Serious or "straight" plays, as opposed to musicals or comedies, make up many of the 18,000 theatrical productions that take place in London each year.
Popular London plays include murder mysteries such as The Mousetrap and gripping thrillers like The Woman in Black. Many of Shakespeare's finest plays, particularly his tragedies and histories, feature in this category. London is also bursting with drama productions written by modern and contemporary playwrights.
Here are six of the best plays in London right now.
Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at St Martin’s Theatre
Head to St Martin's Theatre to see the longest-running play in the world, Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap. One of the West End's most popular shows, the first performance of The Mousetrap was in London in 1952. Book The Mousetrap tickets
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre
Discover what life is like for the wizard, Harry Potter, once he has grown up and become an adult, in the critically acclaimed production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre. Book Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets
The Woman in Black at Fortune Theatre
Experience the atmospheric storytelling of The Woman in Black at the Fortune Theatre in London. This spooky production has been making audiences jump since its West End debut in 1989! Book The Woman in Black tickets
The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre
Described as Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off, laugh along to Mischief Theatre’s hilarious production of The Play That Goes Wrong in London's West End. Book The Play That Goes Wrong tickets
Magic Goes Wrong at the Apollo Theatre
Witness accidents spiral out of control in Mischief Theatre's latest production, Magic Goes Wrong, at the Apollo Theatre. Book Magic Goes Wrong tickets
Jerusalem at the Apollo Theatre
See Mark Rylance and Mackenzie Crook reprise their roles in Jez Butterfield's dark comedy, Jerusalem, at the Apollo Theatre. Will the past catch up with wanted man Johnny "Rooster" Byron or will his loyal sidekick Ginger help him out? Book Jerusalem tickets
Witness for the Prosecution at London County Hall
Experience gripping courtroom drama as you witness the trial of a man accused of murder in classic Agatha Christie thriller, Witness for the Prosecution.
Find more theatre in London, including comedy plays, the best shows for kids and must-see musicals.