October in London brings more than falling leaves and fancy dress; it’s when the city’s theatres lean into the eerie, with long-running hits and limited-run thrillers offering spine-tingling stories, ghostly encounters and twisted tales that are perfect for Halloween, writes Sam Rogg.
Wicked Dark Magic in Oz
At the Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wicked reimagines the world of Oz with a darker, more complex twist. Long before Dorothy dropped in, two women, the ambitious Glinda and the misunderstood Elphaba, form an unlikely friendship that is tested by politics, power, and prejudice.
With spellbinding visuals, flying monkeys and a soundtrack full of showstoppers, this hit musical reveals the backstory of the so-called Wicked Witch of the West, and challenges everything you thought you knew about good and evil.
And with part two of the blockbuster film adaptation landing in UK cinemas next month, there’s no better time to experience the magic where it all began.
The Phantom of the Opera: A Gothic Classic
Over at His Majesty’s Theatre, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera continues its legendary West End run, celebrating 39 years this month.
Set in the candlelit depths of a haunted Paris opera house, this timeless story of obsession, music and unrequited love is a Gothic masterpiece. A masked phantom, a rising soprano and a score of unforgettable songs – including The Music of the Night – combine to make this one of London’s ultimate spooky theatre experiences.
The Woman in Black Spine-Tingling Minimalism
One of the UK’s most successful stage thrillers returns 8–25 October at Alexandra Palace Theatre.
The Woman in Black tells the chilling tale of a man tormented by a vengeful spectre, brought to life with just two actors, clever staging and ingenious sound design. It’s a masterclass in suspense, proving you don’t need special effects to make an audience jump out of their seats – just a ghost with unfinished business.
Ghost Stories: A Modern Horror Hit
Sticking with the supernatural, Ghost Stories at the Peacock Theatre will put your nerves to the test (to 8 Nov). Written by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman (co-creator and director of Derren Brown’s shows), this modern horror follows a sceptical professor pushed to the edge of belief as he investigates three chilling hauntings.
If you’re feeling brave, book the Halloween performance on 31 October, and get into the ‘spirit’ by dressing in costume that night.
