Christmas in London presents a plethora of family friendly theatre to please all tastes, from enchanting Christmas ballet to riotous pantomime productions. Enjoy the Babes about Town annual London Christmas Theatre guide for families including our festive favourites plus the best baby and toddler friendly shows!
Top London Christmas Theatre for Families
BABES CHOICE
Babe the Sheep Pig at Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB (South Wimbledon tube)
A pig who thinks he’s a sheepdog? A family book-turned-film favourite makes its way to the stage at this Polka Theatre adaptation of the story of Babe, the sheep pig. When the piglet arrives at Hogget’s Farm, he discovers hidden talents and soon makes a name for himself, but can Babe not only win over the sheep but save the farm from danger? Every hog has his day in this charming production packed with puppetry, original music and lots of laughs. For ages 5 to 11. Varying times (Wed-Sun), £18.50 (Nov 25-Feb 5, 2017)
Hackney Empire Pantomime: Sleeping Beauty, 291 Mare St, E8 (Hackney Central overground)
The number one pantomime in London returns to Hackney Empire with its usual mix of dizzy dames, larger-than-life rogues, and more than a few tummy-clutching gags. In the land of Hackneytonia where unicorns and fairies reign, evil Carabosse casts a wicked spell over Princess Tahlia. But will she recover in time to change her fate? Get set for a sparkling evening of laughs, songs and surprises. All ages. 1pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 5.30pm, 7pm (times vary daily, check site); £10-£36 (Nov 26-Jan 8)
Will Tucket’s Nutcracker: The World’s First Immersive Ballet at The Printworks London, Surrey Quays Road, Canada Water, SE16 7ND (Canada Water tube/overground)
For the first time this Christmas, Will Tucket’s Nutcracker invites audience members to experience Tchaikovsky’s masterful ballet in a 360-degree immersive environment. Performers including Adam Cooper (Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake) as Uncle Drosselmeyer, lead viewers into the heart of the show, in a production that brings together the best of classical ballet choreography and new immersive theatrical techniques. You can choose how much or how little you want to get involved. Live the fairytale with your little ones ages 5 and over, it’s sure to be an unforgettable show! Varying times from 2pm, 5pm, 7pm & 8pm; adult £42-£59/child £22-£30 (Dec 1-Jan 8)
Father Christmas and Paddington Bear’s First Concert at Cadogan Hall, Sloane Terrace, Chelsea SW1X 9DQ (Sloane Square tube)
An event for all the family that’s guaranteed to put everyone in a Christmassy mood. Watch Raymond Brigg’s animated classic on film with Father Christmas on screen accompanied by live music from Mozart Symphony Orchestra. Then comedian Jack Dee will show up on stage to narrate Paddington Bear’s First Concert, a sweet story about Paddington’s journey from Peru all the way to his first ever concert at Cadogan Hall. To cap it off, the afternoon includes a short medley of tunes from Frozen. Ages 5+. 1.30pm & 4.30pm; £15-£30 (Dec 22)
Roundhouse & the Royal Ballet present Zoo Nation: The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at The Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Rd, NW1 8EH (Chalk Farm tube)
After a sell-out run at Royal Opera House in 2014, the fantastic Zoo Nation reimagines this hip hop ‘ allet’ for the Roundhouse space. Patients at the Institution for Extremely Normal Behaviour, all claim to come from a place called Wonderland. They throw a never-ending tea party, only interrupted by doctor Ernest who’s trying to bring some therapy into the mix. Prepare for mind-blowing moves, eye-popping scenes and nostalgic good times. 7.30pm (Tue-Sat and some Mons), 2.30pm matinees (Sats and some Weds), 5pm (Sun); from £15-£35/child under 16 25% discount/family of 4 £30 off full price tickets (Dec 30-Jan 22)
FESTIVE FAVOURITES
Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas at Lyric Hammersmith, W6 (Hammersmith tube)
You know that the *real* Santa’s just around the corner when the Raymond Brigg’s version pops up at the Lyric Hammersmith. Mr & Mrs Claus appear in a charming adaptation of the picture book in this beloved show that has played year after year to audiences young and old. Catch Father Christmas on stage in his full (and ever so slightly foul mouthed) glory before he zips off on his sleigh for the season. Filled with songs, playful puppetry and live music – perfect for ages 0-6. Shows from 9.30am (times and dates vary, check the website for your day); £10/babies under 18 months FREE on parent/carer’s lap (Nov 18-Dec 24)
The Snowman, Portugal Street,Holborn, WC2A 2HT (Holborn tube).
