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Sophie Thomas
(Updated on Aug 19, 2025)
With dozens of West End shows across London’s theatreland, it can be difficult to decide which West End show to see. Thankfully, there are plenty of family-friendly musicals and plays in London that your little ones will enjoy. It might be because there are child actors in the show that they can look up to, like Oliver!, Les Miserables, or The Lion King. Or perhaps they’re already familiar with the story, like Matilda or Back to the Future. They may even be treading the boards themselves and starring in one of the best shows for school productions. And did you know that introducing children to the best theatre for kids in London may even boost their academic performance? Theatre is a powerful educational tool.
So take a look at what’s on in London and check out some of the best London shows - you won’t be disappointed.
Consider yourself at home with Oliver! at the West End. Based on Charles Dickens’s classic novel Oliver Twist, Lionel Bart’s musical has delighted families for decades. Follow young orphan Oliver as he navigates the bustling streets of London, meeting a cast of colourful characters from the cheeky Artful Dodger to the menacing Bill Sikes. Songs like “Food, Glorious Food” and “Where is Love?” are guaranteed to stick in little ears long after the curtain falls.
With plenty of child actors on stage, Oliver! is a perfect introduction for younger theatre fans who may even be inspired to perform themselves. While there are darker moments in Oliver’s journey, the show’s heartwarming message and big ensemble numbers make it an uplifting choice for a family theatre trip.
Great Scott! Families can take a ride through time with Back to the Future the Musical at the Adelphi Theatre. Based on the beloved 1985 film, the show follows teenager Marty McFly and eccentric inventor Doc Brown as they fire up the DeLorean and head back to 1955. Featuring dazzling effects, flying cars, and the unforgettable “Power of Love,” this high-energy musical brings the film to life in a thrilling new way.
It’s packed with plenty of nostalgia for parents who grew up with the movies, while younger audiences will be wowed by the on-stage spectacle. Just be prepared for some fast-paced action and big sound effects, though nothing too scary for older kids. For a show that’s both a blast from the past and a leap into the future, this one’s a winner.
All aboard for Starlight Express, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s roller-skating rock musical! This imaginative show tells the story of toy trains who come to life and race to be crowned the fastest engine in the world. With the entire cast performing on roller skates, children will be amazed as characters zoom, spin, and race around the theatre in a dazzling spectacle of light and speed.
The story is simple enough for younger audiences to follow, good versus bad, fast versus slow, and the catchy songs will have everyone clapping along. It’s a unique, high-energy show unlike anything else in London, making Starlight Express a magical choice for families looking for theatre that feels like pure playtime fun.
There are no revolting children in Matilda The Musical, just a Matilda song! Roald Dahl’s David and Goliath-inspired story of one little girl who dares to defy the odds and change her life continues to wow audiences at the Cambridge Theatre.
The Matilda musical story follows a similar premise to the Roald Dahl book and the original Matilda film. When Matilda Wormwood starts at Crunchem Hall, she’s bullied by evil headmistress Miss Trunchbull, and never supported at home by her parents. But as Matilda finds solace in her teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda uses her imaginative, inquisitive mind to conjure up stories that can become a reality. Tim Minchin neatly adapts the Matilda story into a whimsical West End show, and it even made Olivier Awards history. Filled with heartwarming moments that children will love (can we ride on the swings?) there are a few humorous moments in there for adults too.