Best Family Christmas Shows and Pantomimes, Christmas 2017
We've rounded up the best family-friendly shows coming this Christmas season
Best Family Christmas Shows and Pantomimes, Christmas 2017
Outside of Lapland, magic of Christmas is best found in London's theatres, with spectacular ballets, much-loved literary adaptations and laugh-out-loud pantomimes that bring the wonders of Christmas excited children and equally excited adults. London is, as ever, spoilt for choice with its Christmas events. Fortunately Culture Whisper has selected the very best Christmas shows in 2017 to ensure Winter is everyone's favourite month.
Stick Man, Leicester Square Theatre
21 October – 7 January | 2:00 PM – 2:55 PM
Ages: Recommended for children age 3 and up
Run, run, as fast as you can: and catch the Stick Man at Leicester Square Theatre this Christmas season. Based on the book by Julia Donaldson, this family-friendly show promises to be more fun than you could shake a Stick Man at.
find out more
Sleepyhead, Little Angel Theatre
17 November – 4 February| 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM
Ages: Recommended for children age 2 – 5
What happens when Dad falls asleep first, and Baby gets his hands on the magic top hat? Part magic show, part circus act, and all fun, Sleepyhead tackles the struggles of bedtime. This charming show promises to make your bedtime struggles pale in comparison.
find out more
The Velveteen Rabbit, Unicorn Theatre
Ages: Recommended for children ages 4 and up
The touching story of a toy rabbit brought to life through the power of love will return to the Unicorn Theatre this November. Inspired by the classic picture book, families are invited to go behind the scenes join the titular rabbit for tea in a special workshop.
find out more
Cinderella, Hackney Empire
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Pantomime season begins with Cinderella at Hackney Empire. Aisha Jawando (Motown the Musical) is set to dazzle as the panto princess, and Hackney Empire pantomime regulars Tony Whittle and Kat B will star as the Ugly Sisters.
find out more
Jack and the Beanstalk, Lyric Hammersmith
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Get ready for one giant pantomime as Jack and the Beanstalk touches down on the Lyric Hammersmith stage. With talking animals, songs, and and magic, the monumental adventure is sure to excite and delight the little ones.
find out more
A Christmas Carol, Old Vic Theatre
Ages: Recommended for ages 11 and up
Get your kids in the Christmas spirit ahead of schedule by booking a Christmas Carol at the Old Vic this November. Charles Dickens' classic will take to the stage, with Rhys Ifans (King Lear) starring as the famous miser, Ebenezer Scrooge.
find out more
Father Christmas, Lyric Hammersmith Christmas 2017
Ages: Recommended for ages 6 and under
Families are invited to watch and learn as Santa Claus gets ready for the busiest night of the year. With plenty of music and puppetry, Father Christmas at the Lyric Hammersmith promises to offer some insight into the magic behind the scenes at the North Pole.
find out more
Boing!, Unicorn Theatre Christmas 2017
Ages: Recommended for ages 3 and up
Bounce into the Christmas season with Boing! at the Unicorn Theatre. The energetic piece of dance-theatre explores the excitement before Christmas Eve, and sees two boys counting the seconds until the arrival of Santa Claus. Designed exclusively for toddlers, the show will have your little ones up and tapping their tiny toes in no time.
find out more
The Snowman, Peacock Theatre
Ages: Recommended for all ages
A yearly favourite, The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre sees a little boy and his enchanted snowman on a magical Christmas journey. Like the book and film, the show is entirely without dialogue, but the performance will feature Howard Blake's classic score, ‘Walking in the Air’ performed by a live orchestra.
find out more
King Tut, King's Head Theatre
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Pantomimes are, by definition, preposterous, but King Tut: A Pyramid Panto might just be the silliest of all this Christmas season. Little has been revealed about the performance, but rest assured the masterminds behind Charles Court Opera will deliver a panto to remember.
