
Top London family theatre picks for October half term
- Many shows have added extra performances during half term, including Back To The Future The Musical, Disney’s The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, Matilda The Musical, Mrs. Doubtfire, The Play That Goes Wrong, Starlight Express and Wicked
- Plus, enjoy exciting shows especially created for children at Polka Theatre, nominated for the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award
Plus, try something a little different at Polka Theatre – this London-based dedicated children’s theatre is nominated for the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award at this year’s UK Theatre Awards, which takes place this Sunday 20 October. Discover the power of stories on 19 & 20 October with Luna Loves Library Day, enjoy the tender and heart-warming tale of The Storm Whale from 25 October to 3 November, or see the joyful, kaleidoscopic family show Everything Has Changed from 30 October to 3 November.
Family theatre picks for October half term 2024
Back To The Future The Musical
“Back to the Future: The Musical” brings the iconic 80s movie to the stage with thrilling performances, dazzling effects, and catchy tunes. Perfect for family fun, this nostalgic adventure transports audiences to 1955, as Marty McFly and Doc Brown race to save the future. A must-see for all ages!
Disney’s The Lion King
Disney’s The Lion King is a spectacular theatre experience that brings the beloved animated film to life with stunning costumes, incredible puppetry, and powerful music. Perfect for families, this award-winning show captures the magic of Simba’s journey, making it an unforgettable treat for audiences of all ages.
Everything Has Changed
Everything Has Changed is a heartwarming and humorous family show exploring friendship, growing up, and how life changes. With creative storytelling and captivating performances, this theatre production engages both children and parents, offering a thoughtful look at how we adapt to new experiences. A delightful, relatable experience for all ages!
Hadestown
Hadestown is a mesmerizing, Tony Award-winning musical that reimagines the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. With its haunting melodies, rich storytelling, and captivating performances, this enchanting show offers a powerful message of love and resilience, making it a thrilling experience for older children and parents alike.
Hamilton
Hamilton is a groundbreaking musical that tells the story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton through a vibrant mix of hip-hop, jazz, and R&B. With its powerful performances and innovative storytelling, it’s an exciting and educational experience, perfect for older children and parents seeking an unforgettable theatre outing.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a spellbinding theatrical continuation of J.K. Rowling’s beloved wizarding world. Filled with stunning magic effects, breathtaking performances, and a captivating story, it follows Harry and his son on a new adventure. Perfect for families, this unforgettable show enchants audiences of all ages.
Jamie Allan’s Amaze
Les Misérables
Luna Loves Library Day
Mamma Mia!
Mamma Mia! is a feel-good musical packed with ABBA’s greatest hits, telling the joyful story of love, friendship, and family on a Greek island. Bursting with energy, fun, and heartwarming moments, it’s the perfect show for families to enjoy together, leaving everyone singing and dancing in their seats!
Matilda The Musical
Matilda The Musical is a captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved story about a clever girl with extraordinary powers. With catchy songs and dazzling choreography, it celebrates the importance of bravery, friendship, and the love of reading. This enchanting production is perfect for families, inspiring children to embrace their uniqueness.
Mean Girls
Mean Girls brings the hit movie to life in a hilarious musical about high school cliques and the struggles of fitting in. With sharp humor and catchy songs, it explores themes of friendship and self-acceptance. Perfect for teens and their families, this entertaining show is both relatable and fun!
MJ The Musical
MJ The Musical offers an electrifying journey through the life of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Featuring his iconic hits and stunning choreography, it celebrates his artistry and legacy. Families will enjoy this high-energy production that showcases Jackson’s incredible talent and the magic of live performance.
The Mousetrap
The Mousetrap is a classic murder mystery that has captivated audiences for over 70 years. Set in a remote guesthouse, guests become suspects in a chilling tale of suspense. This engaging whodunit is perfect for older children and families, offering an intriguing night of entertainment filled with twists and turns.
Mrs. Doubtfire
Mrs. Doubtfire is a heartwarming musical adaptation of the beloved film, featuring a loving father who disguises himself as a nanny to spend time with his children. With hilarious antics and touching moments, it explores themes of family and love. A delightful show for families, it promises laughter and joy!
The Play That Goes Wrong
The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious farce that follows a disastrous theatre production filled with unexpected mishaps. This laugh-out-loud comedy entertains audiences with its slapstick humor and clever twists. Perfect for families seeking a fun night out, this show guarantees a rollicking good time for all!
