Showtime! The 7 best theatres in the UK for children

Kids love make-believe – and what better way to introduce them to drama than a family trip to a specialist children’s theatre? From Brighton to Glasgow, here are seven of our favourite kids’ playhouses around Britain…

By Misti Traya

So often when I play with my daughter, the first thing she says is “Let’s pretend. . . “ Playing pretend is one of her favourite games. This is true for lots of children and it is why taking them to the theatre can be such a gratifying experience. Theatre is all about make believe and children are the perfect audience. They are not only willing, but eager, to suspend their disbelief. Theatre nurtures creativity and forces you to play along. It’s the ultimate childhood game but on a stage so everyone can see.  

There are lots of brilliant theatre productions for children these days–Mathilda, School of Rock, Annie. Even better are the theatres that specialise in programs just for kids. There are quite a few in Britain and lots in London, but here (in no particular order) are seven favourites.

1) The egg – Bath

This beautiful theatre puts on shows for all age groups, from six month old infants to children 14 years and older. Topically, productions range from Shakespeare to beloved children’s books to Greek classics. Theatre schools are offered for students under 18 as well as adults. Lovely cafe too!

More info and upcoming shows here.

2) Little Angel Theatre – Islington

If your children enjoy puppet shows, this is the theatre to visit. They have been specialising in puppetry since the 1960s. Lots of their productions are based on well loved, contemporary, children’s stories like Dogs Don’t Do Ballet.

Much of their material tackles big issues, but presents them in a way appropriate and digestible for little ones. Whether your children have seen a show about suffragettes or climate change, they will walk away having learned something and had a good time. (This summer they’re even doing a show called The Bed – a topic very close to our hearts!)

More info here.

3) The Unicorn Theatre – near London Bridge

I’ll admit it. I’m biased. I love this theatre. The first time I went with my child was to see their production of The Velveteen Rabbit three years ago, I was stunned by the creativity of the set design and the talent of the actors. Even my husband welled up at the end. Free activities are always running. Check their page to see what’s on. They have lots of play sessions, book swaps, and art workshops.

More info here.

4) The Puppet Theatre Barge – Little Venice

Stepping onto this barge is literally like entering another world, one of colourful marionettes and shadows. The ship’s bell rings before the curtain goes up and the show begins. One of the founders trained at Little Angel, the other has a background in film and television. Together, they create magic.

More info here.

5) Komedia – Brighton

I have friends who swear this is their weekend saviour. Sundae Club is a program that offers three hours of family fun. First a show, then a workshop, then a bit of a boogie with a live band. Bring a picnic. Ice cream sundaes will be available. Their Comedy Club 4 Kids is a standup show for everyone age six and older.

More info here.

6) Midlands Arts Centre – Birmingham

While this isn’t exclusively a venue for children, there are lots  and lots of plays, productions and workshops for young ones, as well as Cinema Bambino film screenings.

Check out specific children and family-friendly shows here.

7) Licketyspit – Edinburgh and Glasgow

Part of the ethos at this early years theatre company is that “theatre is just collective play.” While they have a repertoire of seven shows that tour Scotland, so much of what they do is on site with young children. Their program incorporates play sessions, storyplay, and a two-part theatre project called Lickety Leap. All encourage imaginative play. If there was a school for imagination, this would be it.

Check out their website to see what fun your little ones can have.   

Children’s theatre is its own art form. It’s not meant for adults but that doesn’t mean they can’t join in the fun. Take your tinies and you might be surprised by how a short matinee can coax your own inner child to come out and play. As Fellini said, “Never lose your childish enthusiasm and things will come your way.” It’s amazing what can spring forth in a theatre!

 Misti Traya is a writer from London and mum to a 7-year old daughter.

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