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Evita London review – London’s latest must-see iconic revival

From the moment the lights dim and the first haunting notes echo around the theatre, you know you’re in for an electrifying, reimagining of Evita.
Hannah Cornish
Written by Hannah Cornish Edited by Lucie Fryer 03 July 2025
tiered-stage with actors and actresses cheering and waving flags, confetti falling down and bold light-up letters at the back of the stage spelling EVITA
Don’t miss the spectacular revival of Evita at the London Palladium - back for just 12 weeks this summer. Photo courtesy of London Theatre Direct.
At a glance: Evita at The London Palladium
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  • Venue: The London Palladium, W1F 7TF
  • Performance dates: Until 6 September 2025
  • Duration: Approx. two hours and 10 minutes, including an interval
  • Performance times: Mondays to Saturdays at 7.30pm with a matinee on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm
  • Audience: Recommended for ages 14+

Book your tickets for Evita the musical with Visit London.

The renowned Evita the musical returns to the West End this summer, reimagined by award-winning director Jamie Lloyd. Playing at The London Palladium until 6 September, and featuring Rachel Zegler’s long-awaited West End debut, it’s a gripping portrayal of Eva Perón’s awe-inspiring true story.

Read on for a full review, highlights and tips to make the most of your visit.

Rachel Zegler, who plays the lead role in Evita, is shown with her arms raised in the air, while the other cast members raise their hands towards her.

What is Evita the musical about?

Evita tells the poignant story of Eva Perón, the First Lady of Argentina, who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most beloved – and controversial – political icons in the world.

Set to the backdrop of political unrest and social change, the electrifying musical charts her rapid rise, passionate connection with the people of Argentina and her tragic early death.

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the timeless tale of Evita, and its ambition, glamour and legacy, is back on stage in London for a strictly limited 12-week run.

large tiered west end stage with an actor sat at the bottom of the tiered steps, and another actor sat a few rows behind looking up at a screen with a woman performing a song

What are the highlights?

It's only been a week since I saw the show and it’s fair to say I’m still in absolute awe. My initial thoughts are that it’s unlike any other West End show I have ever seen, with so much intensity, drama and unique twists squeezed into two hours.

We took our seats and the stage was set with a lone glittering star projected onto the curtains, setting a dramatic and curious tone with nothing given away as to what was hidden beyond.

From the moment the curtain rises and the glittering star fades, the production seizes your attention with a dark, atmospheric opening. Swirling smoke rolls across the stage, as hooded figures emerge in a hauntingly choreographed introduction - setting the tone for what’s to come.

Compared to other West End stagings, the design is strikingly minimal. There are no traditional sets or props, but it works in the production's favour. Eight tiered steps set the scene and a bold EVITA framework sits on the top level and the orchestra softly lit in the background - allowing the choreography and cast to shine.

The first half of Evita is high-energy and modern, blending contemporary dance with upbeat, carnival-style songs and a bold, stylised aesthetic. Expect surprises - from confetti balloons and air cannons marking key turns in the storyline to subtle, tongue-in-cheek humour that keeps the audience on its toes.

But it’s the second half of Evita where the production truly excels in being emotionally gripping and powerful.

A literal bang kicks things off, transitioning the glamorous portrayal of Eva at her peak to a moving depiction of her desperate final chapter. The music grows more haunting and the portrayal more intense.

Spoiler: One standout moment that gave me goosebumps? A live-streamed balcony scene from the London Palladium theatre replicates the real life scenes of Eva Perón addressing the people of Argentina. Blurring the line between stage and screen, this truly unexpected twist sees Rachel Zegler perform Don’t Cry for Me Argentina on the balcony where the general public take on a role of their own, with a camera seamlessly capturing her descent back through the theatre and onto the stage. This moment occurs every evening, and large crowds are expected to assemble at the spot on Argyll Street at around 9pm for the duration of the show’s run.

The choreography throughout is breathtaking - full of energy, precision and passion. The powerhouse vocals are incredible to witness and Che, played by Diego Andres Rodriguez, deserves a special mention effortlessly carrying the storyline with charismatic ease.

If you can’t already tell… I found Evita the musical deeply moving, inventive and unforgettable - a theatrical experience not to be missed.

Rachel Zegler, who is playing Eva Perón in Evita, is singing on stage while being surrounded by other cast members performing dance routines.

Who will enjoy Evita the musical?

Evita the musical is a must-see for:

  • Fans of bold, modern theatre that pushes boundaries
  • Anyone intrigued by political drama and real-life stories
  • Those who enjoy emotionally charged and thought-provoking musicals

A basic understanding of Eva Perón’s story will help provide context, as the narrative begins with immediate intensity, but even without it, the storytelling is compelling and visually captivating.

Final verdict: Should you see Evita the musical?

In three words? Yes, yes and yes.

Prepare to be moved, surprised and swept away by this daring revival of Evita. It’s dynamic and emotionally rich - a musical that has to be seen to be believed.

Book your tickets for Evita now – strictly limited 12-week run until 6 September 2025.

wide angle photo of the exterior of The London Palladium theatre, with Evita signage at the front and crowds queuing to enter the theatre

Make the most of your visit

Located just off London’s buzzing Oxford Street, there are plenty of restaurants and bars near the London Palladium theatre that are perfect for pre-theatre dining.

  • Tuck into pan-Asian cuisine in stylish surroundings at Inamo Soho for a perfect budget-friendly pre-theatre feast of sushi and Asian tapas.
  • Step into a vintage underground station bar with swing music, quirky décor and creative cocktails at Cahoots, the 1940s themed cocktail bar.
  • Enjoy Bombay comfort food with a modern twist at Dishoom in Soho. Tuck into mouth-watering sharing plates and street-food dishes, inspired by the old Irani cafes of Bombay.
  • Dine at Old Compton Brasserie for British favourites and signature dishes including beer battered fish and chips, fried buttermilk chicken burgers and roasted seabream.

More London theatre reviews

Read more of our London theatre reviews including the award-winning popular anime theatre adaptation My Neighbour Totoro or the ultimate fashion comedy Devil Wears Prada.