find out more
Caravantomime
1 December – 22 December
Ages: Recommended for children aged 3 and up
Pile the kids into the Caravan Theatre for an anti-pantomime comedy. The 20-minute show promises to deliver laughs galore. Designed to maximize the intimate theatre space that seats an audience of nine, this is one show you won't want to miss. But you just might – Caravantomime is traveling across Bankside this holiday season, delivering festive cheer to as many locations as possible. Check online to track the traveling caravan show.
find out more
The Box of Delights, Wilton’s Music Hall
Ages: Recommended for children aged 7 and up
The story of a child tasked with protecting the titular Box will take to Wilton's Music Hall this Christmas. Young fans of Dr. Who and Harry Potter will be charmed by this enchanted, time-travelling box that redefines the meaning of 'Christmas magic'.
find out more
Pinocchio, National Theatre
Ages: Recommended for children ages 8 and up
The National Theatre presents Pinocchio, the first-ever stage adaptation of the 1940 film. Join Jiminy Cricket, Geppetto, and, of course, Pinocchio himself in this production brought to the stage by powerhouses of West End talent: writer Dennis Kelly (Matilda) and director John Tiffany (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child).
find out more
Under a Magical Moon, Jacksons Lane
Ages: Recommended for ages 3 and up
J.M. Barrie's magical tale of marvellous mayhem will be given a feminist twist this December. Peter Pan, retold from Wendy's perspective, will take to the stage at Jacksons Lane theatre in what promises to be a captivating retelling of the classic.
find out more
Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker, Royal Opera House
5 December – 10 January 18 | Matinees at 12:30 or 14:00, evening performances at 19:30 or 19:00
Ages: All ages
find out more
Scrooge and the Seven Dwarves, Theatre503
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Comedy trio Sleeping Trees is back in Theatre503 with a Christmas pantomime like no other. Combining Charles Dickens' Christmas Carol with the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, this performance promises a flurry of wonder and excitement – even if you are a Scrooge.
find out more
Dick Whittington, London Palladium
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
The adventures of Dick Whittington and his cat will take to the London Palladium stage. The celebrity-packed panto will see Half a Sixpence star, Charlie Stemp, in the titular role backed by musical theatre legend Elaine Page.
find out more
The Little Match Girl, Lilian Baylis Studio
Ages: Recommended for ages 5 and up
Both beautiful and devastatingly sad, The Little Match Girl tells the story of a destitute child who struggles to survive a bitter winter night. This year, celebrated choreographer Arthur Pita is set to transform the classic into a fantastical ballet.
find out more
English National Ballet, Nutcracker London Coliseum
Ages: Recommended for all ages
Join Clara at the London Coliseum this Christmas season for a performance of The Nutcracker by the English National Ballet. Director Wayne Eagling has more tricks up his sleeve than Dr. Drosselmeyer – we hear his version includes a hot air balloon.
find out more
Nativity! The Musical, Eventim Apollo
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
The story of Mr Maddens, Mr Poppy, and their whacky class's attempt to produce a Hollywood-level nativity play will be seen as a rip-roaring musical at the Eventim Apollo this Christmas season. Written and directed by Debbie Isitt, creator of the films, the stage interpretation promises all the joys of the original – and then some.
find out more
What the Moon Saw, The Place
20 December 17 – 22 December 17 | 12:00 – 12:45
Ages: Recommended for ages 3+
What the Moon Saw is a re-imagining of a classic Hans Christian Andersen tale. The story follows the adventures of young Jack, who overcomes his fears with the help of his friend, the moon. This family-friendly dance piece promises to be one of the most original pieces of Christmas theatre this holiday season.
find out more
Passport to Adventure: Disney on Ice, O2 Arena
Ages: Recommended for ages 5 and up
Disney classics will glide into the O2 for a 10-day run. Even if you're not getting out of London this holiday season, there's no reason you can't pick up your passport to adventure with all your favourite Disney characters, on the ice.
find out more
Peter Pan, SSE Arena
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Few pantomimes promise the thrills and chills of Peter Pan at the SSE Arena, where 100 performers (including trapeze artists, BMX bike stuntmen, and custard pie slapstick specialists) will bring J.M. Barrie's timeless tale to life. Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet), will play Captain Hook, and Bradley Walsh (Coronation Street, Law & Order: UK) is set to feature as the lovable Mr Smee.
