Whether you're visiting London over the festive season, looking to book tickets as a Christmas gift, or planning ahead for birthdays, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day or Father's Day in 2025, here are some of our top theatre picks to suit all ages...
BEST FOR UNDER 5s
Room on the Broom
Iggety, Ziggety, Zaggety, ZOOM! Tall Stories' fun-filled Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Alex Scheffler's best-selling picture book, Room on the Broom, promises to add a sprinkling of magic to your little ones Christmas. Join witch and her cat as they fly through the skies, stopping off to pick up an array of creatures along the way, before - CRACK - the broom snaps in two, just before a hungry dragon appears. It's a small cast, but somehow with the excellent use of puppetry, voice acting, and high-energy performances, the cast feels bigger. The set is simple but evocative. It's an hour long show with no interval, but it's pretty relaxed so you don't need to worry about your little one getting a bit restless. Room on the Broom is a wonderful treat for kiddos, and a great family day out. Grab their booster seat from the side of the stage, and add to the occasion by encouraging them to don a witch's hat or cape that might be lying around your house from Halloween.
Where: The Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue
When: Now until Sunday 5 Jan 2025. Bookhere
BEST FOR OLDER KIDS
Back to the Future: The Musical
This critically acclaimed, Olivier, WhatsOnStage, and Broadway World Award winning musical based on the hit 1984 film, is into its fourth year. Marty McFly is a rock 'n' roll teenager who is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-travelling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr Emmett Brown. But before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. Adults will love the 80s nostalgia, and kids aged 8+ will love the wackiness and superb special effects. Great Scott! this is one not to be missed.
Where: Adelphi Theatre
When: Currently booking until 27 July 2025. Book here
BEST FOR MUM
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical
You know an audience is fully invested when you hear an impromptu whoop from a lady sat a few rows in front of you - this was a moment in the show when Tina physically stands up to her abusive husband Ike. Everyone is familiar with Tina Turner's big hits - she's one of the best-selling artists of all times, winning 12 Grammy Awards and selling more concert tickets than any other solo performer in music history. But fewer will be aware of her story of adversity in many areas of life from childhood right through to her later years. This musical, featuring her much-loved songs, is written by Olivier Award-winning playwright Katori Hall, and directed by internationally acclaimed Payllida Lloyd. It's a celebration of a fierce and determined talent, and the show takes you seamlessly on a journey from one decade to the next. But you don't even have to be a fan of Tina's music to enjoy this show, as the human story behind the success drives the strong narrative. This is an inspiring celebration of triumph over adversity. The acting, singing and dancing talent on stage is enough to make you feel like you've stepped back in time and are experiencing a Tina concert first-hand when the show reaches its climax with everyone encouraged to get to their feet and sing-along. Take your mum or mother-in-law, or join a group of friends for a night out that's Simply the Best.
Where: Aldwych Theatre
When: Currently booking until 25 October 2025. Book here
BEST FOR DAD
Jeff Wayne's The War of The World's: The Immersive Experience
This multi-million-pound attraction in the heart of London has been running for five years and is still proving hugely popular. It’s an immersive experience that brings to life the 1978 multi-platinum album Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version ofThe War of the Worlds, inspired by H.G. Wells’ 1897 sci-fi novel. Composer Jeff Wayne re-produced his iconic score and created new sound effects exclusively for The Immersive Experience, which uses live actors, movie-quality sets, VR, digital tech and multi-sensory effects to create an experience that has received thousands of five-star reviews online. Visitors travel back to 1898 and must escape a Martian-occupied Victorian England in an action-packed journey through the classic tale of The War of the Worlds. We visited and thought it was lovely how many adults were there enjoying the experience with their parents. One dad was singing along and having the time of his life. If your dad's a fan of the novel or the Jeff Wayne album, tickets to this event will be the perfect birthday or Father's Day surprise.
Where: Jeff Wayne's The War of The World's: The Immersive Experience, Leadenhall Street
When: Currently booking until 30 September 2025. Book here
BEST FOR DATE NIGHT
Musicals by Candlelight
Dress in the light of more than 1,000 candles, The Actors' Church makes for a romantic setting. A dazzling string quartet bring to life the sounds of hit from Les Misérables, Wicked, Mamma Mia!, West Side Story and more. Join award-winning Icon Strings, a group of award-winning musicians renowned both internationally and within the illustrious halls of London's Royal Opera House and Royal Albert Hall, as they take you on a journey through the world of musical theatre.
Where: The Actors' Church, Covent Garden
When: Booking until 16 May 2025. Book here
BEST FOR A NIGHT OUT WITH FRIENDS
Mamma Mia! The Party
This all-singing, all-dancing, dining experience makes for the perfect girls night out. Feel transported to the island of Skopelos for the time of your life. You and your friends will take a seat at Nikos' family-run taverna where you'll enjoy a four-course Greek meal, while a romantic and funny story is performed all around you. Then get ready to dance the night away at a glittering ABBA disco. The beautiful immersive setting even included a water fountain in the centre! Corrie regular Ian Kelsey joins the cast from 5 February in the role of Taverna owner Nikos. My, my, how can you resist this fun-filled night out?
Where: The O2
When: Currently booking until 15 June 2025. Book here