London’s Best Theatre Shows for Kids Under 10

Updated for 2026. This KidRated guide to London’s best theatre shows for kids under 10 rounds up productions we think children will genuinely enjoy – colourful, funny, easy to follow and full of moments that may make sing along at full volume.

Let’s be honest though: London theatre tickets in London aren’t always cheap. So where we can, we’ve included reviews from kids and families to help you decide whether a show is really worth the money before you book. Plus you can find exclusive money saving deals here or via the links we’ve added under each show.

Whether you live in London or visiting for a few days, these shows make a brilliant day (or evening) out. Many run during school holidays and weekends, and they’re all productions that understand something important: kids are the toughest audience of all.

As usual we’ve focused on age-appropriate, family-friendly productions that parents will enjoy too with some handy tips at the bottom of the page. And if your children are starting to think they’re a bit too grown up for “kids’ theatre”, take a look at our guide to London’s Best Theatre Shows for Teens and Older Kids.

Alice in Wonderland – BOOK NOW!

Down the rabbit hole we go.

This fresh stage adaptation plunges audiences into Wonderland’s gloriously bonkers universe – shrinking, growing, talking cats and all. It’s colourful, fast-moving and visually playful, with enough nonsense to keep younger kids hooked and enough wordplay to keep adults entertained.

If your child loves imagination-heavy stories with big characters and slightly chaotic energy, this is a brilliant school-holiday option.

Age: 5+
Date: 27th March – 12th April 2026
Venue: Riverside Studios
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

The Boy at the Back of the Class – BOOK NOW!

This joyful stage adaptation of the bestselling novel by Onjali Q. Raúf is back and it’s one of those shows that will stay with both klds and parents for a long time after they’ve seen it.

There used to be an empty chair at the back of the class. Now a new boy, Ahmet, is sitting in it. He’s nine, but he never talks, never smiles and doesn’t even like sweets. When his classmates discover he’s fled his war-torn country and is separated from his family, they come up with what they believe is The Greatest Idea in the World – a plan to reunite him with them.

Told from a child’s perspective, this is a show with both humour and heart. We sent Molly (12) to K-Rate it for us….

Age: 7+
Date: Until Feb 22nd 2026 at Kingston Rose Theatre
Date: 7th – 12 April at Southbank Centre

A Midsummer Night’s Dream – BOOK NOW!

If you’ve ever wanted to introduce your child to Shakespeare without watching their soul leave their body, this is how you do it.

The Unicorn Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company have teamed up for a fresh, funny retelling of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, created specifically for ages seven and up. Expect magic, mischief and moonlit confusion as young lovers flee to the forest and fall under the spell of Puck.

What makes this version special is that it’s been shaped with input from 8–13 year-olds, so the tone genuinely reflects how kids think and feel about transformation, big emotions and messy friendships.

Access is brilliantly integrated too, with creative captioning and BSL woven into performances.

Age: 7+
Date: 21st March – 10th May 2026
Venue: Unicorn Theatre
Price: See website for details

Midnight in the Toyshop – BOOK NOW!

Easter holiday magic alert.

Midnight in the Toyshop is a brand-new mini musical where toys spring to life when the clock strikes twelve. But their world is under threat from a tech entrepreneur who wants to replace imagination with an AI experience centre.

Yes, it’s basically Toy Story meets Black Mirror – but in the gentlest, most family-friendly way imaginable.

Packed with catchy songs, bright choreography and West End performers, this joyful adventure leans into themes parents will love: real play vs screens, friendship, courage and creativity.

Age: 3+
Date: 7th – 12th April 2026
Venue: St Martin’s Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Paddington The Musical

If your kids adore Paddington’s films, then this trip to the West End show for them. Paddington: The Musical takes everything we love about Britain’s favourite Peruvian migrant and creates something warm, cinematic and genuinely special.

From the jaw-dropping animatronics that bring Paddington to life, to marmalade smell-o-vision and an unforgettable Mr Gruber’s shop sequence this is a winning show that plays to every age bracket. Kids will love the slapstick; Teens will love the villains and adults will spend the whole thing trying not to cry. We sent Rivoli and Felix to review it for us – see below – and you can visit our dedicated page here.

Age: All ages
Date: Until September 2026
Venue: Savoy Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

My Neighbour Totoro

The enchanting world of Studio Ghibli’s “My Neighbour Totoro” is making a magical return to London’s West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre from March 8 to November 2, 2025. This multi-award-winning adaptation brings the beloved characters of Satsuki, Mei, and the whimsical forest spirit Totoro to life with astonishing puppetry, beautiful music, and imaginative staging.

