We take a look at some legendary London productions of Shakespeare's works, as well as upcoming plays by the Bard to book. We also discuss how to secure VIP seats for an unforgettable evening.

Want to go to the theatre in the capital? There are a host of brilliant Shakespeare plays in London to choose from right now.

London is known as a mecca for some of the best theatre out there, and there have been some incredible Shakespeare productions taking place in the city over the years with some big name stars at the helm.

Shakespeare wrote 39 plays during his lifetime, so there’s lots of choice out there for theatres to work with.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the most inventive and top-reviewed Shakespeare productions that have taken place in London in the past.

We’ll also reveal some upcoming interpretations of the Bard’s classic plays that you won’t want to miss, as well as how you can see them with VIP seats for an unforgettable experience.

Buy The Tempest VIP tickets

Register your interest in Much Ado About Nothing VIP tickets

Legendary productions of Shakespeare classics

Tamsin Greig in Twelfth Night

Back in 2017, the National Theatre put on Twelfth Night, directed by Simon Godwin.

Tamsin Grieg played Malvolia in a star turn in the romantic comedy, the steward to the wealthy countess Olivia. Traditionally known as Malvolio and played by a man, Grieg was persuaded to do the role when the idea came up that Malvolia could be female.

Speaking to the Guardian, Greig revealed, “I was offered Olivia but she wasn’t on my list of must-play roles. Theatre is such a commitment I need to be really picky. It’s a big deal, being out every night and away from family.

“The National came back with the idea of Malvolio and my interest was piqued. The director Simon Godwin and I read the play a lot together, just the two of us, and then with Ben Power, deputy artistic director at the NT, and then with a group of actors.

“But part of me was quite resistant. They said what about making the character Malvolia so you’re playing a woman?”

The play was described as “wistful” and “smart” by the Guardian, and was given five stars by the Radio Times.

Hamlet starring David Tennant

Doctor Who actor David Tennant played Hamlet in an inventive Royal Shakespeare Company production by Gregory Doran of Shakespeare’s beloved play in 2008.

The play moved from Stratford-upon-Avon to a home at London’s Wyndham Theatre, and it was a huge hit.

Tennant wore a parka and beanie hat, and the modern twist on the play saw the stage covered with huge, sparkling chandeliers over a black mirrored floor, which shattered when Polonius was shot.

Meanwhile, Patrick Stewart played the king, Claudius, as well as a twin role as Hamlet’s ghostly father.

The Guardian described Tennant as “the greatest Hamlet of his generation”, and the play itself as “bewitching”.

Shakespeare Trilogy at the Donmar Warehouse

This ingenious set of three Shakespeare plays by Phillida Lloyd at the Donmar Warehouse in 2017 consisted of Julius Caesar, Henry IV and The Tempest.

But these weren’t your standard Shakespeare plays - they consisted of an all-female cast, and were set in a prison. To add to this, many of the actors were ex-offenders themselves who had been through the criminal justice system.

The plays stunned audiences, and The Observer called the production "One of the most important theatrical events of the past 20 years."

Upcoming Shakespeare plays on in London to book

These upcoming shows at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane have all-star casts and will be in high demand. These Shakespeare plays in London 2024 and 2025 will be just the ticket.

The Tempest

Alien actor Signourney Weaver is heading to London’s West End to take centre stage as Prospero in The Tempest from 7th December 2024 until 1st February 2025.

Set on a remote island, wizard Prospero uses his magic powers to cause a shipwreck, as the play explores themes of family rifts and revenge.

The play is the first time that Weaver will tread the boards of the West End at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, and is directed by Jamie Lloyd.

This is sure to be one of the best Shakespeare plays London has to offer.

VIP seats for the shows are on sale now for what promises to be a truly magical night.

Buy The Tempest VIP tickets

Much Ado About Nothing

From 10th February until 5th April 2025, Tom Hiddleston will play Benedick in the Shakespeare comedy Much Ado About Nothing in a production by the Jamie Lloyd Theatre Company.

Hayley Atwell will star opposite Hiddleston as Beatrice.

In the play, main characters Hero and Claudio have a romance, but it’s actually the witty put-downs between their friends Benedick and Beatrice that get the most laughs.

Tom Hiddleston said, “I could not be more thrilled to have been given the opportunity to collaborate with [Jamie Llloyd]... this time on one of Shakespeare’s most warm-hearted and joyful plays: Much Ado About Nothing. It’s an honour to have been invited by Andrew Lloyd Webber to bring Shakespeare back to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane… and to be working with the great Hayley Atwell for the first time.”

Register your interest in Much Ado About Nothing VIP tickets

How can I see The Tempest and Much Ado About Nothing with VIP seats?

Tickets for The Tempest are on sale now and Seat Unique's booking platform means you can secure a VIP experience.  

Make sure to register your interest with Seat Unique and you’ll be among the first to know when Much Ado ABout Nothing VIP seats go on sale.

With some of the best views in the house and a whole host of added luxury extras, VIP packages offer a way to make your night even more special.