The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
Theatre trips can be expensive – even with the great deals we have for you here. Choosing a production requires some careful thought. After all, teenagers brought up on a diet of Rick and Morty, Family Guy and Sex Education aren’t going to want to see a West End version of a CBeebies show, which is why we’ve written this guide to London’s Best Theatre Shows for Teens and Older Kids.
Here you’ll find a round up of current and upcoming shows that are suitable for age 10 and above. If your kids are younger then check out our article below on London’s Best Theatre Shows for Kids.
Hopefully both guides will steer you toward some wonderful shows you might not have even thought of.
On a general note – For most UK performances children under 16 must be accompanied and sat next to a ticket-holder who is at least 18.
Finally, remember if you book through us here via our exclusive partnership with TodayTix – you’ll get some amazing deals on ticket prices.
The Book of Mormon is an award winning musical from the creators of South Park. The story follows a pair of Mormon boys sent on a mission to spread the word of the Latter Day Saints to the locals in a small town in Uganda that’s about as far away from their home in Salt Lake City as you can get!
Anyone familiar with South Park or the work of Trey Parker and Matt Stone would know that The Book of Mormon can get rather crass at times and the humour is certainly not for everyone. Be prepared for explicit language, sexual content and lots and lots of outrageous jokes. We took a group of teenagers and they all absolutely loved it but it’s definitely one for the older teens in your family!
Step inside the magnificent surroundings of London County Hall and experience the intensity and drama of Agatha Christie’s gripping story of justice, passion and betrayal in a unique courtroom setting.
Leonard Vole is accused of murdering a widow to inherit her wealth. The stakes are high – will Leonard survive the shocking witness testimony, will he be able to convince the jury, and you the audience of his innocence and escape the hangman’s noose?
Your older kids and teens will love the excitement of this gripping story that many of us parents read when we were young!
Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note saying: ‘Gone! Gone to Greece.
This fun, feel good show is recommended for ages 12+, and has some mild language and sexual references.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I epitomises the golden age of musicals and is the winner of multiple awards. Your kids will be transported into a world of rich traditions, complex relationships, and political intrigue.
With its touching themes of love and understanding, The King and I teaches us that love can transcend the greatest of differences. Kids will love the upbeat songs about whistling to overcome fear of a new situation, and getting to know a new culture.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is coming of age musical comedy inspired by the 2011 British television documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16. The story follows and is based upon the true-life story of 16-year-old British schoolboy Jamie Campbell, as he overcomes prejudice and bullying, to step out of the darkness and become a drag queen.
This heart-warming and inspiring show touches on themes such as bullying, sexuality, gender, and societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities and is recommended for teens aged 14+. The thought provoking content could provide a helpful opening for discussion around some of these areas with your teens.
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical has been a rip-roaring success since the show started in 2008. In the show, the audience meets a writer of musicals who is on a deadline and needs their help. The audience shouts out suggestions of a setting, musical styles and the title of the show and they’re off!
The Showstopper team then weave a brand new musical in front of the very eyes of the audience, complete with hilarious characters, fabulous dance routines, beautiful songs, epic story lines, all sprinkled with the pizazz of a Broadway show.
It’s great fun for older kids and teens and they’ll be sure to be laughing along with Mum and Dad – just be aware that as the show is improvised there may occasionally be more adult content.
Get ready to kick up your boots and experience the ultimate hoedown with this timeless American musical. Bringing its iconic love triangle tale to life with all the charm, humour, and heart that has made it a beloved favourite for generations…the show follows cocky cowboy Curly McLain and brooding farmhand Jud Fry, as they set their sights upon alluring farm girl Laurey Williams. No longer a story of boy meets girl, the new Oklahoma! is advised for older kids teens as it touches on themes such as sexism, consent, and gun violence.
Billed as the world’s most popular musical and based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, Les Miserables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. It includes the well-known classic songs: I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, Stars, Bring Him Home, Do You Hear the People Sing?, One Day More, Empty Chairs at Empty Tables, Master Of The House, and many more. The overall message is one of hope and redemption, which could be inspiring for older kids and teens. However, the show is 2 hours and 50 minutes long with one intermission – so it’s worth considering whether they’d be happy to sit through it.
Stand right in the centre of the action and move around the stage area with IMMERSIVE TICKETS. Or sit around the auditorium with SEATED TICKETS, where you will never be more than four rows away from the action as Guys and Dolls transports you and your kids to the streets of Manhattan and the bars of Havana in this unlikeliest of love stories!
No-good Nathan Detroit is desperately searching for the money to fund his illegal dice games, all whilst eluding law enforcement and his impatient fiancée Miss Adelaide, who demands that he quit his antics and relocate to the suburbs.
