Top West End Shows and Musicals for Kids: Back To School Edition
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Nicholas Ephram Ryan Daniels
(Updated on Sep 2, 2025)
With school just around the corner, there’s a lot of things that you as a parent might be worrying about. Is my child mentally prepared to start learning again? Will they remember what they learned the year before? Have they got a school routine set in place so they can be used to their new school schedule come 4 September? Do they have the right clothes, school supplies, and state of mind? Well it’s high time to put your worries aside for a day and treat you and your child to an affordable day of fun! After all, it is still the summer holidays! See our picks for the perfect West End shows to get your child mentally ready for the new school year!
Step into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli with My Neighbour Totoro, a breathtaking stage adaptation of the beloved Japanese film. With life-sized puppetry, stunning visuals, and a heartfelt story about childhood wonder, this play is a feast for the imagination. Families will love watching siblings Mei and Satsuki discover the mysterious forest spirit Totoro, a magical creature who teaches them about friendship and resilience.
Perfect for kids starting school, this show sparks creativity and encourages empathy—while giving parents a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Age Recommendation: 6+
My Neighbour Totoro is a heartwarming stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s beloved film, following two young sisters who move to the countryside and encounter magical forest spirits. With stunning puppetry, imaginative staging, and gentle storytelling, it captures both the wonder and the warmth of childhood. This enchanting production is perfect for families, offering a joyful introduction to theatre for younger audiences while still delighting adults.
Age Recommendation: 6+
A trip to see Matilda the Musical is more than a night at the theatre—it’s an empowering experience for children. Based on Roald Dahl’s classic, this Olivier and Tony Award-winning musical follows clever little Matilda, who uses her courage and intelligence to take control of her destiny. Filled with witty songs and dazzling choreography, this production inspires kids to embrace learning and stand up for what’s right.
Families will love this story of resilience and imagination—an ideal way to boost children’s confidence just in time for the new school year.
Age Recommendation: 3+
Julia Donaldson’s The Stick Man leaps off the page and onto the stage in this joyful family production. Young audiences will be captivated by Stick Man’s adventure as he gets swept far from his family tree, encountering all sorts of challenges before finding his way home. With catchy songs, fun puppetry, and plenty of audience interaction, this show is a delightful introduction to live theatre for younger children.
It’s the perfect way to help little ones ease into routines and remind them of the importance of family and belonging as they start nursery or primary school.
Age Recommendation: 6+
Roll up, roll up! Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular brings the glitz and magic of the hit film The Greatest Showman to the stage in a thrilling mix of music, dance, and breathtaking circus acts. Families will be amazed by aerialists, acrobats, and show-stopping performances that celebrate individuality and dreams.
This high-energy show is perfect for boosting kids’ confidence before the school year begins—reminding them to celebrate their uniqueness and step boldly into new adventures.
Age Recommendation: 7+
No West End family theatre list would be complete without Wicked, the spellbinding prequel to The Wizard of Oz. With unforgettable songs, jaw-dropping staging, and a story about friendship and acceptance, Wicked captures the imagination of kids and parents alike. Families will love following Elphaba and Glinda as they learn that being “different” is often a strength, not a weakness.
And there’s even more magic on the horizon—the highly anticipated two-part film Wicked: For Good is set to hit cinemas soon, making now the perfect time to introduce your kids to the stage show that started it all.
Age Recommendation: 3+
Disney’s The Lion King is a theatrical spectacle like no other. With breathtaking puppetry, a powerful score by Elton John and Tim Rice, and a heartwarming story of courage and responsibility, this West End classic has been wowing families for over two decades. Children will be amazed by the incredible animal kingdom brought to life on stage, while parents will appreciate the universal themes of resilience and family bonds.
It’s the ultimate show for teaching kids about bravery and responsibility before heading back to the classroom.
Age Recommendation: 6+
For families who love Disney magic, Disney’s Hercules is the latest musical adaptation taking the stage by storm. With catchy new songs, vibrant staging, and a larger-than-life hero’s journey, this show is filled with comedy, heart, and plenty of godly action. Kids will adore Hercules’ quest to discover his strength, while parents will enjoy the witty humour and nostalgia of another Disney classic brought to life.
This uplifting tale is the perfect reminder for children that with determination and courage, they can tackle anything—even the new school year.
Whether your family is after magic, music, or larger-than-life adventure, the West End is brimming with shows that will leave kids inspired and ready to start the school year with confidence. Don’t miss the chance to turn the last days of summer into unforgettable memories!