Musical Con: A Guide to London’s Musical Theatre Fan Convention

Musical Con London is the premier musical theatre fan convention in the UK, offering a unique experience for theatre lovers of all ages. Held annually at ExCeL London, this event is a haven for anyone passionate about musical theatre.

Notable attendees include casting director Stuart Burt, known for his work on productions such as Cabaret and Miss Saigon, and choreographer Mark Smith, recognised for his contributions to the musical theatre scene.

If you’ve ever dreamt of immersing yourself in the world of West End musical productions, this is the place to be.

Key Takeaways

• Ultimate Musical Theatre Convention: Musical Con London is the UK’s biggest musical theatre fan convention, held every October at ExCeL London.
• Packed with Activities: Enjoy discussion panels, cast reunions, lip sync battles, and cosplay. Special experiences like stage door access offer behind-the-scenes fun.
• Ticket Options: Choose from early bird tickets, weekend passes, and VIP packages for perks and priority access to events. Plan ahead for this weekend-long celebration.

What is Musical Con?

Musical Con is a celebration of everything musical theatre. Think of it as the Comic-Con for theatre fans. It brings together fans, performers, and creators for a weekend packed with activities, performances, and interactions. It’s the ultimate gathering for those who live and breathe musicals.

Why You Should Attend Musical Con

Attending Musical Con is more than just a day out; it’s a magical weekend where you can meet your favourite stars, watch unique performances, and even participate in workshops. Here’s why you should consider going:

• Meet the Stars: Get up close and personal with the stars of the West End and beyond.
• Exclusive Performances: Enjoy performances that you won’t see anywhere else.
• Workshops and Panels: Learn from the best in the industry.
• Merchandise: Pick up exclusive musical con tote bags and other merchandise.
• Community: Meet fellow fans and make new friends.

What to Do at Musical Con

Musical Con offers a variety of activities that cater to every musical theatre fan’s interests. Whether you’re into panel discussions, performances, or just soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.

Discussion Panels

One of the best parts of Musical Con is the discussion panels. These panels feature actors, directors, and other theatre professionals discussing various aspects of the industry. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the art of musical theatre.

Cast Reunions

Don’t miss the cast reunions. These are special events where the original casts of famous musicals come together to reminisce and perform. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of these shows.

Unique Performances

Expect to see unique performances that you won’t find anywhere else. These can include sneak peeks of upcoming shows, special musical numbers, and more. It’s a highlight of the event that draws in fans from all over.

Cosplay at Musical Con

Cosplay is a big part of Musical Con, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to the event. Fans love to dress up as their favourite characters from musicals, and it’s a great way to show off your creativity and passion for musical theatre.

Popular Musical Cosplays

Several musicals inspire fans to create detailed and impressive costumes. Here are some of the most popular ones you’ll likely see at the convention:

• Heathers: The iconic outfits from this musical are a favourite among cosplayers. Expect to see lots of red, green, and yellow blazers, symbolising the different Heathers.
• Six: The queens from this musical are a hit with their dazzling, historically-inspired costumes. Each queen’s outfit is unique, reflecting their personality and story.
• Wicked: Characters like Elphaba and Glinda are popular choices. The striking green makeup and elaborate gowns make for show-stopping costumes.
• Hamilton: The revolutionary outfits of Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, and the Schuyler Sisters are always a crowd-pleaser.
• The Phantom of the Opera: Classic characters like the Phantom and Christine are perennial favourites, often seen in their dramatic and elegant attire.

Shopping at Musical Con

No convention is complete without some shopping. Musical Con offers a wide range of merchandise that you can take home as a memento of your experience. Here’s what you can expect.

Musical Con Tote Bag

A visit to Musical Con wouldn’t be complete without picking up some merchandise. One of the most popular items is the musical con tote bag. It’s a perfect souvenir to remember your experience by and handy for carrying all your other purchases.

Huge Selection of Musical Theatre Merchandise

You’ll find a huge selection of merchandise at the convention. From posters and t-shirts to rare collectibles, there’s something for every fan. It’s the perfect place to find gifts for fellow theatre lovers or treat yourself to something special.

Special Guests and Appearances

Meeting your favourite stars and seeing them perform live is one of the biggest draws of Musical Con. Here’s a peek at who you might see at the event.

