We’ve searched far and wide to compile a mammoth list of all the best kid friendly London theatre, shows and panto to keep the family entertained for autumn and winter 2022. Follow us on Instagram for more family friendly fun.
Miniature Traveling Circus
Roll up! Roll up! Take your seats for the smallest circus in town.George the ringmaster has quite the challenge on their hands. The circus isn’t quite what it once was but even still, George has curated a programme of acts more bedazzling than ever.But first they must make sure all of the acts are ready to razzle-dazzle. Where on earth is Flop? And why is Smelly Dog making all that fuss? There are also workshops from the 1st until the 16th of October – more info here.
When: until the 13th of November
Where: Little Angel Theatre
How much: £13.50 for adults and £11.50 for children. More info and bookings here.
Baby Show
Start a lifelong love of theatre by introducing it early on. This show invites families to sit in a gorgeous garden-inspired set and watch as the performer playfully explores the joys and tribulations of getting ready and exploring outside. At the end of the show there is a chance to play in the space.
When: 4 – 30 October 2022
Where: Unicorn Theatre
How much: £14 for an adult and child. More info and bookings here.
Life of Pi
After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean, a sixteen year-old boy named Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive?
When: ongoing until January 15 2023
Where: Wyndham’s Theatre
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.
We’re Going On a Bear Hunt
A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into the dark forest, then peering into a cave… what will they find? Little Angel Theatre brings Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production directed by Peter Glanville and with music and lyrics by renowned singer-songwriter Barb Jungr. Suitable for ages 3 – 7 years old.
When: 5 – 16 October 2022
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: from £11 more info and bookings here.
Terrible Thames
Horrible Histories proudly presents a brand-new brilliant tour: Horrible Histories Live Onboard – Terrible Thames! Take a dive with Horrible Histories into the stories of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Julius Caesar, the Duke of Wellington, Queen Boudicca, Jack the Ripper and Captain Kidd, in this history of the Thames with the nasty bits left in
When: ongoing until 31 October 2022
Where: Tower Bridge Quay, E1Q 1LD
How much: Adults £27 and Children £17 with under 3s going free. More info and booking here.
The Noisy Little Troll
Deep in the heart of the Norwegian Forest live the trolls – big trolls, tiny trolls and a Nosy Little Troll who has an amazingly sensitive nose…One day there is a mumbling and a rumbling from the trolls. What is that wonderfully stinky smell wafting through the trees? The Nosy Little Troll sets off to follow her nose on a quest to solve the mysterious pong. Will she be brave enough to cross the scary old stone bridge and succeed in sniffing out the culprit? Suitable for ages 3 – 8
When: 8 October 2022
Where: Lyric Hammersmith
How much: £8
Matilda
Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Winner of 99 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, Matilda has been delighting audiences in London’s West End for over a decade.
When: ongoing until December 2023
Where: Cambridge Theatre
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Step through the wardrobe into the magical kingdom of Narnia for the most mystical of adventures in a faraway land. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and say hello to a talking Faun, an unforgettable Lion and the coldest, cruellest White Witch.
When: ongoing until 8 January 2023
Where: Gillian Lynne Theatre
How much: from £19.50 more info and bookings here.
Abba for Kids
This brand-new show has been designed with children and families in mind and is the perfect way to introduce your kids to live pop music, with the added luxury of a symphony orchestra. All your favourite ABBA hits including ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Waterloo’, ‘Knowing Me, Knowing You’, ‘Thank You For The Music’, ‘Super Trooper’, ‘Money, Money, Money’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘The Winner Takes It All’ (and many more) are all included in this all-singing, all-dancing performance.
When: 8 October
Where: Cadogan Hall
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.
Butterflies
Three friends embark on an exciting adventure to chase their butterflies away. They cross new seas to uncharted lands, on a journey filled with discovery. The only trouble is they’re all a bit worried about it! During their voyage the group ride the waves, walk high bridges, skirt deep caves and climb to the sky, before reaching dry land braver than ever before.
When: 13 – 16 October 2022
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: £10 for adults and kids with concessions available. More info and bookings here.
Frozen
Disney’s FROZEN – the beloved animated film that always gives us chills – is now playing in London’s West End. For the first time in forever, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane has reopened its doors, bringing Elsa and Anna’s story to the stage in this heart-melting theatrical production.
When: ongoing until March 2023
Where: Theatre Drury Lane
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.
The Girl and the Dragon
Get ready for a fantastical show to warm the heart and bring joy to people young and old alike. Join our hero, Toral, on the adventure of a lifetime as she swims uncrossable rivers, braves impassable forests and scales unclimbable mountains, all to fight a great and terrible dragon. Recommended for ages 5 and above.