When Nathan meets infamous gambler Sky Masterson, a man with an insatiable appetite for raising the stakes, they make a bet… surely this is one bet that Nathan can’t lose?
Parents should know that overall this is a family-friendly classic musical, but the story does contain themes such as gambling and alcohol, which might not be suitable for everyone.
The story of the legendary 60s band The Four Seasons brought to life in this long-running Tony Award-winning musical.
Jersey Boys is a moving, teen friendly production following four guys from Jersey, USA. When they sang their first note together they had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of them. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story, and this musical biography follows the rise, the tough times and personal clashes, and the ultimate triumph of a group of friends whose music became symbolic of a generation.
Older kids and teens will love the plethora of music and incredible dance routines, just be prepared for some strong language!
SpongeBob and his friends in Bikini Bottom face the total destruction of their undersea world. But just when all hope seems to be lost, a most unexpected hero rises up, proving that the power of optimism really can save the world.
Whether it’s about you spending quality time with the kids, an outing with the grandparents or a visit to the theatre just because, this production delivers all the fun. Although SpongeBob is primarily for a younger audience, we’ve included it here because older kids and teens may enjoy the nostalgia.
The National Theatre’s acclaimed new production of The Crucible is transferring to the West End this June for a strictly limited season.
In this fable of power and dread, there’s a witch-hunt beginning – and no one is safe. The Crucible delves into the harrowing tale of the infamous witch trials that tore apart the fabric of a community, where private vendettas fuel public accusations and soon the truth itself is on trial.
This one is suitable for older kids and teens – the only risk is that it’s a very long play and they might get bored if they’re not enjoying it… But you know them, so it’s up to you!
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical has been a rip-roaring success since the show started in 2008. In the show, the audience meets a writer of musicals who is on a deadline and needs their help. The audience shouts out suggestions of a setting, musical styles and the title of the show and they’re off!
The Showstopper team then weave a brand new musical in front of the very eyes of the audience, complete with hilarious characters, fabulous dance routines, beautiful songs, epic story lines, all sprinkled with the pizazz of a Broadway show.
It’s great fun for older kids and teens and they’ll be sure to be laughing along with Mum and Dad – just be aware that as the show is improvised there may occasionally be more adult content.
The play catches up with Harry 19 years after his defeat of Voldemort in the Battle of Hogwarts. Harry’s life looks different now – he’s a husband and father of three who works for the Ministry of Magic. And he is still haunted by his traumatic past.
His eldest son, Albus, is grappling with his own set of challenges – following in his famous father’s footsteps at Hogwarts. The story follows them, as they navigate their strained relationship and the pressures of living in the shadow of Harry’s past.
The critically-acclaimed production is the most awarded new play in theatre history.
And if the kids have read the books or seen the films, they’ll be spellbound by this new chapter. If they haven’t, prepare for lots of questions.
Hamilton is based on the biography of American statesman Alexander Hamilton whose ambition drove him from the position of Caribbean outsider and bastard child to American war hero and George Washington’s right-hand man. In the process, Alexander Hamilton played a significant role in shaping America as we’ve come to know it.
This musical features a blend of hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway And is the perfect musical for those kids who want to be entertained, enlightened, and moved.
Described as a Dickens mash up, Bleak Expectations follows the adventures of three siblings Pip, Poppy and Pippa and their friend Harry Biscuit as they try to outsmart the Hardthrasher family and outrun Mr Gently Benevolent in Victorian London.
It’s so much fun, with the line-up including actors Stephen Fry, Stephen Mangan, Ben Miller and Adjoa Andoh and comedians Tom Allen, Alexander Armstrong, Jo Brand, Jack Dee, Nish Kumar, Lee Mack and Sue Perkins.
If your kids are fans of Oliver, Great Expectations and the well known Dickens classics then they’ll enjoy this. And if they’re new to him it’s a fun way to introduce them to his books.
Based on the novel by Harper Lee, To Kill A Mockingbird tells the story of a black man accused of rape in pre-civil rights era Alabama and the noble lawyer who defends him. Known as one of literature’s towering symbols of honesty and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it.
WARNING:
This production does contain some racially explicit language and references of sexual abuse, so kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
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Eugenius! Is the hilarious musical comedy that follows a comic-writing teenage boy who dreams of superheroes and villains.
Teaming up with his best friends Janey and Feris, Eugene may be able to create his own Hollywood comic book movie. But first, he must discover the true meaning of growing up, by finding the superhero within, saving the world from evil and falling in love on the way.
It’s an inspiring story of friendship that will teach the kids not to reach just for the stars, but to reach higher.
The Crown Jewels is a riotous new comedy based on the most unbelievable royal caper in British history.
