Make a weekend of your West End experience in London

When it comes to musical theatre in Europe, London's West End scene is virtually unparalleled. After all, the West End boasts a range of musical productions to suit a variety of tastes - with Mary Poppins for the kids, Dirty Dancing for the girls and Monty Python's Spamalot for Dad! But whatever musical you're going to see in London, make sure you do your research in order to experience the best of the West End in style.

For instance, if you're taking your kids to the West End, there are plenty of musical productions that will appeal. Mary Poppins, for example, tells the story of the original Super-nanny who turns the world of Michael and Jane Banks upside down. Based on the Disney film, and employing the creative expertise of celebrated choreographer Matthew Bourne, amongst others, Mary Poppins promises a delightful experience for all girls and boys - not to mention their parents! Playing at the Prince Edward Theatre, Mary Poppins opened to rave reviews in December 2004 and is still going strong!

Alternatively, if you're hitting the town for a night out with the girls, then the West End is sure to have lots in store for you. For example, the latest stage adaptation of the hit 1987 film Dirty Dancing - playing at London's Aldwych Theatre - will have you and your friends grooving in your seats in no time! Telling the story of rich girl Frances "Baby" Houseman and handsome dance instructor Jonny, Dirty Dancing has captivated women of all ages for twenty years now, and this latest incarnation is sure to reach out to many more fans - both new and old. Alternatively, if Dirty Dancing doesn't appeal to you and your friends, the West End is sated with musicals that you're sure to love - including tried and tested favourites like Fame, Grease and Chicago.

And if you're taking your dad to the theatre, or you just fancy a good old chuckle, why not book tickets for Monty Python's Spamalot? Produced in the hallowed image of the classic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and directed by Oscar-winner Mike Nichols, Monty Python's Spamalot retells the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table in original style and translates seamlessly from the silver screen to the Palace Theatre. Alternatively, if you're interested in seeing an epic boy's adventure played out on stage, take a trip to the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane from May 2007 to see the West End version of J.R.R. Tolkein's The Lord of the Rings - an experience that promises to delight and entertain.

And, if you're hoping to catch a musical in the West End this summer, why not make a weekend of it and take a short break to London? Many hotels offer London theatre breaks, so you'll be able to catch the best West End offerings while enjoying a night or two in a fantastic hotel. What's more, making a weekend of your West End theatre experience means you'll also be able to browse London's top shopping destinations in style - whether you're headed to Oxford Street, Harrods or Camden Market.

Andrew Regan is a freelance online journalist who travels extensively.