Summer Stages: Top Picks for West End Summer Theatre

As the summer months heat up, so does the West End theatre. Here are my picks for must-see theatre this summer:

The Sound of Music, Regent's Park Open Air Theatre: it might not be that long since the most recent London run of the show ended and began its touring life, but this reimagining will be worth seeing, starring Olivier nominee Michael Xavier as the Captain. Visit: http://openairtheatre.com/production/the-sound-of-music

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Theatre Royal Drury Lane: one of the most hyped musicals of recent years, it will be worth grabbing a golden ticket just to see the special effects, not to mention the return of Douglas Hodge to the West End. Visit: http://www.drurylanetheatrelondon.com/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory-the-musical/

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, Apollo Theatre: The National Theatre production swept up at this year's Olivier Awards, and now you can see what the fuss is about with this West End transfer. Visit: http://www.apollotheatrelondon.co.uk/the-curious-incident-of-the-dog-in-the-night-time/

Merrily We Roll Along, Harold Pinter Theatre: Another terrific Sondheim production from the Menier Chocolate Factory, catch Damian Humbley, Mark Umbers, Clare Foster and Josefina Gabrielle in action in this limited run. Visit: http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/merrily-we-roll-along/harold-pinter-theatre/

Once, Phoenix Theatre: it might have been overshadowed by the bombast of Charlie and the Mormon invasions, but word is that this enchanting little show is picking up quite the devoted fan base on the Charing Cross Road. Visit: http://www.phoenixtheatrelondon.co.uk/once/