London theatre breaks are a fantastic way to spend your weekend

As it becomes increasingly easier and cheaper to travel from one area to another, people in today's modern world have started taking a number of weekend breaks to various parts of the country. Individuals and couples, both young and old, have begun travelling more often through a variety of mediums - be it by train, coach or aeroplane; many people these days are just as likely to spend a weekend in Rome or Madrid as they are in Blackpool or Cornwall. However, as weekend break locations have evolved, they have also become more imaginative; a rising number of people are taking mini-cruise breaks, weekend golf breaks, and even weekend theme park breaks.

One form of weekend break which is rapidly gaining popularity is the theatre break. More and more frequently, travel agents and travel companies are offering theatre break packages to London, Edinburgh, Stratford-upon-Avon and even Paris. The London theatre scene is flourishing at the moment and is perhaps the best location in Britain if you're thinking about taking a weekend theatre break. From the long running musical of Disney's The Lion King to the 2006 stage adaptation of the Oscar-winning movie Dirty Dancing, people keen on theatre breaks in London have more than a few excellent options to choose from on the West End stage.

The Lion King is current playing at London's Lyceum Theatre; seen by over 30 million people at over 18,000 performances world wide, the show contains over 232 puppets which represent 25 species of animals. While The Lion King remains one of the most popular shows in London's West End, many of the shows currently playing have a similarly enduring appeal. Billy Elliot, for example, is currently being shown at the Victoria palace Theatre and has been a popular musical in the capital for many years. We Will Rock You, a musical by Queen and Ben Elton, followed hot on the heels of the success of Mamma Mia and continues to play to packed crowds at the Dominion Theatre in Tottenham Court.

Other popular musicals playing in London's West End include Les Miserables at the Queen's Theatre, Mary Poppins at Prince Edward Theatre, Guys and Dolls at the Piccadilly Theatre and Andrew Lloyd Webber's all time classic, The Phantom of the Opera, playing at Her Majesty's Theatre. You can find fantastic deals on London theatre breaks from a variety of sources, including travel agents and transport providers like National Express. Theatre buffs looking for exciting weekend breaks will also enjoy Shakespeare theatre breaks in Stratford upon Avon, the bard's home town. You can also take delight in Edinburgh's vibrant theatre scene, where you'll be able to enjoy some excellent classic and modern productions at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, the Edinburgh Festival Theatre and the Brunton Theatre, among many others.

Andrew Regan is a freelance online journalist.