Musical Con 2025: A Celebration of All Things Stagey! 

Musical Con 2025: A Celebration of All Things Stagey!

Since its debut four years ago, Musical Con has become a haven for musical theatre lovers from around the world – and yes, fans even fly in from the US! The 2025 edition proved once again that this convention is the ultimate space for theatre fans to embrace their passion and feel completely at home.

We were there for Day One, and the atmosphere was electric. Attendees dressed up as beloved stage characters—from The Phantom and Hadestown’s Persephone to a delightfully unexpected Celine Dion—while others proudly wore theatre-themed tees. The sense of community was palpable.

The opening ceremony kicked off with star-studded appearances from Shanay Holmes, Layton Williams, and Lauren Drew. A standout moment came with a special performance by original 1994 Starlight Express cast members Ray Shell and Maurey Richards, igniting cheers across the crowd.

Much of the action centered on the main stage, which boasted a packed schedule. Highlights included a Clueless: The Musical cast reunion, a show spotlight featuring the West End cast of The Producers (currently playing at the Garrick Theatre), and an artist spotlight with West End royalty, Kerry Ellis. Hosted by Lauren Drew, the session was a heartwarming reminder that theatre stars are fans too—Drew's own excitement was infectious!

A particularly buzzworthy segment was the showcase for Wild About You, a new musical that had a successful concert debut at Theatre Royal Drury Lane last year. Performers Dean John-Wilson and Cassidy Janson brought songs from the show to life, leaving audiences eager for what’s next.

One of the most inspiring parts of the day was Star of Musical Con, a talent competition where aspiring performers auditioned online for a chance to sing on the main stage—and potentially earn a West End performance slot this Christmas. The talent on display was astonishing, with performers as young as 14 wowing the crowd. The winner, 17-year-old JJ, brought the entire hall to a standstill with his powerhouse rendition of Defying Gravity. (Check out our Instagram for a sneak peek!)

The merchandise hall was buzzing with activity as fans stocked up on pins, prints, bookmarks, and other theatre-inspired goodies from popular exhibitors like Encore Gifts, Ensemble Games & Gifts, Handmade Broadway, Fugly Cow Designs, and Letters to July.

Other fan-favorite events included a Dear Evan Hansen singalong, a fan celebration, and a hilarious theatre-themed game show. Meanwhile, the Backstage Theatre offered thought-provoking panels such as The Black Print West End and Neurodiversity in the West End.

Even though we didn’t get around to any workshops or meet-and-greets this time, the day was packed with joy, inspiration, and unforgettable moments. Musical Con continues to be a one-of-a-kind event with something for every kind of theatre fan—and we can’t wait to return next year.