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Why visit the London West End in Autumn 2008?

By: Andrew Mitchell

At $2 to the pound until quite recently London seemed like an expensive and crowded tourist option for many Americans, Europeans and Australians. But the credit crunch has seen to that and London is suddenly 20% cheaper. And now the summer is over the crowds have dissipated and London is left with world-class attractions and plenty of beds, seats and chairs for visitors.
Recommended London theatre
Here are four shows which I have recommended to visitors coming to London to see us this Autumn
The 39 Steps has just past its second birthday at the Criterion and has just announced that its run has been extended yet again. The play is adapted from the novel by nineteenth century novelist John Buchan and the 1935 film of the book by Alfred Hitchcock. The play is a comedic spoof-thriller about Richard Hannay a London gentleman who is drawn into a foreign plot and ends up on the run himself after a woman is found murdered in his flat. I saw the original London show at the Tricycle before it opened at the Criterion and it is heartily recommended. The production won "Best New Comedy" at the Olivier Awards in 2006. A Broadway spin-off won two Tony Awards this year.
I still the recall the excitement I felt when I first saw Grease on screen with Olivia Newton John and John Travolta and I can't believe that was in 1978. Still the songs have stood the test of time and the story still uplifts. One of the classics now, this musical is a very strong revival with a great cast and outstanding choreography. A fantastic family musical for those bringing kids and teenagers to London.
The Donmar Warehouse is known in London for its confronting dramas. It is an intimate theatre around a horseshoe stage with only three rows so you can feel the actor's effort and sweat throughout. The theatre attracts major stars returning to the stage for intellectual refreshment. In its latest production Shakespeare veteran Kenneth Branagh has cast Hollywood heart-throb Jude Law as Hamlet. Will Law succeed in such a cramped domain? Many stars have returned to the stage in London to sold-out runs but critical panning. I think Law is cut above the rest and will enhance his reputation in this performance which is certain to be one of the most talked-about shows of the year.
Before the film it was a London show. Mamma Mia! may have been a screen sensation but Londoners have been dancing in the aisles to ABBA music for years and we continue to flock to this sensational stage-show in droves. This is a unique production because it is so engaging. You will be drawn into the show and end up on your feet belting out the familiar tunes. Better than a win at the races for lifting your spirits.
Before or after the show have a meal at one of the literally hundreds of fabulous restaurants and cafes in Soho, Covent Garden and around Leicester Square. The food in London is now better than ever thanks to the national rediscovery of cooking led by celebrity chefs.
Getting to the theatre district is easy. On the Central Line you have stations at Holborn, Tottenham Court Road or Oxford Circus. On the Piccadilly Line Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Holborn (again) may all be helpful. In addition there are plenty of buses from all over London.

Article Source: http://www.arabian-affiliate.com/articles

Andrew Mitchell loves theatre and the West End. He welcomes friends from all over to stay with him in London. Professionally he treats people with back and other health issues. Visit his website if you need an osteopath in London or elsewhere in the UK.

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