Jack Frost leaping, reindeer gliding, penguins waddling across the stage… it’s one of the most enchanting Christmas theatre performances you will see with your child and a firm festive favourite (19th year). Pitch perfect for even the youngest theatregoers, it adapts Raymond Briggs’ magical picture book perfectly for the stage with a boy, his Snowman friend, a balletic adventure through the wintry wilds, and some truly breathtaking moments. Suitable for all ages. 11am, 2.30pm & 7pm (select performances from Nov 23); £15-£36/family of 4 £115 (Nov 26-Jan 1)
Boing at Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, SE1 2HZ (London Bridge tube)
Pillow fights, bed hopping… it’s a midnight feast of fun in Boing as two boys who can’t go to sleep on Christmas Eve wait up for Santa to arrive. But of course the big guy ain’t showing up until you’re snoring, so when will these kids finally nod off? Super bouncy show that will entertain and dazzle kids ages 2 to 6 and up. HURRY very limited availability, many shows already sold out! Varying times including 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm; adult £18/child £12 (Nov 30-Jan 1)
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 0GA (Finchley Central tube)
It’s returning by popular demand, after a smash-hit West End and international season. Go with the daring family on their quest to find a grizzly, wading through swishy swashy grass, splishy splashy river and of course that oozy, squelchy mud. Michael Rosen’s award-winning picture book has found a new following on stage in this show with lots of interaction, catchy tunes and some surprises! Ages 3+. Varying times including 10am, 1.30pm, 4.30pm (weekdays), 11am & 2pm (Sat-Sun); £8-£14.50 (Dec 7-Jan 2)
Disney on Ice presents Frozen, O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX (North Greenwich tube)
Journey into a fantasy winter wonderland as Disney’s record-smashing animated hit Frozen is transformed into a full length ice skating show! Belt your heart out to ‘Let it Go’ with Elsa, laugh at her sister Anna and companions Olaf, Kristoff and Sven’s madcap moments, and bask in the sheer joy on your little one’s face. Of course there will be special appearances from Disney Princesses and characters from the likes of The Lion King, Finding Nemo, Toy Story and more… plus Mickey and Minnie hosting! Shows from 9.30am, 1.30pm & 5.30pm; £27-£53/babies under 24 months FREE on carer’s lap (Dec 21-30)
BABY AND TODDLER FRIENDLY SHOWS
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Live at Ambassadors Theatre, West Street, WC2H 9ND (Leicester Square tube)
Eric Carle’s wonderful picture book is brought to the West End stage for the first time at Ambassadors Theatre this Christmas. The Very Hungry Caterpillar features a menagerie of 75 charming puppets in a colourful 60-minute show that stays faithful not just to the eponymous book, but to 3 more Carle favourites: The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse and The Very Lonely Firefly. If you and your children are fans of Eric Carle’s bold and bright illustrations and lyrical storytelling, then you will love this show directed by Jonathan Rockefeller. For ages 2-7, younger ones welcome. 11am & 2pm (Wed-Sun); £12.50-£26.50 (Dec 2-Jan 7)
The Cat in the Hat at Pleasance Theatre, Carpenters Mews
North Rd, Islington N7 9EF (Caledonian Rd tube)
Watch out, there’s a mischievous kitty about in this warm and wacky adaptation of Dr Seuss’s globally famous picture book. Sally and Tom spot a cool cat in a tall stripy hat and it completely changes their rainy afternoon, but what will they tell mum when she comes home? Catch this acclaimed show first produced at National Theatre. For ages 3+. 10.30am & 1.30pm, 11am & 2pm: £7-£12.50 (Dec 6-Jan 2)
Sponge at The Pit at Barbican Theatre, Barbican Centre, Silk St, EC2Y 8DS (Barbican/Moorgate tube)
Set to an original score influenced by music from the 1970s, Sponge invites you to join two friendly dancers in a series of squishy, squashy environments made for play. Dance company Turned on its Head gets audiences rolling, squeezing and popping through this creative show made for babies, young kids and their families. Ages 3 months and upwards. 10.30am & 11am (ages 3-14 months), 1pm, 1.30pm & 3.30pm (ages 3 months-4 years); £8.50 (Dec 13-21)
