Best theatre to take the children to this half term
School's out! Here's our top shows to take the children to this half term
From West End classics to brand-new productions we’ve selected the best shows in London for the perfect half term theatre trip for all the family.
From the dazzling sets to spellbinding stage effects, wonderful music to incredible costumes, no one forgets their first trip to London’s West End to see a show. There are plenty of London theatre shows that make for the perfect family day out. Family theatre has always been a huge part of London’s theatre scene, and the West End is full of shows to be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Even beyond the West End, London has tons of incredible children’s theatre and family theatre to explore. Ignite the imagination of everyone from parents to teenagers to the very littlest members of the family and book an unforgettable London family theatre experience this half term. It’ll beat breaking out Monopoly again…
Here are some of the best half term shows London has to offer:
1) Matilda The Musical
Roald Dahl’s story has captured hearts and minds for many years, and the musical it spawned has been playing in the West End for a decade. It’s not hard to see why. Matilda is irresistible – warm, funny, and beloved by children and adults alike. Some stunning set pieces and a cast of feisty young performers offer up moments of true theatre magic, whilst the sharp script and lyrics will have you giggling throughout. Matilda’s story remains as moving as it is in every iteration and the musical offers universal observations on courage, family and growing up. You’ll leave the theatre marvelling at what you just witnessed – and, more than likely, humming Tim Minchin’s brilliant score.
Find Matilda The Musical tickets here
2) Mrs Doubtfire
A delightful and heartwarming experience that the whole family can enjoy. This beloved story, originally brought to life by Robin Williams, has been transformed into a captivating stage production filled with humour, touching moments, and catchy songs. Follow the adventures of the world’s most unusual nanny and discover a story that examines the powers of parental love. This is a story that resonates with all generations, making it an ideal choice for a memorable and enriching half-term outing that will leave both you and your children with lasting memories.
Find Mrs Doubtfire tickets here
3) The Lion King
Speaking of shows that children have been enjoying for years – Disney’s The Lion King reigns supreme. Coming up to 25 years in the West End, the story of Simba is told onstage with style, set to the beloved songs from the original film along with some fantastic additions. The Lion King is a spectacle, combining intuitive set design and dazzling costuming from designer Julie Taymor to bring the pridelands to life with unbelievable effect. Incredible choreography, laugh-out-loud comedy and a heartwarming message make it a must-see.
Find The Lion King tickets here
4) Frozen The Musical
Another Disney classic, Frozen elevates everything audiences loved about the original film with even more showstopping numbers, magical moments and sisterly love. Watch Ana and Elsa fight to save each other and their kingdom, laugh along with Olaf and Sven, and marvel at the astounding visuals – have you ever watched someone conjure up an ice castle live on stage before? Frozen is just as enchanting as you’d want it to be and twice as magic.
Find Frozen The Musical tickets here
5) Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
It’s a cliché, but if any show has to be seen to be believed then it’s this one. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child picks up the story of our favourite characters where the films and books left off, following Albus Potter, Rose Weasley and Scorpius Malfoy onto the Hogwarts Express. What follows is an enchanting adventure into both Harry’s past and his future. With theatre magic so convincing you might just mistake it for real sorcery, this is an experience unlike any other. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is split into two parts, so you and the family can make a true day out or even weekend out of the experience.
Find Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets here
6) Back to the Future The Musical
This iconic story has been brilliantly adapted to the stage, offering a unique blend of science fiction, humour, and unforgettable songs that will captivate both you and your children. It is a fantastic opportunity to share a classic tale of time travel and friendship with the younger generation while reliving the magic of the 80s for yourselves. The show's spectacular special effects and catchy tunes will keep your family entertained throughout, making it a perfect choice for a memorable and exciting family outing that will have everyone talking about it long after the curtain falls.
Find Back to the Future The Musical tickets here
7) Wicked
If you haven’t taken the family yet, you should. Exciting, funny and poignant, Wicked has everything you’d want in a West End show, from unbelievable visuals to wonderful music and a whole lot of magic. Sent to boarding school to take care of her sister, Elphaba’s new roommate Galinda couldn’t be more different from her. Little does she know that her friendship with Galinda will end up being the most important one of her life. Follow Elphaba on her extraordinary adventure as she learns the importance of staying true to who you are, even when it seems like the whole world is against you.
When it comes to family theatre in London, you’re never short on choice. If these London half term theatre highlights haven’t taken your fancy, why not explore further? London has a show to suit anyone and everyone, and a great family day out at the theatre is hard to beat. Discover more Family Theatre shows here.
