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Best West End shows for solo theatregoers

Embrace your independence and head to an entertaining and thought-provoking show of your choice.

Julia Rank
Written byJulia Rank

Solo theatregoing is a fantastic opportunity to go to the theatre on your own terms and to develop your personal taste. It might feel a bit daunting at first but there’s nothing to be frightened of. Bring a good book for the interval - or maybe you'll find yourself chatting to your neighbour.

Attending the theatre solo provides an opportunity to really relax and savour the experience without having to worry about the needs of a companion. Once you’ve tried it once, you’re sure to find it incredibly liberating. If you’re not sure where to start, try one of these shows that are filled with heart and intelligence.

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Summary

  • Develop your personal taste through solo theatregoing; after you've tried it once it's incredibly liberating
  • Delve in with one of the West End's cleverest and most thought-provoking shows

Matilda The Musical

Into The Woods

Hadestown

The Mousetrap

Hamilton

Stranger Things: The First Shadow

My Neighbour Totoro

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

Musical
New writing
Book adaptation

Based on the best-selling novel by Rachel Joyce, new musical The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry tells the story of the titular Mr Fry, who is living quietly in Devon with his wife Maureen, when he receives an unexpected letter from his old friend Queenie and sets off on a solo trip to Northumberland. With a score by indie musician Passenger, it’s a quirky and refreshing new piece of musical theatre that’s certain to put a spring into any solo theatregoer’s step. Mark Addy and Jenna Russell star.

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The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

My Neighbour Totoro

Play
Studio Ghibli
Fantasy

Based on the Studio Ghibli film, the stage adaptation of My Neighbour Totoro has been an audience favourite since its premiere in 2022. Set in the 1950s, the story of two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside following their mother’s illness and encounter a host of woodland spirits, including the furry giant Totoro, is a true heart-warmer presented with the utmost artistry. It’s a lovely, thoughtful show with some of the most enchanting puppetry you’ll ever see. It's sure to soothe the soul of any solo theatregoer.

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My Neighbour Totoro

Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Play
Award winner
Science fiction

Escape to Hawkins, Indiana in 1959, which appears peaceful on the outside, but nothing is quite as it seems. When newcomer Henry Creel arrives, everything turns topsy-turvy. A prequel to the hit Netflix series that expands on the show’s rich mythology, Stephen Daldry’s production is filled with extraordinary special effects and detailed storytelling that becomes all the richer upon thoughtful reflection.

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Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Hamilton

Musical
Iconic
History

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revisionist historical epic boasts an extraordinarily eclectic score with its mash-up of musical theatre, hip hop, R&B, and soul influences, and some of the cleverest lyrics you’ll ever hear. The love-hate relationship between the impulsive Alexander Hamilton and serious-minded Aaron Burr provides the push-pull of the drama. You’ll learn so much about Revolutionary Era America while being thoroughly entertained - why not pick a favourite aspect of the show to study in more depth afterwards?

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Hamilton

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09:00

The Breakfast Club

Head to one of The Breakfast Club’s central London branches for a slap-up English cafe classic.

10:30

Buckingham Palace

Is there anything more British than the changing of the guards? Arrive early for a good spot to watch this historic event, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10.45am.

The Mousetrap

Agatha Christie
Thriller
Iconic

Secrecy is the name of the game with Agatha Christie’s record-breaking thriller that’s been playing in the West End for over 70 years – everyone who enters makes an unspoken pact not to give away the ending afterwards! A group of individuals are stranded at a remote country house when they find out that there’s a murderer in their midst and there’s nowhere to hid. Featuring all of the Queen of Crime’s hallmark tricksy tropes and left-field twists, it’s a real workout for the brain. Perhaps discuss your theories with your neighbour at the interval, or keep your cards close to your chest!

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The Mousetrap

Hadestown

Musical
Award winner
Romance

Anaïs Mitchell’s folk musical has been enchanting audiences on Broadway and in the West End for several years now. Based on the twin Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone, the show features a post-apocalyptic setting and unforgettable trip to the Underworld. Immersive yourself in the beautiful music and inventive storytelling. It’s truly one to savour and wallow in and enormously rewarding to experience on a solo outing.

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Hadestown

Into The Woods

Musical
Stephen Sondheim
Must see

Stephen Sondheim’s fairy-tale musical returns to London in a new production by Jordan Fein (Fiddler on the Roof). Join Cinderella, Jack, the Baker and his Wife, Little Red Riding Hood, and the Witch as they head into the woods to pursue their wishes. What would your wish be? Remember, no one is alone, especially not when united watching such a rich, meaningful show.

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Into The Woods

Matilda The Musical

Musical
Book adaptation
Iconic

The young heroine of Tim Minchin’s musical adaption of Roald Dahl’s beloved novel is remarkably clever and independent yet horribly neglected by her parents – but she isn’t going to stand for any nonsense! It’s an extraordinary tale of empowerment that features irresistible songs, ingenious production design, and extraordinary young talent. Be sure to recreate the iconic hands-on-hips pose!

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Matilda The Musical