Our Top Theatre Shows Of 2023
In 2023, Theatre and Tonic managed to see over 470 shows across the UK which is a huge achievement as we step into our 10th anniversary year. 2023 was a year jam-packed with exceptional theatre including revived classics and bold new work making it a hugely exciting year for British Theatre. Maybe you are already looking to 2024 and our roundup of the shows to see in 2024 will certainly get you excited! So before it’s time to wrap up another year in theatre, Theatre and Tonic’s writers pick their top shows from across the UK and Ireland, so expect nods to some excellent plays, musicals, dance, and immersive theatre!
1. NEWSIES, TROUBADOUR WEMBLEY PARK THEATRE
Kicking off my year with the award-winning NEWSIES in London was pretty spectacular! It was definitely worth the hype for me with jaw-dropping synchronized choreography and an unforgettable musical score that I’m still envious I never got to see it for a second time.
2. BLACK SABBATH BALLET, BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET
When Birmingham Royal Ballet announced they’d be doing Black Sabbath Ballet I basically jumped at any chance to be able to witness what they had created. It didn’t disappoint, it was some of the most beautiful choreography I had seen and it really elevated what dance can be for modern audiences in such a special way.
3. LORD OF THE RINGS, WATERMILL THEATRE
I finally experienced for myself what a magical place Watermill Theatre is in 2023. Their production of The Lord of The Rings during the summer blew me away and I discovered a newfound appreciation for smaller venues.
4. THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON MUSICAL, SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE
I still haven’t yet recovered emotionally from The Curious Case of Benjamin Button Musical which is probably my favourite new musical I encountered in 2023. An incredibly powerful and moving production that deserves a return to the stage as soon as possible.
5. JOHANNES RADEBE: FREEDOM UNLEASHED, UK TOUR
Johannes Radebe’s firecracker of a show FREEDOM UNLEASHED genuinely is a theatrical celebration of everything about him. His joy and gratitude for dance and where it led him professionally and mentally was everything to experience. I just sat with my jaw on the floor for the entirety of the show.
6. OPERATION MINCEMEAT, FORTUNE THEATRE
Such a funny, clever, and at times emotional show that can be enjoyed by a wide range of audiences. Operation Mincemeat has really taken the West End by storm since its arrival and we love it!
7. THE OCEAN AT THE END OF THE LANE, UK TOUR & NOEL COWARD THEATRE
From top to bottom, The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a beautiful show in every aspect. This tense, gripping, yet gentle and heartwarming, at times magical and mind blowing. Theatre at its very, very best! The set was stunning, the script was engaging, the performances were brilliant, and the music is a work of art.
8. MOULIN ROUGE, PICCADILLY THEATRE
It would be hard for me to not mention this show. Jamie Muscato gave what is one of my top performances of the year as Christian. He embodied the character brilliantly and the show was just a pleasure to watch.
9. HAMILTON, UK TOUR
Seeing the tour open in Manchester made me love and appreciate the beauty of this show. You feel much more of the emotion and a connection when seeing it in person rather than watching the proshot. Billy Luke Nevers was a true joy to watch and a stand out in that cast.
10. CRUISE, HOME MANCHESTER
The script is amazing and Jack Holden’s performance was brilliant. The way in which it was staged to use as much of the space as possible and keep you engaged is so clever.
11. DAVE BIDDY - BABY DINOSAUR, BRIGHTON FRINGE
Dave’s energy and concept were the perfect foundation to build upon with this show. Absolutely bonkers, I hurt from laughing so much. A really outstanding solo show.
12. THE LIGHT HOUSE, LEEDS PLAYHOUSE
A very emotional and evocative play that shows us a different perspective on mental health issues, expertly acted. Such an important piece of theatre.
13. THE ENORMOUS CROCODILE, LEEDS PLAYHOUSE
A fun, madcap take on a Roald Dahl book that gets the entire family involved. Staggeringly good puppetry with an atmosphere perfect to bring children to the magic of live theatre.
