Top 5 theatre openings: 10 – 16 July

5. Touch

Soho Theatre, 11 July to 26 August

This new work from Drywrite – the creators of smash hit Fleabag – is about a 33-year old woman, Dee, who is new to London and looking to reinvent herself. Dee is played by the marvellous Amy Morgan (Travesties, Red Velvet), and it's directed by the equally marvelous Vicky Jones.

Watch a conversation with Phoebe Waller Bridge and Vicky Jones

4. Bodies

Royal Court, 11 July to 12 August

This new play by Vivienne Franzmann explores the human cost of surrogacy, and what we’ll overlook to get what we want. Jude Christian returns to direct at the Court following Lela & Co in 2015. Cast includes Justine Mitchell and Broadchurch's Hannah Rae.

Read about the Royal Court's new autumn/winter season

3. Yank!

Charing Cross Theatre, 10 July to 19 August

This musical about the history of gay soldiers during World War Two focuses on Stu, a youngster who signs up in 1943 and writes for the military newspaper. It had its UK premiere at the Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester earlier this year and now transfers to the Charing Cross Theatre.

The top 5 shows to celebrate Pride in London this year

2. A Tale of Two Cities

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, 14 July to 5 August

Depending on the weather, a trip to this lush venue can be the best of times or the worst of times, but we're pretty sure Matthew Dunster's new take on Dickens' classic tale is one not to be missed. Directed by Open Air Theatre's AD, Timothy Sheader, this new adaptation asks: "How much more do those in power think Europe’s poor can take?"

The best open air theatre in London this summer

1. Queen Anne

Theatre Royal Haymarket, 14 July to 5 August

Romola Garai and Emma Cunniffe star in the RSC's production of Helen Edmundson's play, which originally ran at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon in 2015. Directed by Natalie Abrahami, the piece tells the story of Queen Anne of England, the second daughter of James II. In his review for WhatsOnStage, Michael Coveney called it an 'enthralling, enjoyable new play'.

Read our review of Queen Anne at the Swan Theatre