Whether it’s the weekend or the school holidays, trying to find fun things to do with the kids can feel like a never-ending task. But why not forgo the trip to the cinema or the park this time and do something a little different instead? Taking your kids to the theatre can be a wonderful and wholesome experience for everyone involved.
Though you might think of the theatre as very much an adult’s evening of entertainment, there are actually loads of shows aimed at children so there is still loads of fun to be had for all the family, no matter what age you are.
If you’re thinking about taking your children to the theatre in London sometime in the near future, we can help you choose the best seats for the best shows. Check out our guide to seven of the best it shows for kids right now.
1. The Lion King
What child doesn’t love the Lion King? The wonderful coming-of-age story of a young cub and his friends. A musical adaptation of Disney’s long-running and award-winning movie, the kids will be delighted as the colourful and imaginative Serengeti is brought to life on stage. Of course, there will be classic songs like ‘The Circle of Life’ by Elton John, along with additional scores written specifically for this adaptation.
So you can sing along as you fall in love with the characters, choreography and incredible life-size animals dancing about the stage.
Currently showing at the Lyceum Theatre, there are plenty of daytime performances that are perfect for a family day out. That said, this show is recommended for audiences aged eight and over and has a runtime of around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
2. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Sticking with the lion theme, why not get over to the Gillian Lynne Theatre and take a trip to Narnia with The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe? Your children will be transported on a journey based on the CS Lewis book, following the lives of Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they embark on a magical journey that all started with a wardrobe.
This show also has a runtime of two hours and 30 minutes approximately, with a 15-minute interval, giving you and the kids plenty of time to grab an ice cream before you are whisked back to the icy forests of Narnia.
3. Frozen the Musical Information
Next on our list is another Disney classic. If your child is a huge fan of Elsa, Anna and the whole gang, then this is a show you don’t want to let go! Based on the global phenomenon that is Frozen, this musical is packed with even more songs and dancing than the movie, and you won’t be able to resist singing along.
As the stage is flooded with snowflakes, your children will be transported to a winter wonderland; you’ll laugh, sing and fall in love with Frozen all over again. This show is currently playing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane with an estimated run time of 2 hours and 15 minutes. There are multiple performances running throughout the day, so you can choose the time that suits you and your little ones.
4. Matilda The Musical
An adaptation of the famous book by Roald Dahl, Matilda the Musical tells the tale of neglected schoolgirl Matilda and her journey to discovering some pretty special powers. A story that will inspire audiences of all ages, as this extraordinary little girl dares to stand up and take control of her own destiny.
The show won seven Olivier awards back in 2012 and was named Best New Musical, and it continues to delight audiences to this day. The show features some original music by Tim Minchin, including songs such as ‘Revolting Children’ and ‘When I Grow Up’.
The estimated run time for the show is around two hours and 35 minutes, with performances beginning as early as 2:00 pm. You can catch the show right now at the West End’s Cambridge Theatre.
5. Wicked
Showing at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wicked lifts the curtains on one of the most popular shows of all time. A prequel to the famous movie The Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the tale of two unlikely friends Elphaba and Glinda, who became The Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch, respectively.
Packed with wizardry, dazzling costumes, a wonderfully witty storyline and songs that will have you tapping your feet for days, the whole family is sure to love it.
The approximate run time for this show is 2 hours and 45 minutes, and that includes a 15-minute interval.
6. Mary Poppins The Musical
For a show that is practically perfect in every way, get your kids over to London to watch Mary Poppins the Musical at the Prince Edward Theatre. An adaptation of the book and 1964 film, Mary Poppins is back in Cherry Tree Lane once again to look after the Banks children.
Together with Mary’s friend Burt, they’ll embark on many an adventure, singing, dancing and grinning as they do – and you can go along with them.
A gift for the whole family, this magical musical is a bit longer than the others on our list at 2 hours and 50 minutes (with an interval), but it’s so good you’ll never want to leave.
7. Horrible Histories Live Onboard! Terrible Thames
The final show on our list is something a little different. Based on Terry Deary’s enormously successful ‘Horrible Histories’, your children can learn and engage as history comes to life on The Thames. Climb aboard the boat as you are transported through time by some very convincing actors. After all, is there any better way to learn about history than on the high seas?
During the journey, you’ll learn everything from Cleopatra to King Henry VIII, Jack the Ripper and Queen Boudicca. This is not just fun and informative theatre but a great day out for the whole family.
So what are you waiting for? Get booking your tickets now!