The hottest London theatre tickets to book right now from Slave Play to Opening Night

Forget the long runners and the Hollywood stars, for the buzziest shows in London theatre – whether already opened or heading into town – it’s worth looking further afield. Worried that you haven’t heard of the play, the actors or even the theatre? Don’t worry, this is a list of must-see shows with the seal of approval from the Evening Standard’s theatre experts. Now is the time to book before everyone else cottons on.

Till the Stars Come Down

This glorious show at the National Theatre took everyone by surprise – and yesterday it was nominated for an Olivier award in the best new play category. Written by Beth Steel, it unfolds over the course of a wedding day, with the bride and her two sisters at its heart. As the day wears on, and the bucks fizzes move onto pints and vodka shots, the filthy humour gets funnier and the dark family secrets come out. The whole cast – most of whom you’ll recognise as “Oh it’s him/her off the telly” – features a scene stealing