If you’re looking for a great family day out this autumn, the theatre is a fantastic option. Offering an opportunity to see the latest stage talent, spark your kids’ imagination and enjoy quality time together, live shows are always fun, especially if you’re celebrating a birthday or special occasion. There are always plenty of family shows playing in London - here are some of our top picks to enjoy this season.
Get your skates on and head to the new, reimagined production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express. Enter a specially-designed auditorium at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre and immerse yourselves in a world of speed, song and storytelling. When a child’s train set comes to life, the engines compete for the title of fastest train in the world. Rusty the steam engine has little hope of victory until he is inspired by the legend of the Starlight Express. This show is great for the whole family, and a perfect introduction to theatre for younger children.
Premiering at the Empress Museum in Earl’s Court, Come Alive! Is a circus event like no other. Inspired by The Greatest Showman, it takes place in a 700-seat big top and tells a brand-new story while retaining some of the movie’s hit songs. You’ll see juggling, acrobatics, contortion, aerial arts and dancing from some of the world’s top performers, as well as the finest musical talent from the West End. The show is aimed at audiences of six years and up, and is sure to inspire children with its stunning acts.
If you’re looking for ‘family days out near me’ with a bit of a twist, don’t miss the Terrible Thames river tour. After a successful summer run it’s back during October, delivering all the most grisly tales to those who prefer their history with the nasty bits left in. The 45-minute boat ride takes in some of London’s most celebrated sights, from Westminster and the Globe Theatre to London Bridge and Execution Dock, and you’ll learn about kings, queens, pirates and villains along the way. Terrible Thames is ideal for families with primary-aged kids.
Families who are fans of the Sherlock Holmes stories and/or Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol will enjoy this mash-up of the two iconic tales. Playing at the Marylebone Theatre from 29 November, it takes place three Christmases after the Reichenbach Falls. Holmes meets a not-so-Tiny Tim Crachit, who wants him to investigate the mysterious demise of his benefactor, Ebenezer Scrooge. Holmes must crack the case while overcoming his own ghosts. This is a great late-autumn option for families with older children who are looking to get into the Christmas spirit early.
If you’re looking for family fun days in London this autumn, don’t miss out on these amazing shows. There’s something to suit every age and taste, so book your tickets today with KX Tickets.