2025 Update – This review was originally written following our visit to The Nutcracker at Polka Theatre in 2024 . Little Bulb’s whacky reinvention of The Nutcracker returns to London this Festive season with a run at St Martin’s Theatre in the heart of the West End 10th Dec – 4th Jan 2026. Our Nutcracker Family Theatre Show Review London has been updated to reflect the current run, venue and booking information
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Another Nutcracker? Whilst the beloved Christmas tradition has become slightly ubiquitous on the London stage, the Polka Theatre’s latest adaptation offers a fresh and unexpected take on this classic tale. More panto than pirouettes, ballet fans may be disappointed – but not for long. This innovative production byLittle Bulb, blending drama and silliness will be sure to awaken your festive spirit. We took our seats in the warm and inviting bistro lit main theatre for what transpired to be a 60 minute theatrical feast. Here is our Nutcracker Family Theatre Show review London.
If you love a Christmas Sing-a long you are in the right place. The show both starts and ends with a medley of all the classics played out by a quintet of mice musicians. It’s a cute start – a little bit Alvin and the Chipmunks – and immediately set the tone for this warm hearted show. It’s not until later that we understand the relevance of these characters as a we are swiftly carried into the more familiar story of Clara and Fitz. Although let’s face it the similarities with the original story end there.
What is the Nutcracker family show about?
This Nutcracker takes place in the leafy suburbs of Wimbledon where Clara’s ‘struggling’ dad has bought a dilapidated house following the death of their mother.
Following an unexpected visit from their eccentric Austrian Aunt bearing gifts, (a magic Nutcracker and some fancy cheese) the children are plunged into a magical world of over dramatised chaos, where Christmas is at risk and love must overcome hate. Sound cheesy? You bet it is! Full of Cheese.. Claras main job is saving a slab of her fathers smelly albeit nostalgic cheese gift from the vengeful Mouse King seeking retribution on humans for the trapping and killing of his four siblings.
What can we expect from The Nutcracker Show?
The cast are magnificent, each lovable and relatable in their own ways. Clare Beresford deserves special mention for her jaded heartbroken mouse king. With all the cockney charm of Stacey Dolittle and a cackle to out shrill Barbara Windsor, she commands the stage and audience who lovingly boo her in return. Fitz (Dominic Conway) also presents a wonderful portrayal of awkward geeky boyhood alongside his more pragmatic sister (Lakeisha Lynch-Stevens). In addition Caroline Partridge does wonders to complete the family circle with her matriarchal Aunty Drosselmeyer and the voice of experience in her Elder Mouse.
Family remains at the heart of this story with resounding lessons on sibling love, loss and forgiveness and what truly makes a home a home.
It’s fantastically far fetched, gloriously overacted and one of the most universally funny shows you will ever see. I have never seen an audience that was so literally bobbing up and down in their seats with excitement.
What age is The Nutcracker for?
With no reliance on innuendo to bring in the adults (ideal if you’re not a fan of panto) this show will appeal to the entire family (I would suggest this is also a great choice for the grandparents too).
Although it has been pitched at ages 5-12 I do think you could get away with bringing younger siblings as the show is wonderfully colourful and fast paced. Do bear in mind that the show lasts a lengthy 1.5 hrs without an interval! Toddler appropriate Theatre Shows here
Without revealing any more of the plot I will just say that the action culminated in a giant poo being sliced in half by Claras magical sword. Need I say more?
Useful Information For Parents:
- Book Early – this show is selling out quickly
- Age Recommendation: 5-11 years
- Show duration: 1.5hrs (NO interval!)
- Babes in arms under 12months do not need a ticket
- Booster seats are available
- Buggies must be collapsed and left in Cloakroom
Check Out this must see production of The Nutcracker at St Martins Theatre, Covent Garden between 10th Dec – 4th Jan 2026.
Read Next : Your Ultimate Guide to Festive Family Theatre 2025