Oily Cart: In a Pickle at Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 0GA (Finchley Central tube)
Celebrating their 35th anniversary, Oily Cart present an immersive theatre experience for very young viewers, loosely based on Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale. A shepherdess discovers a lost baby and has to follow a trail of clues over the salty sea to find a happy ending. Oily Cart’s trademark multi sensory magic infuses this show filled with lovely perfumes, delightful textures and gorgeous costumes and music. For ages 3 to 5. 10.30am & 1.30pm, some shows at 1.15pm, no shows Christmas Day/Boxing Day; £8-£10 (Dec 13-31)
Breaking the Ice at Stratford Circus, Theatre Square, Stratford, E15 1BX (Stratford tube/rail/DLR/overground)
Go on an Arctic voyage in this wintry tale of a wild polar bear who befriended a husky, based on an incredible true story. You can also become Team Polar Bear or Team Husky and take part in some Arctic activities either before or after the show including a winter picnic and a music & movement session. Ages 2-5. 1pm & 3pm (Mon Dec 19), 11am & 2pm (all other dates); £8-£10/activities £3-£6 (Dec 19-24)
We also like
Glitterbugs at Discover, for babies ages 0 to 3 (Dec 1-Jan 15); Poggle for ages 6 months to 5 years at Southbank Centre (Dec 29-30)
BEST FOR YOUNGER KIDS (AGES 3-6)
Mr Popper’s Penguins at Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 0GA (Finchley Central tube)
He’s a painter by day, and by night he’s an Antarctic explorer… well, at least in his head. Until one day a surprise appearance of a penguin on his doorstep leads him on an adventure he could never have dreamed of before. From the producers of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, songs, puppetry and music bring this remake of Richard and Florence Atwater’s book (also a Hollywood film starring Jim Carrey) to Arts Depot to kick off their festive theatre season. Ages 3+. 11am, 2pm & 4.30pm (Sat), 11am & 2pm (Sun): £8-£14.50 (until Dec 4)
Ready Steady Colour’s Christmas Feast at Discover, 383-387 High Street, Stratford, E15 4QZ (Stratford tube/DLR/rail/overground)
Book a table at Ready Stead Colour’s pop-up restaurant, where you can order your ‘Christmas dinner’ in black and white and colour yourself stuffed! You can shake glittery salt and pepper or red paint cranberry sauce all over your paper plates, while the restaurant’s colourful waiters serve up stories, comedy and music. For ages 3+. 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm; adult £9/child £9/family of 4 £32/under 2s FREE (Dec 3-4, 10-11, 16-23)
Stick Man at Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, WC2H 7BX (Leicester Square tube)
Scamp Theatre’s critically acclaimed take on Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler’s hugely popular returns to the West End for a limited Christmas run. Watch Stick Man break off from his daily routine and face all types of dancer and calamity as he attempts to get back to the family tree. Lots of music, puppetry and laughs for ages 3+ and carers. 11am & 1.30pm (Wed-Fri), 10.30am, 12.15pm & 2pm; adult £21.50/child £16.50/family £65 (Dec 2-30)
The Night that Autumn turned to Winter at Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN (Clapham Junction rail/overground)
Award-winning Little Bulb Theatre (Antarctica) take the audience on a mystical and rather mirthful journey into the woods, where animals of all shapes, sizes and senses of humour are preparing for the winter. Meet foxes, hares and squirrels on the night that everything is transformed into a winter wonderland. For ages 3-7. 10:30am and 1:30pm (Dec 7-21 weekdays and Jan 3-6), 11am and 2:30pm (all other dates inc. weekends); adult £15, child & concs £10/Family Ticket £44 including programme worth £4 (Dec 3-Jan 8)
The Gruffalo at Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7ES (Piccadilly Circus tube)
