Welcome to your round-up of unmissable West End and touring theatre.
This edition of Stage Watch brings you the best theatre highlights this season, from festive family pantomimes to unmissable West End musicals and Black Friday ticket deals. Whether you’re planning a magical day out or treating yourself to a night in the theatre, there’s something for everyone.
Black Friday 2025 Theatre Deals
From popular plays to magical musicals and everything in between, LOVEtheatre is offering fantastic Black Friday deals across London and the West End. Save on top shows including Elf – The Musical, Starlight Express, Teeth n’ Smiles, and Pinocchio! Theatre lovers can snap up some of the best offers of the year and make the most of the festive season.
Pinocchio
Dates: Opens this Saturday | Venue: Globe Theatre, London | Save up to 58%
Journey to a world of endless possibilities this festive season as Pinocchio comes to life in the iconic Globe Theatre. This magical new musical for the whole family, by Charlie Josephine and Jim Fortune, explores self-discovery, freedom, and family, all within the lovingly crafted wooden ‘O’ of the Globe. Audiences of all ages can experience wonder, adventure, and festive cheer in this unforgettable production.
Beauty and the Beast
Dates: 19 Nov 2025 – 18 Jan 2026 | Venue: The Theatre Chipping Norton
The Theatre Chipping Norton presents a magical pantomime full of enchantment, storytelling, and non-stop laughter. Audiences follow Marie, her best friend Phillippe Fillope, and Dame Fifi Fromage as they encounter mysterious beasts, spooky chateaus, and an evil enchantress in this timeless tale of love and courage. Packed with festive sparkle, humour, and heart, this family-friendly show is an unmissable treat for the season.
Wicked
Dates: Currently booking to 3 Jan 2027 | Venue: Apollo Victoria Theatre, London
The West End phenomenon Wicked continues to mesmerise audiences, celebrating over 19 triumphant years at the Apollo Victoria Theatre. With music by Stephen Schwartz, a book by Winnie Holzman, and starring Emma Kingston (Elphaba) and Zizi Strallen (Glinda), this award-winning musical imagines the untold story of the witches of Oz. Suitable for ages 7+, the production features strobe lighting, smoke effects, and loud noises, promising a spectacular night for theatre-goers.
Fabulous Pantos
Step into a world of festive fun with Christmas pantomimes. Perfect for families and theatre-goers of all ages, these classic shows blend music, comedy, and audience participation for a truly unforgettable experience. From shouting “he’s behind you!” in London to enjoying traditional tales nationwide, UK pantomimes deliver joy, laughter, and holiday magic live on stage. Stars treading the boards this season include Will Young, Jason Manford, Diversity, Elaine C. Smith, and, of course, Basil Brush.
Woman in Mind
Dates: 09 Dec 2025 to Sat 28 Feb 2026 | Venue: Duke of York’s Theatre, London
Save up to 28% until 5 December
Olivier Award winner Sheridan Smith returns to the Duke of York’s Theatre in Alan Ayckbourn’s darkly comic Woman in Mind, joined by Romesh Ranganathan in his West End debut. Directed by Michael Longhurst, the play follows Susan as a bump to the head splits her world into the real and the imagined. With a strong ensemble cast including Louise Brealey, Tim McMullan, Sule Rimi and Chris Jenks, this sharp, funny and unsettling revival is a standout of the season.