The Phantom Of The Opera
The Phantom Of The Opera is a hauntingly beautiful musical that tells the story of a mysterious figure who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. With stunning music and elaborate staging, it captivates audiences of all ages. This iconic production explores themes of love, obsession, and redemption, making it unforgettable.
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical is a unique, interactive experience where audience suggestions shape the story and songs on stage. This clever and hilarious production showcases the incredible talents of its performers, creating a fresh musical each night. Perfect for families seeking laughter and creativity, it guarantees a night full of surprises!
Six
Six is a dynamic musical that tells the story of the six wives of Henry VIII through a modern pop concert format. With catchy songs and empowering themes, it’s a fun and educational experience for older children and families. This fresh take on history makes it an engaging night out!
The Storm Whale
The Storm Whale is a charming adaptation of the heartwarming children’s book about a young boy who befriends a stranded whale. With beautiful visuals and gentle storytelling, this touching tale explores themes of friendship and compassion. Perfect for families, it’s an enchanting experience that resonates with young audiences and their parents
Starlight Express
Starlight Express is an exciting musical that combines roller-skating with a vibrant story about trains racing to discover their potential. Bursting with catchy songs and colorful characters, this energetic show captivates young audiences. Perfect for families seeking a unique theatrical experience, it’s a thrilling ride filled with fun and adventure!
Wicked
Wicked is a magical retelling of the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz. With stunning visuals, powerful performances, and memorable songs, it explores friendship, acceptance, and the nature of good and evil. A must-see for families, this enchanting musical captivates audiences of all ages!
The shows above are available on varying dates between 19 October – 3 November 2024 to accommodate differing half term holiday dates across the UK.
Age recommendations and restrictions will vary.
You may also like
By Penny McCarthy
Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.
Archives
- April 2025
- March 2025
- February 2025
- January 2025
- December 2024
- November 2024
- October 2024
- September 2024
- August 2024
- July 2024
- June 2024
- May 2024
- April 2024
- March 2024
- February 2024
- January 2024
- December 2023
- November 2023
- October 2023
- September 2023
- August 2023
- July 2023
- June 2023
- April 2023
- March 2023
- February 2023
- January 2023
- December 2022
- November 2022
- October 2022
- September 2022
- August 2022
- July 2022
- May 2022
- April 2022
- March 2022
- January 2022
- December 2021
- November 2021
- October 2021
- September 2021
- August 2021
- July 2021
- June 2021
- May 2021
- April 2021
- March 2021
- February 2021
- January 2021
- December 2020
- November 2020
- October 2020
- July 2020
- June 2020
- May 2020
- April 2020
- March 2020
- February 2020
- January 2020
- December 2019
- November 2019
- October 2019
- September 2019
- August 2019
- July 2019
- May 2019
- April 2019
- February 2019
- January 2019
- December 2018
- November 2018
- October 2018
- September 2018
- August 2018
- July 2018
- June 2018
- May 2018
- April 2018
- March 2018
- February 2018
- January 2018
- December 2017
- November 2017
- October 2017
- September 2017
- August 2017
- July 2017
- June 2017
- May 2017
- April 2017
- March 2017
- February 2017
- January 2017
- December 2016
- November 2016
- October 2016
- September 2016
- August 2016
- July 2016
- June 2016
- May 2016
- April 2016
- March 2016
- February 2016
- January 2016
- December 2015
- November 2015
- October 2015
- September 2015
- August 2015
- July 2015
- June 2015
- May 2015
- March 2015
- February 2015
- January 2015
- December 2014
- November 2014
- October 2014
- September 2014
- August 2014
- July 2014
- June 2014
- May 2014
- April 2014
- March 2014
- February 2014
- January 2014
- December 2013
- November 2013
- October 2013
- September 2013
- August 2013
- July 2013
- June 2013
- May 2013
- April 2013
- March 2013
- February 2013
- January 2013
- December 2012
- November 2012
- October 2012
- September 2012
- August 2012
- July 2012
- January 2011
Categories
- About Parents News
- Afternoon Tea
- babies
- Bank Holidays
- Best buys
- Christmas
- Days out guides
- Easter School Holidays
- Education & Books
- Featured
- Food
- Free
- Halloween
- Health & Fitness
- Holidays
- London
- Midlands
- National News
- North East England
- North West England
- Northern Ireland
- School holidays
- Scotland
- South East England
- South West England
- Theatre
- Things to do
- toddlers
- Travel Blog
- Wales