When: 15 October 2022
Where: Stanley Arts
How much: £6 more info and bookings here.
Rapunzel and the Tower of Gloom
It’s hard enough having a bad hair day, but pity poor Rapunzel spending her life in a tower with a wicked old witch using her captive’s locks as a stepladder! What sort of damage is that going to do to your hair?
When: 15 October 2022
Where: Lyric Theare
How much: £8 more info and bookings here.
Room on the Broom
Get ready for an adventure through our wild botanic garden, following Witch’s trail to see if you can find the items she’s lost along her way. Don’t forget to watch out for Dragon on your journey!
When: 15 – 30 October 2022
Where: Wakehurst
How much: £14.95 for adults and children under 16 go free. Concessions available. More info and bookings here.
The Wind in the Willows
From the peaceful pleasures of Ratty’s beloved river bank to the fearful frights and wicked weasels of the Wild Wood, join Mole and Ratty on their marvellous adventures, along with gruff old Badger and magnificent Mr.Toad.A beautiful new adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s much loved classic by award winning theatre company Box Tale Soup, featuring wonderful puppetry, innovative theatre and a charming original score.
When: 16 October
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
Tutankhamun’s Shoes
English Touring Opera takes families on a new adventure to Ancient Egypt and the Roaring Twenties.The opera will be an interactive and participatory experience where children will get to meet Tutankhamun himself, and other surprising characters along the way while learning about the ancient world, archaeology, mummification and more. Recommended for ages 7-11
When: 19 -23 October 2022
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: £12 more info and bookings here.
Demon Dentist
Join Alfie and Gabz on this fabulous adventure, as they investigate the strange events happening in their home town! Children are leaving their teeth for the tooth fairy and waking up to find odd things under their pillows! Alfie and Gabz are determined to get to the bottom of the mystery – but no-one could have dreamt what they’ll discover, when they come face to face with the demon dentist herself in this hilarious and thrilling story!
When: 20 – 22 October 2022
Where: New Wimbledon Theatre
How much: from £13 more info and bookings here.
Room on the Broom
The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog. But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two… just as the hungry dragon appears!
When: 22 – 27 October 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
A Square World
A non-verbal show portraying an honest, touching and quirky story of three friends and what happens when an unexpected change leaves one of them left out in the cold. Together they decide to redefine the rules of the square world in which they live and soon discover their lives won’t be square ever again!
When: 22 October 2022
Where: Half Moon Theatre
How much: £7 more info and bookings here.
Little Manfred
Based on the book by Michael Morpurgo. It is the summer of 1966. Charley and her little brother Alex are walking their dog Manfred on the beach when they notice two older men staring out to sea. A chance encounter brings them together. Slowly, Charley and Alex learn of their mother’s past, and of the friendships that can be formed in difficult circumstances. In 1945, their farmstead home was a posting for German prisoners of war, and their mother Grace was just a little girl…
When: 22 – 30 October
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
Stick Man
The 2008 children’s book written by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler is brought to life in this jolly performance on stage. Expect laugh out loud moments, loads of audience participation, live music and puppetry alongside a visit from Santa.
When: 22 October – 2 January 2023
Where: Leicester Square Theatre
How much: Adult £24.50 Child £19.50 more info and bookings here.
Pea
Tiffany is twisting and turning and her mind won’t stop whirring- she just can’t fall asleep! She knows there must be a PEA hidden • underneath her bed (she is a fairy tale enthusiast after all). As Tiffany adventures down through worlds of mattresses and mysteries, she meets the restless bed folk: the bumbling Shepherd and his herd of ‘counting’ sheep, the thieving Bed-Bugs, and of course, the wise old Memory Foam…
When: 22 October – 20 November 2022
Where: Puppet Barge (Little Venice)
How much: £13 for adults and £9for children, more info and bookings here.
Lily and Bear
This musical for children with animation and puppets tells a truly magical tale about the give and take of friendship. Lily likes nothing better than to imagine and draw the things she loves. She draws cats and birds, boats and houses, and one day she draws a bear who comes to life. Lily and Bear play pirates, sing, and partake in all manner of bear activities, discovering the joys of sharing along the way.
When: 22 October 2022
Where: Royal Albert Hall
How much: from £22 more info and bookings here.
Dance Umbrella: Do Re Mi Ka Do
Through humour and fun, de Stilte explores the connection between movement and sound; a mouth gasping, a belly bulging, a foot stepping; while dancers and musicians create their own unique dialogue. As sound becomes colour and dance turns into music; watch the world grow into wondrous adventure. Suggested for ages 2 and above.
