Get ready for a thrilling lineup of spine-chilling shows perfect for this spooky season! Read our guide to find out more.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow production image. Photo by Manuel Harlan.
London is brimming with spine-tingling shows this spooky season. For a classic ghost story, Turn of the Screw at the London Coliseum delivers chilling suspense with its tale of eerie happenings at a country estate. For fans of magical thrills, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child weaves dark enchantments and time-twisting dangers at the Palace Theatre, perfect for those seeking a supernatural adventure. For a truly immersive fright, the staging of 1984 plunges audiences into a dystopian nightmare, making it a gripping and unsettling experience for the Halloween season. Here are a few shows to check out during the month of October.
1. George Orwell’s 1984
1984 at Hackney Town Hall artwork.
Returning to London for a 10-week run following a 3 month sell out last year, the iconic novel is reimagined in a site-specific performance in the Hackney Town Hall. Set in a dystopian future where a strict regime, led by Big Brother, controls everything you say or do is scrutinised and even your innermost thoughts are probed.
Playing at Hackney Town Hall until 22 December 2024.
2. Amaze
Amaze at Criterion Theatre artwork.
If you fancy sprinkling your spooky season with some magic then make sure you check out Jamie Allan’s Amaze. His record-breaking, critically acclaimed show has made its way to the West End. His signature blend of state of the art technology and timeless conjuring techniques will dazzle audiences.
Playing at Criterion Theatre until 23 November 2024.
3. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
The 2024 cast of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Photo by Manuel Harlan.
Talking of magic, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a must-see for fans of the wizarding world! This West End production offers audiences a magical, immersive experience with stunning stagecraft and special effects, alongside an exciting new story set nineteen years after the unforgettable Battle of Hogwarts.
Playing at Palace Theatre until 29 June 2025
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Tickets
4. Turn of the Screw
The Turn of the Screw at London Coliseum artwork.
Benjamin Britten’s innovative score meets the brilliant 1898 horror novel by Henry James in this operatic performance at the London Coliseum. Experience the haunting tale about a governess who becomes convinced that the children in her care are being influenced by sinister supernatural forces this October.
Playing at London Coliseum until 31 October 2024
5. Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Stranger Things: The First Shadow production image. Photo by Manuel Harlan.
Head to the Phoenix Theatre to experience the thrilling origins of Hawkins and its dark mysteries before the events of the hit Netflix series. The play’s eerie atmosphere and nostalgic 1950s setting will immerse you in a gripping prequel filled with supernatural suspense. With familiar characters and fresh twists, it's the perfect blend of horror and intrigue for a chilling night out.
Playing at Phoenix Theatre until 6 April 2025
Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets
Whatever plans you have to see a theatre show in October, don't hesitate to book those tickets! And whilst you are here if you are interested in the latest additions to the city, read our carefully curated guide to the best new shows to see in London.
