17 best kids’ theatre shows in London to book now

London has a new tourist attraction: Paddington Bear has been brought to life in a funny, feel-good, family-friendly musical that looks set to run and run. Based on Michael Bond’s beloved books and the award-winning Studiocanal films, Jessica Swale’s script follows Paddington’s wide-eyed arrival in London, his comic mishaps with the adoptive Brown family, and pursuit by dastardly taxidermist Millicent Clyde. Luke Sheppard’s production is stylishly set within a monumental evocation of Mr Gruber’s curiosity shop. With songs by Tom Fletcher (McFly), highlights include a glorious, hallucinogenic knees-up in praise of marmalade and Bonnie Langford’s show-stopping Mrs Bird. Pure novelty value.

Savoy Theatre, London, until Feb 2027

Age recommendation: 6+

Tickets: paddingtonthemusical.com

Who Let the Gods Out?

Join Elliot on his quest to save the world with a team of epic Greek Gods in this new stage musical by Luke Bateman based on Maz Evans’ bestselling book. Featuring a posh neighbour trying to steal his home, an evil death daemon, and a family of Greek Gods with tricks up their togas,

Polka Theatre, London, Feb 7 – Mar 22, 2026

Age recommendation: 8-13

Running time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Tickets: polkatheatre.com

The Boy at the Back of the Class