Christmas shows for kids in London
Here are the best shows to book now for autumn and winter for your 5+ child, from an eco-warrior Hansel and Gretel to Black Beauty at the Southbank
Hansel and Gretel, Chiswick Playhouse
This update on everyone's favourite gingerbread-laden fairy tale is designed for kids 6 and up, and combines music and eco-awareness to delight parents and their offspring. Expect a tap-dancing cockroach, obligatory candy cane house made of cake and sweets and lollipops aplenty, as well as a commentary on the digital age and our fight for the planet - this witch has a hankering for single-use plastic as well as kids. The show has original music from award winner Leon Parris and is directed by Lucy Jane Atkinson, and is inspired by the hero of many a child: Greta Thunberg.
Read more ...Black Beauty, Southbank Centre
The beloved children's classic comes to life on stage through storytelling, music and puppetry - and is an ideal way to get younger audiences entranced in this story of friendship and bravery. The award-winning production is presented by Red Bridge Arts & Traverse Theatre Company and created by Andy Manley, Andy Cannon and Shona Reppe. Giddy-up.
Read more ...The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Bridge Theatre
Sally Cookson's lauded production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is at the Bridge this season and follows Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter on an imaginative adventure through the fantasy world of Narnia. Instead of your typical CGI and effects, expect magic to happen in more imaginative ways.
Pinocchio, Watermans
Nearly There Yet is bringing its acrobatic version of Pinocchio to the London kiddie set this Christmas in an adventurous, mischievous show to entertain the whole family. It's part-circus production, part-puppetry show, and wholly enjoyable, as it explores the relationship between father and son. There are even bubbles to keep the younger kids interested.
Read more ...Dear Evan Hansen, Noel Coward Theatre
One for the teen crowd, this hit, straight-from-six-Tony-Award-wins on Broadway, musical has landed in London and tells the tale of a loner who goes viral - accidentally. It's funny, sure, but also unflinchingly honest. You'll be playing the soundtrack on repeat - and will have plenty to unpick with your teenager afterwards. And they might even put their phone down long enough to discuss.
Read more ...The Boy in the Dress, RSC Stratford Upon Avon
David Walliams' hit book, The Boy in the Dress, is getting the large-scale musical treatment courtesy of the RSC, with songs by Robbie Williams. Yes, this is totally worth the trip out of London.
Nativity! The Musical, Eventim Apollo
The annual nativity show is a ritual that parents feel every emotion towards - which is one of the reasons there's a special place in our hearts for Mr. Madden, Mr. Poppy and their adorable St. Bernadettes students. Sharon Osbourne stars, and parents who have watched Nativity! the movie on repeat every Christmas will be thrilled to know that in addition to original songs, they'll be listening to Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth and One Night One Moment.
Read more ...Alice's Adventures Under Ground, Royal Opera House
This wonderful operatic version of Alice by Gerald Barry takes you through the cast of characters, and many of Lewis Carroll's storylines, in a brief, entertaining hour.
Be More Chill, The Other Palace Theatre
New musical Be More Chill broke records for the most ticket sales in a single week when it opened at Broadway's Lyceum Theatre. Another high school show with a sci-fi twist, this has an addictive soundtrack and is one to book into post-festive season when you're feeling that February chill.
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