October brings a particularly varied London theatre programme, moving from a nostalgic family musical and a rock opera in the West End to new writing at the National Theatre and Royal Court. There is also a Shakespeare-inspired production powered by Radiohead: here are six shows with performances scheduled during October 2026.
Disney's High School Musical
A bright choice for families, Disney's High School Musical on InYouGo arrives at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre from 12 October 2026 to 3 January 2027, with its London press night on 20 October. The official production announcement describes it as the first UK non-replica production, celebrating 20 years of the film, and confirms McFly's Harry Judd as Coach Bolton. The announced cast also includes Tobias Turley, Leonor Correia, Caitlin Tipping, Luke Bayer and original film cast member KayCee Stroh. Expect familiar songs including “Breaking Free”, “We're All in This Together”, “Get'cha Head in the Game” and “Stick to the Status Quo”.
Jesus Christ Superstar
At Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Jesus Christ Superstar plays from 16 October 2026 to 9 January 2027. Sam Ryder makes his West End debut as Jesus in Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's rock musical, following the production's season at the London Palladium. Tim Sheader directs, with choreography by Drew McOnie, and the score includes “I Don't Know How to Love Him”, “Gethsemane” and “Superstar”. The London run offers a chance to hear this concert-like musical in one of the capital's historic venues.
The Lives of Others
For a strictly limited West End drama, The Lives of Others opens at the Adelphi Theatre on 14 October, running to 9 January 2027. Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck's stage adaptation of his Oscar-winning film stars Keira Knightley as Christa-Maria Sieland, Stephen Dillane as Gerd Wiesler and Luke Thompson as Georg Dreyman. Set in East Germany in 1984, the story follows a Stasi officer listening in on a writer and actor whose lives begin to affect his own. The venue lists the play as suitable for ages 14 and over.
Some Woman
At the National Theatre's Dorfman Theatre, Some Woman runs from 7 October to 21 November 2026. Helen Edmundson's new play centres on Julie Robson, an ordinary woman who is used to being overlooked until an encounter on a station platform makes her feel compelled to take a stand. Anne-Marie Duff leads the cast, with Blanche McIntyre directing. The National Theatre lists performances from 7 October, making this an early-month option for audiences looking for new London plays rather than a long-running musical.
Blood of My Blood
The Royal Court presents Blood of My Blood from 1 October, with performances listed throughout the month in the Jerwood Theatre Upstairs. Joy Nesbitt's Royal Court debut moves between Bullock Creek, South Carolina, in 1862 and the present day. In the contemporary story, a pregnant Black woman uses conjure to commune with her ancestors at a cabin now turned into an Airbnb. Directed by Tatenda Shamiso, this new play explores inheritance, belonging and the voices of the past.
Hamlet Hail to the Thief
The Barbican's October programme closes with Hamlet Hail to the Thief, running from 31 October 2026 to 23 January 2027 at the Barbican Theatre. Co-created by Thom Yorke, Christine Jones and Steven Hoggett, it places Shakespeare's tragedy alongside a reworked version of Radiohead's Hail to the Thief, performed live by musicians and actors. The Royal Shakespeare Company describes an Elsinore shaped by lies and corruption, while the production's live band and cast bring the music directly onto the stage. It is a distinctive late-October option for theatre-goers who enjoy ambitious music-led productions as much as traditional plays.
With family entertainment, West End musicals, star-led drama and adventurous new writing all represented, London's October theatre calendar offers plenty of ways to make an autumn visit memorable. Check the producing venue for the latest performance dates, access information and any cast updates before planning your visit.
Frequently asked questions
What musicals are playing in London in October 2026?
What musicals are playing in London in October 2026?
October 2026 highlights include Disney's High School Musical at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre and Jesus Christ Superstar at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
Which new plays can I see in London in October 2026?
Which new plays can I see in London in October 2026?
New plays in this guide include Some Woman at the National Theatre, Blood of My Blood at the Royal Court and The Lives of Others at the Adelphi Theatre.
Where is Hamlet Hail to the Thief playing in London?
Where is Hamlet Hail to the Thief playing in London?
Hamlet Hail to the Thief plays at the Barbican Theatre from 31 October 2026 to 23 January 2027, combining Shakespeare's Hamlet with music from Radiohead's Hail to the Thief.