Sick of sitting there with your nose in a coursebook? Fancy a night on the town? Why not head out to one of London’s many theatres and catch a show? As well as being an amazing night out, you can practise your English in a low-pressure environment. Musicals are a great way to practise your English because you can listen to the songs as many times as you like before you go to see the show. You’ll have time to check the lyrics and look up any words you don’t understand, and Spotify has a karaoke option on most contemporary recordings. If musicals aren’t your thing, you can usually find a script online for the more popular plays, so you can do some reading beforehand, if you’re really keen! Here are my 5 recommendations for plays and musicals which have simple dialogue and songs. Who knows? You might get the bug and want to see loads more!
The Sound of Music
This classic musical has simple dialogue and the film version with Julie Walters was filmed at a time when actors spoke more clearly than they do now. The songs are relatively simple, and so catchy that the show has a cult following. I’m not aware of this being on in theatres right now but you can find the film online, or better still, watch it at a “singalong” screening at a cinema near you.
Oliver!
The musical version of Charles Dickens’ book Oliver Twist also has simple dialogue and songs. This adaptation of a classic book has loads of flamboyant characters and a really compelling story. It’s also a great way to get into English literature. You’ll soon be asking for more! Oliver will be at the Gielgud Theatre this December, and there is at least one filmed version which is available online.
Mamma Mia
If you’re a bit of a closet ABBA fan (like me), then you’ll love this modern musical which uses the many hits of the Swedish pop sensation. Because ABBA’s songs are world-famous, and still very popular, you will probably already know some of the song lyrics. Use that karaoke function on Spotify, and you’ll be crooning along in no time! Mamma Mia is on now at the Novello Theatre, and there’s at least two films available to watch online.
Peter Pan
Any play intended for children is a great way to improve your English because the dialogue is kept intentionally simple so the young audience don’t get confused. Peter Pan is a magical story, with great characters, and even if you don’t have children, I’m sure you’ll enjoy watching it. The script for kids shows often changes, but ask your teacher for a graded version of the book.
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