The 15 Theatre Shows to see in November (2024)
With the festive season fast approaching (and yes, I’m eagerly awaiting all the festive sandwiches and mulled wine!), the UK’s theatre scene is alive with a lineup of incredible must-see performances this November. Among my personal highlights are the stage adaptation of Ballet Shoes at the Olivier Theatre, and, at long last, Wicked hitting the cinema screen! You’ll notice this guide skips over Christmas shows—but no worries, our dedicated elves are hard at work on festive theatre guides, set to arrive in the coming weeks, so keep an eye out!
Mary Poppins, UK Tour
from 04 November
It’s back! After closing in the West End in 2023, Mary Poppins embarks on a new UK and Ireland tour, kicking off in Bristol. Filled with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs, this is one show for the whole family to enjoy. The production features a timeless score, including the classic songs “Step in Time” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. If you don’t get to catch this in 2024, it’s definitely one to look out for next year!
Going For Gold, Park Theatre
06 - 30 November
Inspired by the true story of Frankie Lucas, a young black boxer navigates the vibrant yet challenging world of 1970s London in this drama playing over at the Park Theatre. It follows Frankie as he follows his dreams of sporting glory (which are far from straightforward), delving into themes of identity, belonging and the meaning of success.
The Importance of Being Earnest, Lyttelton Theatre (National)
21 November - 25 January 2025
Directed by Max Webster, a joyful and flamboyant reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy heads to the National Theatre this November. Featuring an outstanding cast including Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke and Doctor Who’s Ncuti Gatwa, The Importance of Being Earnest takes audiences through a hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance.
Ballet Shoes, Olivier Theatre (National)
From 23 November
Whilst we’re over at the National Theatre, in their Olivier Theatre space is Ballet Shoes. The bestselling book by Noel Streatfeild is being reimagined for the stage for the first time in a new version by Kendall Feaver. The production follows three adopted sisters - Pauline, Petrova and Posy as they discover who they are and what they want to be!
The Red Shoes, The RSC
7 November - 19 January 2025
Hans Christian Anderson’s dark fairy tale is thrust into the 21st century with this new production from the playwright Nancy Harris. Discover what happens when an orphaned woman is taken in by local do-gooders who expect her to be seen and not heard. Dazzled by a pair of beautiful shoes, she sees the chance to do so much more. Both a magical story and a cautionary tale of pride and vanity, The Red Shoes will also unearth how we all deserve to dance how we wish to dance.
Here & Now - The Steps Musical, The Alexandra Birmingham
9-30 November
Who remembers being totally obsessed with the pop group Steps when they were growing up? Lucky for you there’s a brand new musical heading to Birmingham and it features their songs! Here & Now is a heartwarming new musical that will celebrate love and friendship. The premiere in Birmingham in November is prior to plans for a West End run.
The Unseen, Riverside Studios
15 November - 14 December
A new production by Craig Wright, The Unseen follows two strangers who are imprisoned for unknown reasons and a torturer who finds himself torn between his duty and his own self-revulsion. This production will expose audiences to the isolation, guilt, and dehumanising effects of totalitarian repression in a thought-provoking drama reminiscent of Waiting For Godot.
The Sound of Music, Pitlochry Festival Theatre
15 November - 22 December
Presenting one of the greatest classic musicals this November is the Pitlochry Festival Theatre. A joyous and heart-warming musical set in Austria on the eve of World War II, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music is a show that has been loved for generations.
The Happiest Man on Earth, Southwark Playhouse Borough
20 November - 14 December
Adapted from the best-selling memoir by Eddie Jaku, The Happiest Man on Earth is a one-man play about the power of gratitude, tolerance and kindness. Heading to the Southwark Playhouse Borough following its acclaimed world premiere at Barrington Stage Company, stage and film veteran Kenneth Tigar will give audiences an unforgettable performance.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, The Other Palace
20 November - 14 December
Adapted from Rick Riordan’s best-selling novel, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical opens its London premiere at The Other Palace in November. Follow New York City teenager Percy Jackson as he discovers he is the half-blood son of the Greek god, Poseidon and his life takes a dramatic turn. Along with his friends, they embark on an epic adventure! Don’t miss it!
My Fair Lady, Curve Leicester
23 November - 4 January 2025
Filled with comedy, romance and dazzling songs, My Fair Lady takes to the Leicester stage from 23 November. Adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s 1913 Play Pygmalion, My Fair Lady is probably most known for the 1964 Oscar-winning film starring Audrey Hepburn. The show tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, whose life changes when Professor Henry Higgins, a linguistics expert, bets he can transform her into a refined lady.
The Producers, Menier Chocolate Factory
26 November - 1 March 2025
Staging at the first major London revival of Mel Brooks’ musical adaptation of The Producers this winter is the Menier Chocolate Factory. Directed by Tony Award-winning director Patrick Marber and Broadway choreographer Lorin Latarro, The Producers follows the comedic misadventures of two theatrical producers as they scheme to make a fortune by producing the worst Broadway show possible - only for their plan to backfire when the show becomes a hit!
Anton Du Beke - Showman, De Montfort Hall Leicester
19 November
If you are loving Strictly on TV right now, why not join legend and judge Anton Du Beke with his brand new show, Showman. Alongside his live band, special guest Lance Ellington and his dancers, this show promises a fabulous evening of song, dance and laughter. Only on for one night in Leicester but touring to various venues until the end of November!
The Glorious French Revolution (Or: Why Sometimes It Takes A Guillotine To Get Anything Done), New Diorama Theatre
14 November - 14 December 2024
Heading to the New Diorama Theatre is a piece of raucous historical theatre with bite, anarchy, and a bouncy castle. The award-winning YESYESNONO are presenting their biggest show yet - taking on the story of the French Revolution. Five actors will blast audiences through one of the most vital, controversial moments in European history.
Wicked
from 22 November
We know this isn’t a show but to include our November preview we have to talk about the BIGGEST event for theatre lovers in November. The beloved Broadway musical finally releases on the big screen in the UK from the 22 November. Discover the reimagined back story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good in the magical world of Oz. We can’t wait to see what this movie will bring to the theatre world!
What will you be watching in November? Join us again next month for another round up. If you’d like your show feature for the theatre shows to watch in January (2025) drop me an email on theatreandtonic@gmail.com with information and an image!
