Written by Jenna for Theatre and Tonic

It’s that time again — autumn is here, the nights are drawing in so what better time to take a trip to the theatre! In 2025–2026, UK theatre feels like a cosy reunion: old friends back onstage, new faces joining, nostalgic shows and a whole lot of theatrical warmth. Here is our weekly roundup of some highlights to get excited about, brought to you by Theatre & Tonic.

Reunion announced for Be More Chill

Previous Be More Chill production image at The Other Palace.

Heads up, Be More Chill fans: a reunion concert is in the works to celebrate the show’s 5th anniversary. Don’t miss your chance to hear those cult-favourite songs live again, catch up with the original West End cast, and bask in the nostalgia. Be More Chill is playing at the Arts Theatre for one night only on 10th November 2025.

‘Bank of Dave’ to become brand-new musical in 2026

You know the story: Burnley’s own David Fishwick taking on the banking world against the odds. Now his tale is heading to the stage. Bank of Dave: The Musical will have its world premiere at The Lowry, Salford, from 2nd to 16th May 2026, before transferring to Curve, Leicester from 20th to 30th May 2026. Rob Madge (book & lyrics) and Pippa Cleary (music) lead the creative team. This domestic underdog story—with plenty of humour, heart, and northern spirit—feels like the kind of show that will attract both regular theatre-goers and Netflix fans alike.

Omigod You Guys! Legally Blonde announces Elle Woods casting

Big news in the world of Legally Blonde: Amber Davies has been announced as Elle Woods for the upcoming UK & Ireland tour. The tour opens at Curve, Leicester on 7th February 2026 and runs until 7th January 2027. It’s a smart choice: she’s already a known face in musical theatre from shows such as Pretty Woman and The Great Gatsby, and her casting gives this classic a fresh, high-profile lead. Amber was also announced this week as a contestant on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, replacing the injured Dani Dyer.

Megan Hilty to play solo concert in London

Broadway and screen star Megan Hilty will make her way back to London with a solo concert at Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 24th May 2026, at 7pm. This is her first London appearance since 2018, and fans can expect a mix of songs from her stage and screen repertoire - including from Death Becomes Her, Wicked, Smash, 9 to 5 - plus stories from backstage.

Beetlejuice to haunt the West End in 2026

The mischievous spirit is crossing the Atlantic: Beetlejuice: The Musical will open at Prince Edward Theatre in May 2026, for a limited run. The Broadway hit will be making its much-anticipated West End debut, so expect a lot of energy, spectacle, and “ghost with the most” antics. Casting for the show is still to be announced, so watch this space!

Cockfosters casts up for a festive run in London

Comedy lovers, mark your calendars: Cockfosters returns to Southwark Playhouse Borough from 4th December 2025 to 3rd January 2026. The cast includes Princess Donnough and Verity Bajoria, along with returning cast members such as Beth Lilly, Emily Waters, Liam Horrigan, Sam Rees-Baylis and Charlie Keable. After multiple sold-out runs in London, this seasonal return feels like a warm annual reunion for fans.

Lucie Jones announces biggest solo concert yet at London Palladium

West End and international star Lucie Jones will headline her biggest solo concert yet at the London Palladium on 16th February 2026. The show will mix reimagined musical theatre classics, powerful covers, and intimate moments, with special guests and collaborations adding to the spectacle. Jones calls the night ‘a lifelong dream’ and her ‘most authentic artistic expression to date’. She is currently starring in 13 Going on 30 in Manchester, playing Jenna Rink. Tickets to Lucie’s solo concert go on sale on 30th September.

Cast announced for Dracapella

Dracapella (vampires & a cappella — fun, right?) is shaping up nicely, with a star-studded cast announcement this week. Park Theatre has announced the cast of this musical comedy, featuring The Greatest Showman’s Keala Settle alongside West End stars Ako Mitchell, Stephen Ashfield and Lorna Want. Running from 3rd December 2025 to 17th January 2026 in Park200, the show by Jez Bond and Dan Patterson puts a comic spin on Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Birmingham Rep’s reveals bold new season for 2026

Under new Artistic Director Joe Murphy, Birmingham Repertory Theatre is kicking off a compelling season with iconic titles like Sweeney Todd, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and new production Small Island, among others. This is part of Murphy’s first season at the Rep, making a statement about ambition and musical theatre at a regional level again.

Paddington musical teases its first song

And finally, for younger and older theatregoers alike, Paddington the Musical is inching closer! This week saw the show’s first song released - “Explorer and the Bear.” Written by Tom Fletcher and featuring an incredible cast, the musical opens at the Savoy Theatre this winter with previews starting on 1st November 2025.

There’s something deeply comforting about a season filled with reunions, old favourites and new beginnings. Amber Davies stepping into Elle Woods, Megan Hilty crossing the pond, Bank of Dave joining the musical ranks, there’s so much to be excited about in the world of theatre. Why not check out our reviews to help you choose your next show?

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