London Theatre Buzz: Must-See Shows This June & July!
London's theatre scene is set to dazzle audiences this June and July with a diverse array of exciting new productions.
Here’s our roundup of London’s must-see shows:
2:22 - A Ghost Story
Returning to the West End for a limited 10-week run at the Gielgud Theatre, 2:22 - A Ghost Story is back with a star-studded cast including Donna Air, Joe McFadden, Stacey Dooley, and James Buckley. This adrenaline-filled play, written by Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcast The Battersea Poltergeist, promises a gripping experience where secrets emerge and ghosts may (or may not) appear. Performances run from 25 May to 4 August. Don't miss out on this chilling tale that has captivated over 690,000 viewers worldwide.
GEORGE
Headlining Omnibus Theatre’s 96 Festival from 25 June to 14 July, GEORGE is a compelling new drama inspired by the life of 19th-century French author George Sand. Written by Léa des Garets and directed by Rute Costa, this play explores Sand’s defiance of gender stereotypes and her passionate correspondence with lover Marie Dorval. The production reimagines the creation of Sand’s groundbreaking play Gabriel and delves into her bold challenges against societal norms.
Joe Carstairs
Also part of Omnibus Theatre’s 96 Festival, Joe Carstairs is a dynamic new play that explores the life of the queer British power boat-racer known as the ‘fastest woman on water’. Running from 4 to 22 June, this production by StoneCrabs Theatre blends live music, movement, and storytelling to reflect on Carstairs’ life across two timelines—the 1920s and the 2020s. It delves into gender, identity, and societal norms that are still relevant today
The Improvised Shakespeare Show
Making its Off-West End debut at The Other Palace Theatre from 9 to 13 July, The Improvised Shakespeare Show by ShakeItUp Theatre Company is a hilarious and inventive take on Shakespearean comedy. Using audience suggestions and the actors’ imaginations, the troupe performs a completely new and made-up Shakespeare-style play each night, complete with music and songs. This interactive and accessible show promises plenty of laughs and dramatic surprises.
No Love Songs
No Love Songs, a smash-hit gig theatre show, is now playing a limited season at Southwark Playhouse Elephant until 15 June. Created by Kyle Falconer of the Mercury Prize-nominated band The View, and his partner Laura Wilde, this musical addresses love, new parenthood, and post-natal depression. Co-directed by Dundee Rep’s Artistic Director Andrew Panton and Tashi Gore, the show features hits from Kyle’s solo album and stars Anna Russell-Martin and John McLarnon.
Underbelly Festival
The Underbelly Festival returns to London this summer, taking over Cavendish Square from 4 July to 21 September. Offering a slice of Edinburgh Fringe in the heart of Central London, the festival features the famous Spiegeltent hosting world-class live entertainment in circus, cabaret, and comedy, as well as children’s and family-friendly shows. Highlights include Dizney in Drag: Once Upon A Parody, Tweedy’s Massive Circus, and YUCK Circus. The festival also boasts delicious street food, open-air bars, and plenty of space to socialise.
I Love You, Now What?
Running from 31 July to 24 August at Park Theatre’s Park90, I Love You, Now What? is a poignant story about love and grief. Written by Sophie Craig and directed by Toby Clarke, the play follows Ava and Theo’s relationship as it navigates the diagnosis and loss of Ava’s father. This beautifully ugly story finds humour in dark places and embraces the messiness of loving someone through heartbreak.
Bitter Lemons
Returning after a sold-out run at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Bitter Lemons will have its London debut at Park Theatre’s Park90 from 27 August to 14 September. Written and directed by Lucy Hayes, the play follows two women navigating the high-pressure worlds of football and finance. It tackles societal pressures on women’s bodies and the power dynamics at play in their professional lives.
Ostan
Ostan, a world premiere by Azhang Pezhman, will be performed at Park Theatre’s Park90 from 18 September to 12 October. This drama explores the life of Rebin, who has been stuck in the UK immigration system for nearly a decade. When his boss proposes using their car wash business as a front for human trafficking, Rebin’s routine life is thrown into chaos.
Going For Gold
Inspired by the true story of young Black boxer Frankie Lucas, Going For Gold runs at Park Theatre’s Park90 from 6 to 30 November. Written by Lisa Lintott and directed by Philip J Morris, the play explores Frankie’s journey through the boxing world of 1970s London, tackling themes of identity, ambition, and resilience.
The Marilyn Conspiracy
Get ready for a gripping world premiere at Riverside Studios with The Marilyn Conspiracy, running from 1 to 29 June. This riveting new play by Oliver Le Sueur and directed by Ray Marsden dives into the mysterious final days of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. Set against the backdrop of her tragic death, the play unfolds as a coroner’s inquest that questions the official narrative of Monroe’s demise. This immersive production promises to be both thought-provoking and emotionally charged, offering a fresh perspective on one of Hollywood’s most enduring mysteries.
UNCANNY: I KNOW WHAT I SAW
Prepare for an electrifying journey into the unknown with UNCANNY: I KNOW WHAT I SAW, brought to you by Tilted in association with Watford Palace Theatre. Created and performed by the master storyteller Danny Robins, this gripping stage adaptation takes audiences on a spine-tingling exploration of the paranormal. From its record-breaking success last year to its upcoming Gala evening at Theatre Royal Drury Lane on June 25th, UNCANNY promises an immersive theatrical experience like no other. Delve into the mysteries of the supernatural world with Robins as he invites you to ponder the age-old question: do ghosts exist? With captivating storytelling, expert analysis, and chilling visual effects, UNCANNY: I KNOW WHAT I SAW is set to be the must-see theatrical event of the season.
Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder!
This delightful musical comedy is brought to you by the Olivier Award-winning producers of Fleabag, Baby Reindeer, and 39 Steps. Currently enchanting audiences in previews at the Ambassadors Theatre in the West End, this award-winning murder mystery promises an evening of laughter and intrigue. Having already thrilled crowds in Edinburgh, Bristol, and Manchester, the show’s limited season runs until 14 September. With tickets starting at £25 and front row seats priced at just £20, it’s an affordable night out for all.
With such a wide range of performances, London’s theatre scene is set to offer something for everyone this June and July. Don't miss these captivating new productions!!