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Stage Musicals for Kids
Your first musical is something you always remember, so the choice of your child’s first performance can often feel overwhelming – Bach to Baby is here to help!
We've complied a list of our favourite child-friendly London musicals, along with an age recommendation and our top song picks to make your choice easier. Whether you’re looking for catchy tunes or amazing sets there’s something for everyone; if we could we would see all of them!
Please be careful when checking tickets however - you’re free to use your discretion about what’s suitable as there are no legal age classifications in theatre shows like there are in film, but some venues do have strict rules about the age at which children are allowed in the auditorium. Most theatres restrict performances to over 5 or 6, even when accompanied by an adult – so be sure to ring the box office before you book tickets for everyone in the family!
All of the songs mentioned are in our special Spotify playlist. Check it out!
Listen to our Spotify playlist:
Stage Musicals for Kids - Bach to Baby's Favourites!
Our top musicals for kids are:
1. The Lion King
If you've seen either of the films of the Lion King then you are in for a treat. The puppets and theatre skills on show are mesmerising - the darkly comic hyenas are special!
Young Simba 'just can't wait to be king'. But when his father is killed by his uncle and he is banished to the badlands, he gives up his rightful position at the top of the food chain. It takes his child (cub) hood girlfriend to bring him back to his senses.
An absolute must for the whole family.
2. Aladdin
If you’re after a musical that can make you laugh as well as stun visually, Aladdin is the choice for you!
The Genie is a real show-stealer, and his song is enough to get any young tot dancing, but the sets and costumes are what really make this show so spectacular. The magic carpet is a particular highlight, and the cave of wonders is simply amazing – you don’t have to be a child be to dazzled by the magic of this production.
Exploring Aladdin’s world with your child is a memory they’ll never forget.
3. Matilda the Musical
Fans of Roald Dahl will be delighted with this recent adaptation of Matilda! Filled to the brim with a brilliant cast of talented children, it’s bursting with joy and dance numbers.
Having won awards both here and across the pond, the story of Matilda and Miss Honey is a celebration of the families we have and the families we find along the way.
The brightly coloured set and giant swings are enough to entrance younger tots, while older ones will love the engaging story – there’s something for everyone!
4. Wicked
Wicked may have been running for quite a while, but interest in it shows no signs of slowing down.
The heavier themes and slight sense of threat mean it’s a show more suitable for slightly older children, but the amazing sets and dazzling costumes create a fantasy world both they and adults can enjoy.
Even if you don’t know the story, you’ll definitely know the songs. Both Elphaba and Glinda have solos you’ll recognise, and their story of love, trust and friendship is a spectacle for all ages.
5. Mary Poppins
Returning to the West End in October, who doesn’t love Mary Poppins? This childhood classic brings all the best songs from the 1964 film to the stage, where the magic and mystery of Mary Poppins herself is only intensified.
Tightly choreographed dance routines and the amazing costumes you would expect from Disney make this a true spectacle, and one that’s suitable for the whole family. Smaller tots will love the special effects, while older ones will be entertained by the boisterous chimney sweeps and brooding bankers – adults can sit back and enjoy the songs they remember from their own childhood.
Does anyone want to go fly a kite?
6. School of Rock
This adaptation of the 2003 film has received rave reviews ever since it opened in London. It’s obvious all the children on stage are having the time of their lives, and the energy is infectious – be prepared for guitars, drum kits and keyboards to start appearing on Christmas lists.
There’s no need to have seen the film to enjoy the show however, so don’t let that prevent a visit. The talent of everyone involved is obvious, and even adults might be inspired to get a groove on to the music.
The Front of House team are especially helpful here if you have any accessibility needs.
7. Frozen
Opening in London in 2020, Frozen the Musical might be the most highly anticipated West End show in years. What could be better than the magic of Anna and Elsa's friendship brought to life on stage, and we can't wait to see Olaf!
With all of the snow, spectacle and magical mayhem of the film, we expect the musical production will amaze well-seasoned Frozen fans and new watchers alike.
This is sure to be the show everyone's talking about, so make sure to get tickets as soon as you can - it's likely to sell out very quickly.