When: 23 October
Where: Arts Depot
How much: From £12 more info and bookings here.
Alice in Wonderland
Let’s All Dance Ballet Company is delighted to return with this fabulous family favourite. A stunning mix of ballet and circus, much loved characters and superb music brings the famous tale to life in this magical production. Don’t be late for this very important date!
When: 23 & 25 October 2022
Where: Phoenix Theatre and Arts Depot
How much: £14 more info and bookings here.
Hunt for the Lost Dragon Egg
This Halloween Chelsea Physic Garden is excited to bring back Wild Immersive Theatre for the family theatre experience ‘Hunt for the Lost Dragon Egg’.Join Z as she battles the wilderness and defies death in pursuit of tracking down the very last dragons egg known to exist! Adventure through the Garden and move fast through the bush to solve puzzles, crack codes and take-on tasks to hunt down the mythical prize. But beware, poxy poachers are lurking and if they reach the egg before you do – the world could be in deep dragon danger! Get an idea of what to expect from our reel during the summer here.
When: 24 – 31 October 2022
Where: Chelsea Physic Garden
How much: £15 child and £20 for adults. More info and bookings here.
Grandad Anansi
An uplifting tale of love, courage and letting go.Abi and her Grandad tell each other Anansi folktales. They play games as they work together in the garden among the beautiful flowers and tasty vegetables. As they plant memories, they share secrets and develop a bond that nothing can break. Grandad is as smart and mischievous as the wily Anansi legend. Can he find a way to tell his granddaughter about his plans to return to Jamaica, his beloved homeland?
When: 25 – 29 October 2022
Where: Lyric Theatre
How much: £10 more info and bookings here.
Oldilocks and the Three Bears
One winter, Oldilocks finds a teddy bear in the park and remembers a delicious bowl of porridge she tasted years ago in the woods. Something else happened but she can’t quite remember what… so she sets off for the forest. Will she find the bears house and what will happen then? Recommended for ages 3- 7
When: 25 – 30 October
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: £12 more info and bookings here.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into the dark forest, then peering into a cave… what will they find? Little Angel Theatre brings Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production directed by Peter Glanville and with music and lyrics by renowned singer-songwriter Barb Jungr.
When: 26 – 30 October 2022
Where: Greenwich Theatre
How much: £14 more info and booking here.
Dinosaur World Live
Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! Recommended for ages 3 and above.
When: 26 – 30 October 2022
Where: Kingston Rose Theatre
How much: from £12 per person. More info and bookings here.
The Addams Family
BROS Theatre Company present The Addams Family: a fabulous, whacky musical comedy with toe tapping numbers, plenty of laughs and glorious, larger than life characters who are just hoping for ‘One Normal Night.’ Recommended for ages 8 and above.
When: 26 – 29 october 2022
Where: Richmond Theatre
How much: from £14.90 more info and bookings here.
Anansi Brings Back the Day
A funny, irreverent and inspiring West African Tale told with puppetry, spoken word & traditional African music. The Anansi stories are African heritage predating the trauma of slavery. These humorous, lively and “community” led stories travelled with enslaved African people to the Caribbean. The stories then came to the UK when the UK government asked the Windrush Generation to come here to help with the labour shortage after WWII. The Stories are part of our multicultural British heritage and have a universal appeal.
When: 27 October 2022
Where: Little Angel Theatre
How much: £13.50 for adults and £11.50 for kids. More info and bookings here.
Shivers and Shadows
Get ready to SHIVER, SHAKE, SHUDDER and SCREAM as Squashbox Theatre presents its first ever show for HALLOWEEN! Craig, your friendly host, has just inherited a creepy mansion from his Great Uncle Vladimir. Join him as he explores the mansion’s secrets and meets some of its strange and spooky inhabitants. What GHOULS and SPECTRES haunt the gloomy corridors of this old house? What are those EERIE SHAPES moving through the dark forest outside? And what MYSTERIOUS CREATURE lurks in the cellar down below? Recommended for ages 6 and above.
When: 27 October 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
The Missing Piece
Take part in an interactive storytelling adventure for ages five and over, led by the writer and illustrator of heartwarming new children’s book The Missing Piece.
When: 28 October 2022
Where: Southbank Centre
How much: £10 adults and £7.50 for kids. More info and bookings here.
Albert’s Band Presents: On Your Marks
Join the Royal Albert Hall’s resident orchestra, Albert’s Band of musical athletes as they perform a stellar line up of tunes from the sporting world. Led by team captain Kevin Hathway, expect plenty of fun and games with lots of opportunities for the audience to join in with the action. On your marks… get set… GO!
