West End shows set to open in 2026

London’s West End is already preparing for a packed 2026, with a line-up that blends new writing, bold revivals and high-profile transfers. From star-led re-imaginings of classics to stage adaptations of recent novels and films, there’s already a juicy wad of material in the pipeline.

Major names including Cynthia Erivo, Johannes Radebe, and Ralph Fiennes are set to take centre stage – and we know for a fact there’s a whole host of exciting productions that haven’t even been revealed yet – so expect more information in due course.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

Adapted by Rachel Joyce from her novel, the musical features songs by Passenger and is directed by Katy Rudd. Mark Addy reprises his role as Harold, with Jenna Russell as Maureen. The transfer comes after a sold-out, critically celebrated premiere at Chichester Festival Theatre. Theatre Royal Haymarket, from 29 January to 18 April

I’m Sorry, Prime Minister

I’m Sorry, Prime Minister, written and directed by Jonathan Lynn, will move from Cirencester to London. Griff Rhys Jones starred as ex–Prime Minister Jim Hacker, with Clive Francis reprising Sir Humphrey Appleby. The play follows Hacker’s disrupted retirement at Oxford’s Hacker College and his reliance on Sir Humphrey in an era he barely recognises. Apollo Theatre, from 30 January to 25 April 2026.

Dracula

Less “For Good” and more “For Blood”! Big-screen Elphaba Cynthia Erivo returns to the stage in a one-actor adaptation of Dracula. Directed by Kip Williams, the production features Erivo portraying all 23 characters, including Jonathan Harker, Mina, Van Helsing, and Dracula himself. This “cine-theatre” staging – merging live performance with pre-recorded film and live video – offers a contemporary and psychological interpretation of the gothic classic. Noël Coward Theatre, from 4 February to 31 May

Kinky Boots

The Tony-, WhatsOnStage Award-, Olivier- and Grammy-winning musical Kinky Boots will first begin previews at Curve, Leicester, on 3 March 2026 and then open in the West End. Johannes Radebe, known from Strictly Come Dancing, makes his West End debut, reprising his role as Lola from the UK and Ireland tour. Directed by Nikolai Foster with a book by Harvey Fierstein and music by Cyndi Lauper, the production follows Charlie Price as he revives a failing shoe factory with help from Lola to create a line of high-heeled boots and find acceptance. The London Coliseum from 17 March to 11 July.

Grace Pervades

David Hare’s Grace Pervades transfers to London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket for a limited West End season beginning in April 2026, following its premiere at Theatre Royal Bath in summer 2025. Ralph Fiennes and Miranda Raison lead the cast as Henry Irving and Ellen Terry. Theatre Royal Haymarket, from April