Check out our hot list of London Musicals for Teens. There was a time in recent years when musical theatre was deemed out of touch and dare I say it …uncool. But right now the West End is ablaze with a new wave of theatre shows that are hip, contemporary and culturally relevant that speak directly to the hearts of teenagers.
With fresh energy and a modern sensibility here are the hottest shows that are lighting up the London stage. Want to impress your teen with a West End theatre trip? – take your pick.
Hamilton
Hip-hop meets history in this groundbreaking musical phenomenon that’s taken Broadway and now the West End by storm. From the mind of Lin-Manuel Miranda this story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers is told through a vibrant mix of rap, R&B, and traditional show tunes that will appeal to all the whole family.
A rags to riches tale of an immigrant orphan who becomes an influential statesman against the tumultuous backdrop of the American Revolution, with iconic figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Aaron Burr. With its pulsating score, dynamic choreography, and diverse cast, Hamilton is a musical in a league of its own.
SIX
At London’s Vaudeville Theatre, the vivacious musical “Six” reigns supreme, offering a modern twist on the scandalous saga of Henry VIII’s six wives. Eschewing traditional musical formats, “Six” delivers a pop concert-style spectacle where each queen belts out her grievances against the notorious king.
The shows vibrant contemporary score, all female cast, racy innuendo, irresistible sex appeal and punchy dance sequences has gained it a fervent all age fanbase, with tween birthday parties mingling seamlessly with adult date nights.
A celebration of female empowerment, this is a proudly diverse and modern musical that both teen girls and boys will relish. With a running time of only 80 mins this is a short musical but a mighty one! (Read: Six Reasons to take your Teen to Six)
Operation Mincemeat
Operation Mincemeat is a lesser known showstopper transcending from Fringe and now causing a stir in London’s West End. It is set during World War II and tells the story of a British Intelligence ploy to deceive Adolf Hitler and make unexpected advances on Sicily. The double bluff takes the form of a corpse, a tramp picked up on the streets of London and planted to poise as a fallen pilot equipped with misleading intel.
It doesn’t sound like the stuff of dreams as far as teenagers are concerned but this musical packs an unexpected contemporary punch. With an electric gender fluid cast, a Beyonce pastiche, a hilarious electro dance number and more camp than a row of tents, this wartime spoof is densely entertaining. And topical. Poking fun at an Etonian led government that does what it wants and shys from consequence feels timely. There is also reference to the quiet sacrifice and work of women, unseen behind the celebrated male heroes.
But beyond the clever satire and profound tenderness, Operation Mincemeat is a dazzler. The glitzy finale is just that. A bedazzling mashup of sequins and larger than life sets.
You don’t need to care for History or Politics to find yourself thoroughly tickled.
Mrs Doubtfire
Teenagers may be too young to recall the 90s movie Box office hit, but nonetheless Mrs Doubtfire is sure to win some hearts with this upbeat, all singing and dancing feel good musical.
The show sticks pretty close to the movie plot. A loving but scatterbrained dad loses custody of his kids when his fed-up wife decides to call it quits. The obvious solution? He pulls off a wild stunt by pretending to be a sweet Scottish nanny in a desperate attempt to stay close to his little ones. Chaos ensues as he tries to juggle his two personas, leading to hilarious mishaps and a lot of laughter along the way.
Of all the shows listed this may be one of the more conventional style musicals. However it is undeniably fun and fast moving making it a great choice for families with older kids as well as younger children. A great first time musical that has audience members up on its feet night after night. ( Read: Is Mrs Doubtfire the Musical for Kids?Here)
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Recommended for ages 10+
Described as one of the ‘most defining pop culture events of the decade’ by Forbes it would be amiss not to include Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on this list. Even if you’re not a die-hard Potter fan, you’ll be enchanted by this spectacular production.
In Harry Potter and the Cursed Child we catch up with our favourite trio nearly two decades after they first stepped foot into Hogwarts. Harry, now a middle-aged civil servant at the Ministry of Magic in London, is also navigating the world of parenthood. But the spotlight isn’t on him this time—it’s on his son, Albus, whose magical adventures take centre stage.
Get ready for spellbinding moments, show-stopping musical numbers, and enough special effects to make your wand spin!
Back to the Future
Whether you’ve seen the beloved 1985 movie or not, Back to the Future is an electrifying theatrical experience that will have you on the edge of your seat. A dynamic fusion of nostalgia, music, and adventure, the show propels audiences on a journey through time with unbelievable stage effects and captivating performances.
Set against a backdrop of infectious Rock n’ Roll beats and high energy choreography, this tale of friendship and romance is guaranteed to capture the hearts and imaginations of older children and teenagers.
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