Top Musicals to See in London's West End in May 2025
May brings a host of exciting new musicals to London’s West End, offering everything from newly crowned Olivier Award-winning shows like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and brand new musical Shucked. If you're looking for unforgettable theatre this spring, check out these must-see musicals that will make your May truly magical.
Secure your May theatre tickets and enjoy some of the best musical theatre the West End has to offer.
1. Shucked – Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Following an acclaimed run on Broadway, Shucked makes its highly anticipated UK debut in May at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. This hilarious, corn-fed musical is set in Cob County, where the community’s livelihood depends on a thriving corn crop. When disaster strikes and the corn begins to wither, Maizy and Beau embark on a quest to save the town. With a witty script by Robert Horn and a score by Grammy Award-winning songwriters Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, Shucked is packed with rollicking tunes like “Woman of the World” and “Independently Owned.” Expect a night full of laughs and unforgettable melodies in this irreverent comedy about unlikely heroes and a town in turmoil.
2. Marie & Rosetta – Rose Theatre Kingston
Marie & Rosetta shines a spotlight on the extraordinary, yet often overlooked, musical duo of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Marie Knight. Set in Mississippi in 1946, the musical chronicles their journey through the segregated South, where Rosetta, the “godmother of rock ‘n’ roll,” persuades the gospel-singing Marie to join her in performing in nightclubs. Featuring live musicians and powerhouse performances from Olivier Award-winner Beverley Knight as Rosetta, Marie & Rosetta brings the joyous sounds of rock and gospel to the stage. With classic songs like “Didn’t It Rain” and “Peace in the Valley,” this intimate portrait of two musical trailblazers will leave you tapping your feet and singing along.
3. The Great Gatsby Musical – London Coliseum
A brand new musical in London’s West End: step into the Roaring '20s with The Great Gatsby Musical, the new production based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel. This dazzling musical brings the world of Jay Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, and the lavish parties of the Jazz Age to life with a brand-new score and stunning choreography. Directed by acclaimed Korean producer Chunsoo Shin, this production features spectacular costumes, energetic performances, and a captivating storyline about love, wealth, and the pursuit of happiness. A night at The Great Gatsby Musical is sure to be one of the most entertaining and visually stunning musical theatre experiences in London this spring.
The Broadway cast of The Great Gatsby Musical.
4. Oliver! – Gielgud Theatre
Cameron Mackintosh’s reimagined production of Oliver! brings the beloved story of the orphan boy who asked for more back to the West End. Directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, this new version of Lionel Bart’s classic musical is an exhilarating experience for the whole family. With iconic songs like “Consider Yourself” and “You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two,” Oliver! vividly brings to life Dickens’ timeless tale of social injustice, hope, and redemption. Featuring a fantastic cast including Simon Lipkin as Fagin and Shanay Holmes as Nancy, this production is not to be missed.
Olivier Award-winning Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre - photography by Johan Persson.
5. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button – Ambassadors Theatre
Fresh from winning multiple Olivier Awards, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story, tells the epic and heartwarming tale of a man who ages in reverse. With a remarkable cast of actor-musicians, this production blends cinematic visuals with live music, bringing to life Benjamin’s extraordinary journey from old age to youth. With 30 instruments played by the 13-strong cast, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a truly immersive experience. This unique musical is filled with magic, love, and profound moments, making it one of the most original productions in the West End.