Charismatic and unpredictable Colonel Blood is planning the greatest heist of all time: stealing the Crown Jewels in plain sight. With a gang of misfits by his side, what could possibly go wrong? But King Charles II can’t afford a royal reproach, and no King likes people handling their Crown Jewels…
Older kids and teens will love this scandalous royal take, and its great fun for Mum and Dad too!
This legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical celebrates 50 years of non-stop partying with this special anniversary production. It’s a humorous musical tribute to science fiction and horror B movies that has developed a huge cult following.
Brad and Janet are a simple engaged couple whose lives get turned upside down by Frank ‘n Furter and his household of strange Transylvanians on a stormy night when their car breaks down close to his mansion.
It’s quite sexual and lewd in places so only you can decide whether this is age appropriate for your children but if you do, they’ll love the interactivity of it, including dancing, pop-throwing and call backs.
One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.If you’re a family that love music, then this is a great choice. An uplifting story like no other, TINA: The Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll.
Tina follows Turner from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, through to her rise to fame alongside husband Ike Turner, and finally her massive comeback in the 80’s following her divorce.
This is definitely one for the parents! – and the kids will be mesmerised by the music, performances and narrative about the life of this icon.
Based on the hit film, Pretty Women is a modern Cinderella story. It centres on Vivian Ward, an escort hired by rich entrepreneur Edward Lewis to accompany him for a week in Los Angeles.
Edward showers Vivian with large sums of cash for an elegant shopping spree, while her old friends from the block start to get jealous.
As Vivian makes the transformation from to classy lady, she finds herself falling for Edward, who also begins to see Vivian beyond her profession.
The musical follows the movie’s storyline closely, which means that along with a couple of curse words, you’ll see prostitution, sexual activity, and an attempted sexual assault. But it’s all staged intelligently and witty artfulness. So if you do take older children or teens, the story offers valuable themes worth discussing.
Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza.
Set against the backdrop of the Montmartre Quarter of Paris, France at the turn of the 20th century, the musical weaves together popular music to tell the story of Christian, a young composer who falls for Satine, the sparkling diamond of the Moulin Rouge.
This is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and above all, love. There are some adult themes but they are cleverly presented meaning you and the kids should be enthralled by this play about bohemians and aristocrats at the grand Moulin Rouge in Paris!
The infamous scheming masterminds captured a nation’s heart during the Great Depression. Decades on, Bonnie and Clyde continue to be celebrated in a gritty, tense musical that puts their lives centre stage.
The story follows two small-town kids from the middle of nowhere who became the biggest folk heroes in all America. They craved adventure – and each other. It’s an electrifying story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of an entire nation.
This is a good show for those older kids who are interested in learning about America’s criminal past!
With music and lyrics by Tim Minchin – the man behind Matilda, this play is based on the film of the same name and follows Phil Connors, a disgruntled weatherman stuck in small-town America who relives the same day over and over again.
As he gets to know associate TV producer Rita Hanson for the first time repeatedly, he realises it’s an opportunity for second, third, and fourth chances at being successful in love.
Packed with plenty of laughs, it’s child-friendly but does have some mild swearing.
Just like every amazing duo, Penn and Teller have their strengths and weaknesses and combined, they create the perfect storm of comedy, magic and entertainment. The tall, lanky Penn serves as a narrator, providing a running comedic commentary on just about everything they do, while Teller handles much of the show’s action, all without saying a single word.
While there are some elements of classic magic and sleight of hand in the show, most of the tricks are incredibly creative, innovative, and sometimes bordering on the macabre. So, not only is it the perfect mixture of comedy and magic that teens should love, it means no two shows are the same and there’s even some audience participation.
The Phantom of the Opera follows a deformed composer who haunts the grand Paris Opera House. Sheltered from the outside world in an underground cavern, the lonely, romantic man tutors and composes operas for Christine, a gorgeous young soprano star-to-be.
As Christine’s star rises, and a handsome suitor from her past enters the picture, the Phantom grows mad, terrorising the opera house owners and company with his murderous ways. Still, Christine finds herself drawn to the mystery man.
The staging and music might be a little scary for young kids but older kids and teens will be blown away..
Please Note: This production contains haze, loud noises (gun shots), flashing lights, strobe as well as strong language and mature themes including murder, suicide, sexual violence and references to eating disorders. Audience discretion is advised.
Based on the cult 1980s film, the Heathers clique rules over Westerberg High with an iron fist, and newcomer Veronica Sawyer uses any means possible to get rid of her enemies. During the musical, characters realise the errors of their ways and try to rectify their mistakes.
