But why should the kids have all the fun? Most of the ‘children’s’ shows in the West End are just as much fun for adults, maybe even more so, because they let us leave our boring adult lives behind for a couple of hours. So here are a few shows that we hope to still be enjoying when we're old and grey. Maybe we’ll see you there.
The Lion King
The jewel in London's theatrical crown, we'll never get bored of The Lion King. A surefire hit of nostalgia for anyone that grew up watching the movie, the opening scene raises goosebumps every time; life would be much better if every day began with a quick burst of 'The Circle of Life'. With over three decades of delighting audiences at the Lyceum Theatre, you don't want to miss 2h30m of dazzling puppetry and Elton John and Tim Rice's iconic music.
Matilda The Musical
Based on the beloved childrens' novel by Roald Dahl, this is a clever, endearing and very funny show about a sad little girl who decides there’s no point feeling sorry for herself, and sets out to change her story. Featuring fantastic songs by Tim Minchin, not to mention an amazing cast of child actors, this is a show not to be missed - trust the record-breaking 7 Olivier Awards!
My Neighbour Totoro
This award-winning show is based on the celebrated 1988 animated feature film, but it's definitely not just for children. Packed full to the brim with delightful puppetry and fantastical creatures, the captivating coming-of-age tale has received a Totoro sized number of 5-star reviews! This adventure may be set in the 1950s, but it’ll never get old.
Hercules
Disney's Hercules is flexing his muscles at Theatre Royal Drury Lane! Not to be missed by fans of the 1997 movie, the incredible muses will have you going from Zero to Hero in no time flat! Featuring the hit songs we know and love from the Disney film, as well as some new music from Alan Menken, Hercules has finally made the leap from screen to stage, and landed on the West End.
Elf The Musical
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Christmas doesn’t start until Elf has been on. And that means Christmas officially begins in the West End this October, as Elf The Musical returns to London for a limited season! Starring Carrie Hope Fletcher, Joel Montague and Aled Jones MBE, the show is based on the 2003 movie about an incompetent young elf who eventually realises he’s actually human, and returns to New York to find his father. This show is the perfect family treat for the festive season - and it’ll make you laugh quite a lot along the way. Merry Christmas!
Paddington The Musical
One of Britain's best-loved stories is heading to the Savoy Theatre! Most people know the story: a small, lost bear arrives from Peru he searches London for a new home, where a chance encounter with the Brown family leads him to a wonderful new habitat, Windsor Gardens. Directed by Luke Sheppard (Starlight Express) and with music by McFly's Tom Fletcher, Paddington The Musical is packed with show-stopping songs and dazzling choreography – and of course, marmalade sandwiches.
Who says kids’ shows are just for kids?