London’s vibrant theatre scene offers an extraordinary array of performances designed specifically for young audiences, transforming the West End into a magical playground where imagination comes alive. The capital’s theatrical landscape continues to evolve, presenting both timeless classics and innovative new productions that captivate children and families alike.
This comprehensive guide explores the finest children’s theatre experiences currently gracing London’s stages, from award-winning musicals featuring beloved Disney characters to interactive shows based on popular kids’ literature. Each production has been carefully selected for its ability to engage young minds while providing entertainment value for the entire family.
Throughout this article, we’ll examine ten exceptional shows that represent the pinnacle of kids’ theatre in London, covering everything from performance schedules and venue information to age recommendations and what makes each production special for young theatregoers.
10 Best Kids’ Theatre Shows In London – Quick Overview
Let’s take a quick look at the best theatre shows for kids in London:
| Show Title | Venue | Price from |
|---|---|---|
| The Lion King | Lyceum Theatre London | £43 |
| Matilda the Musical | Cambridge Theatre | £40 |
| The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical | Other Palace | £48 |
| My Neighbour Totoro | Gillian Lynne Theatre | £69 |
| 101 Dalmatians | Eventim Apollo | £30 |
| The Smeds and The Smoos | Lyric Theatre | £13 |
| Paddington: The Musical | Savoy Theatre | TBC |
| The Tiger Who Came to Tea | Theatre Royal Haymarket | £13 |
| The Enormous Crocodile | Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre | £19 |
| Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain | Apollo Theatre | £24 |
Best Kids’ Theatre Shows In London: Detailed Overview
London’s kids’ theatre shows blend spectacular visual storytelling with engaging narratives, creating unforgettable experiences. These top-rated performances offer age-appropriate content, top-tier production, and memorable musical moments that appeal to both children and adults alike.
1. The Lion King
| Performance dates | 10 August 2021 – 29 March 2026 |
| Recommended Age | Children under the age of 3 are not permitted. |
| Genre | Musical theatre with puppet artistry |
| Cast | Stars George Asprey, Shaun Escoffery, Owen Chaponda, and ensemble. |
| Why see | A visually stunning, music-filled experience perfect for families. |
The Lion King is a visually stunning stage adaptation of Disney’s iconic animated film, blending African rhythms, vibrant costumes, and groundbreaking puppetry. The story follows Simba, a young lion cub forced to flee his homeland after the tragic death of his father.
Raised in exile by quirky companions Timon and Pumbaa, Simba eventually embraces his destiny and returns to reclaim Pride Rock. Featuring over 232 handcrafted puppets, an award-winning score by Elton John, Tim Rice, and Hans Zimmer, and unforgettable numbers like “Circle of Life,” this production remains a timeless must-see on the West End stage.
2. Matilda The Musical
| Performance dates | 16 September 2021 – 24 May 2026 |
| Recommended Age | 6 years and above |
| Genre | Musical comedy-drama |
| Cast | Rotating cast of child performers in title roles, supported by adult ensemble |
| Why see | A feel-good show blending wit, heart, and empowering messages. |
Matilda the Musical is a witty, high-energy adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved story about a clever girl with extraordinary powers who stands up to the adults who underestimate her. With a hilarious yet heartwarming script by Dennis Kelly and catchy songs by Tim Minchin, the show captures the mischief and magic of childhood.
Packed with dazzling choreography, inventive staging, and award-winning performances, this Royal Shakespeare Company production is a West End favourite that continues to wow audiences of all ages with its charm, defiance, and imagination.
3. The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
| Performance dates | 23 November 2024 – 15 June 2025 |
| Recommended Age | 8 years and above |
| Genre | Adventure musical |
| Cast | Max Harwood stars as Percy, with Folan and Lee. |
| Why see | A thrilling intro to Greek mythology for young adventurers. |
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical brings Rick Riordan’s beloved Greek mythology-based adventure to the stage with humor, heart, and high-stakes drama. It follows Percy Jackson, a seemingly average teen who discovers he’s the demigod son of Poseidon.
With a prophecy looming and monsters in pursuit, Percy embarks on a thrilling quest to recover Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt. Packed with witty dialogue, dynamic songs, and mythical mayhem, it’s a must-see for fans of fantasy and heroism.
4. My Neighbour Totoro
| Performance dates | 8 March 2025 – 29 March 2026 |
| Recommended Age | 6 years and above |
| Genre | Family fantasy with puppetry |
| Cast | Victoria Chen (Mei), Ami Okumura Jones (Satsuki), Dai Tabuchi (Tatsuo), Jacqueline Tate (Granny), etc. |
| Why see | Combining Japanese storytelling and universal themes with magical puppetry, it enchants young audiences. |
My Neighbour Totoro is a magical coming-of-age tale by the Royal Shakespeare Company, adapted from Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved 1988 animated film. It follows two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, as they explore their new rural home while their mother recovers nearby. Their adventures lead them to Totoro, the forest’s ancient guardian, and a world full of enchanting spirits and wonders.
Celebrated for its breathtaking puppetry, music, and emotional depth, the production has won multiple Olivier and WhatsOnStage Awards and is perfect for audiences aged 6 and up.