When: 28 October 2022
Where: Royal Albert Hall
How much: £12 adults and £6 for kids more info and bookings here.
Tongue Fu for Kids
Have you met the children who surfed to America to steal the president’s hair? Or heard music from the island of WooHoo with its sands of crushed diamonds and pearls? Tongue Fu for Kids is a show for children and their grown ups, a family-friendly version of Tongue Fu – one of the UK’s leading spoken word and music shows. Recommended for ages 7-11
When: 28 October 2022
Where: Southbank Centre
How much: £10 adults and £7.50 for children (all kids over 18 months need a ticket) Concessions available. More info and bookings here.
Little Red Riding Hood
A wardrobe can take you to magical spaces, to all sorts of stories and wonderful places. Ours is a portal to the wild wood where something is roaming the forest, animals are mysteriously going missing and a little girl has just received a beautiful red cloak from her granny. Open our doors and it all comes alive through puppetry, songs and music from hidden hatches and secret compartments.
When: 28 – 29 October 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here
Ugly Duckling
Follow Ugly Duckling on her journey as she overcomes her troubles and realises, in the end, that she was beautiful all along.
When: 29 – 30 October 2022
Where: Royal Opera House
How much: £10 more info and bookings here.
The Moon Hares
This energetic and theatrical performance features over 100 performers on stage with the OAE, with original music by James Redwood and excerpts from Dioclesian, by Henry Purcell. The story, by Hazel Gould, takes place in a mysterious village whose inhabitants are bound by strict rules and regulations. Recommended for ages 7 and above.
When: 2 November 2022
Where: Southbank Centre
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
There’s a Rang-Tan in my Bedroom
Imagine waking up to find a turtle bathing in your bathtub, an orangutan bouncing on your bed and a jaguar creeping through your kitchen! But how did they all get here? And why on earth are they all so far from home?
When: 4-5 November 2022
Where: Greenwich Theatre
How much: £14 more info and bookings here.
A Square World
A story about friends who enjoy the same routine day after day, each day is the same until an unexpected change is forced upon just one of them.This accidental happening throws everyone into disarray, the friends are suddenly divided into those who can and the one who can’t. Suitable for ages 3 – 6
When: 5 November 2022
Where: Lyric Theatre
How much: £8 more info and bookings here.
Dragon’s Tale
Rick loves poetry. He thinks it’s exciting, funny and imaginative. But all across the land poets are being silenced… by a dragon! How can Rick avoid being eaten and help save the village from this fiery fiend? Dommy B’s latest adventure is a high energy poetry theatre show and includes lyrics, laughs and the chance to join in.
When: 5 November
Where: Half Moon Theatre
How much: £7 more info and bookings here.
Pinocchio
Pinocchio discovers why it’s best to always tell the truth. With a touch of magic from the blue fairy, enter a world of gingerbread villages and snow-capped mountains in this adventure of friendship and family. Recommended for ages 7 and above.
When: 6 November – 31 December
Where: Unicorn Theatre
How much: from £13 more info and bookings here.
Hulla Balloony Moon Time
Are you ready? Grab a spoon! Because it’s Pat-a-cake time! Pitter-patter – get the butter! Glitzy-glossy – whisk in sugar! Jokey-yolky – add the eggs! Long Nose Puppets offer up a marvellous moonlit show full of riotous rhyme, zany puppets and spiffy special cake; all iced with music and songs by Tom Gray. Little children will feel stuffed to the brim with magic.
When: 6 November 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
Underwater
A ballerina wakes from a dreamy sleep and finds herself in the ocean, a comforting world of blue lights and bubbles. As she explores her gorgeous new home, she meets an octopus – and the pair quickly form a loving friendship beneath the waves, dancing a duet to a twinkling soundtrack that features some familiar melodies. Recommended for ages 2 and under.
When: 9 – 20 November
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: from £9 more info and bookings here.
There’s a Rang-Tan in my Bedroom
Imagine waking up to find a turtle bathing in your bathtub, an orangutan bouncing on your bed and a jaguar creeping through your kitchen! But how did they all get here? And why on earth are they all so far from home?
When: 12 November 2022
Where: Lyric Theatre
How much: £8 more info and bookings here.
Kina and the STEM Sisters
Join lost budding scientist Jina on her adventure home, empowered by some of history’s super-STEM women. Digital-coder Ada Lovelace, glamorous inventor Hedy Lamarr, ‘radiating’ Marie Curie and pioneering astronaut Mae Jemison are amongst those offering Jina scientific gifts of curiosity, courage, creativity, persistence and open-mindedness, to help her find her way and follow her dreams to become a scientist!
