Stars On Stage: This Year's Big Stars in the West End
Published on 14 January 2026
The West End is sparkling this year with a lineup of world-class talent from stage, film, and music. From gripping dramas to dazzling musicals and special concerts, London theatre-goers are in for an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to the must-see stars and productions lighting up the city’s stages.
Sheridan Smith – Woman in Mind
Sheridan Smith stars alongside Romesh Ranganathan in Alan Ayckbourn’s Woman in Mind, running until 28 February. This witty and heartfelt comedy offers a hilarious yet poignant exploration of one woman’s chaotic inner world.
Billy Crudup – High Noon
Billy Crudup, known for roles in The Morning Show and Almost Famous, stars in High Noon, a gripping thriller set against the tense backdrop of a small-town crisis. Running until early March, the play explores morality, loyalty, and the pressure of making impossible choices, with Crudup bringing his signature intensity to the stage.
Hugh Bonneville – Shadowlands
Beloved Downton Abbey and Paddington movie star Hugh Bonneville takes on Shadowlands, the acclaimed play about C.S. Lewis, the author of The Chronicles of Narnia and Oxford academic. The story explores Lewis’s unexpected romance with American poet Joy Davidman and the personal and emotional challenges that follow.
Nicole Scherzinger – Love Life West End Unites Against Cancer
Pop superstar Nicole Scherzinger headlines this one-off charity concert on Sunday, 1 February. Expect music, star power, and a show-stopping evening in support of a vital cause.
Sadie Sink – Romeo and Juliet
Stranger Things star Sadie Sink, known for playing the formidable tomboy Max, stars alongside Noah Jupe in Robert Icke’s production of Romeo and Juliet. Icke’s bold, contemporary direction reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tale of love and conflict, offering a fresh perspective on the story’s timeless themes of youth, passion, and tragedy. We can’t wait for this one!
Rosamund Pike – Inter Alia
Rosamund Pike, known for her roles in Gone Girl and Saltburn, stars in Inter Alia, transferring to the West End from the National Theatre. The play is written by Suzie Miller, the writer of the acclaimed Prima Facie which starred Jodie Comer, promising a brilliant, meaty role for Pike to sink her teeth into.
Cynthia Erivo – Dracula
Wicked movie star Cynthia Erivo takes on a one-woman performance in Dracula at the Noel Coward Theatre. Known for her commanding stage presence, Erivo’s turn promises to be an unforgettable theatrical event.
Bryan Cranston – All My Sons
Breaking Bad actor Bryan Cranston headlines Arthur Miller’s All My Sons at Wyndham’s Theatre until 7 March. The play opened to incredible reviews last November, and there’s not long left to see this powerful story of family, guilt, and moral responsibility.
Ralph Fiennes – Grace Pervades
Ralph Fiennes, known for Harry Potter, Schindler’s List and Conclave, stars with Miranda Raison (Spooks) in David Hare’s Grace Pervades at the Theatre Royal Haymarket from 24th April. The play, which explores the partnership of Sir Henry Irving and Ellen Terry across a century of theatre, opened to critical acclaim and has a strictly limited run.
Chris Pine – Ivanov
Hollywood leading man Chris Pine (Star Trek, Wonder Woman) stars in Simon Stone’s adaptation of Ivanov at the Bridge Theatre, 4 July–19 September. Expect a compelling modern take on Chekhov’s classic.
Beverley Knight – Marie and Rosetta
Olivier Award-winner Beverley Knight stars in the West End transfer of Marie & Rosetta at @sohoplace for a strictly limited run. Set in Mississippi in 1946, the play follows the legendary Sister Rosetta Tharpe as she brings her electrifying gospel and rhythm & blues style to a young singer, Marie. Knight takes on the role of Rosetta, delivering a powerful performance in this critically acclaimed, award-nominated show.
Helen George and Felicity Kendal – High Society
Helen George and Felicity Kendal star in High Society, a sparkling musical adaptation of the classic 1956 film. Set among glamorous parties and high-society intrigue, the show features iconic Cole Porter songs and a mix of romance, wit, and charm, making it a perfect night out in London theatre.
Sam Ryder – Jesus Christ Superstar
Eurovision star Sam Ryder brings his powerhouse vocals to Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium this summer, adding pop-star energy to this classic musical.
The West End has never been so star-studded. From gripping dramas to show-stopping musicals and unique concerts, tickets are in high demand – secure yours today and experience the magic of London theatre live.
By Hay Brunsdon
I've 15 years of writing and editorial experience, and starting working in the West End theatre industry in 2012. When not watching or writing about theatre I'm usually swimming, hiking, running, or training for triathlons in the Stroud valleys.