Believe it or not, it ‘s nearly the time of the year when theatres in London are packed with festivities to celebrate Christmas in due form. But what are the best family shows available in London this year? Which plays do you need to attend that are suitable for children?
With dark and cold evenings coming up in full blast in London, there is no better way to celebrate Christmas with the kids by booking a family evening out to see a show. From classical tales to pantomimes, there is something for everyone in the following list. Just make sure to book early your seats, particularly on weekends and during the Christmas holiday.
1. Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas
Join Maddie Moate, beloved for her curiosity-driven CBeebies shows, in a festive celebration packed with science, storytelling, and songs. This live experience encourages kids to explore the wonders of Christmas traditions, from the science behind sparkling lights to the history of holiday customs. With Maddie’s signature enthusiasm and plenty of opportunities for audience interaction, children will leave inspired and full of festive spirit.
📍: Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EZ
🗓️ : Friday 6 December 2024 until Saturday 4 January 2025
2. The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert
Celebrate the holiday season with a unique screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol, accompanied by a live orchestra. Kids will be enchanted by the Muppets’ comical take on Dickens’ classic tale, featuring Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Gonzo as the quirky narrator. The stunning live music enhances the magic, making this a joyful family experience full of humor, memorable songs, and timeless Christmas lessons.
📍: Eventim Apollo, 45 Queen Caroline St, London W6 9QH
🗓️ : Saturday 14 December 2024
3. The Nutcracker
This imaginative adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker is tailored for young audiences, combining puppetry, vibrant characters, and an enchanting storyline. Follow Clara as she ventures to the Land of Sweets, where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy and battles the mischievous Mouse King. The colourful visuals and engaging performances ensure that even the youngest children are mesmerised by this classic festive tale.
📍: Polka’s Main Theatre, 240 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB
🗓️ : 16 November 2024 until 26 January 2025
4. Robin Hood
This star-studded pantomime reimagines the legend of Robin Hood with larger-than-life characters, slapstick humor, and over-the-top costumes. Featuring catchy songs, hilarious jokes, and plenty of audience participation, it’s a perfect introduction to panto for kids. With dazzling effects and high-energy performances, children will love rooting for Robin as he battles the Sheriff of Nottingham in this fun-filled festive adventure.
📍: The London Palladium, 8 Argyll St, London W1F 7TF
🗓️ : Saturday 7 December 2024 until Sunday 12 January 2025
5. Aladdin
Embark on a magical journey to Agrabah in this lively pantomime packed with comedy, adventure, and spectacle. Featuring a charismatic Aladdin, a hilarious Widow Twankey, and a glittering Genie, the production brims with audience participation and panto-style mischief. Kids will be amazed by the flying carpet, colourful costumes, and laugh-out-loud moments, making it a fantastic choice for the holiday season.
📍: Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL
🗓️ : 16 November 2024 – 5 January 2025
6. Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas
Based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved book, this charming stage adaptation brings the story of Father Christmas to life with delightful humour and heart. Follow his preparations for the big night, from feeding his reindeer to navigating chimneys and delivering presents. With enchanting sets, adorable puppetry, and a warm festive atmosphere, young children will be captivated by this glimpse into the everyday life of Santa Claus. Perfect for preschoolers, it’s a gentle and magical way to introduce little ones to the theatre in West London.
📍: Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL
🗓️ : 20 November 2024 – 28 December 2024
7. Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall
This festive program offers a variety of events perfect for families, including traditional carol concerts, singalong sessions, and holiday-themed films with live orchestras. The grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall, adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations, creates a magical setting that children will never forget. Highlights include Home Alone in Concert, My Christmas Orchestral Adventure and of course the ballet The Nutcracker to celebrate the end of the year.
📍: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP
🗓️ : Tuesday 3 December 2024 until Tuesday 31 December 2024
8. Disney on Ice
A dazzling ice-skating spectacle brings beloved Disney characters to life in a way children will adore. From Moana’s oceanic journey to Elsa’s icy kingdom, the show is filled with dramatic choreography, stunning costumes, and thrilling special effects. Little ones will sing along to iconic songs and cheer for their favorite characters, making it an unforgettable family outing.
📍: The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
🗓️ : 26 December 2024 until 5 January 2025
9. The Snowman
This timeless stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman continues to captivate audiences with its magical blend of live orchestration, dance, and storytelling. The tale of a boy and his snowman friend flying to the North Pole is brought to life through breathtaking visuals and the iconic song Walking in the Air. Perfect for children of all ages, it’s a heartwarming reminder of the wonder of winter.
📍: The Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery Ave, London EC1R 4TN
🗓️ : 23 November 2024 until 4 January 2025
10. Horrible Histories presents Horrible Christmas
From Victorian feasts to the history of gift-giving, this show hilariously explores how Christmas traditions evolved through the ages. Packed with Horrible Histories’ signature humour and quirky characters, the production offers a mix of laugh-out-loud comedy and fascinating facts. Kids will enjoy the slapstick scenes and quick wit while learning about the festive season in an engaging and entertaining way.
📍: Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
🗓️ : 12 December 2024 until 4 January 2025
11. Rosie Robin and the Christmas Post
Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, this charming puppet show follows Rosie Robin as she helps deliver Christmas letters. Along the way, Rosie encounters snowflakes, a jolly postman, and a reindeer in a heartwarming tale of kindness and community. The gentle storytelling, beautiful puppetry, and soothing songs make it an ideal first theatre experience for very young children.
📍: Little Angel Theatre, 14 Dagmar Passage, London N1 2DN
🗓️ : 23 November 2024 until 5 January 2025
12. Cinderella
This intimate and inventive production of Cinderella reinvents the classic fairy tale with humour and heart. Featuring a small cast and interactive elements, the show combines panto-style fun with a modern twist on the beloved story. With catchy songs, hilarious one-liners, and a touch of festive magic, kids will be delighted by Cinderella’s transformation and her journey to the ball.
📍: King’s Head Theatre, 115 Upper St, London N1 1QN
🗓️ : 30 November 2024 until 5 January 2025
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