When: 13 November 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
Christmas in the sunshine
This Christmas Elias is going to visit his family in the Caribbean for the first time. He gets to go to the beach, play in the sunshine, and there’ll be a big party. It’s going to be the best.But he has one worry – will it still feel like Christmas? After all in London it’s usually really cold, he gets to decorate the Christmas tree and drinks lots of hot chocolate. He’s definitely never left a mango out for Santa before.
When: 17 November – 31 December 2022
Where: Unicorn Theatre
How much: from £13 more info and bookings here.
Zippos Circus
Back by popular demand, the UK’s favourite circus troupe return to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with their crew of world-class talent! Expect jaw-dropping aerial and acrobatic magic that will certainly put our lockdown skills to shame in an annual Christmas themed extravaganza. Plus their now famous and adorable giant Christmas inflatable fur Bears!
When: 18 November 2022- 2 January 2023
Where: Winter Wonderland
How much: from £11 per adult and £8 per child. More info and bookings here.
Cirque Beserk
A fearless, fast-paced smorgasbord of thrills, skills and adrenaline-fuelled stunts that’s guaranteed to amaze and entertain, the show features an array of amazing (and totally Berserk!) circus acts from around the world, plus – back by overwhelming popular demand – the legendary motorcycle Globe of Death…The louder you cheer the faster they go!
When: 18 November – 2 January 2022
Where: Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
How much: from £12 per adult and £9 per child. More info and bookings here.
Woodland Tales with Grandad
Something is happening in the woods, voices can be heard, and a strange metallic smell fills the air. Machines are gathering at its edge and a mysterious call is heard across the valley.
When: 19 november 2022
Where: Half Moon Theatre
How much: £7 more info and bookings here.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Expect beanstalk climbing, giant defeating, golden egg laying, extreme skateboarding, milk explosions, singing cows, some absolutely outrageous outfits and of course Beyoncé! Suggested for ages 6 and above.
When: 19 November 2022 – 7 January 2023
Where: Lyric Theatre
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
The Pixie and the Pudding
When Charlie and her dad move to the farm from the city, everything seems to go wrong. Dolly the cow’s in a grump, there’s not an egg to be found, and even the cockerel has stopped crowing! If only they’d paid attention to the mysterious note left on their windowsill about a curious pixie and the pudding she likes to eat on Christmas Eve…
When: 19 November – 29 Jan 2023
Where: Little Angel Theatre
How much: £15 adult and £13 for a child more info and bookings here.
Crackers: A Festive Family Farce
Meet The Crackers. They’re trying to get ready for Christmas Day, but it’s not easy when the family pet shop is going out of business, Great Gran’s expecting a visit from royalty and Napoleon the rat is on the loose.There are also workshops to decorate your own Christmas cracker in the Polka magical, snowy sensory space on Fri 9, 16 & 23 Dec – 5.15pm (show at 6pm) All ages (adult & child) £3 per person – only to be sold in conjunction with tickets to see Crackers.
When: 19 November 2022 – 15 Jan 2023
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
The Snowman
Raymond Briggs’ festive favourite The Snowman continues to entertain generation after generation around the festive season. This year’s performance from the Birmingham Repertory will transport young Londoners to a wintery wonderland for a festive adventure. Featuring choreography by Robert North, direction by Bill Alexander, design by Ruari Murchison, lighting by Tim Mitchell and timeless music and lyrics by Howard Blake, the production has been seen by audiences of over half a million at the Peacock Theatre. Check out our full review here.
When: Saturday 19 November – Saturday 31 December
Where: Peacock Theatre
How much: £18 – £55 more info and bookings here.
Rise and Fall
Created by Page One Theatre, in Rise and Fall you’ll meet all manner of balloons from small floating moons to vast bouncing orbs. Forever expanding and contracting, balloons are free to float, fly and sway. Hold your breath and go sailing away. Rise and Fall is a poetic and intriguing performance for young audiences about holding on and letting go. Suggested for ages 2 and above.
When: 20 November 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: £12 more info and bookings here.
Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas
Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. Watch as he prepares for his Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer and finally takes flight into the snowy night.
When: 23 November – 31 December 2022
Where: Lyric Hammersmith
How much: £10 more info and bookings here.