West End’s Official Musical Theatre Stars

The event is known for featuring West End’s official musical theatre stars. These guests often participate in panels, sign autographs, and take part in performances. It’s a rare chance to see these performers up close and personal.

Musical Movie Stars

In addition to stage stars, musical movie stars also make appearances. This adds another layer of excitement for fans of musical films.

Tips for Visiting Musical Con

To make the most of your visit to Musical Con, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some practical tips and information to help you navigate the event smoothly.

Getting to ExCeL London

ExCeL London is easily accessible by public transport. The venue is well-connected by the London Underground, DLR, and various bus routes. If you’re driving, there is ample parking available at the venue.

Accommodation

If you’re planning to stay overnight, there are many accommodation options nearby. From budget-friendly hotels like the Premier Inn (Excel) to more luxurious choices like the Doubletree by Hilton Excel, you’ll find something to suit your needs.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

If it’s your first time attending Musical Con, you’ll want to be prepared. Here are some tips to ensure you have the best possible experience.

Plan Your Schedule

With so much to do, it’s a good idea to plan your schedule in advance. Check the event programme and decide which activities and panels you don’t want to miss.

Budget Wisely

While Musical Con offers a lot of free activities, there are also plenty of opportunities to spend money. Set a budget for things like merchandise, food, and special experiences.

Stay Hydrated and Comfortable

The convention can be tiring, so make sure to stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. There are plenty of places to sit and rest throughout the venue.

Book your Tickets

Getting the right tickets can make your experience at Musical Con even better. Here’s what you need to know about ticket options and how to secure your spot at this fantastic event.

Early Bird Tickets

If you’re planning to attend, it’s wise to get your early bird tickets. These are often available at a discount and give you priority access to the event. Early bird tickets sell out fast, so make sure to grab yours as soon as they become available.

Weekend Pass

For the full experience, consider getting a weekend pass. This allows you to enjoy the event without missing any of the action. It’s perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the weekend-long celebration.

Final Thoughts

Musical Con London is a must-visit for any musical theatre fan. It’s a weekend-long celebration of all things theatre, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the world of West End musical productions.

Whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or new to the scene, Musical Con has something for everyone. From discussion panels and unique performances to exclusive merchandise and official musical theatre fan experiences, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.

Read More: A Guide to London’s Best Musical Theatre Bunch.

FAQs

What is Musical Con London?

Musical Con London is an annual musical theatre fan convention held at ExCeL London. It brings together fans, performers, and creators for a weekend filled with performances, workshops, panels, and interactive experiences related to musical theatre.

When is Musical Con London held?

Musical Con London typically takes place over a weekend in October. For 2024, the event will be held on the 19th and 20th of October.

Where can I buy tickets for Musical Con London?

Tickets for Musical Con London can be purchased through the official event website. It’s recommended to get early bird tickets for discounts and priority access.

What activities can I expect at Musical Con London?

Attendees can expect a wide range of activities, including discussion panels, cast reunions, unique performances, lip sync battles, and opportunities to purchase stage door experiences. There’s something for every musical theatre fan.

Can I meet West End stars at Musical Con London?

Yes, Musical Con London features appearances from West End’s official musical theatre stars. You can meet them during panels, signings, and special events.

Is there a cosplay element at Musical Con London?

Absolutely! Cosplay is a significant part of the convention, with many fans dressing up as characters from popular musicals like Heathers, Six, Wicked, and more.

What merchandise is available at Musical Con London?

You can find a huge selection of musical theatre merchandise at Musical Con, including posters, t-shirts, collectibles, and the popular musical con tote bag.

Are there any special ticket packages?

Yes, besides standard tickets, you can purchase special packages such as weekend passes and stage door experiences for additional perks and access.

How do I get to ExCeL London for Musical Con?

ExCeL London is easily accessible via public transport, including the London Underground and DLR. There are also parking facilities if you prefer to drive.

What should I bring to Musical Con London?

It’s a good idea to bring comfortable clothing, a reusable water bottle, and some cash for merchandise. Don’t forget your musical con tote bag for carrying all your goodies!

Can I participate in any performances at Musical Con London?

Yes, attendees can join in on activities like lip sync battles and workshops, making it a fun and interactive experience for everyone.