Heathers the Musical has built up a loyal fan base made up in large part by teenagers. In fact, Heathers the Musical is in its fourth West End engagement – the show is currently in a homecoming season at The Other Palace. Get ready to have a lot of fun at Heathers the Musical.
One of the most successful musicals of all time, CABARET features the songs Wilkommen, Don’t Tell Mama, Mein Herr, Maybe This Time, Money and the title number.
Set in early 1930s Berlin, American writer Cliff Bradshaw meets English cabaret singer Sally Bowles, a performer at the Kit Kat Club. It’s the only place where everyone can be free but the rise of Nazism threatens this hedonistic Weimar Republic haven.
The show includes some sexual content so parental guidance is advised but would be great for older kids who have an interest in not only the theatre but also Germany and the rise of Nazism in the 1930s..
One of the most successful musicals of all time, CABARET features the songs Wilkommen, Don’t Tell Mama, Mein Herr, Maybe This Time, Money and the title number.
The Play That Goes Wrong is a backstage burlesque bursting with slapstick, and which sums itself up perfectly in its title. A troupe of actors at a ragtag company decides to present ‘The Murder at Haversham Manor’, and not a single thing goes according to plan. The set, the props, the lighting and the sound thwart the performers at every turn. The Play That Goes Wrong amuses with its pranks and pratfalls and there’s no denying the hilarity of a troupe that unfailingly turns can-do into can-don’t.
Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has been running in London’s West End since 1952. Considered a classic whodunnit, it’s about a group of seven strangers who find themselves in a guesthouse in the countryside. Unfortunately, there’s a murderer is in their midst and they set about finding out who it is, revealing their dark pasts in the process. This is a must-see for the murder mystery fans out there!
Mamma Mia! tells the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, the daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers!
In The Choir of Man, nine multi-talented singers, dancers and musicians combine stunning harmonies and foot-stomping singalongs in a riotously feel-good show. Set in a traditional British pub with a real working bar on stage, The Choir of Man invites you to the ultimate happy hour. It’s a party, a concert and a lock-in, with feel-good reinterpretations of chart-topping hits from Guns N’ Roses, Adele, Avicii, Paul Simon, Sia and more. It’s an hour of joy for all the family.
Mrs. Doubtfire tells the story of everyone’s favourite Scottish nanny. Out-of-work actor Daniel will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny, Euphegenia Doubtfire, in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father.
ABBA Voyage is a virtual concert residency by the Swedish pop group ABBA. The concerts feature virtual avatars – or ABBAtars – depicting the group as they appeared in 1977. It’s a futuristic experience like no other where you and the kids will be able to enjoy their timeless classics at this unforgettable event.
21 years since it all began… the world’s favourite rock theatrical returns home! The worldwide smash-hit, We Will Rock You by Queen and Ben Elton, returns to London this summer, for an unmissable 12-week season.
Seen by 20 million people across 28 countries, this musical spectacular plays to its biggest audience yet. Taking to the same iconic stage at the London Coliseum that saw Freddie Mercury’s 1979 Royal Ballet performance, this event is sure to go down in musical theatre history. Featuring 24 of Queen’s best-loved hits, including We Are The Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody, Radio Ga Ga and Don’t Stop Me Now, this show is guaranteed fun fun, fun!
A new George Gershwin musical comedy based on the 1930 musical, Girl Crazy, it tells the story of a banker who dreams of getting into show business and who is sent to foreclose on a property that turns out to be a theatre.
After falling in love with the local postmistress, Full of classic songs and thrilling dance number. Full of classic songs and thrilling dance numbers, this a great way to introduce your kids to Gershwin.
This joyfully funny retelling of classic film Die Hard makes its London debut later this year, following rave reviews for its premiere at the Edinburgh Fringe.
When gunmen seize an LA skyscraper, off-duty policeman John McClane is the hostages’ only hope. This uplifting action romp pays affectionate tribute to the iconic 80s fan favourite.
Essential viewing for Hans Gruber super fans and newcomers alike. Whether your teens are Die Hard fan or not, it guarantees happy trails.
If you missed this at the National Theatre don’t worry – Standing at the Sky’s Edge is transferring to the West End, coming to the Gillian Lynne Theatre from February 2024. The show is described as a love letter to Sheffield and a history of modern Britain told through the stories of one flat on an iconic estate.
Standing at the Sky’s Edge charts the hopes and dreams of three generations over the course of six tumultuous decades. Set to the irresistible songs of legendary Sheffield singer-songwriter Richard Hawley, it is a heartfelt exploration of the power of community and what it is we call home.
If you want to take your older kids and teens along to something completely different, this one fits the bill and we are you now – take some tissues. An absolutely wonderful theatrical experience that feels totally accessible but it’s worth knowing the show does contain some adult themes and strong language.
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
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