June is bursting with LGBTQ+ theatre and cabaret across London, so here’s a quick round-up of the most exciting shows if you’re looking to celebrate at the theatre.
Pop Off, Michelangelo!
Until 22 June | Underbelly Boulevard Soho
The high-camp musical comedy that stole the Fringe makes its limited West End debut season. Pop Off, Michelangelo! tells the story of best-pals-turned-bitter-rivals Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. A bloodthirsty friar is on the hunt for homosexuals in Renaissance Italy at the exact moment when childhood friends Mike and Leo realise they both like boys.
Ticket listing: Prices from £15, https://www.popoffmichelangelo.com/
Diamonds and Dust
From 16 June | Emerald Theatre
Dita Von Teese, often referred to as the "Queen of Burlesque", headlines this sultry, theatrical burlesque show where old-school glamour meets Wild West grit. Set around the mysterious Miss Kitty LeRoy, part gunslinger and part temptress, Diamonds and Dust blends seductive choreography with an intriguing storyline. Expect sparkle, danger, and vintage flair with a modern bite. Faye Tozer also joins the cast, adding a touch of pop royalty.
Ticket listing: Prices from £45, https://diamondsxdust.com/the-show/
This Bitter Earth
18 June – 26 July | Soho Theatre
Billy Porter, the Emmy, Grammy and Tony-winning powerhouse and one of the most influential voices in queer culture, makes his UK directorial debut with this intimate and politically charged two-hander. This Bitter Earth follows interracial couple Jesse and Neal as they wrestle with their relationship amid a backdrop of activism, protest, and personal reckoning. Intimate, affecting and beautifully acted by Omari Douglas and Alexander Lincoln, it’s a play that lingers long after the final line.
The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs
13 June – 13 July | Kiln Theatre
When a group of queer women form a community choir, they discover that singing in harmony is sometimes the least of their worries. This heartfelt musical comedy is full of laughter, bickering and big ballads, exploring identity, friendship and the joy of being heard. With Leah Harvey, Georgie Henley and Liz Carr in the cast, it’s a feel-good gem with real soul.
Ticket listing: Prices from £15, https://kilntheatre.com/whats-on/the-ministry-of-lesbian-affairs/
A Tribute to Dalida!
19 – 22 June | Sadler’s Well Theatre
This dazzling concert honours the life and legacy of Dalida, the French-Italian-Egyptian icon whose voice and story made her a beloved figure in queer history. Mikayella Stephan performs a multilingual set tracing Dalida’s journey from beauty queen to international star. Expect lush visuals, heartfelt performances and a reminder of why she still resonates nearly 40 years after her death.
Ticket listing: Prices from £18, www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/am-mgt-prods-tribute-dalida | www.dalidamusicaltribute.com
The Diana Mixtape
29 July – 10 August | HERE at Outernet
It’s not on during Pride Month, but if you’re up for keeping the celebrations going, hold out for The Diana Mixtape. This high-energy musical pays tribute to Princess Diana with a fierce cast of drag stars including Courtney Act, Divina De Campo, and Kitty Scott-Claus. Expect big pop tunes, camp drama, and a few emotional hits along the way. It’s looking like one of the standout shows of the summer - I’m so excited to hear Chappell Roan at the theatre!
Ticket listing: Prices from £34.50, https://thedianamixtape.com/