Step out of the winter weather and be transported into the magical, exciting world of children’s theatre in London: these are some of the best plays and musicals to book right now.
Watching a live theatre performance is both thrilling and educational for youngsters, whether a fun short play aimed at toddlers, a challenging drama for older kids or an uplifting musical that all the family can enjoy.
Whether you’re making plans for October half-term or thinking ahead to festive days out, these are the theatre shows to book in London from now until the end of the year.
Matilda the Musical
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Surely one of the best ever musicals for kids, Matilda is a classic. Bringing to life the characters from Roald Dahl’s book, you’ll meet the enchanting Matilda, her loathsome parents and her monstrous headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. An uplifting, fast-paced tale of triumph over adversity it will leave you humming the tunes as you leave. Matilda the Musical has a terrific energy, an incredibly clever set, and some of the West End’s most talented young actors. Sometimes a little scary and very loud, this musical is probably best suited to children over seven but younger ones are most welcome to come along.
The Creakers
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Ever wondered what you would do if you woke up and all the adults had disappeared? Well that’s exactly what happens to Lucy and her friends in this brand new and super-fun show. Based on the best-selling children’s book, The Creakers by McFly’s Tom Fletcher, this is a magical musical adventure about friendship and mystery. Fletcher’s imaginative novels have sold 10 million copies globally, and this theatre adaptation is sure to be a hit with kids too.
Starlight Express
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The Starlight Express is back! Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 1980’s hit musical has returned to the stage and is every bit as fantastical as the original. First opening in 1984, this electrifying show ran for 18 years in London and is now making an impressive comeback, having arrived in London again this summer. The story is based around a child’s train set coming to life and features a musical steam engine named Rusty who races in a championship against modern locomotives, with rollerskating actors whizzing around the stage. Sounds a little whacky? It is a bit, but it’s also a truly amazing, high-octane spectacle with a positive message that older kids will love.
The Snowman
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For parents who grew up with Aled Jones singing Walking in the Air as the soundtrack to Christmas, it’s a nostalgic joy to take their own little ones to the stage performance of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved animated film The Snowman. Expect to see Father Christmas and of course the Snowman himself who will be flying across the stage – it’s a whole ton of adorable festive fun aimed at littlies. This is a very relaxed performance where babies and toddlers can enjoy all the music and clap along. Book early as it sells out quickly every year.
The Nutcracker
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For slightly older children who are ready to appreciate a more grown-up festive treat, The Nutcracker is a magical way to introduce them to ballet. With stunning choreography from the English National Ballet and the iconic score by Tchaikovsky that you’re sure to recognise, this is a truly memorable outing. Embark on a fantastical journey alongside Clara and her enchanted doll, as The Nutcracker is brought to life by over 100 dancers and musicians. Watch as the toy soldiers battle the Mouse King and meet the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy in this most traditional of Christmas performances.
Oliver
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The big ticket opening of the season is Oliver. Legendary West End producer Cameron Mackintosh has revived this classic musical, bringing it back to the London stage for the first time in 10 years. This major new production tells the famous tale of the boy who flees a Victorian workhouse only to end up engulfed in London’s criminal underworld. Directed and choreographed by the great Matthew Bourne, with familiar tunes such as Food Glorious Food and Consider Yourself, this show is a delight for older children who will love the story as much as the excellent performance.
Room On The Broom
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“Is there room on the broom for a frog like me?” Like so many of Julia Donaldson’s wonderful stories, the lines from this joyous book have become well-known amongst her young readers and their parents. So there’s enough room in London for a theatre adaptation of Room On The Broom. As various animals clamber on to join the friendly witch on her broomstick things start to go a little wrong, but teamwork ensures everything turns out perfectly. Whether you read the book regularly or are new to this fabulous story, all little children will adore this charming play.
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