Find the right show for your younger children with The Daily Mumtra’s round up of the Best London shows for Toddlers (2024), a comprehensive guide to all children’s shows guaranteed to delight audiences 3+ (and often younger). Shows are listed in chronological order.
Dogs don’t do Ballet
Based on the book by Anna Kemp and Sara Ogilvie, Little Angel’s latest production is a charming tale of a dog who thinks he is a ballerina. Brought to life with the help of world class puppetry, well- loved ballet music and captivating theatrical comedy – Little Angel Theatre offer the perfect choice for families with preschoolers and young children on Half Term.
- Aimed at Ages – 3-8 Yrs
- Duration- 45 mins
- Buggy Parking – Yes
Soft or Spikey?
Explore all the possibilities in this playful discovery of shape, textures and sounds thoughtfully designed for parents and their small babies. There will be an opportunity to enter the sensory landscape post show in a short stay and play session.
- Aimed at Ages: 6-18 months
- Buggy Parking: Yes
- Duration: 45 mins
The Tiger Who Came to tea
Nominated for a number of Olivier awards, this smash hit show based on the much loved Judith Kerr picture book is full of surprises. An all singing, all dancing whole family favourite set to delight London’s West End audiences this summer. Back by popular demand, after its successful 2023 Summer holiday Season at The Theatre Royal Haymarket.
- Aimed at Ages – 3+
- Running time – 55 mins
Eyecatchers
Dates: 26-27th October
Snuggle up on sheepskins and be spellbound by this inquisitive discovery of sound, touch and movement crafted for children aged 1+. Brought to you by the Netherlands’ de Stilte dance company, with a cast comprising of two dancers and a musician, this show is followed by interactive playtime in the performance space itself.
- Aimed at Ages – 1+
- Running Time – 40 mins (plus additional play time)
The Gruffalo
Presented by Tall Stories, children will love journeying through the deep dark wood with little mouse dodging unwanted attention from the owl, fox and snake and outwitting the mighty Gruffalo. A wonderful chance to introduce your child to the epic tales of Julia Donaldson.
- Suitable for ages: 3-8 yrs
- Running time: 55 mins
Anansi and the Lost Lion
Dates: 16th -24th November
An uplifting story straight from the African plains. Feel the warm glow of the African Sun and embark on an adventure with Anansi and friends in the cosy one-of-a -kind Puppet Theatre Barge which will be parked up in Little Venice this Autumn.
- Aimed at Ages 3+
- Running Time – 50 mins
The Elmer Adventure
This Autumn treat the kids to an unforgettable journey into the colourful world of Elmer the Patchwork Elephant! Presented by Children’s Theatre Company Tall Stories to celebrate Elmer’s 35th anniversary, ‘The Elmer Adventure’ is a magical show filled with songs, storytelling, and puppetry that will enchant audiences of all ages. The show explores themes of acceptance and friendship and the importance of celebrating what makes each of us unique. Don’t miss this enchanting performance, part of the Southbank’s London Literature Festival.
- Aimed at Ages – 3+
- Running Time – TBC
The Pea and the Princess
Dates: 15th Feb – 30th March 2025
A fast paced and high energy retelling of the PEA and the Princess, expect high kicks, catchy songs and an unexpected twist in the tale. A great choice for toddlers and their slightly older siblings too.
- Aimed at ages – 3-7yrs
- Buggy Parking – Yes
- Duration – 55 mins
Little Night
Dates: 29th March – 19th April
Imaginart, the renowned Spanish company, is back at the Unicorn with a new sensory spectacle. Following the success of Sensacional, they present an immersive show that captivates children’s imaginations with mesmerizing projections and soundscapes.
- Aimed at Ages – 18months – 4yrs
- Running Time – 30 mins
A note about Kids Week
London may be home to some of the best theatre but when it comes to buying theatre tickets for a family of 3+, its affordability is questionable. Every year for the month of August the Society of London Theatre run an incentive to make theatre accessible for families and younger audiences. During this month children aged 17 or under qualify for a free ticket when accompanied by a full paying adult. In addition up to two extra children’s tickets can be purchased at half price.
If you have your sights set on one of the high ticket west end musicals, such as Disney’s The Lion King Musical at the Lyceum Theatre or Frozen the musical at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, this would be a great time to catch a memorable live performance without breaking the bank. More info here.
Christmas Theatre Shows for Toddlers 2024
Huddle
Following a sell out run in 2018, this heartwarming tale of a daddy penguin learning to care for his son has returned to the Unicorn Theatre this festive period. A highly visual, playful and innovative show using projections and sound to draw in its young audience. Huddle up for some wholesome family theatre.
- Aimed at Ages – 2-5yrs
- Running Time – 50 mins
The Snowy Day
Dates: 6th Dec – 2nd Feb
Nothing screams Christmas mode more than snuggling up with your wide eyed toddler in the adventure theatre at the Polka. The Christmas headliners at Polka never dissappoint! Based on the book by Ezra Jack Keats, and set in the frosty streets of New York, The snowy day is an immersive treat for all the family.
- Aimed at Ages – 1-4yrs
- Running Time – 40 mins
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out
Dates: 28th Nov – 5th Jan 2025
Join Peppa and her pals on a thrilling day out! From exploring the zoo to building sandcastles on the beach, this interactive show is packed with fun, songs, and games for preschoolers. Get ready to sing, dance, and splash in the mud with your favorite characters. It’s the perfect family outing for Peppa fans of all ages.
- All Ages
- Running time – 1hr 20 mins(incl interval)
The Smartest Giant in Town
Dates: 2 Dec – 5 Jan 2025
There are a few blockbuster Julia Donaldson adaptations on offer on the West End Stage this Christmas including The Gruffalo’s Child and Stick Man. However for toddlers the safest bet in my opinion would be ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’. A heart warming tale of kindness and friendship.
This enchanting production aimed at ages 2 + incorporates puppetry with big bright sets and musical numbers with audience participation that will have you tapping along in the aisles. A great choice for families of young toddlers and slightly older siblings and a wonderful introductory stage adaptation of the bestselling books of Julia Donaldson.
And for older Children (6+)?
Looking for the perfect West End show to treat your slightly older children (6+)? Check out The Daily Mumtra’s guide to The Best Kids Musicals in London 2024. Get the scoop on London’s new musical offerings Mrs Doubtfire and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Planning a family trip to the West End with Toddlers? See what else is on offer in 5 things to do with a toddler in Covent Garden.
Read next: London’s Best Julia Donaldson Theatre shows
