A school trip to see a West End musical is an enriching and memorable experience for students. With a blend of timeless classics and fresh new productions, there is something for every student at LW Theatres in 2025.

The cast of Matilda the Musical in London's West End

Source: Manuel Harlan

Matilda The Musical is a top option for school groups visiting the West End.

West End shows are famous worldwide for their high-quality performances, compelling storytelling, and stunning production values.

Here are just a handful of shows from LW Theatres that can offer your learners a memorable experience outside of the classroom.

Legendary musicals to spark curiosity

Matilda The Musical is a fantastic option, especially for younger students. Based on Roald Dahl’s much-loved book, the show is filled with powerful themes of bravery, intelligence, and resilience. The clever script and engaging musical numbers provide opportunities for discussions around creative storytelling and moral lessons; this is a great way to bring literature to life and to complement classroom reading activities.

Marty McFly and the DeLorean on stage in Back to the Future, the Musical

Source: © Helen Murray

See the iconic DeLorean in Back to the Future the Musical.

Back to the Future the Musical takes audiences on a thrilling journey, making it ideal for students interested in science, history, and time travel. It pays homage to the iconic 1985 film while showcasing cutting-edge video design, blending live performance with 21st-century technology to create an extraordinary experience. The show combines nostalgia with an engaging exploration of cause and effect, encouraging students to consider the impact of their actions.

Not to be missed is the much-anticipated return of Starlight Express. Known for its dynamic roller-skating and unique blend of pop and rock music, Starlight Express offers something new to younger audiences who won’t have seen this classic before. This high-energy show can captivate and inspire discussions around innovation in stage production and choreography.

For older students, The Phantom of the Opera offers a classic, Gothic romance set against Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic score. This long-running West End masterpiece introduces students to the nuances of opera, orchestral music, and tragic storytelling, fostering discussions around emotional themes and character development.

The cast of Starlight Express

Source: Pamela Raith

Starlight Express is another top option for school groups.

New productions for fresh perspectives

In 2025, Disney’s Hercules makes its West End debut. This modern retelling of the Greek myth incorporates vibrant music, choreography, and humour, teaching themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and heroism. For educators looking to engage students in mythology and moral lessons, this production offers an accessible entry point with familiar Disney magic.

Similarly, My Neighbour Totoro brings a celebrated Studio Ghibli film to life on stage. This adaptation appeals to students with its imaginative storytelling, environmental themes, and beautifully crafted puppetry. The production showcases creative stagecraft, making it a great choice for discussions on environmental awareness and visual artistry.

Educational benefits and LW Theatres’ expertise

LW Theatres offers high-quality group experiences with dedicated education rates and flexible booking options to ensure a smooth visit. Their world-class performances promote cultural exposure and inspire curiosity in subjects like literature, history, and art.

Booking a school trip to an LW Theatre in 2025 is an investment in students’ cultural education, extending lessons beyond the classroom.

Visit the LW Theatres website for school group rates from £25 and sign up for their newsletter to get early access to group tickets when they go on sale: lwtheatres.co.uk.