Based on the beloved 1988 animated film by Hayao Miyazaki, this enchanting show is a feast for the senses. The production’s use of live music, and inventive puppetry will mesmerise young audiences.

Be aware though that with a runtime of just under three hours, including an interval, it’s may be quite an epic undertaking for some kids. others though will be engaged from start to finish and is a brilliant introduction to the magic of theatre and the timeless appeal of Studio Ghibli’s storytelling​

We sent Nell, Tiggy and Wren to rate it for us….

Age: 6+
Date: 29th May 2026
Venue: Gillian Lynne Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Hercules

Great googly gods! Disney’s Hercules is flexing its musical muscles as it bursts onto the West End stage at Theatre Royal Drury Lane this June—and it’s set to be a mythical, magical, laugh-out-loud adventure for the whole family as you can see from Felix and Amandine’s review above!

Based on the much-loved 1997 animated film, this brand-new musical reimagines the story of Hercules, the clumsy demi-god on a mission to become a true hero. Expect big laughs, high-energy choreography, eye-popping sets, and an all-powerful soundtrack packed with fan favourites like “Go the Distance” and “Zero to Hero,” plus brand new songs by Disney legends Alan Menken and David Zippel.

Directed by Casey Nicholaw (Aladdin, The Book of Mormon), the show features a gospel-singing Greek chorus, an unforgettable Hades, and monsters galore. Ideal for ages 6+, this is one summer blockbuster your family won’t want to miss.

Age: 6+
Date: Until 28th September 2026
Venue: Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Polka Theatre – Easter Holiday Shows – BOOK NOW!

If you’re looking for theatre that genuinely welcomes younger children, Polka Theatre is one of London’s best family venues.

Purpose-built for young audiences, Polka has spent more than 45 years creating imaginative shows designed specifically for children. The venue is relaxed and family-friendly too, with space for buggies, a good café and a much-loved playground garden.

Over the Easter holidays there are two productions running, aimed at different age groups.

Chicken Licken

This lively new version of the classic tale follows a worried chicken who thinks the sky is falling after acorns begin dropping from above. Determined to warn everyone, Chicken Licken sets off with friends including Henny Penny, Ducky Lucky and Goosey Loosey – though the mysterious Foxy Loxy may complicate things.

Created by the team behind Three Billy Goats Gruff and The Emperor’s New Clothes, the show mixes songs, puppetry and playful storytelling. Every performance includes integrated BSL, captions and audio description, making it accessible for more families.

Age: 3 – 7
Date: 5th April – 11th May 2026
Venue: Main Theatre

Sisters 360

Sisters 360 is a new show about two hijabi step-sisters from Bradford determined to win a skateboarding competition called Tiny is Mighty. But just as they’re perfecting their routine, family plans threaten to disrupt everything

Inspired by real-life skateboarding sisters and Olympic star Sky Brown, the show blends storytelling, movement and music into an energetic story about ambition, friendship and family.

Age: 8- 12
Date: 22nd March – 27th April 2026
Venue: Adventure Theatre

Operation Mincemeat

Operation Mincemeat is the gloriously bonkers WW2 musical that’s taken the West End by storm – and is perfect for kids from the age of six, teens and curious history lovers who like their facts with a big side of fun.

Based on the true story of one of the weirdest wartime plots ever, the show follows a group of unlikely British spies and their plan to fool the Nazis… with a fake corpse and a briefcase full of lies.

With high-energy performances, wild character swaps (the cast plays everyone), and a toe-tapping score that mixes vintage swing with modern tunes this sleeper hit has been so successful, it recently transferred to Broadway.

Sharp, smart, and very funny, with enough history to feel clever and enough chaos to keep everyone on the edge of their seats. Click to visit our dedicated page.

Age: 6+
Date: Until September 2026
Venue: Fortune Theatre

Comedy Club 4 Kids

Comedy Club 4 Kids is a proper comedy club… just earlier in the day, with much, much younger audience. Featuring top stand-up comedians, sketch acts and cabaret stars it’s all suitable for ages six and up.

Running nationwide since 2005, this laugh-out-loud show is fast, funny, and brilliantly bonkers—with jokes that grown-ups will enjoy too. There’s even a podcast (Radio Nonsense) and a book if your kids fancy giving stand-up a go themselves!

Expect giggles, gags and genuine belly laughs. Kids must be accompanied by adults—mainly so they can help explain any jokes that go over little heads.

Perfect for families who love a good laugh together!

