London’s Best Musicals This Summer

The Summer Is Here

Summertime has finally arrived, and although I cannot guarantee sunshine after weeks of never-ending showers – but then again, that is British weather – it is time for us Londoners to make the most of our holidays.

In summer, London is turned into the city of rooftop restaurants and boat parties, but whilst the capital’s various attractions and museums offer some of the best exhibitions and activities, it is safe to say that nothing can beat a night out to go and watch a musical in one of London’s famous theatres.

In no particular order, here are three must-see shows which have taken the world of musical theatre by a storm; and the good news is that you and your family can enjoy them this summer!

The Lion King

If you are looking for night filled with uplifting adventure, The Lion King is the musical for you and all your family this summer. Now entering its seventeenth year at The Lyceum Theatre, this show has continued to amaze children and adults alike. With the use of magnificent costumes and breathtaking special effects, The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a young lion cub who, after the death of his father Mufassa by his evil uncle Scar, learns about life on his journey to becoming King of the pride.

The musical is a mixture of near plotlines to Hamlet whilst also combining with comedy and messages of friendship and unity to make the Lion King a West Endphenomenon and undoubtedly the King of London Musicals for years to come.

Stomp

If you want to see something original that will most definitely get you out of our chair and dancing to a new beat, then STOMP is the show for you. From paint cans to dustbin lids, shopping trolleys to the kitchen sink, STOMP allows the audience to experience theatre in a whole new light with a combination of music, rhythms and comedy to make a range of day-to-day objects come to life. Critics say “It’s the event that showed the globe that even the most ordinary objects can do extraordinary things – in the right hands” and has been running in the Ambassador’s Theatrefor a staggering 25 years.

STOMP is the perfect show: thrilling, hilarious and impressively powerful for all the family and will have your toes tapping and fingers clicking in no time.

Aladdin

Are magic carpets, lamps and genies more to your taste? Prepare to be amazed by the mind-blowing special effects, visuals and hundreds of beautiful costumes which bring the Disney classic Aladdin to life on London’s stage at the Prince Edward Theatre this summer. Suitable for all the family, allow yourself to be swept off your feet as the cast and crew take you to Agrabah to embark on a journey with Disney’s beloved characters of Aladdin, Genie and Jasmine with songs from the Disney original.

Reviewed as “theatrical magic”, do not miss this colourful, comical and splendid experience that is Aladdin, and will undoubtedly make you and your family discover “A Whole New World”.

Performing Arts Summer Schools

How about actually starring in a show containing drama, singing and dance? Alongside weekend performing arts classes for children, Jigsaw also runs week-long summer schools during the school summer holidays for children aged 3-16.

Students are put into age groups where they will participate in singing, dance and drama classes. Throughout the week, a show is put together with costumes, lighting and sound to create a unique and enjoyable theatrical experience for all the family.

Take a look at www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk/summer-schools  for more information and to book your child’s place at one of our schools.

Would you like to read more from The Jigsaw Blog? Check out last month’s article: Dreams Come True at Jigsaw Surbiton