The Stage's Top 50 shows of 2024

From remarkable debut plays to fresh takes on classic works, bold new musicals to flawless opera and dance, there was no shortage of magnificent theatre in 2024. As the curtain comes down another year of productions, here are our critics’ picks of the top 50 shows from the past 12 months:

• Top 50 shows of 2024: London – The Stage writers choose their top shows in London
• Top 50 shows of 2024: Around the UK – Critics’ favourites from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Top 50 shows of 2024: Opera and Dance – Critics George Hall and Siobhan Murphy choose their standout moments from the year  
• Plus, international editor Natasha Tripney’s review of the year beyond the UK