find out more
Still not enough? This is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of family Christmas fun... click here to explore more of Culture Whisper's family-friendly picks
Stick Man, Leicester Square Theatre
21 October – 7 January | 2:00 PM – 2:55 PM
Ages: Recommended for children age 3 and up
Run, run, as fast as you can: and catch the Stick Man at Leicester Square Theatre this Christmas season. Based on the book by Julia Donaldson, this family-friendly show promises to be more fun than you could shake a Stick Man at.
find out more
Sleepyhead, Little Angel Theatre
17 November – 4 February| 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM
Ages: Recommended for children age 2 – 5
What happens when Dad falls asleep first, and Baby gets his hands on the magic top hat? Part magic show, part circus act, and all fun, Sleepyhead tackles the struggles of bedtime. This charming show promises to make your bedtime struggles pale in comparison.
find out more
The Velveteen Rabbit, Unicorn Theatre
Ages: Recommended for children ages 4 and up
The touching story of a toy rabbit brought to life through the power of love will return to the Unicorn Theatre this November. Inspired by the classic picture book, families are invited to go behind the scenes join the titular rabbit for tea in a special workshop.
find out more
Cinderella, Hackney Empire
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Pantomime season begins with Cinderella at Hackney Empire. Aisha Jawando (Motown the Musical) is set to dazzle as the panto princess, and Hackney Empire pantomime regulars Tony Whittle and Kat B will star as the Ugly Sisters.
find out more
Jack and the Beanstalk, Lyric Hammersmith
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Get ready for one giant pantomime as Jack and the Beanstalk touches down on the Lyric Hammersmith stage. With talking animals, songs, and and magic, the monumental adventure is sure to excite and delight the little ones.
find out more
A Christmas Carol, Old Vic Theatre
Ages: Recommended for ages 11 and up
Get your kids in the Christmas spirit ahead of schedule by booking a Christmas Carol at the Old Vic this November. Charles Dickens' classic will take to the stage, with Rhys Ifans (King Lear) starring as the famous miser, Ebenezer Scrooge.
find out more
Father Christmas, Lyric Hammersmith Christmas 2017
Ages: Recommended for ages 6 and under
Families are invited to watch and learn as Santa Claus gets ready for the busiest night of the year. With plenty of music and puppetry, Father Christmas at the Lyric Hammersmith promises to offer some insight into the magic behind the scenes at the North Pole.
find out more
Boing!, Unicorn Theatre Christmas 2017
Ages: Recommended for ages 3 and up
Bounce into the Christmas season with Boing! at the Unicorn Theatre. The energetic piece of dance-theatre explores the excitement before Christmas Eve, and sees two boys counting the seconds until the arrival of Santa Claus. Designed exclusively for toddlers, the show will have your little ones up and tapping their tiny toes in no time.
find out more
The Snowman, Peacock Theatre
Ages: Recommended for all ages
A yearly favourite, The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre sees a little boy and his enchanted snowman on a magical Christmas journey. Like the book and film, the show is entirely without dialogue, but the performance will feature Howard Blake's classic score, ‘Walking in the Air’ performed by a live orchestra.
find out more
King Tut, King's Head Theatre
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Pantomimes are, by definition, preposterous, but King Tut: A Pyramid Panto might just be the silliest of all this Christmas season. Little has been revealed about the performance, but rest assured the masterminds behind Charles Court Opera will deliver a panto to remember.
find out more
Caravantomime
1 December – 22 December
Ages: Recommended for children aged 3 and up
Pile the kids into the Caravan Theatre for an anti-pantomime comedy. The 20-minute show promises to deliver laughs galore. Designed to maximize the intimate theatre space that seats an audience of nine, this is one show you won't want to miss. But you just might – Caravantomime is traveling across Bankside this holiday season, delivering festive cheer to as many locations as possible. Check online to track the traveling caravan show.
