London Theater Buzz: What to See this Season

The theater world has been buzzing this week with the news that Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch would appear in London's West End next year as Hamlet. (And don't worry--he's no stranger to the London stage, having starred with fellow Sherlock Holmes Jonny Lee Miller in Frankenstein a few years ago.)

But Hamlet is a long ways off, so while we wait to see how one of Hollywood's hottest stars plays the melancholy Dane, here are just a few other shows in London that look intriguing, courtesy of LondonTheatre.co.uk. Good to know: Most of these shows are limited runs, so grab tickets quick.

Good People
Noel Coward Theatre (formerly the Albery) through June 14

David Lindsay-Abaire's heartfelt drama won critical lauds in New York a few years back (and a Tony award for star Frances McDormand), and now Oscar-nominee (and Harry Potter star) Imelda Staunton is starring in the play's West End debut. (We're eager to hear her Boston accent.) 

Blithe Spirit
Gielgud Theatre, through June 7
Angela Lansbury won her most recent Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway revival of Noel Coward 's classic comedy, and now Londoners get to see the icon in top form.  

Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies 
Aldwych Theatre, from May 7 to September 6
Hilary Mantel’s novels about the court of Henry VIII and the dramatic life of Thomas Cromwell have earned numerous awards, and Mike Poulton has now turned them into a duo of plays running in rep. History buffs will definitely want to catch these.

A Streetcar Named Desire
Young Vic Theatre, July 23 to September 6
Gillian Anderson returns to the stage as Tennessee Williams' iconic Blanche DuBois. We don't need another reason to go.

Let the Right One In
Apollo Theatre, through September 27
The Swedish suspense novel and cult-hit film by John Ajvide Lindqvist have been adapted by Jack Thorne for the stage. We're curious how this dark look at childhood friendships will fare as a play...

There are lots of other shows running all over town, so check out the Visit Britain Shop for tickets and to see what else is available...