Jack! Playing is Believing
Meet Jack, the poor and disheartened character of our Christmas show, who – along with Jack’s exasperated mother and bothersome sibling – lives in a tiny house, in a run-down seaside town. Bullied and outcast Jack takes refuge in arcade games, playing them every day on the paint-stripped pier. One day, instead of just playing the video game, Jack becomes a part of it, suddenly lost within a magical world where some ‘giant’ challenges must be faced. With the help of some unusual characters, met along the way, Jack must overcome these trials to complete the levels of ‘The Beanstalk’.
When: 23 November 2022 – 7 January 2023
Where: Chickenshed Theatre
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
Jack Frost and the Search for Winter
In this wintery tale, Jack and his new found friend search for winter and attempt to restore Jack’s special gift. Circling the globe they meet characters who share their own special shimmering seasonal winter magic, but will Jack’s magic return?
When: 24 – 26 November 2022
Where: Half Moon Theatre
How much: £7 more info and bookings here.
Little Red Riding Hood
The much loved story of Red Riding Hood is injected with humour and new twists to the tale in this specially commissioned version by prize winning author Deborah Jones.
When: 26 November 2022 – 29 January 2023
Where: Puppet Barge (Little Venice)
How much: £13 for adults and £9 for children. More info and bookings here.
We’re going on a Bear Hunt
A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into the dark forest, then peering into a cave… what will they find there?
When: 26 November – 29 January 2023
Where: Little Angel Theatre
How much: £15 adults and £13 for children. More info and bookings here.
Jack Frost and the Search for Winter
Jack Frost is a mischievous young boy with a frozen touch. His magic transforms the landscape and brings the colours of autumn and the chill of cold winter. He freezes the orange and red leaves and covers the trees and ground with a glistening blanket of ice and snow. But this year when winter comes around the snow begins to melt and along with-it Jack’s extraordinary magic fades. With his powers lost he becomes just an ordinary boy. Recommended for ages 3 and above.
When: 27 November 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
Sleeping Beauty
Enter a wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires, where the timeless tale of good vs evil is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story that even the passage of time itself cannot hinder. Will Princess Aurora ever find her true love again?
When: 29 November 2022 – 15 January 2023
Where: Sadler’s Wells
How much: from £15 more info and bookings here.
Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever
Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig – it’s going to be her best day ever! Get ready for a road-trip full of adventures. From castles to caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice-creams to muddy puddles – there is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy, including Miss Rabbit, Mr Bull, Suzy Sheep, Gerald Giraffe and more.
When: 1 – 31 December 2022
Where: Theatre Royal Haymarket
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
Glisten
An interactive performance for babies aged 0-18 months and their grown-ups.The audience are taken on a sparkling and shimmering immersive journey exploring the world of reflective materials. Watch as the empty space of the theatre fills with colour, sounds and surprises, creating a multi-sensory landscape ready to explore after the performance is over.
When: 1 – 17 December 2022
Where: Half Moon Theatre
How much: £7 more info and bookings here.
Grandad, me and Teddy too
Join Polka Theatre as they transform the Adventure Theatre into a wintry world of imagination with magic carpet rides, journeys to the northern lights and a twinkly, snowy garden in a show made especially for ages 2-5.Mia loves her Grandad very much. He lives far away, on the other side of the world, but finally, he’s coming to visit and Mia’s excitement is growing. When Grandad arrives he brings with him adventurous stories and games which set Mia’s imagination alight – together they explore the whole world without ever leaving her playroom.
When: 2 December – 29 January 2023
Where: Polka Theatre
How much: £14 more info and bookings here.
A Christmas Carol
Enjoy some festive magic with a dose of time travel at Rose Theatre, as the beloved Rose Christmas show returns. From Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, writer of the Olivier Award-winning Emilia, comes a brand-new retelling of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic.
When: 2 December 2022 – 2 January 2023
Where: Kingston Rose
How much: from £15 more info and bookings here.
Christmas Tales
With puppets, singing, dancing and some larger-than-life characters, Christmas Tales is guaranteed to entertain the very youngest of audience (and grown-ups too!), leaving everyone happy and merry at this most wonderful time of the year!
When: 3 December – 30 December 2022
Where: Chickenshed
How much: £10 more info and bookings here.
Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner and, with the help of their madcap circus friends, they’re battling to rescue their Big Top from ruin. Will they succeed? All seems lost, until three brilliant bears join the gang…
When: 3 – 31 December 2022
Where: Richmond Theatre
How much: from £13 more info and bookings here.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
West End Legend and multi-award-wining actor Ruthie Henshall leads this star cast alongside X Factor singer, actress and television personality Brenda Edwards, musical theatre star Lee Mead, legendary panto Dame and TV presenter Matthew Kelly, comedy television presenters Dick & Dom, Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist John Archer and TikTok sensation Hannah Lowther.
