The second half of 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting periods for new musicals in the UK in recent memory. A mix of world premieres, international imports, and long-awaited European debuts means theatregoers have plenty of reasons to start planning ahead.
Here is a look at some of the standout titles on the way.
Beetlejuice Arrives in the West End
The cult musical Beetlejuice opens at the Prince Edward Theatre from 20 May. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers with a score by Eddie Perfect, the show became a fan favourite on Broadway before arriving in London. Its blend of dark comedy and theatrical spectacle should make it one of the biggest draws of the summer season.
Death Note Gets a Reimagined World Premiere
Frank Wildhorn's mega manga musical Death Note takes over the Barbican from 30 July to 12 September. Based on the iconic Japanese manga series, the show follows a high school student who discovers a notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it. This reimagined production features a revised script and new songs, promising a fresh take on material that has already attracted a global following.
Kimberly Akimbo Makes Its European Premiere
The Tony Award-winning Best Musical Kimberly Akimbo receives its European premiere at Hampstead Theatre from 28 August to 7 November. Directed by Michael Longhurst, the production follows teenager Kim as she navigates a rare genetic disorder that causes her to age rapidly, alongside family complications and new relationships. It is exactly the kind of warm, smart, slightly offbeat musical that tends to thrive in an intimate London setting.
Something Rotten Gets a Full UK Staging
After a WhatsOnStage Award-winning concert outing, Something Rotten receives its fully staged UK premiere at Manchester Opera House from 16 June to 19 July. The irreverent comedy set during the Renaissance has already proved it can win over British audiences, and two cast members from the concert will reprise their roles.
Dark of the Moon at Charing Cross Theatre
A world premiere musical inspired by a Scottish ballad, Dark of the Moon plays at the Charing Cross Theatre from 18 May to 8 August. The story explores the clash between a charming rural town and a mystical mountain world inhabited by witches and warlocks, centred on a romance between a human girl and a witch-boy.
Ben Platt in Midnight at the Never Get
Ben Platt makes his first full UK theatrical run in Midnight at the Never Get at the Menier Chocolate Factory from 11 July to 12 September. Mark Sonnenblick's revised production explores an illegal romance set in a 1960s New York cabaret bar, and Platt's involvement alone should make it one of the hottest tickets of the summer.
More to Watch
Beyond these headline shows, the year also brings The Karate Kid musical on a UK tour from 28 April, the hip-hop musical Wallace launching from September in Scotland, and the immersive Scottish ceilidh musical Ceilidh at Pitlochry from October. Whether your taste runs to manga adaptations, intimate two-handers, or large-scale spectacle, 2026 has something worth booking.
For more on what is currently playing, browse our full list of musicals and all West End shows.
Susan Novak has a lifelong passion for theatre. With a degree in English, she brings a deep appreciation for storytelling and drama to her writing. She also loves reading and poetry. When not attending shows, Susan enjoys exploring new work and sharing her enthusiasm for the performing arts, aiming to inspire others to experience the magic of theatre.
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