If you're interested in attending a show in London Theatre and looking for a great evening out, the two musicals that are usually recommended are Les Misérables and Wicked. These two fantastic shows are now part of the West End, yet are worlds apart emotionally, musically and visually. Whether you're a straightforward fan of theatre or simply contemplating going to your first London theatre show, the choice between these two can sometimes feel very overwhelming.
Les Misérables vs Wicked: Sneak Peak into the Differentiations
Show Synopsis: From Revolutionary Streets to Emerald City
If you are an emotionally driven person who enjoys a story and creates deep thought, then Les Misérables London is the show for you. Les Misérables is based on the story by Victor Hugo. It is about a former prisoner, Jean Valjean, trying to live a better life, while being pursued by Inspector Javert who will stop at nothing to catch the criminal. Les Misérables is set in a politically and socially charged time period, touching on areas of sacrifice, justice, and romance. It is a long production and very intense.
On the other hand, Wicked transports you far away from the gritty streets of France and even further into a mystical world filled with action, adventure, and drama. There are similarities to The Wizard of Oz that you have grown up with, yet this is a fresh, clever telling that provides some story of the past of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch, and her complicated relationship with Glinda. Wicked encourages reflecting on more complex ideas of the binary of good and evil, reputation, and fate itself. This wise, cute, and whimsical play takes some more serious themes and makes them light and relevant, and even after the curtains close you will find yourself mulling over an unexpected weight.
Musically Speaking: Two Scores, Two Completely Different Experiences
When thinking of musicals in the West End, it is hard not to consider their music, or the score, as that is often at the centre of a musical show itself.
While Wicked Musical London is a contemporary score with rollicking songs, when you think of the soundtrack of Wicked, the visionary voice of Elphaba as she "defies gravity," and as Elphaba and Glinda reflect on their friendship story line with "for good," it has become an anthem of modern musical theatre. Singers are able to add an emotional layer wrapped in a bold melody or drama; their humor is laced with the playfulness of a pop infused theatre, especially for younger audiences and audiences who are new to live theatre.
In contrast, Les Misérables is nearly entirely sung-through. Its classical and operatic score adds height and weight to the experience. Famous songs like I Dreamed A Dream and Bring Him Home hit you straight in the feels. Each song continues to add to the storytelling, facilitating the transition of emotion, and all you can feel is heaviness.
The Staging, Visuals & Atmosphere
With regard to spectacle, both productions create worlds you are lost in, but in very different ways.
With Wicked London Tickets at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, the promise of a visual experience awaits you. Expected are spiraling green lights, amazing illusions, flying things, beautifully designed costumes, and a vibrant set that gives life to Oz. Everything feels grand, magical, and created to take your breath away.
Les Misérables London offers a minimalist and gritty production. The legendary revolving stage allows for seamless transitions, from empty streets to the infamous barricade. The visual aesthetic is raw, atmospheric, and tied down to reality and the history of the story, while pulling you directly into the heart of the emotional material.
If you love high fantasy that will have you believing in magic, Wicked will take you for a ride. If you love realism and storytelling that feels fundamentally human (in a big dramatic way), the staging of Les Misérables is unmatched.
Who Will Enjoy Which Show?
The type of experience you seek will largely determine which show lands on your bucket list.
Wicked is perfect for:
Families
First-timers to the theatre
Fans of fantasy and strong female characters
Anyone looking for a light-hearted, emotional, visually spectacular night
Les Misérables is perfect for:
People who love historical dramas
People looking for an emotionally deep, character-driven story
Fans of sweeping musical scores in the classical style
People looking to feel as if they have been transported back to another time
Both shows merit their place as top West End shows, but the emotional payload is incomparable.
Logistics for Attending a Theatre Performance
Find Les Misérables London Tickets on sale for performances at the Sondheim Theatre in Soho. It enhances the emotional experience of the performances while placing you at the heart of the story.
Wicked has performances at the Apollo Victoria Theatre which is a convenient short walk from Victoria Station in a bustling part of London, with plenty of cafés, restaurants and public transport. You'll be sure to have the opportunity to eat before the show starts or stroll around when the show is done.
So, which show do you see?
In the end, it is your choice of how to spend the evening. Both are great experiences, both are masterpieces, and both are on the list of historic West End Musicals.
When it comes to Wicked, a magical story, bold staging and music to lift your spirits.
Les Misérables, an emotional journey, historical drama and music that will take your breath away.
Either way, you are guaranteed an amazing theatre experience and one that in every way shows you why the West End is the home of musical theatre.