Age: 6+
Dates: Sundays 3pm – 8th March; 12th April 2026
Venue: Park Theatre, Finsbury Park
Price: £15 – Book here

Starlight Express

“Starlight Express” is a high-octane, roller-skating musical extravaganza where toy trains come to life in a child’s dream. The story follows a steam engine named Rusty who races against modern engines to win the heart of the beautiful Pearl.

Get ready to be blown away by “Starlight Express,” a show that’s part musical, part roller derby, and all fun! The dazzling lights, speedy stunts, and catchy songs will keep kids and teens on the edge of their seats. The unique roller-skating spectacle brings a thrilling twist to the classic underdog story. Perfect for kids who love action and teens who crave high-energy performances, this one’s a must-see!

We sent Tiggy to KidRate it and she appeared on The Gaby Roslin Show to give her verdict – “10/10 with great songs and amazing effects. I would definitely go again.”

Age: All ages
Date: Until October 2026
Venue: Troubadour Theatre, Wembley Park
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Who Let The Gods Out

Greek mythology crashes into modern London in this bold, funny stage adaptation of Maz Evans’ bestselling book – now playing at Polka Theatre.

Elliot Hooper’s life is not exactly going to plan. His mum is unwell, his neighbour is trying to steal their home and he may have accidentally unleashed an evil death daemon. Then just when things couln’t get any wilder or werider, the constellation Virgo crash-lands in his garden – closely followed by a spectacularly dysfunctional bunch of ancient Greek gods. Togas, tantrums and total chaos follow.

Fast, furious and very very funny, the show mixes mythological mayhem with real heart as Elliot sets out to save the world – and his own family.

A joyful, high-energy adventure for curious kids and mythology-loving tweens.

Age: 7+
Date: Until 22nd March 2026
Venue: Polka Theatre

War Horse – BOOK NOW!

War Horse returns to the National Theatre – and it’s still one of the most powerful theatre experiences you can share with your child.

Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, it tells the story of Albert and his horse Joey, separated by the First World War. Too young to fight, Albert sets off across France determined to bring him home.

The staging combines projection and live performance on an epic scale and the life-sized horses from Handspring Puppet Company are extraordinary, making you instantly forget they’re not actually real. The staging combines projection and live performance on an epic scale – big, bold theatre done brilliantly.

Yes, there are difficult moments. War is shown honestly. But what shines through is friendship, loyalty and hope.

Age: 10+
Date: 16th May – 13th July 2026
Venue: Olivier at the National Theatre

Dog Man: The Musical – BOOK NOW!

Dog Man: The Musical is pure chaotic comic-book energy – and if your house is already stacked with Dav Pilkey paperbacks, this one’s a no-brainer.

Based on the wildly bestselling graphic novels (70 million copies and counting), this fast-paced stage show follows crime-biting hero Dog Man – part dog, part policeman, ALL chaos – as he battles evil cats, cyborg fish and general mayhem. The twist? The story is framed as George and Harold (yes, those George and Harold) trying to stage their own musical.

It’s silly. It’s loud. It leans into fart jokes and fourth-wall breaks. But it’s also smart, warm and surprisingly heartfelt – especially when it explores loyalty, friendship and doing the right thing.

If your tween prefers graphic novels to Shakespeare, this might be their gateway drug to live theatre.

Age: 5+
Date: 29 July – 16 August 2026
Venue: Southbank Centre + UK Tour

Hadestown

Nearly every kid who has been exposed to any of the Greek myths gets hooked on the storytelling and sense of adventure. So fans or not there’s a very good chance your kids will feel the same about Hadestown.

After huge success in the US this visually stunning and emotionally rich musical lands in the West End in an enchanting production that weaves together the stories of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone into a single, mesmerizing tale. With its vibrant set designs and hauntingly beautiful music, “Hadestown” will take the family on a journey to the underworld and back, making every moment an adventure.

“Hadestown” isn’t just a show; it’s an experience that combines music, storytelling, and visual artistry in a way that will leave you and your children spellbound. The innovative set and lighting designs create an immersive environment, transforming the stage into a world where myths come to life. The musical’s themes of resilience, love, and the power of music resonate deeply, making it a meaningful and memorable outing for families.

Whether you’re familiar with the original myths or discovering them for the first time, “Hadestown” promises to be a theatrical journey that you and your kids wi’ll cherish long after the final curtain call​

Age: 8+
Date: 26th September 2026
Venue: Lyric Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Zog – BOOK NOW!

‘I’m not braggin’, but I’m a dragon…’

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Zog returns in this joyful stage adaptation that’s become a proper family favourite.

