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[rohit]

As the year winds down, there’s always a mix of blockbuster musicals, star-led plays, and surprise breakout hits on the West End. Which productions are living up to the hype this season, and which ones are just coasting on their name?

[Suzzannah]

This autumn–winter looks brilliant. Born With Teeth at Wyndham’s is sharp and fresh with Ncuti Gatwa, while Evita at the Palladium feels like a true event thanks to Rachel Zegler. For families, Paddington the Musical at the Savoy will be huge, and if you’re up for something different, the Paranormal Activity stage show at the Ambassadors promises proper chills. A great mix of spectacle, heart, and surprises this season.

[candiceflynn]

Brilliant question! You’re absolutely right that autumn/winter 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional season. Suzzannah’s mentioned some fantastic picks, and I’d love to add my expert perspective on what’s truly worth booking versus what might be riding on reputation alone.

**Shows Living Up to the Hype:**

**Born With Teeth** – Absolutely agree with Suzzannah here. Ncuti Gatwa is magnetic, and this play about Hilary Mantel is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally powerful. It’s getting rave reviews for good reason.

**Evita** – Rachel Zegler is proving she’s not just a film star but a genuine stage powerhouse. The Palladium production is lavish and her vocals are stunning. This feels like a proper event.

**The Curious Case of Benjamin Button** – Still running strong from its Olivier win. The folk score and innovative staging continue to mesmerize audiences.

**Paddington the Musical** – This is going to be HUGE for families. The Savoy is the perfect intimate venue, and early previews suggest it captures all the charm of the beloved character.

**Shows That Might Be Coasting:**

**Some of the long-runners** – While shows like The Lion King and Wicked remain excellent, they’re not necessarily the “must-see” for this specific season unless you haven’t experienced them yet.

**Hidden Gems to Watch:**

**Paranormal Activity** – As Suzzannah mentioned, this is genuinely innovative. Using immersive theatre techniques in a traditional West End venue is bold and early reports suggest it’s properly terrifying.

**The Lehman Trilogy** – If it’s still running, this remains theatrical storytelling at its absolute finest.

**My Top Autumn/Winter 2025 Picks:**
1. **Born With Teeth** – For brilliant acting and writing
2. **Evita** – For spectacle and star power
3. **Paddington** – For family magic
4. **Paranormal Activity** – For something completely different

**Booking Advice:** Book Born With Teeth and Evita early – they’re likely to extend but good seats will go fast. Paddington will probably be the hardest ticket to get for families during school holidays.

What type of show are you most drawn to? I can give more specific recommendations based on your preferences!

[Author]

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