The Stage’s Top 50 shows of 2025

From remarkable debut plays to novel twists on classic works, bold new musicals to flawless opera and dance, there was no shortage of magnificent theatre in 2025. 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 2025: London – The Stage writers choose their top shows in London
• Top 50 shows of 2025: Around the UK – Critics’ favourites from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Top 50 shows of 2025: Dance – Siobhan Murphy chooses her standout moments from the year

• Top 50 shows of 2025: Opera – George Hall selects his top productions from the past 12 months