10 Shows To See In 2023

2022 was undeniably a great year for theatre. Recovery from the pandemic meant that 2021 was incredibly patchy, with many runs postponed, cancelled or intermittently performed to the dismay of casts and audiences alike. Fans seemed to enjoy returning in their droves to support their beloved shows, and plenty of new ones proved popular too. As we venture into 2023, it’s shaping up to be a very interesting year ahead for the theatre world. Here’s our guide to the shows you do not want to miss in 2023. Of course, there’s so much more that has been announced in 2023 that we’re excited about too!

Our Birmingham-based writer Roni has gathered just 10 of the shows you must see in 2023!

Operation Mincemeat

There have been a few (sold out) runs of this acclaimed show since 2019, alongside a blockbuster film production last year starring Colin Firth and Kelly McDonald. 2023 will see the show get the West End transfer fans have been begging for, as it grabs a limited run at the newly vacant Fortune Theatre beginning with previews from March 29th. Telling the true story of an unbelievable WW2 plot to foil Hitler, Operation Mincemeat is guaranteed hilarity from start to finish with previous 5-star reviews to send it on its way.

Bonnie and Clyde

This is another fan favourite being revived in 2023, following on from 2022’s concert series and limited run at the Art’s Theatre. Jordan Luke Gage and Frances Mayli McCann are reprising their roles as the titular characters, the infamous ill-fated lovers/outlaws running from the, well, law. Billed as ‘a killer show it would be criminal to miss’, it seems that those who caught the previous shows wholeheartedly agree. Beg, borrow and steal to see this one.

Newsies

The hype around Newsies has been very real since it first opened on Broadway 10 years. Until now, us Brits have had to make do with the pro shot version from 2017, but finally, this beloved show is receiving its UK premiere at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. Having just opened to absolutely rave reviews, and announcing an extension until April, Newsies is definitely the hottest ticket in town this season!

Groundhog Day

Another show receiving a revival in 2023, the news that Groundhog Day would be returning has pleased many a critic. Initially opening at The Old Vic in 2016, this hit show is back and will surely be hoping to replicate its previous string of 5 star reviews. Based on the movie of the same name and with songs by Tim Minchin, the premiere run earned this well-loved show 8 Olivier nods, winning 2 awards for Best New Musical and Best Actor in a Musical for Andy Karl, who is back and reprising his role for the newest production. Don’t blame us if you want to see this one again, and again, and again…

The Great British Bake Off Musical

After enjoying a sold-out summer run last year in Cheltenham, Great British Bake Off is back! This time, it’s transferring to the West End for a 12 week run at the Noel Coward with a few new faces, such as Grace Mouat as Izzy, as well as some familiar ones, like John Owen-Jones as Phil Hollinghurst and Scott Paige as Jim. The show is, of course, based on the T.V show we all know and love, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll be whipping up in the West End.

Oklahoma

Following on from a sold-out revival run at The Young Vic recently, the newest version of Oklahoma is yet another transfer filling a spot on the West End in 2023, playing at the Wyndham Theatre from February. The classic Rodgers and Hammerstein text remains unchanged, but this is Oklahoma as you’ve never seen it before. Billed as ‘punchy, playful and sexy’, this thrilling new take on a classic tale won a Tony for Best Musical Revival on Broadway, and was hit with all the 5 star reviews you could want this side of the pond. Go for the story you know, stay for the reimagining you won’t forget.

Guys and Dolls

London is loving retelling some classic tales in 2023, and there’s another old timer heading back to the West End with a twist in tow. Guys and Dolls will open at the Bridge Theatre in February, and not only is it a new take on a well-known show, but there are some big names attached too. With choreography by Arlene Phillips, the show features Daniel Mays, Celinde Schoenmaker and Marisha Wallace to name but a few. Get yourself lucky and grab a ticket for this one!

Ain’t Too Proud 

Ain’t Too Proud is the newest jukebox musical hot stepping in to the West End next year, and it’s sure to be welcomed with open arms. Telling the story of one of Motown’s finest, The Temptations, and featuring some of their biggest hits, the original Broadway production received 11 Tony award nominations in 2019. Now, it’ll be livening up London with that smooth sound, arriving at the Prince Edward Theatre in March. Get ready, indeed!

The Drifter’s Girl tour

Another jukebox musical, but this one is hitting the road and coming to a stage near you! Following none other than musical legends The Drifter’s, the show enjoyed its West End debut recently, with a talented cast headed up by Beverly Knight, and later, Felicia Boswell. Initial tour dates have been announced for 2024, with further dates and casting to be announced, so stand by to catch this hot young thing as it passes by!

The Wizard of Oz

Hot on the heels of their critically acclaimed production of Billy Elliot, Leicester’s Curve Theatre has knocked it out of the park again. Their newest Made at Curve production, directed by Nikolai Foster has been picked up for a 2023 transfer to London before the initial run has barely started. Another classic tale, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this is one for all the family, good or wicked alike. Catch it in Leicester if you’re quick, or at the London Palladium from June.

What are you excited to see in 2023?

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