14. COWBOIS, THE SWAN THEATRE STRATFORD-UPON-AVON
At times touching, at times incredibly silly, this tale of a non-binary outlaw on the run coming to a town full of womenfolk and a drunken sheriff is thought-provoking enough to make you want to see this more than once. However, it’s not the last we’ve heard of Cowbois which has a London run already planned for 2024.
15. GROUNDHOG DAY, THE OLD VIC
The finest new musical of the last decade, it debuted at the Old Vic before somehow flopping on Broadway and then this year coming back to the Old Vic for a sold-out run. Still makes me cry. Andy Karl was a joy to watch on stage, and Tanisha Spring was a welcome addition to the strong cast. The music is so catchy and the story is given a lease on life in the stage show.
16. PHANTOM PEAK, LONDON
The best immersive theatre show in London where you get to explore a fictional steampunk-themed Wild West frontier town with a cast of brilliant actors ready to help with daft but incredibly fun missions.
17. AKHNATEN, THE COLISEUM
Phelim McDermott gets lots of plaudits for My Neighbour Totoro but Akhnaten beats it in terms of sheer emotion, scale and invention. Its comeback to the Coliseum was much-anticipated and brought people back to the opera house in droves.
18. PEEPING TOM: TRIPTYCH, BARBICAN THEATRE
Utterly bonkers and darkly mysterious hat-trick of pieces wrapped into one show. The physical storytelling is as fluent as the movement.
19. ACCIDENTAL DEATH OF AN ANARCHIST, THEATRE ROYAL HAYMARKET
Daniel Rigby made this play my stand out of the year. The way he would switch between characters and move about the stage was like nothing I’d ever seen before, but below this facade of silliness late and incredibly important message for today’s society which really stuck with me.
20. STEPHEN SONDHEIM’S OLD FRIENDS, GIELGUD THEATRE
The best tribute to the late Stephen Sondheim. With such an ensemble cast as this, how could it not be on the list! Following repeated viewing of the recorded concert, I could not wait to see this concert live, and I was not disappointed. This show is the reason I have listened to so much Sondheim in the latter part of this year.
21. MANIC STREET CREATURE, SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE BOROUGH
Such an excellent score with a deep and meaningful message. Maimuna Memon had the entire audience in the palm of her hand and I have not stopped listening to her back catalogue of work since.
22. SCOUTS! THE MUSICAL, THE OTHER PALACE
Such a fun and entertaining evening. This show did not take itself too seriously and had the kind of audience participation I enjoy. The entire cast were so talented, particularly in the way they would effortlessly switch from one instrument to the next.
23. OH WHAT A LOVELY WAR!, SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE
This dark yet comic show made me smile one moment and then in a state of stunned silence the next. The comic sections were so funny and the songs remain memorable even now.
24. NOUGHTS AND CROSSES, UK TOUR
A fantastic retelling of Malorie Blackman’s classic story of two star-crossed lovers. The show was polished and portrayed themes that are very prominent in society in 2023.
25. HAMNET, THE RSC
A beautiful depiction of Maggie O’Farrell’s best-selling novel. World-class sell-out theatre on a stunning stage with a sensational portrayal of love, hope and family.
26. THE FULL MONTY, UK TOUR
A hilariously funny but accurate depiction of society in Sheffield in the 1990s. You will have to watch and wait to see whether the guys leave their hats on or not!
27. THE BOX OF DELIGHTS, THE RSC
A tremendous delight of joy and love. An alternative to the classic Christmas pantomime this was a magical retelling of John Masefield’s novel. For those of us who like to daydream, find magic fascinating as well as dark, and have a strong imagination, this production provides joy and a drop of dew on a Winter’s evening! There is no bleak midwinter here!
28. LORD OF THE FLIES, BELGRADE THEATRE COVENTRY
A diverse depiction of desperation, despair and disappointment! A fantastic adaptation from Leeds Playhouse and Belgrade Theatre Coventry. This dystopian tale of a collection of children who have landed on a desert island provided excitement and anticipation for the audience members. The use of sign language throughout the performance also provided this adaptation with a different dynamic that was done really well.
29. GECKO THEATRE - KIN, UK TOUR
An absolutely mind boggling company creating the most magical and enchanting theatrical experiences. Kin is gut wrenching and sheer storytelling excellence.
