The six kids shows to see this December
These are the family shows to book into this December that we've seen and loved. Oh - in case you were wondering - the kids have, too.
In The Winter Wood, Polka Theatre
Jan Blake's In the Winter Wood invites kids to snuggle up under blankets and listen to stories about animals in lands near and far. An immersive, interactive experience where you chant, field questions, roar and stamp your feet along to the animal adventure stories happening in the wood, our kids are still reciting the stories and lyrics weeks after watching the performance.
Read more ...Aladdin, Hackney Empire
Clive Rowe stars as the Widow Twankey and Tameka Empson is the Empress of Ha-Ka-Ney in this all-singing, all-dancing, all-flying rendition of Aladdin which is panto silliness and magic at its best. Look out for tapping pandas and a girl Aladdin (Gemma Sutton, whose voice is stunning) as you celebrate Hackney Empire's 20th year of pantos. Bonus points if you know all the words to The Greatest Showman songs.
Read more ...Cinderella and the Beanstalk, Theatre 503
Comedy troupe Sleeping Trees' twist on the traditional pantomime has become a Culture Whisper favourite, and this year the usual hi-jinks are handled by an all-female cast and crew, who only have 40 different parts to play between them. Cue hilarity.
Read more ...The Gingerbread Man, Jacksons Lane
Jacksons Lane in Highgate's production of The Gingerbread Man, from Hiccup Theatre and Derby Theatre, whips up catchy songs and dances in a compelling bakery world that brings this beloved – and cheeky – character to life. Fun twist? The gingerbread man actually wants to be eaten - so your two-year-old will laugh heartily as the biccie runs towards the fox.
Read more ...Rumpelstiltskin, Queen Elizabeth Hall
Something unexpected this festive season comes. Rumpelstiltskin, by Windmill Theatre Company and State Theatre Company South Australia at the South Bank until 6 January, is the most gorgeous visual feast you'll see this season. Twists aplenty: Rumpelstiltskin is a fashion designer - and kind of nice! - while the girl, known as Harriet, is kind of a greedy disaster. Look out for the incredible animations and glam rock tunes. Recommended for 8+.
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