Theatre Round-Up: September’s Must-See Shows
As summer gives way to autumn, London’s theatre scene heats up with an exciting array of performances. From martial arts legends to profound family dramas and whimsical adventures, here are the standout shows you won’t want to miss this September.
Wing Chun at Sadler’s Wells (30 Aug - 7 Sept)
Experience the powerful fusion of dance, drama, and martial arts in Wing Chun at Sadler’s Wells. This spectacular production tells the story of Grandmaster Yip Man, the legendary martial artist who trained Bruce Lee and popularized Wing Chun around the world. Choreographed by Han Zhen and Zhou Liya, the show spans two eras and generations, blending contemporary dance with traditional martial arts like Tai Chi and Baji Quan. The large cast includes many female martial artists, showcasing the unique style of Wing Chun, the only kung fu technique created by a woman. Whether you’re a martial arts enthusiast or a fan of dynamic dance performances, Wing Chun is a must-see.
Sadler’s Wells, Roseberry Avenue, London, EC1R 4TN
Tues – Sat 7.30pm, 2pm matinees Weds – Sun (not Fri 30 Aug)
£10 - £15 | www.sadlerswells.com | 020 7863 8000
Lived Fiction by Stopgap Dance Company at Southbank Centre (4 Sept)
Join the groundbreaking Stopgap Dance Company at the Southbank Centre for Lived Fiction, a performance that pushes the boundaries of inclusive dance. This production features a diverse cast of Deaf, Disabled, neurodivergent, and non-disabled artists, delivering a multisensory experience with live on-stage audio description, captioning, and projection art. Lived Fiction challenges traditional notions of dance, offering audiences a glimpse into the future of contemporary performance. The show is a joyous celebration of diversity, inviting everyone to share in the beauty of movement.
Where: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
Ticket Info: £15.00 | www.southbankcentre.co.uk | 020 3879 9555
23.5 Hours at Park Theatre (4 Sept - 5 Oct)
Delve into the intense family drama 23.5 Hours at Park Theatre, a European premiere that explores the devastating impact of a sexual misconduct conviction on the accused’s family and friends. Written by Carey Crim and directed by Katharine Farmer, the play stars Lisa Dwan (Netflix’s Top Boy) and a talented ensemble cast. The story follows Leigh Hodges as she navigates the turbulent aftermath of her husband’s imprisonment, grappling with doubts, scrutiny, and the ultimate test of love and loyalty. 23.5 Hours is a powerful exploration of the collateral damage caused by crime and the complexities of trust and justice.
Where: Park200, Park Theatre, Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London N4 3JP
Ticket info: Mon – Sat evening 7.30pm, Thurs and Sat matinees 3pm
Captioned performances 24 Sep 7.30pm
Audio Described 28 Sep 3 pm
Touch Tour at 2, Parents & Babies 3 Oct 11.00am
£47.50 – £22.50 (standard)
www.parktheatre.co.uk | 020 7870 6876
A Letter To Lyndon B. Johnson or God: Whoever Reads This First at King’s Head Theatre (4 - 14 Sept)
Travel back to the 1960s with A Letter To Lyndon B. Johnson or God: Whoever Reads This First at King’s Head Theatre. Written and performed by Xhloe Rice and Natasha Roland, this absurdist two-hander delves into the idealized American boyhood shaped by the Vietnam War. The show uses a mix of clowning, physical theatre, and dark humor to explore the innocence of youth and the harsh realities of war. Xhloe and Natasha’s signature style brings to life the boys’ admiration for President Lyndon B. Johnson and their complicated relationship with patriotism and masculinity.
Where: King’s Head Theatre, 115 Upper St, London N1 1QN
Ticket info: Weekdays (not Mon) 9pm, weekends 8pm
Tickets from £10 | kingsheadtheatre.com | 020 7226 8561
Filibuster by Kook Ensemble - UK Tour (14 Sept - 9 Nov)
Inspired by silent movie comedy legends like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, Filibuster is a solo circus theatre show that combines physical comedy with heartfelt storytelling. Created and performed by gentleman juggler Tom Gaskin, the show follows Bertie, a man who retreats to a derelict cottage in the woods to escape the chaos of the world. Through clowning, tricks, and audience participation, Filibuster explores themes of loneliness, imagination, and the absurdity of life. Kook Ensemble’s debut show promises to be both hilarious and deeply moving, making it a must-see for fans of physical theatre.
Where: Jackson’s Lane, London, 269a Archway Road, London N6 5AA
Ticket info: 7.30pm | £18 - £14
jacksonslane.org.uk/ | 020 8340 5226
The Little Prince at The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath (26 Sept - 6 Oct)
For a family-friendly theatre experience, don’t miss Toby Thompson’s enchanting adaptation of The Little Prince at The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath. This one-person show invites audiences into a whimsical world where grown-ups are peculiar, and the most important things in life are often invisible to the eye. Suitable for ages 7 and up, The Little Prince blends the silly with the serious, offering young audiences and their families a philosophical exploration of friendship, love, and the true meaning of happiness. Toby Thompson’s performance is full of wide-eyed wonder and cheeky humor, making this adaptation a true celebration of life on Earth.
Where: The Egg Theatre, 36 Monmouth St, Bath BA1 2AN
Ticket info: 10am 3 & 4 Oct | 11.30am 28 Sep, 5 & 6 Oct | 1pm 26 & 27 Sep, 2 & 4 Oct. 3pm 28 Sep, 5 & 6 Oct | 6pm 2 Oct | 7pm 27 Sep
£11.50 – £10.50 | www.theatreroyal.org.uk| 01225 823409
Riddles & Romance at Underbelly Boulevard (30 Sept)
End the month on a high note with Riddles & Romance, a one-night-only musical concert at Underbelly Boulevard featuring the legendary Kerry Ellis, known for originating the role of Elphaba in the West End’s Wicked. Produced by Matty Hurst Productions, the concert will showcase brand new compositions by Clive Richard Davis, including songs from his upcoming musical project The Three Riddles. With all proceeds going to Parkinson’s UK, this concert not only promises a night of stunning performances but also supports a worthy cause.
Where: Underbelly Boulevard, 6 Walker's Ct, London W1F 0BT
Ticket info: Monday 30th September, 19:00. £55 VIP Tables & Pre-Show Meet and Greet, Seated £40 - £20, £15.00 Standing
www.atlastmusicalproductions.com
London’s theatre scene is alive with diverse, thought-provoking, and entertaining performances this September. Whether you’re in the mood for a martial arts spectacle, an intense family drama, or a whimsical adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
September is packed with incredible performances that promise to engage your mind, move your heart, and maybe even make you see the world a little differently. Be sure to catch these shows and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of London’s theatre scene.