A mouse went into the woods one day and what did he find there? Tall Stories’ monster hit adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-loved picture book returns to Lyric Theatre for another run through summer and the Christmas theatre season. Follow the clever mouse on his journey as he encounters a variety of creatures leading, inevitably to his face off with the Gruffalo. But who will come out on top? Lots of fun, live music and mischief for ages 3+ (children ages 18 months+ require a ticket). 11am & 2pm (Tue-Fri), 10am & 12pm (Sat-Sun); from £14.50-£25.50/family ticket £65 (until Jan 8)
We also like
A Christmas Carol for ages 4+ at Puppet Theatre Barge (Dec 3-Jan 8); Wind in the Willows at Rose Theatre Kingston (Dec 6-Jan 3)
BEST FOR OLDER KIDS (AGES 6+)
Baddies the Musical at Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, SE1 2HZ (London Bridge tube)
They’re back, bigger and badder than ever. Those dastardly villains return to the Unicorn for another rip roaring twist on some of fairytale’s anti-heroes. Find out what happens when Big Bad Wolf, Captain Hook and other notorious ne’er-do-wells flip the script in a production that makes it hard to separate the goodies from the bad guys. Musical mayhem for ages 6+ (not suitable for under 5s). Varying shows 2pm & 7pm, 1pm & 6pm, 12.30pm & 3.30pm (Tue-Sun, performance times vary); adult £18-£24/child £12-£18 (Nov 15-Dec 31)
Kiki’s Delivery Service at Southwark Playhouse, Newington Causeway, SE1 6BD (Elephant & Castle/Borough tube)
We adore the Studio Ghibli animated adaptation of Japanese author Eiko Kadono’s award-winning kids’ book, so we’re very excited for this new production. A tale of magic and coming of age sees 13-year-old witch Kiki fly away from home to find her own destiny. She discovers a new place to spread her wings and use her powers for the greater good. Ages 7+. 3pm & 7.30pm; adult £20/child under 16 & concs £16/preview tickets £12/family £64 (Dec 8-Jan 8)
Le Gateau Chocolat presents Duckie at Blue Room Level 1, Royal Festival Hall, Spirit Level, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XX (Waterloo/Embankment tube)
Set in an animal circus, Duckie is a tale of self-discovery by critically acclaimed cabaret wonder Le Gateau Chocolat. In a quirky take on what it’s like to feel different and how to find your mojo in a strange world, Le Gateau Chocolat breaks out of his shell to create his first work for children, suitable for adults too. Ages 6+. 11am & 3pm; £14 (Dec 16-24)
Peter Pan at National Theatre, National Theatre, South Bank, SE1 9PX (Embankment/Waterloo tube)
Take a trip back to Neverland in this soaring new adaptation of Peter Pan, starring the eponymous hero and his friends Tinkerbell, Wendy and the Lost Boys. Based on JM Barrie’s beloved tale, we follow the adventures of a boy who refuses to grow up, and the characters who challenge (and love) him along the way. Fresh from its sellout success at Bristol’s Old Vic, Sally Cookson’s mischief and magic-laden production sprinkles fairy dust onto National Theatre. For ages 7+. 2pm & 7pm; £15-£60 (Nov 17-Feb 4)
We also like
The Little Match Girl for ages 5+ at Sadler’s Wells (Dec 10-30); The Snowman & Peter & the Wolf at Kings Place, screenings with live orchestra for ages 5+ (Dec 21); The Little Match Girl and Other Happier Tales at Shakespeare’s Globe for ages 9+ (Nov 24-Jan 22)
CHRISTMAS BALLET
The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House, Bow St, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD (Covent Garden tube)
Peter Wright’s much-loved production of this ultimate Christmas ballet returns to a rapturous reception at Royal Opera House (rrrrr!). The traditional ballet features toys coming magically to life, Sugar Plum fairy dancing, a Mouse King, a Christmas tree growing before your very eyes, and of course Tchaikovsky’s winning score. Recommended for ages 5+. LIMITED TICKETS left for Tue Jan 6 (7.30pm), £16 – book fast! Otherwise visit ROH for day tickets and returns. Or grab your tickets while available for their enchanting Sleeping Beauty show that runs through Feb 2017. (Dec 4-Jan 16)
Matthew Bourne: The Red Shoes at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 4TN (Angel tube)
