Photo credit: Cast of Emilia (Photo by Helen Murray)

What to do in London in November: The best streaming and virtual theatre

Sophie Thomas
Sophie Thomas

The clocks have gone back. The nights are drawing in. Livestreamed theatre is here to lift your spirits and see the world with a sunnier disposition. Even though theatres have had to shut their doors once again, here's our top picks of what to watch online selections while self-isolating or staying safe indoors.

The Shows Must Go On

Continuing their livestreams, don't miss a variety of incredible theatre from the archives, thanks to The Shows Must Go On YouTube channel. This month, there's an array of Shakespearean plays to look forward to, including Macbeth starring Patrick Stewart and Richard II featuring Fiona Shaw. Later in the month, sit back and relax with an evening of Shakespeare sonnets, starring David Tennant.

Online, from 2 November.

From Here To Eternity

Relive all your favourite moments from From Here To Eternity, as the 2013 musical is going online. For one weekend only, listen to Tim Rice's original lyrics in the Pearl Harbor-inspired show, which only played six months at the Shaftesbury Theatre.

Online, from 6 November.

Emilia

Having won three Olivier Awards in 2020, Emilia came out on top at this year's ceremony. Relive the all-female play in November with archived footage, set to be released this month. On the first night, you can even join the cast and crew on a livestream. The show is available to stream for two weeks, so there's no excuse to miss out.

Online, from 10-24 November.

[Title of Show]

First entered into the 2004 New York Musical Theatre Festival, this musical about writing a musical has gained a legion of fans across the globe. Surprisingly, it's never been staged in London — until now. Get ready to hear the stagey quartet of Marc Elliott, Tyrone Huntley, Lucie Jones and Jenna Russell in [Title of Show], a musical that's perfect for those with a theatrical sense of humour. It's also recorded at the London Coliseum too, so if you're missing the atmosphere of a bustling West End theatre, then look no further.

Online via the London Coliseum, from 12 November.

The Showstoppers

The company were due to start their Garrick Theatre residency, but lockdown stopped that from happening. Instead, they'll be bringing their quick wit online with two musical livestreams. With state of the art technology and social distancing, it'll feel as if you're in the theatre with The Showstoppers, as they take live suggestions to create new musicals.

Online, from 16 November.

The Last Five Years

After its celebrated return to the Southwark Playhouse last month, audiences around the world can now watch The Last Five Years. Enjoy a filmed performance of the hit revival on stream.theatre, available to watch from 26-29 November. In a review for LondonTheatre.co.uk, Matt Wolf said: "the production this time around possesses a newfound emotional amplitude that is something to behold" so don't miss this production in November.

Online, from 26 November.

The Theatre Channel

Following the inaugural episode and a Halloween affair, get ready to rock out with West End stars, courtesy of The Theatre Cafe. In a rock-themed event, listen to your favourite hits from Rent, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Chess sung by some of the industry's biggest names. Six actors have been confirmed so far, including Rob Houchen and John Owen-Jones. Keep looking on our website to see who else will join them.

Online, from 27 November.

Photo credit: Cast of Emilia (Photo by Helen Murray)

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