandra Palace this October is the new British musical Treason The Musical which will be delivering a fully staged production for the first time. Following its streamed concert in 2021 and the release of the concert album, this is an exciting step in Treason The Musical’s journey. Audiences can enjoy a slice of British history in this new musical drama about the notorious gunpowder plot of 1605 as well as the stunning original folk and pop songs that the score has to offer.
7. Lyonesse
Lyonesse artwork.
Kristin Scott Thomas and Lily James star in this passionate new play by Penelope Skinner this Autumn. Running at the Harold Pinter Theatre for a strictly limited season, from 17 October - 23 December, Lyonesse focuses on the glorious comeback of a reclusive actress. The actress, Elaine, disappeared from the spotlight in mysterious circumstances 30 years ago. Now ready to reveal her story, she summons a young film executive to help her accomplish the comebacks of all comebacks!