When: 3 – 31 December 2022
Where: New Wimbledon Theatre
How much: from £13 more info and bookings here.
The Nutcracker
The Let’s All Dance Ballet Company presents their family festive favourite, the perfect Christmas treat for all! Stunning dancing, lavish costumes, much loved music and crystal clear story-telling will young and old alike.
When: 4 December
Where: Stanley Arts
How much: £9 – 13 more info and bookings here.
The Greatest Magician
An ALL NEW dazzling magic show – presented by the magician most famous for jamming the BBC switchboards after he correctly predicted the lottery. This astonishing, enigmatic, five star rated magic show will leave you aching from laughter and dizzy in disbelief.
When: 4 December
Where: New Wimbledon Theatre
How much: £19.25 more info and bookings here.
Rapunzel on Ice
Alexandra Palace Ice Rink Amateur Production presents a re-telling of the story of Rapunzel, who has been locked away in a tower since she was captured as a baby by the evil witch. Spending all her days daydreaming about what life could be like on the outside, with the arrival of an unexpected visitor, her dreams may suddenly become a reality. Expect adventure, humour, love and hair… lots of hair. Suitable for ages 2 and above.
When: 5 – 12 December 2022
Where: Alexandra Palace
How much: from £13 more info and bookings here.
The Smeds and the Smoos
Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?
When: 5 December 2022 – 2 January 2023
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
The Nutcracker
Discover the enchantment of ballet with this sparkling festive treat for the whole family.
When: 6 December 2022 – 14 January 2023
Where: Royal Opera House
How much: from £8 more info and bookings here.
Bippi the Musical
Blippi The Musical brings the curious and fun character Blippi off the screen and onto the stage with world-class production, audience engagement and amazing music. Blippi encourages learning for children from the ages of 2 to 7 years old through doing, playing and exploring – inspiring a child’s natural curiosity about the world around them. In the live show they will continue to learn about the world around them while singing and dancing along with this one-of-a-kind show.
When: 7 December 2022 – 8 January 2023
Where: Lyric Theatre
How much: from £22 more info and bookings here.
Hibernation
As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, staying wrapped up warm in our beds seems like a great idea. But have you ever imagined what it would be like to stay asleep for the whole of winter? Some creatures are experts and they’re here to show you how.
When: 10 December 2022
Where: Half Moon Theatre
How much: £7 more info and bookings here.
My Christmas Orchestral Adventure
Oh no! Father Christmas has lost his map on a practice run of his delivery route! Thankfully the Royal Albert Hall’s trusty ensemble has found it but they need your help to return it to him ahead of the big day! Zip around the world on an orchestral adventure to track him down. Along the way ice skate on frozen lakes, go on a sleigh ride and enjoy a white Christmas, all without leaving the Royal Albert Hall’s magical auditorium.
When: 11 December 2022
Where: Royal Albert Hall
How much: From £23 more info and bookings here.
Hey Duggee: The Live Theatre Show
Be part of the hit CBeebies show and join Duggee and the Squirrels in this vibrant interactive production bursting with music, puppets and barrels of laughs.
When: 14 December – 8 January 2023
Where: Southbank Centre
How much: from £18.50 more info and bookings here.
Santa’s North Pole Adventure
With the most magical night of the year fast approaching, we join Santa and his elves at the North Pole for a seasonal story of fun, laughter and audience participation.
When: 14 – 24 December 2022
Where: New Wimbledon Theatre
How much: from £17 more info and bookings here.
The Fir Tree
The Globe’s magical festive production The Fir Tree by Hannah Khalil gives Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale a new life on the Globe stage, full of storytelling, puppetry, carol-singing and lots of joining in. Under a winter’s sky, director Michelle Terry’s production is perfect for the whole family. Make a day of it by taking part in a craft and puppetry workshop or a festive family tour either before or after your show.
When: 15 – 31 December 2022
Where: Shakespeare Globe
How much: from £5 per person. More info and bookings here.
Circus 1903
Experience all the thrills and daredevil entertainment of a turn-of-the-century circus in an all-new home for 2022 – Eventim Apollo! Expect sensational puppetry from the award-winning team behind War Horse alongside a huge cast of the most unique, jaw-dropping and surprising acts from all four corners of the globe! From strong men to contortionists, acrobats to high wire and much more, CIRCUS 1903 will astound, captivate, and transport audiences of all ages to the mesmerising Golden Age of circus. Read our full review here.
When: 15 December 2022 – 1 January 2023
Where: Eventim Apollo
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.