With live music, beautifully designed puppets and lots of audience giggles, it follows the accident-prone dragon Zog as he tries (and repeatedly fails) to win a golden star at dragon school.

It’s warm, funny and reassuringly gentle – perfect for little ones taking their first steps into theatre. The songs are catchy enough that you’ll still be humming them in the car home.

Age: 3+
Date: 2nd – 23rd August 2026
Venue: Cadogan Hall + UK Tour

Anansi the Spider – BOOK NOW!!

 

Based on the beloved West African folk character, Anansi the Spider is a lively family show full of storytelling, trickster fun and music. And, it will be performed on the theatre lawn

Age: 4+
Date: August tbc
Venue: Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Matilda the Musical

Who could resist the classic tale of Matilda, the dark and delightful adaptation of Roald Dahl’s tale of a child genius and her monstrous headmistress? The show was written by Dennis Kelly, with music and lyrics by the quirky, super-clever Australian comedian Tim Minchin.

The narrative focuses on Matilda, precocious at just five years old and a keen reader. It follows her as she overcomes the numerous obstacles put in her way by her family and school, where she ultimately helps the only teacher she likes, to reclaim her life.

Age: 6+
Date: until May 2026
Venue: Cambridge Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deal

Wicked

Wicked tells the story of the true friendship between two very different witches, the Wicked Witch of the East and the Good Witch of Oz

This is a story full of magic and spectacular costumes and dresses that will make the kids’ imagination fly. It really is a fabulous musical to take the little ones to.

Check out our review by KidRater Grace (8).

Age: 7+
Date: until September 2026
Venue: Apollo Victoria Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

The Lion King

The Lion King Musical is undoubtedly a family favourite. Both adults and children know the fabulous story of how Simba, a lion cub, comes to the throne to become the Lion King.

It’s a musical with no shortage of famous songs that’s sure to excite the real Disney fans out there. The animals pass through the aisles in the stalls when the show starts, so you might want to choose seats next to the aisles if you want to see the animals up close.

 Check out our review by KidRater Millie.

Age: 6+
Date: until September 2026
Venue: Lyceum Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Back to the Future: The Musical

This stage adaptation of the iconic 80’s film, Back to the Future, is sure to evoke some feelings of nostalgia for many of you parents.

The kids are sure to get excited when Marty McFly, your typical rock ‘n’ roll teenager, is accidentally transported back to 1955. In order to guarantee that he makes it back to the future, he needs to ensure that his parents meet and fall in love.

You and the kids will marvel at the gravity-defying, time-travelling DeLorean that supposedly reaches speeds of up to 88 miles per hour!

We sent Wyatt & Seth along to K-Rate it for us and their verdict – “Loved the special effects and the Delorean – KidRating – 8 & 10 out of 10!

Age: 6+
Date: until September 2026
Venue: Adelphi Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

The Play That Goes Wrong

Described as Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off; The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre is a must-see smash-hit and absolute riot.

The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are trying to put on ‘The Murder at Haversham Manor,’ a 1920’s murder mystery play where absolutely nothing goes as planned! The accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences.

From falling props and wobbly floors to mishaps with lights and sounds, this show is a laugh-out-loud journey full of slapstick comedy, pranks and mishaps that’ll keep you chuckling the whole way through.

Get ready for an uproarious adventure that both you and the kids will love!

Age: 8+
Date: Ongoing
Venue: Duchess Theatre
Price: See KidRated’s Exclusive Deals

Quick Inspiration

KidRated Top Tips about pushchairs, buggies and booking

Pushchairs: Most theatres offer a cloakroom or “buggy bay” for storing pushchairs during the show, but it’s best to check with the box office beforehand.

Booster Seats:

• Not all theatres provide them, and they cannot be booked in advance.
• They may require a small fee and are available first-come, first-served.
• Most children won’t need one due to theatre seating design.
• Personal booster seats are usually not allowed.

Top Theatre Tips for Families

✔️ Arrive early to secure booster seats & use facilities.
✔️ Best seats? Dress/Royal Circle for clear views.
✔️ Aisle seats make bathroom trips easier.
✔️ Matinees are ideal for younger children.
✔️ Research the show to check suitability.
✔️ Theatres expect quiet, seated behaviour.

What Theatres Don’t Offer

❌ No children invited on stage.
❌ No birthday shoutouts.
❌ Limited baby-changing facilities.

And for Older Kids and Teenagers….

Check out our unbeatable guide to the best theatre shows for Older Kids and Teens….