The 10 Best Plays in London in October 2024
London’s West End is celebrated for its world-class plays, often headlined by some of the biggest actors in the world. With a diverse range of genres, from timeless Shakespearean tragedies to modern adaptations of popular books and movies, London’s stages are brimming with powerful performances and compelling narratives. If you’re wondering what plays to see in London this October 2024, you’re in for a treat.
There’s never been a better time to go and see a celebrity on stage. There are currently a huge amount of A list actors on stage, including Ben Wishaw in Waiting For Godot, David Tennant and Cush Jumbo in Macbeth, Mark Rylance in Juno and the Paycock and Mark Strong and Lesley Manville in Oedipus.
Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas, classic comedies, or thought-provoking thrillers, the West End offers a spectacular variety of productions. Let’s dive into some of the most anticipated plays you won’t want to miss.
London’s Must-See Plays in October 2024
London's West End offers a rich programme of plays and productions that covers new writing and modern adaptations of classics. If you’re looking for what’s on in London, here are some of the top plays to find out more about:
1. Waiting For Godot
Waiting for Godot production photo starring Lucian Msamati and Ben Whishaw
Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot is one of the most famous and enigmatic plays of the 20th century, and this 2024 revival is a must-see for fans of thought-provoking theatre. The absurdist masterpiece, centred on two characters waiting for the mysterious Godot, is both humorous and poignant, offering a meditation on life’s existential questions. Starring Ben Whishaw and Lucian Msamati, and directed by an acclaimed team, this production brings fresh insights and interpretations to Beckett’s timeless text.
2. Dr Strangelove
Stanley Kubrick’s darkly comedic film Dr. Strangelove has been brilliantly adapted for the stage, making its West End debut in 2024. This biting satire, set during the Cold War, follows a paranoid general who triggers a nuclear crisis. Penned by the incredibly hilarious BAFTA and Emmy Award winner Armando Iannucci and Olivier Award winner Sean Foley, the titular role is played by the legendary Steve Coogan. With its razor-sharp wit, political undertones, and timeless relevance, this stage adaptation of Dr. Strangelove promises a captivating and humorous theatrical experience.
The Lehman Trilogy production photo by Kevin Berne
Returning to the West End after international acclaim, The Lehman Trilogy traces the rise and fall of the Lehman Brothers banking empire. Told through three generations of the family, this sweeping narrative spans over 150 years of history, from humble beginnings to global financial collapse. With its stunning set design and compelling performances, The Lehman Trilogy is a gripping tale of ambition, greed, and the complexities of capitalism.
4. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
For fans of the Wizarding World, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues to be one of the hottest tickets in London. Set 19 years after the events of the original book series, the play follows Harry Potter’s son, Albus, as he grapples with his family’s legacy and navigates the challenges of magic and friendship. With breathtaking special effects and a moving story, this two-part production offers a magical experience for audiences of all ages.
5. Juno and the Paycock
One of Sean O’Casey’s most acclaimed works, Juno and the Paycock is a powerful exploration of a working-class family’s struggles during Ireland’s Civil War. Set in a tenement in Dublin, the play delves into themes of poverty, betrayal, and survival with both humour and tragedy. This revival in 2024 breathes new life into the text, showcasing the emotional depth of O’Casey’s writing and the timeless relevance of its themes.
6. Oedipus
This October, the tragedy of Oedipus returns to the stage in a modern and gripping adaptation. Starring Mark Strong and Lesley Manville, Sophocles’ ancient Greek tragedy, which explores themes of fate, identity, and moral conflict, has been reimagined with a contemporary lens for modern audiences. The tragic downfall of King Oedipus—who unwittingly fulfils a horrifying prophecy—remains as powerful and thought-provoking as ever.
7. Stranger Things: The First Shadow
For fans of the popular Netflix series, Stranger Things: The First Shadow brings the supernatural world of Hawkins to the West End stage. Expect thrilling performances, nostalgic 80s references, and spine-tingling effects as this beloved story is reimagined for theatre audiences. Combining horror, adventure, and emotional moments, this stage adaptation is a must-see for fans of the show and newcomers alike.
8. Macbeth
Shakespeare’s Macbeth is one of the most performed plays in history, and this new production in 2024 promises a dark and dynamic interpretation. Known for its themes of ambition, guilt, and the corrupting power of unchecked desire, Macbeth continues to captivate audiences with its intense drama and timeless relevance. The titular role is played by the incredible former Dr Who star, David Tennant, alongside Cush Jumbo as Lady Macbeth - this production is sure to deliver powerful performances and unforgettable moments.
9. John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers - The Play
John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers - The Play production photo by Hugo Glendinning
A comedic classic, Fawlty Towers is brought to the stage in a hilarious new adaptation. Based on the beloved British sitcom, the play follows the chaotic life of Basil Fawlty as he attempts to run his dysfunctional hotel. With side-splitting humor and unforgettable characters, this live adaptation captures the essence of the original show while delivering fresh laughs for both old fans and newcomers. A must-see comedy in London this October!
10. Witness for the Prosecution
Agatha Christie’s courtroom drama Witness for the Prosecution continues to be a standout in the West End. Set in the stunning London County Hall, this immersive production invites the audience to become part of the courtroom as a gripping murder trial unfolds. Full of twists, suspense, and shocking revelations, Christie’s timeless tale of justice and deceit will keep you on the edge of your seat.
