Introduce your kids to the magic of live theatre this summer, with one of these top London theatre shows for children.
The Scarecrow's Wedding
An epic musical love story promising wit, drama, and wedding bells, The Scarecrows' Wedding is a brand-new show based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
The Scarecrows' Wedding, Leicester Square Theatre, until 4 September
Ages: 3 and up
Stig of the Dump
The story of Barney who meets a caveman called Stig, Stig of the Dump is a fast-paced interactive show full of exciting storytelling, fun songs, innovative puppetry and lots of chances to join in.
Stig of the Dump, Arts Theatre, until 26 August
Ages: 4 and up
James and the Giant Peach
The first of a few Roald Dahl stage adaptations to make this list, the Polka Theatre's James and the Giant Peach is a marvellous adventure featuring excitement, songs, laughter and some amazing friendly insects.
James and the Giant Peach, Polka Theatre, until 14 August
Ages: 5-11
The Gruffalo
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this popular magical, musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's classic picture book. The Gruffalo Live is a popular favourite that's been around since 2001: here's a Londonist review of the show from last year.
The Gruffalo, Lyric Theatre, until 8 January
Ages: 3 and up
The Secret Garden
This specially created 'youth version' of the Tony Award-winning musical The Secret Garden features a cast of 20 children and four adult actors. It retains all the nostalgic charm of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s original classic story of the orphaned Mary Lennox, and her invalid cousin, Colin.
The Secret Garden, Ambassadors Theatre, 27 July-31 August
Ages: 5 and up
Treasure Island
All hands on deck! Head to St Paul's Church in Covent Garden to see a new adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s swash-buckling novel in an outdoor promenade production. Pirate costumes encouraged.
Treasure Island, St Paul's Church, Covent Garden, 2-27 August
Ages: 6 and up
Horrible Histories: Best of Barmy Britain
Your chance to meet the amazing and hilarious famous characters from history returns to the West End this summer.
Horrible Histories: Best of Barmy Britain, Apollo Shaftesbury, 5 August-3 September
Ages: 5 and up
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
The stage adaptation of Judith Kerr's inimitable classic returns to London, with plenty of music, magic and clumsy chaos.
The Tiger Who Came To Tea, Cadogan Hall, Brompton, 6 August-4 September
Ages: 3 and up
Air Play
Fly away with Air Play this summer: watch flying umbrellas, giant balloons, floating kites and the biggest snow globe you've ever seen at this amazing family-friendly contemporary clown show.
Air Play, Southbank Centre, 9-14 August
Ages: 5 and up
946 — The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips
Another stage adaptation from a book by Michael Morpurgo (War Horse, Private Peaceful) 946 — The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips challenges everything you think you know about the D-Day landings, using music, puppetry and more to tell a story of war, prejudice and love.
946 - The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips, Globe Theatre, 11 August-11 September
Jungle Book
Hot on the heels of the recent film adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic tale, this stage version of the Jungle Book is another take on the story, featuring street dance, circus, a beat-boxing Baloo, graffiti artist Bagheera and a skateboarding Wolf crew.
Jungle Book, Southbank Centre, 13-28 August
Ages: 8 and up
Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries
Yikes! Everyone's favourite dog detective needs to crack the spooky case of a trouble-making ghost, haunting a West End theatre. In this new family musical, Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc gang have been called upon to help solve an epic mystery.
Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries, London Palladium, 18-21 August
Ages: 5 and up
Prince Ivan and the Grey Wolf
Head to The Scoop to sample a play based on Russian and Eastern European fairy stories: Prince Ivan and the Grey Wolf features cunning tricksters, talking animals, heroic fools and foolish heroes in the same way as many British folk tales do; the result promises to be familiar yet mysterious and strange. Part of London Bridge City Summer Festival, Prince Ivan and the Grey Wolf is free to watch.
Prince Ivan and the Grey Wolf, The Scoop, 31 August-25 September
Long-Running West End Classics For Kids
While the above shows are generally in town for a short run, those listed below are our long-running favourites for kids. Don't forget, there are plenty of good deals to be had on theatre seats over the summer. Check out www.kidsweek.co.uk to find out more.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Another amazing Roald Dahl adaptation, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Musical is a visual delight with chocolate rivers, an army of dancing squirrels and some very peculiar Oompa-Loompas.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Ages: 7 and up
The Lion King
It's one of the West End's longest running shows: the combo of Elton John's music and Disney's brilliant story and visuals is clearly a winning one. And you just know any kids seeing the show for the first time will be completely enchanted when those amazing puppet animals first appear.
The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre
Ages: 6 and up
Matilda the Musical
The final (and best!) London show adapted from a Roald Dahl story on our list, Matilda is, quite simply, brilliant. Go and see it; you won't be disappointed.
Matilda the Musical, Cambridge Theatre
Ages: 6 and up
The Railway Children
The award-winning adaptation of E Nesbit's The Railway Children is currently delighting audiences at King's Cross Theatre. Featuring Justin Fletcher as Mr Potts (from the end of August) and a real steam train. (Don't forget the tissues...)
The Railway Children, King's Cross Theatre
Ages: 5 and up
Stomp
Even if you've seen it before, you should see Stomp in summer 2016, as the updated show promises new routines, new choreography and new music. Perfect for kids interested in modern dance.
Stomp, Ambassadors Theatre
Ages: 5 and up
Aladdin
The newest addition to our list, Disney's Aladdin is perfect summer fodder for kids who love pantos, but can't wait until Christmas. Big sets, big musical numbers and a great big happy-ever-after love story at the centre of it all.
Aladdin, Prince Edward Theatre
Ages: 6 and up
The Play That Goes Wrong
The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title of this hilarious comedy caper suggests, everything that can go wrong... does. This award-winning show is a must-see for any kids interested in the way that theatre and in particular, comedy, works. Or in this case, doesn't work...
The Play That Goes Wrong, Duchess Theatre
Ages: 6 and up
Wicked
Amazing costumes, stunning 'belt' musical numbers, wit and witchcraft mean the incredible 'untold' story of the witches of Oz continues to delight West End audiences after almost 10 years in the West End.
Wicked, Apollo Victoria
Ages: 7 and up
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