London, and more specifically the West End, hosts some of the most exciting musicals the nation has to offer. So, if you’re planning a family day out in the capital, this should certainly be at the top of your to-do list.
Not only are musicals entertaining, but they are a unique form of storytelling, a chance for your little ones to experience something magical and new. Plus, these live performances might even spark a lifelong love of theatre and the arts.
Best of all, every year there are lots of wonderful musicals for you to choose from, including some of their favourite stories brought to life on stage.
But before you book your tickets, it’s a good idea to know what your options are and to check the age restrictions and run times of the top shows. This way, you can plan the perfect day out for your family.
To help you do this, we’ve compiled a list of the best musicals for kids and matinees showing in London this year. Check them out below.
The Lion King
If your kids love the Disney classic, The Lion King, then why not let them experience this live on stage at the Lyceum Theatre?
This truly magical performance will bring the Savannah to life right in front of their eyes. The show features their favourite characters, including Simba, Timone and Pumba, along with a whole host of impressive (and full-size) animal puppets.
They’ll be swept away as giraffes, elephants, zebras and lions walk through the crowd and fill the stage, and incredible scenery will effortlessly transport them to the African planes.
As well as falling in love with the story all over again, they can sing along to some of their favourite hits from the movie, including Elton John’s ‘Can you feel the love tonight’ and ‘I just can’t wait to be king’.
The run time for this show is two hours and 30 minutes but that does include an interval halfway through. As children must sit in their own seats throughout the performance (and this applies to every show on our list), it’s recommended for those aged six and over, and small babies are not permitted in the theatre.
Frozen
Are you ready to fall under Elsa’s spell once again?
If your kids love Frozen as much as we do, then they’re sure to love the stage adaptation of the hit Disney movie.
They’ll be frozen to their seats as they see Anna, Elsa, Olaf and other unforgettable characters live in action. The story follows the two sisters as their bond is tested in the face of magical powers and an endless winter.
As well as the catchy soundtrack, the show features some new songs written just for the stage. Plus, you and the children will be blown away by the beautiful costumes, incredible special effects and, of course, breathtaking magic.
This year, the musical is showing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in Covent Garden and has a run time of approximately two hours and fifteen minutes, with a twenty-minute interval in between. While it is child-friendly, the performance is recommended for those aged six and over.
Matilda The Musical
Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, this is the story of Matilda, a little girl with big powers.
Facing a family who show little interest in her abilities along with a cruel headmistress, life doesn’t feel too bright for the gifted child. But thanks to the help of her teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda discovers she has magical powers and is able to embrace these to get her own back.
You may have read the book and/or seen the movie, but the stage adaptation is an entirely new experience altogether. One that both you and your children are sure to love.
The show features catchy new songs from award-winning comedian and musician Tim Minchin. Though it’s worth knowing that some parts of the show can be loud and a bit scary, so consider this before booking your tickets.
The run time on this magical musical is two hours and 35 minutes with a 20-minute interval and Matilda is currently showing at London’s Cambridge Theatre.
Wicked The Musical
Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is the lesser-known story of the Witches of Oz. Essentially, this is what came before the beloved Wizard of Oz.
This musical is about friendship, love and overcoming differences, but with a magical twist. The enchanting tale follows two young sorcerers Glinda and Elphaba, who later become Glinda The Good and The Wicked Witch of the West, respectively.
Up against the Wizard’s corrupt government, as well as conflicting views and the same love interest, this story is about Elphaba’s eventual fall from grace.
Currently playing at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, the show is recommended for children aged seven and above and has a run time of approximately two hours and 45 minutes with an interval.
Elf The Musical
The final musical on our list is one that you’ll have to wait a little while for. However, it will be more than worth the wait.
If you love the festive season and spending quality time with your children as they get excited for Santa to come, then we’ve got your Christmas entertainment wrapped up.
Based on the hit movie featuring Will Ferrell, Elf is the tale of Buddy, who as a baby crawled into Santa’s bag and was taken to the North Pole. Subsequently, he was raised to be a Christmas-loving and overenthusiastic elf himself.
When he discovers that he’s actually human, he sets off for New York to find out more about his real family.
This heartwarming musical is sure to fill you and your little ones with festive cheer and if you get them tickets, you’re guaranteed to end up on the Nice List.
Recommended for children aged five and up, the show has a run time of two hours and 30 minutes, including an interval, and will be shown at the Dominion Theatre between November 2023 and January 2024.
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.