find out more
The Box of Delights, Wilton’s Music Hall
Ages: Recommended for children aged 7 and up
The story of a child tasked with protecting the titular Box will take to Wilton's Music Hall this Christmas. Young fans of Dr. Who and Harry Potter will be charmed by this enchanted, time-travelling box that redefines the meaning of 'Christmas magic'.
find out more
Pinocchio, National Theatre
Ages: Recommended for children ages 8 and up
The National Theatre presents Pinocchio, the first-ever stage adaptation of the 1940 film. Join Jiminy Cricket, Geppetto, and, of course, Pinocchio himself in this production brought to the stage by powerhouses of West End talent: writer Dennis Kelly (Matilda) and director John Tiffany (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child).
find out more
Under a Magical Moon, Jacksons Lane
Ages: Recommended for ages 3 and up
J.M. Barrie's magical tale of marvellous mayhem will be given a feminist twist this December. Peter Pan, retold from Wendy's perspective, will take to the stage at Jacksons Lane theatre in what promises to be a captivating retelling of the classic.
find out more
Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker, Royal Opera House
5 December – 10 January 18 | Matinees at 12:30 or 14:00, evening performances at 19:30 or 19:00
Ages: All ages
find out more
Scrooge and the Seven Dwarves, Theatre503
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Comedy trio Sleeping Trees is back in Theatre503 with a Christmas pantomime like no other. Combining Charles Dickens' Christmas Carol with the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, this performance promises a flurry of wonder and excitement – even if you are a Scrooge.
find out more
Dick Whittington, London Palladium
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
The adventures of Dick Whittington and his cat will take to the London Palladium stage. The celebrity-packed panto will see Half a Sixpence star, Charlie Stemp, in the titular role backed by musical theatre legend Elaine Page.
find out more
The Little Match Girl, Lilian Baylis Studio
Ages: Recommended for ages 5 and up
Both beautiful and devastatingly sad, The Little Match Girl tells the story of a destitute child who struggles to survive a bitter winter night. This year, celebrated choreographer Arthur Pita is set to transform the classic into a fantastical ballet.
find out more
English National Ballet, Nutcracker London Coliseum
Ages: Recommended for all ages
Join Clara at the London Coliseum this Christmas season for a performance of The Nutcracker by the English National Ballet. Director Wayne Eagling has more tricks up his sleeve than Dr. Drosselmeyer – we hear his version includes a hot air balloon.
find out more
Nativity! The Musical, Eventim Apollo
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
The story of Mr Maddens, Mr Poppy, and their whacky class's attempt to produce a Hollywood-level nativity play will be seen as a rip-roaring musical at the Eventim Apollo this Christmas season. Written and directed by Debbie Isitt, creator of the films, the stage interpretation promises all the joys of the original – and then some.
find out more
What the Moon Saw, The Place
20 December 17 – 22 December 17 | 12:00 – 12:45
Ages: Recommended for ages 3+
What the Moon Saw is a re-imagining of a classic Hans Christian Andersen tale. The story follows the adventures of young Jack, who overcomes his fears with the help of his friend, the moon. This family-friendly dance piece promises to be one of the most original pieces of Christmas theatre this holiday season.
find out more
Passport to Adventure: Disney on Ice, O2 Arena
Ages: Recommended for ages 5 and up
Disney classics will glide into the O2 for a 10-day run. Even if you're not getting out of London this holiday season, there's no reason you can't pick up your passport to adventure with all your favourite Disney characters, on the ice.
find out more
Peter Pan, SSE Arena
Age: Children age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Few pantomimes promise the thrills and chills of Peter Pan at the SSE Arena, where 100 performers (including trapeze artists, BMX bike stuntmen, and custard pie slapstick specialists) will bring J.M. Barrie's timeless tale to life. Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet), will play Captain Hook, and Bradley Walsh (Coronation Street, Law & Order: UK) is set to feature as the lovable Mr Smee.
find out more
Still not enough? This is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of family Christmas fun... click here to explore more of Culture Whisper's family-friendly picks
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