30. BACK TO THE FUTURE, ADELPHI THEATRE
Bizarre and brilliant. A show with no inhibitions that is really not afraid to let loose and let you have the best time with it.
31. THE SNOW QUEEN, PROPEL DANCE
The UK’s first all wheelchair professional dance company presents the most captivating and enthralling production that does not come to play! Powerful and inspirational, this piece breaks the boundaries of what’s possible.
32. GUYS AND DOLLS, BRIDGE THEATRE
There’s no show like it in London, it’s breathing fresh air into an old classic, reimagining it in the most magical immersive space. The phenomenal cast is clearly having a ball and I defy anybody to leave the theatre NOT singing “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat”! No wonder it keeps extending!!
33. MEDEA, @SOHOPLACE
The most tragically gripping story which has survived centuries was brought into the 21st century at @sohoplace early this year. This production showed how timeless the Greek tragedies can be and modernised it so expertly. It had the audience on the edge of their seat from the choral introduction. I really hope to see more plays like this in the future!
34. NO LIMITS SONG CYCLE, TURBINE THEATRE
No Limits was such a gorgeous show and deserved every success. Sam Thomas has created something so incredibly special, which audiences adored. Beautiful songs and really heartwarming messages. I really hope this show is picked up again so that it can be adored by even more fans!
35. I WISH MY LIFE WERE LIKE A MUSICAL , EDINBURGH FRINGE
With catchy tunes and charismatic performances, ‘I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical’ is a simply joyous production dedicated to the world of musical theatre… swoon!
36. BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE, EDINBURGH FRINGE
With both strong vocal and storytelling abilities, Actress Apphia Campbell [as a Nina Simone-inspired fictional character] in ‘BITCOMV’ had me in a trance! Her performance was STUNNING.
37. THROUGH THE MUD, EDINBURGH
Another show with a compelling Apphia Campbell at the forefront, plus strong counterpart Tinashe Warikandwa, ‘Through The Mud’ tells an impactful intergenerational story about the struggle for Civil Rights. It is a passionately written production that I certainly won’t forget!
38. LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, REGENTS PARK OPEN-AIR THEATRE
A wonderful first introduction to this classic show for me. With glorious choreography and an outstanding cast, it was so good that I even sat through the rain to see it.
39. THE LITTLE BIG THINGS, @SOHOPLACE
A show that surprised me. A heartbreaking but uplifting story, told amazingly by a superb and inclusive cast. With catchy songs, this is definitely one of my highlights of the year.
40. CRAZY FOR YOU, GILLIAN LYNNE THEATRE
The flimsiest of plots doesn’t matter as this production is pure joy from start to finish. Charlie Stemp’s performance in Crazy For You is unreal. From the first bars of the overture to the incredible finale, it’s theatrical gold.
41. DEAR ENGLAND, PRINCE EDWARD THEATRE
This is a brilliantly staged rollercoaster and brought back all the highs and lows of following the England team with way more laughs than I expected. This one isn’t just for football fans and you can get completely immersed in the drama as it unfolds.
42. NEXT TO NORMAL, DONMAR WAREHOUSE
Heartbreaking perfection with incredible performances from every cast member. So glad it’s coming back so more people have a chance to see it. But don’t read too many reviews before you go, because spoilers!
43. SHIRLEY VALENTINE, DUKE OF YORK’S THEATRE
This one woman play really showcased Sheridan Smith’s acting talent. A funny and heartbreaking story of life, love and rediscovery.
44. A LITTLE LIFE, HAROLD PINTER THEATRE
One of the most raw and powerful pieces of theatre I have ever seen. Utterly heartbreaking yet completely captivating.
45. SUNSET BOULEVARD, SAVOY THEATRE
Jamie Lloyd has done it again. This production of Sunset Boulevard was incredible. The video design and cinematography was out of this world and the cast were just perfect.
46. A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, PHOENIX THEATRE
This play is a timeless classic. Brilliant directed and performed by a formidable cast. What more can I say?
