Whether you’ve been off for a week already or the kids danced into school this morning with that enviable ‘last day of term’ excitement, coming up with ideas to fill a potentially wet Easter break is a tough challenge. To help ease some of the pressure (and leave you more time to eat leftover chocolate eggs while the kids aren’t looking), we’ve done some of the hard work and chosen our pick of the best children’s theatre on offer across our regions.
Here’s our top 10 (in no particular order):
The Birdman plus Monkey Business
Where? Puppet Theatre Barge, Little Venice, London
When? March 30 – May 13
Who? 3+
Why? Everybody loves a good puppet show! Offering two different performances, The Birdman and Monkey Business promise both tranquil enchantment and light-hearted family fun. There are also relaxed and captioned performances available.
Reviews Hub Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
See our review of a previous Puppet Barge production here.
Tickets and info
George’s Marvellous Medicine
Where? Rose Theatre Kingston
When? March 29 – April 7
Who? 5+
Why? With rave reviews across the tour, George’s Marvellous Medicine offers a thrilling tale of magic, meddling and mayhem for your older children who are looking for something a bit more grown up. Expect mischief, pyrotechnics and phizz-whizzing bangs!
Reviews Hub Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
See our review here.
Tickets and info
Dear Zoo Live
Where? The Lighthouse, Poole
When? April 10 -11
Who? 2+
Why? Based on the classic children’s book, Dear Zoo brings a nation’s favourite lift-the-flap story to life. Puppetry and pop-ups combined with music and dance promise to engage both young and old.
Reviews Hub Rating: Not yet reviewed – be sure to tell us what you think!
Tickets and info
Almost Always Muddy
Where? Wales Millenium Centre, Cardiff
When? April 1-8
Who? 7+
Why? An interactive family event where the audience builds their own story. You provide the setting and then watch it come to life before your eyes as the performers weave your creations into a show. Relaxed performances available.
NB: Although this is an outside event it will be moved inside if the wet weather stops play.
Reviews Hub Rating: Not yet reviewed – be sure to tell us what you think!
Tickets and info
The Twisted Tale of Hansel and Gretel
Where? The Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome then Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
When? April 4-8 then 11-12
Who? 5+
Why? Birmingham Hippodrome’s first ever home-produced show showcasing the talents of local learning-disabled actors from company BecauseWeCanCanCan. Billed as a unique twist to a classic tale. Live music, physical theatre and a mischievous mockingbird. Expect the unexpected.
Reviews Hub Rating: look out for our review next week
Tickets and info
Easter Bunny’s Eggs Factor
Where? Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
When? April 13-14
Who? 2-7
Why? You get to meet the Easter Bunny! Do you have the Eggs Factor? Find out with this sing-along family show as you help the characters decide which song they should enter. Billed as an introduction to live theatre and including a meet-and-greet with the Big Bunny himself after the show. Chocolate treats for all child ticket holders included.
Reviews Hub Rating: Not yet reviewed
Tickets and info
Teletubbies Live
Where? Preston Guildhall
When? April 11-12
Who? 6 months+
Why? A television favourite brought to life on-stage with music, dancing, laughter and audience interaction. What more could you ask for to keep the little ones entertained?
“A bright, energetic, engaging show, full of music, hugs, fun and audience participation”.
Reviews Hub Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read our review here.
Tickets and info
Comedy Club 4 Kids
Where? The Lowry, Salford
When? April 8
Who? 6+ (no under 2s)
Why? Just like an ordinary comedy club, but for kids (and without the rude bits). Responsible (stretch your imagination…this is a comedy show) older children and their adults alike are set to enjoy this stand-up show aimed at a child’s mind. Heckling welcome!
“Brilliantly Bonkers”
Reviews Hub Rating: ⭐⭐⭐1/2
Read our review here.
Tickets and info
Puppet Animation Festival
Where? Venues across Scotland
When? Various – see website for details
Who? 0-12
Why? Whether you’re Highlands, Islands, Borders or Central-Belt, the Puppet Animation Festival promises to have something for you. From workshops to performances, it’s a whole performing arts event aimed at children. Be sure to check out what is running near you.
Reviews Hub Rating: Not yet reviewed – be sure to tell us what you think.
Tickets and info
Red Riding Hood and the Wolf
Where? Cambridge Junction (and touring)
When? April 11-12
Who? 7+
Why? Becoming frustrated with the story of Red Riding Hood, Robyn decides to create her own story with puppets created from the objects she finds around her bedroom. A twist on a classic tale, this promises a creative and imaginative journey where Red Riding Hood has never gone before.
Pre-show craft activities available.
Reviews Hub Rating: ⭐⭐⭐1/2
Read our review here.
Tickets and info
Nicole Craft
