2019 seems to be the year for touring musicals. Those big name shows that have wowed us in the West End are rolling their way around the country to delight and entertain the masses. Not only does this make it an affordable trip to the theatre, it also means that you don't have to travel as far to see some West End worthy shows. With so many to choose from I thought I would highlight some of the best, ones that are sure to get you rushing to the theatre to bag yourself the best seat in the house. With something for everyone including families and adults, you're sure to find something to tick all your boxes.




The Full Monty - Based on the hit film, this musical is one that has been around for years. The story revolves around six out of work steelworkers in Sheffield, who with nothing to lose decide to put on a show to remember. Featuring Gary Lucy in the role of Gaz, this show is one that you will definitely want to drop everything for and see! Hilarious, heartfelt and award winning, what more do you want in a show?

The Band (Photo credit Matt Crockett) - This show is one that is back for good and it will definitely be the greatest day when you head to the theatre to see it! Based around the hit music from Take That, one of the defining boybands of generations, this story follows five 16 year old girls who are just obsessed with the band that plaster their bedroom walls. Watch as they reunite to fulfil their dreams of meeting the band that are the soundtrack to their lives.

Jersey Boys - Another boyband musical, but this one has accumulated over 57 awards across the world. Jersey Boys follows the tale of four boys who came from the wrong side of the tracks to collaborate and create the songs that we know and love. Based on the lives of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, this show will have you toe tapping and never forgetting the heartwarming, sheer spectacle that you see on stage.


Annie - Annie is a show that we saw the first time that it toured with this staging in the UK in 2015 and it blew me away. The mix of the stylised set, brilliant casting in Craig Revel Horwood as Miss Hannigan and the Tony award winning score, this musical is the perfect show for all the family. I bet your bottom dollar that you will come out of the theatre with a HUGE grin on your face as you take in this unforgettable show.

The Bodyguard - Adapted from the blockbuster film of the same name, The Bodyguard is a show that took the West End by storm and is truly a legend in the making. Starring Alexandra Burke in the lead role, she wows us with Whitney songs and makes us fall in love with this romantic show all at once. Definitely one not to miss!

Matilda - A show that has been on Max's own wishlist for as long as I can remember, Matilda is based on the book and film of the same name. With words by the fantastic Tim Minchin, this multi award winning musical might have a pint sized leading lady, but she can sure impress the crowd with her small but mighty performances. The perfect show for all those little ones that don't want to grow up and for the adults that feel the same way too.


Avenue Q - Avenue Q is a show that will always have a piece of my heart. I've seen it more times than I can count, and each time it impresses me more and more. Full of unforgettable characters, this half puppet, half acting cast is full of lewd and crude songs that will have you in stitches from the opening bars until the final bows. Think Sesame Street if it was adults only and you're on the right lines. It's a show that I will forever recommend and I honestly can't wait to go and see it with my mum friends!

Kinky Boots (Photo credit Matt Crockett) - From the factory floors to the catwalks with drag queens, Kinky Boots is a show that has a soundtrack to die for and a story that will warm even the coldest of hearts. Based on the hit film, it follows a struggling shoe factory who turn their misfortune upside down thanks to a pair of drag queen heels. This joyous British story is one that cannot be missed. Dazzling, high energy and unforgettable. It's one to book before it's too late.

Motown The Musical - Fresh from the West End, Motown the musical is based around the founder of Motown Records and his journey to launch some of the most iconic artists in the music industry. Discover the story behind the company and how the ground breaking music made history for generations. A show to have you dancing in your seats whilst singing along too!

Les Miserables - I don't think that this show needs an introduction. One of the most legendary musicals ever is finally on tour again. Telling the tale of the French revolution, Les Miserables is an iconic show that will move you beyond belief. It's time to storm the barricades and find your place for there's one day more to dream a dream and see this brilliant show.

Nativity The Musical - Finally a show that will give you the Christmas spirit this year. After two years at the fantastic Hammersmith Apollo, Nativity the Musical is finally heading on tour. Based on the brilliant film of the same name, Nativity is based around one school's nativity play. Of course nothing really goes to plan, but with a heartwarming tale of having the Christmas spirit, it's a perfect end to 2019.