Family theatre in London this summer is a fantastic choice to balance out all the outdoor activities, holidays and park trips. Isn’t it lovely to just plonk down, relax and enjoy a show with the kids, everyone emerging from the theatre buzzing from the experience and refreshed.
Here are five theatre performances that look like brilliant choices to try this summer in London plus tips for FREE live outdoor stage performances to check out!
Midsummer Mechanicals at Shakespeare’s Globe
The famous acting troupe from A Midsummer Night’s Dream take to the stage this summer in a hilarious new play for families, presented by Shakespeare’s Globe and Splendid Productions. Watch as a band of craftspeople-turned-actors, led by Nick Bottom, stage their first ever play.
When: Until 21 August 2022
Where: Sam Wanamaker Playhouse at Shakespeare’s Globe
Age guidance: 5+
Cost: £25 – £15 Seating . £5 Standing (restricted view, not suitable for audiences under 4ft tall!)
Details: website
Room on the Broom at Lyric Theatre in West End
Beloved book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler comes to life in the West End this summer.
Read details HERE
Win a family pack of tickets – CLICK HERE TO ENTER – deadline 29 July.
101 Dalmatians Musical at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
See the classic story that’s set in the heart of Regent’s Park, in Regent’s Park! This new musical adaptation, packed with brilliant puppetry. Cheer on the spotted pups as they race to escape Cruella in a gorgeous outdoor theatre setting.
When: Until 28 August 2022
Where: Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre location here
Age guidance: Suitable for family audiences with children of junior school age or over. Children under the age of 4 will not be admitted to the venue. There will be a relaxed performance of 101 Dalmatians on Sunday, 14 August at 2.15pm.
Cost: £25 – £65
Details: website
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The Pirate, the Princess and The Platypus at Polka Theatre
A brand new comic fairy-tale adventure for children and their grown-ups, about choosing your destiny, discovering your identity, and finding your friends. From the incredibly silly minds behind the Olivier-nominated global hits Potted Potter and Potted Panto.
When; Until 20 August
Where: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB
Age guidance: 5-12 years
Cost: From £10 for adults and children
Details: website
Horrible Histories Terrible Tudors at Garrick Theatre
From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Find out the fate of Henry’s headless wives and his punch up with the Pope. Meet Bloody Mary and see Ed fall dead in his bed. Survive the Spanish Armada as they launch their attack. It’s history with the nasty bits left in!
When: Until 3 September 2022
Where: Garrick Theatre, 2 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0HH.
Age guidance: 5-105
Cost: £16.50 – £30
Details: website
FREE OUTDOOR PERFORMANCES, LIVE ON STAGE THIS SUMMER ON THE SOUTHBANK
Singing, dancing and other forms of entertainment will be taking place live on riverside stages this summer in London. Check out schedules for the outdoor stages at the National Theatre and Southbank Centre and enjoy some free live shows with the family!
National Theatre outdoor stage
Details HERE
Southbank Centre outdoor stage
Details HERE
Featured image: Open Air Theatre Regent’s Park