With so many wonderful West End shows to choose from it can be difficult to know what to see with family and friends, or what you’ll enjoy the most. Each and every production is truly sensational and unique. But here are some useful things to think about before buying West End tickets.
Who Will Be Attending the Show?
The first thing to think about is who will be attending the show. If you’re travelling to London with your children, then you’ll need something child-friendly like The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Based on the popular children’s novel by Judith Kerr, this production tells the story of a very greedy tiger who eats and drinks everything in little Sophie’s house. It’s full of hilarious mischief, sing-along songs and plenty of interactive moments. It’s also perfect for children aged three and above.
If you’re going with teenagers or adults, you might prefer something like Disney’s Newsies, which has a grittier feel and a theme that’s more suitable for older audiences.
What Type of Theatre Experience You Want
You also need to decide what type of theatre experience you want. Do you want to sit and watch a production live on stage from the comfort of your seat? Or would you prefer to be part of the action? The Burnt City by immersive theatre experts Punchdrunk! offers an incredible interactive theatre experience that explores the Trojan War. It’s likely to be completely different to anything you’ve experienced before. But always read up on what’s going to happen so you’re fully prepared and can make an informed decision.
What Theatre Genre Would You Prefer?
The best West End shows cater to a wide variety of people. There really is something for everyone and while some theatregoers might prefer a suspense-filled, jumpy show such as 2:22 A Ghost Story now playing at the Lyric Theatre, others might prefer an inspiring, feel-good family musical such as Disney’s Newsies, which is currently showing at Troubadour Wembley Park. Think about what you like watching on TV or what you read on a regular basis as this might help with the decision making process.
Read Reviews
One of the best ways to pick the right show for you is to read reviews of the productions you’ve shortlisted. Check reviews from both critics and other show-goers to get a deeper insight into what to expect, both from the show itself and the experience inside the theatre.
With a bit of research, you’ll be ready to book your West End tickets and enjoy a day out to remember forever. The West End is a bustling, glitzy part of the capital that’ll make you want to visit time and time again - so don’t miss out.
