Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre
The RSC's musical version of the much-loved Roald Dahl story has arrived in London to rave reviews. Believe the hype, because Matilda is magnificent. The inventive score and lyrics from Australian comedian Tim Minchin are fabulous, the child performers of the same high standard as those in Billy Elliot and the adult cast who join them just as good. Bertie Cavel's great performance as the terrifying headmistress Miss Trunchbull makes this a show that will appeal to everyone. matildathemusical.com
The Mousetrap at The St Martin's Theatre
As de rigueur as a visit to the Tower and Madame Tussauds, you can't really say you have been to London without a trip to The Mousetrap. Not only is it essential viewing, and a part of theatre history — 2012 will be the show's diamond anniversary — it really is jolly good stuff and a trip will remind you just what a great storyteller Agatha Christie was. Winter is the best time of year to get into the spirit and to become part of the great conspiracy. With snow on stage and a thrilling chill in the air, it really mustn't be missed. the-mousetrap.co.uk
Noises Off at the Old Vic
Continually successful since its premiere in 1982, Michael Frayn's farce is generally considered one of the funniest modern plays ever written. Following the chaotic rehearsals and toe-curling performances of a touring theatre company, The Old Vic's production will be a quality affair, directed by Lindsay Posner and boasting Celia Imrie in the cast. Until 10 March 2012. oldvictheatre.com
Pippin at the Menier Chocolate Factor
This tiny venue near London Bridge has a remarkable reputation for musicals and has attracted some amazing talent to work there. Following none other than Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz of Wicked fame now collaborates with a production of his early musical Pippin. It's bound to be a sell out before it transfers to the West End but try to see it here if you can. Until 25 February 2012. menierchocolatefactory.com
Hamlet at the Young Vic, The Comedy of Errors at the National Theatre and Richard II at the Donmar Warehouse
For some reason Shakespeare doesn't seem that festive, perhaps because of all those great plays we get to see outdoors during the summer, but there are some superb Shakespearean productions to enjoy this winter. The amazingly talented Michael Sheen stars in a radical production of Hamlet at the Young Vic that baffles and excites in equal measure. Meanwhile, Lenny Henry is making them laugh out loud at the National Theatre with Dominic Cooke's production of The Comedy of Errors. But surely the hottest ticket is Eddie Redmayne's Richard II at the Donmar. Michael Grandage's last show at the venue ends a stellar tenure that continued the theatre's blazing reputation. Hamlet runs until 21 January 2012 (youngvic.org), The Comedy of Errors runs until 1 April 2012 (nationaltheatre.org.uk), Richard II runs until 4 February 2012 (donmarwarehouse.com).
