Opening in the West End in 1960, Oliver has enjoyed universal appeal for almost 50 years. The stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel became part of the fledgling careers of Tony Robinson, Phil Collins and Davy Jones (The Monkees) making the title role an uncanny judge of star quality.

The latest production at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane features the winners of the BBC’s ‘I’d Do Anything’ talent search. Jodie Prenger gives an energetic performance of Nancy and Gwion Jones is unstoppable in the title role – definitely a talent to watch for the future. Rowan Atkinson brings his well-known comedy genius to the role of Fagin and the play is worth seeing for his performance alone.

He also lends some credibility to what could otherwise be a play full of ‘unknowns’ – if like me you haven’t seen the BBC series you’ll want to see the play before you pass judgement! Most of the audience however were big fans of the cast and the entire performance was made more exciting as a result. The songs are well-known, Atkinson delivers a fantastic performance and the tie-in with the BBC series means you get to see the launch of some ready-made celebrities. This is a very popular show, so and get your tickets before they sell out!

Find the best available deals on Oliver tickets.

Originally panned by critics, We Will Rock You is Ben Elton’s vision of a dystopian future where rock music has been outlawed. That doesn’t stop the cast however, who deliver hit after hit with stunning vocals, big dance numbers and enough volume to bring the house down. Even if you’re not a Queen fan you can’t help but be engrossed in the music – the storyline is a little thin but that doesn’t matter when the soundtrack is the centre of the show. The critics failed to grasp than an audience doesn’t need a storyline so much as a good time!

The leading players have fantastic voices and looked to be thoroughly enjoying the performance as much as the audience. The sets and choreography are very imaginative and the whole two hours is entertaining. Suitable for all ages, theatregoers were aged from 5 to 85 and everyone seemed to be having a good time. We Will Rock You is a definite must if you loved Mamma Mia! and want to leave the theatre with a big smile on your face!

See the best deals available on Mamma Mia! tickets.

With the recent release of the movie version, Mamma Mia! the stage show is sure to see a boost in popularity over the coming months. Not that it needs it – since opening in Sweden in 2005 it’s been a consistent crowd pleaser all over the world. Of course ABBA fans need no introduction to the soundtrack and it’s safe to say that this is the demographic that flocked to see it first.

If you’re not caught up in ABBA frenzy there’s still plenty to enjoy. The musical tells the story of Sophie, who tries to find out who her father is by inviting three likely men to her wedding. Hilarity ensues as her mother realizes Sophie’s plan and over 20 classic ABBA hits are remarkably entwined around the script. You’re sure to recognize most of the songs and the way they’re presented make it almost impossible not to sing along.

Don’t go and see this show if you want a serious, thought-provoking night. Go and see Mamma Mia! for pure, unadulterated fun!

Although Wicked is sure to appeal to anyone who has seen The Wizard of Oz, this wonderful production will have even the most reluctant theatergoer rapt with attention. The clever script by Winnie Holzman moves the story on at a good pace, tying up all the loose ends from the film and adding a good dash of dark humor and political satire. The story of how Elphaba and Glinda became the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the North is not only original, it’s compelling and gives the audience some big issues to think about.

Although the play addresses things like beauty, good and evil, you don’t feel you’re being preached to as the action keeps moving on. The songs –both ballads and big numbers – are sung faultlessly by the leads and there are plenty of stunts (witches can fly, remember!). I loved the costumes – the atmosphere of Oz is brought to life and you really feel transported to another world that’s almost, but not quite familiar.

Wicked is a great show for anyone who doesn’t normally go to see musicals or who wants to see something a little different. Even if you’ve never seen Oz, you’ll be captivated by this enchanting story.

See the best deals available on Wicked Tickets.

Billy Elliot the musical has been in theatres since 2005 and since then has won numerous awards and been staged all over the world. Having seen the film I had high expectations of the stage show but this adaptation completely surpassed them. The boy who played Billy wasn’t as edgy as Jamie Bell (the original) but his dancing and acrobatics were fantastic - all of the choreography was brilliant and the songs really added to the show.

The stage show is actually more dark and gritty than the film, with more time devoted to the miners’ strike and the harsh reality of Billy’s home life. You really feel the struggle Billy and his family (especially his dad) go through - more so than in the film. There’s a lot of swearing and a violent atmosphere at times - it reflects how things were but beware if you’re talking children along. The use of a young actor makes it especially obvious that this wasn’t a good time to be growing up; you feel for the character and even if you’ve seen the film you’re on the edge of your seat to see what happens next. Billy’s dad and brother gave especially strong performances, showing despair as well as affection towards Billy and their sacrifice towards the end of the show - to send Billy to London - was very emotional.

The show got a standing ovation when I went and I get the impression this happens every night. It’s been running a long time so it’s very polished and well worth seeing. I got my tickets through UK Tickets - every review I’ve ever seen about Billy Elliot is so positive you’d be mad to miss it!

See the best deals available on Billy Elliot tickets.