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What attracts visitors to London when the weather cools? There is no cricket at Lords or tennis at Wimbledon. The days are short and the weather is even cooler than what purports to be a summer in these parts. The answer is the West End where theatre has always been a mainstay attraction in London whatever the weather. There is nothing quite like the West End for world-class theatre. London and New York which compete on so many levels for global supremacy in finance and cultural influence both offer superlative theatre. But many believe that for sheet range and depth of choice as well as deep professionalism there is nothing, not even Broadway, the match London. Recommended London theatre The four top shows to see right now are all brilliant and well worth the investment. The 39 Steps has just past its second birthday at the Criterion and has just announced that its run has been extended yet again. The play is adapted from the novel by nineteenth century novelist John Buchan and the 1935 film of the book by Alfred Hitchcock. The play is a comedic spoof-thriller about Richard Hannay a London gentleman who is drawn into a foreign plot and ends up on the run himself after a woman is found murdered in his flat. I saw the original London show at the Tricycle before it opened at the Criterion and it is heartily recommended. The production won "Best New Comedy" at the Olivier Awards in 2006. A Broadway spin-off won two Tony Awards this year. I still the recall the excitement I felt when I first saw Grease on screen with Olivia Newton John and John Travolta and I can't believe that was in 1978. Still the songs have stood the test of time and the story still uplifts. One of the classics now, this musical is a very strong revival with a great cast and outstanding choreography. A fantastic family musical for those bringing kids and teenagers to London. The Donmar Warehouse is known in London for its confronting dramas. It is an intimate theatre around a horseshoe stage with only three rows so you can feel the actor's effort and sweat throughout. The theatre attracts major stars returning to the stage for intellectual refreshment. In its latest production Shakespeare veteran Kenneth Branagh has cast Hollywood heart-throb Jude Law as Hamlet. Will Law succeed in such a cramped domain? Many stars have returned to the stage in London to sold-out runs but critical panning. I think Law is cut above the rest and will enhance his reputation in this performance which is certain to be one of the most talked-about shows of the year. Before the film it was a London show. Mamma Mia! may have been a screen sensation but Londoners have been dancing in the aisles to ABBA music for years and we continue to flock to this sensational stage-show in droves. This is a unique production because it is so engaging. You will be drawn into the show and end up on your feet belting out the familiar tunes. Better than a win at the races for lifting your spirits. After the show why not head to Edgware Road. At the Marble Arch end is a row of about 30 Lebanese restaurants each more authentic than the next. The Arabian style strip stays open extra late so you will never go hungry no matter how late you get out. This is London with a twist. Getting to the West End by public transport is a piece of cake. It is served by the Central Line and the Piccadilly line. The Transport for London website is the easiest source of tube and bus information if you have on line access in London.
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Andrew Mitchell loves plays and the West End. He welcomes visitors from around the world to stay with him in London. Professionally he treats people with back and other health problems. Visit his website if you need an osteopath in London or elsewhere in the UK.
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