47. ASSASSINS, CHICHESTER FESTIVAL THEATRE
Assassins at the CFT really showcased how important regional theatre is. Worthy of any stage in the country, this production had to glued from start to finish! Bravo!
48. IMMERSIVE 1984, HACKNEY TOWN HALL
This was a brilliant adaptation which genuinely terrified me. It speaks volumes about today’s society and how we must be mindful of the words we say.
49. THE SECRET GARDEN, THEATRE AT THE TABARD
This is a beautifully earnest retelling of a childhood favourite of mine and felt a refreshing break from the mad rush of preparing for Christmas.
50. CINDERELLA, NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE
This was a perfect traditional panto which made me laugh often and restored some of my Christmas spirit. The perfect festive watch.
51. POLICE COPS THE MUSICAL, SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE
An absolutely hilarious musical love letter to the police cop movies of the 80’s. I couldn’t stop laughing throughout and I very much look forward to its return next year!
52. LA CLIQUE, LEICESTER SQUARE
This show was an absolutely brilliant and intimate exploration of many different types of cabaret performances. Whether amazing aero acrobatics or popcorn-laden chaos, the show has definitely something for everyone.
53. I DANIEL BLAKE, UK TOUR
A raw, relevant and heartbreaking piece that highlights issues that are devastatingly relevant in today's society.
54. PRIDE AND PREJUDICE (SORT OF), UK TOUR
From a fifty pence paperback to a prize-winning show, Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort of) pulls all the punches when entertainment is the order of the day. This show is pure perfection. Witty, wonderful and everything I want from my comedy.
55. CINDERELLA: A FAIRYTALE, NORTHERN STAGE
Absorbing, enchanting and pure theater magic. Northern Stage’s Christmas show was like stepping into a traditional fairytale. From the aesthetically captivating set design (Alison Ashton) to the compelling narrative, the piece as a whole works perfectly from start to finish.
56. RAVEN, ALPHABETTI THEATRE
It's wild entertainment with a huge heart. Children’s theatre is an integral part in the world of performing arts and Raven was a brilliant example of the vast and wonderful shows there are out there!
57. NO.9, NORTHERN STAGE
A piece that is crafted with bold honesty that hits with a gut-wrenching blow. The message was crystal clear - sexual assault and rape crimes need to be taken seriously and with humility and care.
58. IN DREAMS, LEEDS PLAYHOUSE
The new musical from & Juliet writer David West Read starred Tony Winner and Broadway star Lena Hall, and West End star Oliver Tompsett in a show that shows that it is never too late to tell your friends and family you love them using the music of Roy Orbison. The entire company were brilliant and after spending the summer at Leeds Playhouse the show moved onto the Ed Mirvish theatre in Toronto. Seeing Lena Hall on stage was a huge tick off the stagey bucket list and I hope we get to see the show in the West End soon.
59. TO WONG FOO, HOPE MILL THEATRE
Thanks for everything Julie Newmar!! Based on the cult movie classic, this tale of three darg queens getting stranded in small town USA and everyone’s lives being altered was a true joy. Peter Caulfield is always amazing as was Gregory Haney and Pablo Gomez Jones. An outstanding cast which I hope we haven’t seen the last of. Hope Mill Theatre scores a home run again.
60. MISS SAIGON, SHEFFIELD THEATRES
The first non replica production of the iconic Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil show. The staging of the show was VERY different to the production most people are used to but it was incredible. The stand out was Joanna Ampil returning to Miss Saigon but this time playing the Engineer, a role usually played by a man. This casting decision totally changed the story of the character and was worth the ticket price alone.
61. THESE DEMONS, THEATRE503
‘An eerie, spine-tingling production, that has a beautiful sound design immersing you in the world, and providing world-class theatre in the ever brilliant Theatre503 season.
62. LITTLE WOMEN THE MUSICAL, CHELTENHAM PLAYHOUSE
One of the best casting decisions of 2023, this amateur production of Allan Knee’s musical easily rivalled those of a more professional scale.
63. BIRTHMARKED, ASSEMBLY BALLROOM (EDINBURGH FRINGE)
The real epitome of an Emotional Rollercoaster, Brooke Tate’s story takes the top spot of My Theatre Shows in 2023, with spellbinding designs, and a tight-knit band who lifted and guided each other throughout.
64. GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF THE MUSICAL, NOEL COWARD THEATRE
A real escapism to the baking world in 2023, you felt at home watching this much-loved TV show expand on stage, with catchy tunes, emotional storylines, and contestants you could champion throughout.
65. KATHY AND STELLA, BRISTOL OLD VIC
Seeing how this musical has developed since it’s first outing in 2022, the progression has been staggering, with it’s tour, reaching Bristol and Manchester, bringing together theatrical sleuths to solve the mystery alongside the two leads
66. SCOTTISH BALLET’S STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
I loved everything about this stunning production and have spent most of the year telling everyone I know how good it was! The flawless choreography and the production’s tough themes and raw presentation captivated me from the start.
67. JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, UK TOUR
I’m a big JCSS fan and was delighted to finally see this most recent adaptation. It lived up to my expectations for sure.
68. NATIONAL THEATRE OF SCOTLAND’S KIDNAPPED
This was a great piece of theatre packed with catchy tunes and lots of good old Scottish humour!
69. WICKED, UK TOUR
As the ultimate Wicked fangirl, this had to be on the list! The tour production delivers everything you come to expect from Wicked and I can’t wait for more people to experience it as the tour continues.
70. OKLAHOMA!, WYNDHAM'S THEATRE
Such an inventive reimagining, the space worked perfectly to bring the audience in, and even if you knew the story it felt fresh.
71. MACBETH, THE RSC
A phenomenal cast, Macbeth is one of my favourites and can be difficult to pull off, but if anyone can do it, the RSC can.
72. SIX, UK TOUR
Everything you want from a touring show - suits any stage, incredible vocals, and a 90 minute run time with no interval - perfect!
73. A CHRISTMAS CAROL, THE OLD VIC
Just pure festive joy! Something for the whole family, and a wonderfully feelgood show at that!
74. THE NUTCRACKER, TUFF NUTT JAZZ CLUB
Drew McOnie’s unbelievably spectacular modern take of The Nuctacker contains amazing performances from all the dancers and great music.
Read our review of The Nutcracker
75. TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL, ALDWYCH THEATRE
An emotional insight into the life and story of Tina Turner. For someone like myself that isn’t too into the music of this musical legend, I had the upmost respect for her as a character after seeing the show.
76. DIRTY DANCING, DOMINION THEATRE
Just an absolute delight to see on stage. A likeable cast and recognizable set, this was my guilty pleasure of the year.
77. EUGENIUS, TURBINE THEATRE
A fun, 80s-inspired stage show! You’re guaranteed to leave with a smile.
78. THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, ALMEIDA THEATRE
A honey sweet production, inspired by the critically acclaimed novel and doing it great justice.
79. STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW, PHOENIX THEATRE
A world-class production, and amazing addition to the London theatre scene. Sure to thrill, delight and leave you wanting more.
80. A STRANGE LOOP, BARBICAN THEATRE
This show is easily one of the most heartfelt and insightful pieces of theatre I watched this year. Though the subject matter was intense, I feel incredibly privileged to have seen this story being told, and by such a phenomenal cast.
81. 42ND STREET, LONDON
42nd Street has been a firm favourite of mine since seeing the Theatre Royal Drury Lane production in 2018. The Sadler’s Wells production was a delight to watch, and I’m so sad that the tour has had to stop short and I won’t be able to see this show again next summer.
82. DIVAS: FROM STAGE TO SCREEN (EDINBURGH FRINGE)
Over the past few years, Big Band Productions has cemented itself as a key figure in the Edinburgh Fringe, going from strength to strength. I can’t wait to see what they bring to the 2024 Fringe!
83. BRAVE MACBETH (EDINBURGH FRINGE)
A staple of the Edinburgh Fringe’s family theatre, Brave Macbeth was one of my favourite productions this year! This hour-long condensed telling of Shakespeare’s iconic play is full of catchy music, quick wit and a whole load of fun!
But most importantly, what were some ofyour favourite shows in 2023?
