Three Must-See West End Shows During Student Life

London's West End is one of the most famous theatre districts in the world. Every day, exciting plays are being staged. As part of your student life in London, you simply cannot miss out on this experience. Previously, UAPP introduced London's must-visit museums. In this blog, we’ll guide you in a new direction for your cultural tour of London with three unmissable West End shows. These performances will help you build a vibrant and colourful student life.

Three Must-See Shows to Elevate Your Student Life

With so many shows performed in the West End each year, including both new and long-running productions, you will be spoiled for choice if you are a discerning theatre-goer. However, if you are new to the theatre scene and looking to enrich your student life with a few good plays, we have a few great recommendations for you. 

Witness for the Prosecution

If you enjoy detective and mystery novels, you will love seeing Agatha Christie’s novel Witness for the Prosecution adapted for the stage. Set in 1950s London, the story centres on the case of Leonard Vole, who is accused of murdering a wealthy widow to inherit her fortune. This gripping case sparks intense public debate. Can Leonard convince the jury and the public of his innocence? You should go find out in court.

The London County Hall, which had served as the headquarters of the local government for 64 years, provides a unique, historically meaningful venue for the play. The theatre is arranged like a courtroom, with the stage in the centre, surrounded by audience seating, a judge's bench, a witness stand, and a jury box - all authentic items from the historic courtroom. This setup offers an immersive experience for the audience to witness the battles between prosecutors, witnesses, and lawyers. 

Ticket prices vary by seating area, ranging from £15 to £145. VIP jury seats place you directly in the jury box, allowing you to engage directly in the courtroom drama. You will need to stand up and cooperate with the performance when the judge enters; you will also be addressed directly by the actors. This viewing experience will undoubtedly be a unique highlight of your student life. Due to the limited availability of jury seats, early booking is recommended. However, even without a jury seat, the intimate theatre ensures excellent views from any angle.

Don't worry about seeing this play adding financial stress to your student life. Here’s a perk for students under 26: from Tuesday to Thursday, you can purchase tickets ranging from £75 to £29.50 for just £25. Remember to bring your ID card on the day of the show for age verification.

The Phantom Of the Opera

The Phantom of the Opera could be one of the most stunning plays you'll ever watch during your student life in London. This classic musical tells the story of a Phantom lurking within the Paris Opera House. Plagued by his own disfigurement and feared by others, the Phantom falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful soprano Christine Daaé, who, unfortunately, loves another. The Phantom's obsession with Christine and his tragic fate imbue the story with a sense of deep sorrow. 

This tale has captivated audiences for over 26 years, with more than 1,000 performances at His Majesty's Theatre, and it continues to be immensely popular to this day. Featuring stunning stage sets, lighting effects, spectacular special effects, and brilliant performances by the actors, you are guaranteed to have an immersive and deeply moving theatrical experience.

From £25, ticket prices vary based on proximity to the stage, catering to different preferences and budgets. The theatre is divided into four tiers: the Stalls, closest to the stage, perfect for those seeking an immersive experience in the heart of the action; the Royal Circle, offering a panoramic view, ideal for appreciating the entire stage setup; the Grand Circle, providing a balance of good views and affordability, making it a practical choice for students; and the Balcony, while further from the stage, offering budget-friendly prices, making it accessible to students looking to enjoy the theatre without breaking the bank. Moreover, discounted seats, including some with obstructed views due to pillars, are offered at very low prices. For students seeking even better deals, day tickets are released at 10 am for the day’s performances, offering reduced rates for improved seating options.

Les Misérables

Selected by the BBC as the 'Number One Essential Musical,' Les Misérables is the longest-running musical in the West End and a multi-Grammy winner. It is a must-see for students looking to enrich their cultural experiences during their student life in London. Adapted from Victor Hugo's novel, Les Misérables is set against the backdrop of the 1832 Paris Uprising, narrating the story of protagonist Jean Valjean. After serving a harsh sentence for stealing bread to feed his family, Valjean seeks redemption and aims to change society despite facing numerous challenges.

The production is staged at the Sondheim Theatre, divided into three levels. The Stalls, closest to the stage, provide the most immersive experience, ideal for students wanting to fully engage with the drama. The Dress Circle offers a panoramic view, perfect for capturing the full spectacle of the production. The Grand Circle, the third level, offers clear visibility of the stage despite being further away, allowing students to enjoy the performance and atmosphere of the theatre.

Ticket prices vary depending on the level and seat, ranging from £37.50 to £200. SeatPlan can help you view real seat photos, comfort ratings, legroom, and sightline scores to select the best seats. Given the popularity of the production, it is wise for students to book tickets well in advance to avoid missing out.

Guide to Theatre Discounts

While theatre tickets can be pricey, several booking websites and discount programs specifically cater to students’ needs, helping them save money while enjoying student life.

Official London Theatre is a ticketing platform, which offers same-day discount tickets of up to 40% off, perfect for spontaneous plans.

TodayTix is known for its variety of discounted theatre tickets, including options priced under £25. They feature 24-hour flash sales and rush tickets, making it easier for you to attend popular shows at discounted rates.

A vibrant hub for artistic experiences in London, the Barbican Centre hosts concerts and theatre performances. While they do not offer traditional student discounts, their Young Barbican scheme provides significant savings for students aged 16-25, with tickets priced at £5, £10, or £15.

Experiencing theatre is a valuable part of student life in London. Productions like Witness for the Prosecution, The Phantom of the Opera, and Les Misérables are not only entertaining but also educational and inspiring. By taking advantage of discounts, you can enjoy these cultural gems on a budget and enhance your student life.

For more ideas and inspiration to explore London, make sure to follow UAPP!