Looking for the best plays to book in London this Spring 2025? We’ve selected three engaging, thought-provoking shows performed by some awesome actors. Read on to discover the top plays to book now – but don’t delay, they are only on for a few weeks!
| The Score - Theatre Royal, Haymarket |
Nearest stations: Piccadilly Circus, Charing Cross
Booking to: 26th April 2025
‘The Score’ at London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket offers audiences a compelling portrayal of composer Johann Sebastian Bach, brought to captivating, glorious life by Brian Cox. Critics have lauded Cox’s performance, with The Times noting his ‘magnetic’ presence, capturing both Bach’s genius and showmanship. Similarly, TimeOut praised the ‘air of gravitas and profundity’ that he brings to the piece.
Set in 1747, ‘The Score’ depicts the encounter between devout composer Johann Sebastian Bach and the atheist King Frederick II of Prussia. Summoned to Potsdam amidst the turmoil of war, Bach grapples with the contrasting ideologies of the ambitious monarch. The narrative explores themes of faith, artistry and power, culminating in a profound exploration of morality and inspiration. This historical drama offers insight into the complexities of two towering figures of the 18th century.
As well as Brian Cox (winner of two Olivier Awards)., the cast including Nicole Ansari-Cox (Deadwood, Succession), Matthew Burns (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Dona Croll (The Doctor, The American Plan), Royal Shakespeare Company regular Peter de Jersey and Stephen Hagan (You, The Larkins).
‘The Score’ is directed by former artistic director of both the Royal Shakespeare Company & the National Theatre; Trevor has won many awards for productions spanning Les Miserables to The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby.
| Richard II - Bridge Theatre |
Nearest stations: London Bridge, Tower Hill
Booking to: 10th May 2025
The Bridge Theatre’s production of Richard II has garnered significant attention, particularly for Jonathan Bailey’s portrayal of the titular king. The Guardian describes Bailey as “charismatic” highlighting his depiction of a self-indulgent monarch in a modern setting. Similarly, The London Evening Standard praises his performance as “electric,” noting his ability to humanize the flawed king.
Under Nicholas Hytner’s expert direction, the production is lauded for its contemporary approach, making Shakespeare’s exploration of power and downfall feel immediate and relevant.
Richard II delves into the life of King Richard II, a ruler whose mismanagement and autocratic decisions lead to political unrest. The narrative follows Richard’s decline as he faces rebellion led by his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke, culminating in his deposition and tragic demise. The play probes the themes of authority, legitimacy and the human condition. It offers a profound reflection on the fragility of power and the consequences of vanity and arrogance.
Financial Times – 4 stars – ‘Jonathan Bailey is magnetic’
London Evening Standard – 4 stars – ‘Bailey speaks Shakespeare’s verse as if born to it’
The Independent – 4 stars – ‘Jonathan Bailey – wonderful clarity and charisma’
CAST INCLUDES:
Jonathan Bailey (Jurassic World: Rebirth, Bridgerton)
Phoenix Di Sebastiani (Anne Boleyn, The Great, Vicious Words)
Olivia Popica (Liaison)
Amanda Root (Persuasion)
| The Brightening Air - The Old Vic |
Nearest stations: Waterloo, Southwark
Booking to: 14th June 2025
The Brightening Air, opening in April at London’s Old Vic Theatre, centres on siblings Stephen and Billie, who reside in their deteriorating family farmhouse in County Sligo.
Their routine existence is disrupted by the unexpected visits by various relatives: their brother Dermot (portrayed by Chris O’Dowd), whose hidden motives bring tension to the household; their ex-clergyman uncle, with dubious intentions; and a sister-in-law seeking solace.
As these characters converge, the play delves into themes of fate, familial bonds, and the unseen forces that shape their lives, offering a poignant reflection on the complexities of kinship and the enduring impact of the past.
The play boasts a stellar cast led by Chris O’Dowd, delivering performances that bring depth and authenticity to the narrative
Set in 1980s Ireland, the production’s atmospheric design and evocative storytelling have been praised for immersing audiences in a world where past grievances and present challenges intertwine
The inspiration behind the pay’s title is a beautiful poem by W.B. Yeats – The Song of The Wandering Aengus
CAST INCLUDES:
Hannah Morrish (The Merchant of Venice 1936)
Derbhle Crotty (Portia Coughlan),
Eimhin Fitzgerald Doherty (Juno and the Paycock)
Brian Gleeson (Bad Sisters)
Aisling Kearns (Juno and the Paycock)
Seán McGinley (A Whistle in the Dark)
Chris O’Dowd (The IT Crowd)
Rosie Sheehy (Machinal).
Conor McPherson and the Old Vic are a combination with a pedigree – his last play Girl from the North Country was produced at the Vic, won Olivier and Tony Awards and transferred to the west end & Broadway
Booking NOW from 10 Apr–14 Jun 2025
Thanks for reading & we hope that’s given you some inspiration when looking for some of the best plays to book in London’s fantastic West End this Spring 2025. Keep connected with TheatreMail.net to get more ideas for your social diary as they are announced – on our What’s On page or via our Facebook page – hope to see you in the plush velvet seats soon!
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