Based on the classic film about one girl’s ambition to be the world’s greatest dancer, Matthew Bourne’s adaptation creates an intoxicating drama filled with beauty and suspense. Victoria Page dances her way into a love triangle that leads to a heart breaking climax, in a show by one of the UK’s top choreographers, set to a thrilling score. For ages 5+ (younger ones not admitted). Tue-Sat at 7.30pm (Thu 15 Dec at 7pm, no eve perf 24, 31 Dec); Sat Mats at 2.30pm; Sun Mats at 2pm (no mat perf 25 Dec or 1 Jan); Sun at 7pm (no eve perf 25 Dec, 1 Jan or 29 Jan); Mon at 7pm on 26 Dec; Tue Mat at 2.30pm on 27 Dec; Thu Mats at 2.30pm on 22 Dec, 29 Dec, 26 Jan; Fri Mat at 2.30pm on 23 Dec, 30 Dec; £12-£68 (Dec 6-Jan 29)
Nutcracker at London Coliseum, St Martin’s Lane, WC2N 4ES (Charing Cross Rd tube)
The Christmas cracker of a story about Clara and her magical nutcracker doll is brought dazzlingly to life by the English National Ballet, with 100+ dancers and musicians translating Tchaikovsky’s powerful music into an unforgettable dance production. For ages 5+, matinee performances (Tue Jan 3 & Sat Jan 7) are All Ages Welcome shows for under 5s. 7.30pm & 2.30pm (special matinees); £14-£79 (Dec 14-Jan 7)
CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME
Theatre 503: Scrooge and the Seven Dwarves, at Theatre 503 (above Latchmere Pub on the corner of Latchmere Road and Battersea Park Road), SW11 3BW (Clapham Junction rail/Sloane Square, South Kensington, Vauxhall tube then bus)
Hooray, it’s pantomime season again (oh no it isn’t, oh yes… etc)! If you fancy your panto with a bit less mime and a lot more mayhem, then twinkle toes along to Battersea where hit trio Sleeping Trees are back by popular demand. Following the gigantically successful Cinderella & the Beanstalk, the award winning comedy crew present fast-paced, physical comedy in a Christmas carol that manages to pack in Santa, Scrooge, a Wicked Witch and the Seven Dwarves to boot. Cracking good fun for ages 6+ (younger ones ages 2 and under also welcome, on parent/carer’s lap). 3pm, 7pm & 7.30pm (varying times, Tue-Sun); adult £15/child £12/adult + baby £15/family of 4 £40 (Nov 23-Jan 7, 2017)
Mother Goose at Wilton’s Music Hall, Graces Alley, London E1 8JB (Tower Hill/Aldgate East/Shadwell tube)
The goose is being fattened up for Christmas at Wilton’s Music Hall as the team behind Dick Whittington return with another rags to riches story. This classic tale of the battle between good and evil features Roy Flitcroft as the titular Dame, leading song and dance, music and romance, and some 400-year-old jokes about stuffing. For ages 5+. adult £20-30 (£17.50-26 previews)/child & concs. £17.50-26 (£15-22 previews) (Dec 2-31)
Bollywood Jack at Tara Theatre, 356 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield, SW18 4ES (Earlsfield rail)
Hot on the spangled heels of Bollywood Cinderella and Dick Whittington Goes Bollywood, Tara Arts Theatre puts another Bolly-spin on the tale of Jack and the Beanstalk. Whole heaps of Balti-sized joy, East-West costume mashups, dizzy dame, and Kipling’s poems create a colourful panto that will have you dancing out of the theatre. All ages welcome. 7.30pm & 2.30pm matinees (times vary, check web site); £18.50-£25 (Dec 7-Jan 7)
Cinderella at London Palladium, Argyll Street, Westminster, London W1F 7TF (Oxford Circus/Bond St tube)
A star-studded cast takes over the West End’s most celebrated theatre for the first panto at the Palladium in almost 30 years. Highlights of this show include sumptuous costumes, spectacular scenery and an unmissable transformation when our humble maid swaps her rags for a ball gown. Oh yeah, and not to forget Paul O’Grady, Julian Clary, Amanda Holden, Lee Mead and Nigel Havers – just some of the names amongst the acting team. Various days and times including 7.30pm & 2.30pm matinee shows; £19.50-£75(Dec 9-Jan 15)
We also like
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Shaw Theatre, NW1 (Dec 10-30); Pinocchio at Kings Head Theatre (Dec 1-Jan 7); Aladdin at Lyric Hammersmith (until Jan 7)
Moana: Disney’s Feisty New Heroine