5. 101 Dalmatians
| Performance dates | Fri 18 Jul – Sat 30 Aug 2025 |
| Recommended Age | 5 years and above |
| Genre | Family musical adventure |
| Cast | Music and lyrics by Douglas Hodge, Stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris |
| Why see | Beloved characters, powerful themes, and stunning visuals bring 101 Dalmatians to life. |
101 Dalmatians is a lively musical about the villainous Cruella De Vil’s scheme to steal a litter of Dalmatian puppies for her fur coat. Pongo, Perdi, and their adorable pups must outwit Cruella’s devious plans in a thrilling and heartwarming story brought to life with spectacular puppetry, catchy songs, and energetic choreography.
Based on Dodie Smith’s classic novel, this family-friendly show combines humor, adventure, and lovable characters for an unforgettable theatre experience.
6. The Smeds and The Smoos
| Performance dates | 18 July 2025 – 7 September 2025 |
| Recommended Age | 3 years and above |
| Genre | A children’s musical based on a picture book |
| Cast | Lively ensemble cast with multiple role versatility |
| Why see | Playful aliens and vibrant staging teach kids about friendship and acceptance. |
The Smeds and the Smoos is a vibrant and heartwarming family theatre show based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Featuring colorful sets, energetic music, and a tale of love and unity across differences, the story follows a young Smed and Smoo who defy their families’ rules and journey into space together, encouraging messages of friendship and acceptance.
7. Paddington: The Musical
| Performance dates | From 1 November 2025 |
| Recommended Age | TBC ( 3 years and above, approx. ) |
| Genre | Family musical comedy |
| Cast | To be announced |
| Why see | The award-winning team brings a charming, family-friendly tale of kindness and belonging to life. |
Paddington the Musical brings the beloved bear from Peru to the stage in a heartwarming tale filled with music, adventure, and marmalade sandwiches.
When Paddington arrives in London, he finds a new home with the Brown family, but not without challenges that test their courage and love.
8. The Tiger Who Came to Tea
| Performance dates | July 14 to September 7, 2025 |
| Recommended Age | Suitable for ages 3 and above. |
| Genre | Interactive children’s theatre |
| Cast | Small cast with audience participation elements |
| Why see | A magical, fun musical with catchy songs and charming storytelling—perfect for kids and nostalgic for parents. |
The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a delightful stage adaptation of Judith Kerr’s beloved children’s book that comes to life as an interactive theatrical experience, perfect for the youngest theatregoers.
The whimsical story follows young Sophie and her mother, whose ordinary teatime is hilariously interrupted by an unexpected and very hungry tiger guest.
9. The Enormous Crocodile
| Performance dates | August 15 to September 7, 2025 |
| Recommended Age | 4 years and above |
| Genre | Outdoor family theatre |
| Cast | To be announced |
| Why see | A fun, lively show with puppetry and songs that teaches bravery and teamwork. |
The Enormous Crocodile is a lively stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved tale, following a greedy crocodile with outrageous plans to gobble up unsuspecting children. Set in a colourful jungle and brought to life with clever puppetry and playful music, the show combines humour, suspense, and a valuable message about bravery and teamwork.
Perfect for children aged 4 and up, it offers an exciting introduction to live theatre with a fun, interactive experience that keeps young audiences giggling while learning important lessons.
10. Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain
| Performance dates | 31 July 2025 – 31 August 2025 |
| Recommended Age | 5 years and above |
| Genre | Educational comedy theatre |
| Cast | To be announced |
| Why see | A hilarious, fast-paced show that makes learning history fun and entertaining. |
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain, The Best Bits is a hilarious and high-energy stage show that brings Britain’s past to life in the most entertaining way possible. From savage Saxons to villainous Victorians, audiences are taken on a time-traveling adventure through history’s most outrageous moments, complete with songs, jokes, and the famously “nasty bits” included.
Audiences embark on a time-traveling adventure filled with catchy songs, clever jokes, and all the famously “nasty bits” that make history both fun and unforgettable.
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Conclusion: The Lion King Stands Out As The Ultimate Family Theatre Experience
London’s children’s theatre scene in 2025 offers unparalleled diversity, ranging from spectacular Disney adaptations to intimate storytelling experiences that cater to various age groups and interests. These productions demonstrate the city’s commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences for young audiences while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
The Lion King stands out as the ultimate family theatre experience, combining visual spectacle with universal themes that resonate across generations. For younger children, The Tiger Who Came to Tea and The Smeds and the Smoos provide gentle introductions to live performance. In comparison, older children will appreciate the adventure elements in The Lightning Thief and the educational entertainment of Horrible Histories.
When selecting shows for children, consider their age, attention span, and interests, while also factoring in venue accessibility and performance timing to ensure the most enjoyable experience for your family’s theatrical adventure in London.
FAQs
Covent Garden and the West End are ideal. They’re walkable, filled with attractions, and central to many family-friendly theatres.
Top shows include Matilda, The Lion King, Totoro, and Horrible Histories. Look for interactive events and park-based performances, too.
Choose accommodations near South Bank, Covent Garden, or Kensington for access to theatres, museums, and playgrounds.
Matilda the Musical is at the Cambridge Theatre in Seven Dials, the West End.
Outdoor theatre like The Enormous Crocodile at Regent’s Park and shows like Horrible Histories are perfect for summer family fun. Indoor alternatives include air-conditioned venues showing summer holiday specials designed for children during school break periods.
