12 Most Anticipated Theatre Shows Opening in 2020

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London is famous for its buzzing theatre scene, with top talent from around the world drawn to the bright lights of districts like the West End. 2020 looks set to be one of the best years yet for fans of all things theatre – here’s a few of the most anticipated shows hitting the London stage…

Shen Yun

Eventim Apollo

From 17th January 2020

One of the most highly anticipated productions of the year. Shen Yun is arriving in London for what is almost certain to be a successful run. The show explores more than 5000 years of Chinese mythology, and has already won rave reviews all over the globe.

Inspiring, dramatic and wholly original, this is an eye-opening production which is perfect for both established fans of theatre and those who want to discover more. Tickets are already selling fast ahead of the January 2020 debut.

Uncle Vanya

Harold Pinter Theatre

From 23rd January 2020

Based on a country estate which has seen better days, Uncle Vanya is a dramatic play which explores complex family dynamics in great detail. For fans of drama, this is a great play to view during your stay in London – hosted at the prestigious Harold Pinter Theatre.

Faustus: That Damned Woman

Lyric Hammersmith Theatre

From 28th January 2020

Created by award-winning playwright Chris Bush, Faustus: That Damned Woman is a dramatic retelling of Faustian mythology, and has already gained advance acclaim for its radical approach.

If you’re in the mood for something fresh and pioneering, then this is the perfect show to view during your stay in the city.

Upstart Crow

Gielgud Theatre

From 18th February 2020

Ben Elton’s BBC show Upstart Crow is one of the network’s most popular sitcoms, focusing on the domestic and professional life of William Shakespeare. From February 2020, the show will be beginning a run on the London stage, complete with the original cast once more taking on their roles.

David Mitchell will be playing Shakespeare, with a supporting cast of characters all based on real figures from Shakespeare’s life and times. For literary fans and lovers of the original sitcom, this is not to be missed.

Pretty Woman

Piccadilly Theatre

From 1st March 2020

Based on the world-famous film from 1990, Pretty Woman: The Musical takes this story and adapts it to the London stage. First appearing on Broadway, the show will be providing previews in February before beginning its full run in March 2020.

There’s much to enjoy for fans of the original movie, as well as new fans who are simply eager to discover how the film has been transformed for stage audiences.

Blithe Spirit

Duke of York’s Theatre

From 10th March 2020

Starring Jennifer Saunders, this adaptation of a famed Noel Coward play will be headed to the West End for a limited run in 2020. Eagerly anticipated by fans of the playwright, the play was first adapted to film during the 1940s, and has gained cult status in the intervening years.

The Doctor

Duke of York’s Theatre

From 29th April 2020

This Robert Icke production stars Juliet Stevenson in the title role, and is based on a 1912 play of the same name. The play arrives at London’s Duke of York’s Theatre in 2020, having already received widespread critical acclaim during its earlier run at the Almeida Theatre.

To catch it this time round, be sure to book your tickets before staying at the Park Grand London Paddington Hotel.

Sucker Punch

Theatre Royal Stratford East

From 25th June 2020

Based in London during the early 1980s, this play takes a look at themes such as race, gender and class – as well as a closer examination of Britain’s recent past. For those in the mood for plays with a social conscience, this is a great way to enjoy the London stage while staying in the city during 2020.

Local Hero

The Old Vic

From 30th June 2020

This story focuses around a Scottish village as it is visited by a Texan oil executive, eager to transform the area as a hub of business before discovering there’s much more to the village than meets the eye.

Based on a hit comedy film of the same name, the piece includes music and songs by Mark Knopfler and is directed by Bill Forsyth and David Greig. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply want to view something heart-warming this summer, you can purchase your tickets in advance during your stay at hotels near Lancaster Gate.

Life of Pi

Wyndham’s Theatre

From 9th July 2020

Based on a book which won the Man Booker Prize, Life of Pi is a dramatic adaptation which harnesses all the benefits of modern staging – including fantastic pyrotechnics and digital wizardry, combining with puppetry and dramatic visual effects.

The play has already gained significant acclaim, and returns to the London stage in the summer of 2020, making this the ideal time to order tickets while staying at the Park Grand London Paddington Hotel.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

London Palladium

From 16th July 2020

This musical has already won numerous awards since it was first released, and will be returning to London for a limited run in the summer of 2020.

Debuting as a concept album in 1969, it’s since become one of the most famous musicals in the world, and continues to delight audiences in London and further afield. To see this latest production, grab your tickets in advance.

Evita

Barbican

From 9th July 2020

This famed musical was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, focusing on the life of Argentinian First Lady Eva ‘Evita’ Peron. Many will be familiar with the story thanks to its successful 90’s film adaptation starring Madonna.

Evita became famous for her humble beginnings and her ability to use her new status to shine a light on social issues of the era. To some, she is still regarded as the first ever true ‘political celebrity’ and this show helps demonstrate how this legend grew.