Snow
One cold winter morning, Holly and Juniper wake up to find the whole world blanketed in white fluffy snow. They can’t wait to get outside and play – but first Mum needs to wrap them up and get their boots on the right feet! Developed in Iceland, Snow is a magical, immersive, multi-sensory adventure with live music and puppetry. The perfect introduction to live theatre, and the perfect Christmas adventure for 2 – 5 year olds and their families.
When: 15 – 31 December 2022
Where: Arts Depot
How much: from £12 more info and bookings here.
The Magic Flute
A spectacular Queen of the Night, a chattering bird-man, and a quest for love and enlightenment.
When: 16 December – 28 January 2023
Where: Royal Opera House
How much: From £10 more info and bookings here.
Potted Panto
Seven classic pantomimes in 70 hilarious minutes! The Olivier Award nominated festive celebration Potted Panto is back for four weeks only. In a madcap ride through the biggest stories and best-loved characters from the wonderful world of pantomime, our dastardly double act dash from rubbing Aladdin’s lamp to roaming the golden streets of Dick Whittington’s London and making sure that Cinderella gets to the Ball.
When: 17 December – 8 January 2023
Where: Apollo Theatre
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.
Sleeping Beauty
After the success of Dick Whittington, Petite Pantos are excited to return to South Norwood with Sleeping Beauty!They’ll be putting their unique spin on this magical fairy tale and making sure it’s full of silly jokes, fantastic songs, and LOTS of joining in. With a professional cast and an ensemble featuring the talented kids from Cherry Stars Performing Arts – you won’t want to miss out on this epic adventure!
When: 17 December 2022
Where: Stanley Arts
How much: £10 – £15 more info and bookings here.
Mother Goose
The Mother of all pantomimes is back in Hackney this festive season, starring Clive Rowe as Mother Goose. First created in 1902 for Music Hall legend and Hackney Empire performer Dan Leno, we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate 120 years of this iconic pantomime at the end of our 120th birthday year!
When: 19 November – 31 December 2022
Where: Hackney Empire
How much: from £25 more info and bookings here.
Cinderella
Get ready to experience Stratford East’s unique twist on this classic tale, set in the ancient home of Sphynx cats, pharaohs and the empress Cleopatra.This year’s panto will feature all the right ingredients. You can expect our much-loved mix of show-stopping original music and laugh-out-loud comedy, alongside magical sets and costumes in this perfect festive treat for all ages.
When: 19 November 2022 – 7 January 2023
Where: Stratford East
How much: from £10 more info and bookings here.
The Snowman
The Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns to Cadogan Hall for its annual performance of the timeless classic, The Snowman, for which the film is shown on the big screen with a live symphony orchestra providing the soundtrack. 13-year-old Alice Mackenzie sings the aria made so famous by Aled Jones: ‘Walking in the Air’.
When: 22 December 2022
Where: Cadogan Hall
How much: from £16 more info and bookings here.
Disney On Ice
Since the release of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937, Disney has continued to delight millions of children throughout the world. Disney stories are heartwarming, the songs are iconic and the characters have become historical idols. Disney on Ice is a spectacular show that brings to life the magic world of adventure, courage and inspiration that children of all ages recognise and love. Expect a stellar show on ice and if you need more reasons to go check out our five reasons to go article.
When: 22 – 31 December 2022
Where: O2 Arena
How much: from £28 more info and bookings here.
Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas
When Christmas comes under threat from a jolly man dressed in red, it’s up to one young boy to save the day. From Victorian villains to Medieval monks, Puritan parties to Tudor treats, join us on a hair-raising journey through the history of Christmas in the company of Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, King Henry VIII and St Nicholas, as they come together to save the festive season. Get ready to celebrate Christmas in the most wonderful way.
When: 27 – 30 December 2022
Where: Barbican Centre
How much: from £16.50 more info and bookings here.
The Nutcracker
Created exclusively for the Royal Albert Hall, with gorgeous period costumes and dazzling projections, this Christmas classic is brought to life by Birmingham Royal Ballet’s world-class ballet dancers and orchestra, the Royal Ballet Sinfonia.Experience the true magic of Christmas, as Clara’s toys come to life at the stroke of midnight. Journey through a fantastical winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes to the kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
When: 28 – 31 December 2022
Where: Royal ALbert Hall
How much: From £31 more info and bookings here.
The Lion King
Expect pure theatrical magic that brings this iconic Disney classic to life with a 50 plus cast of singers, dancers and performers. Expect wonderful songs alongside puppetry and breath taking costumes and masks.
When: Ongoing until 2023
Where: The Lyceum Theatre
How much: from £20 more info and bookings here.