Christmas shows for little-uns?

[nunheadmum]

Sorry to mention the C-word so soon but started thinking that it'd be nice to take the kids - or at least the eldest - to some theatre or the like over Christmas. She's started ballet classes so was thinking something like the Nutcracker but not sure if that'll still be stretching her a bit at 4.75yrs - and probably would be too much if 2.5yr old went too. I saw The Snowman was on too - which sounds perhaps better in terms of length and age. Then I saw the cost of tickets!!!

Has anyone taken such young ones to these kinds of shows? My eldest went to Mrs Wobble last year with nursery and coped so I think she has some staying power (no comment meant on the show, just sitting in a seat for x time). But I'd probably prefer something more classic than panto. Or at this age do I have to totally forego my preferences and go with what the kids need?

With ticket prices so high, I want to make the right decision. Or can anyone recommend good sites for theatre discount codes etc?

[candj]

We went to see the Snowman last Christmas with our children (then 5 and 2 1/2) and it was perfectly fine for the younger one. In fact, she sat very still on my husband's lap the entire time so she could see better. They knew the story which I think helps a bit. Also the audience is full of young children talking and eating through it so quite noisy. It was worth it and I think they had a great time. I can't remember the theatre, but think it was Sadlers Wells.

I too want to try to book The Nutcracker this year as both take ballet and know the music so can let you know what I come up with.

[espelli]

The Polka Theatre usually has something fantastic on for Christmas. Not ED or central London but well worth the trip.

[womanofdulwich]

barbican too.

[hpsaucey]

Second the Snowman. Got the cheapest tickets last year- around a tenner I think and the view was brilliant. In fact as we were on the back row it didn't really matter if the smallest ones were wriggly. Thought it was great.

Unicorn Theatre always good.

Cheers,

Helen

[Bellenden Belle]

As mentioned by Espelli, Polka Theatre in Wimbledon is a theatre - two theatres in fact - designed specifically for children.

The Adventure Theatre is for the under 5s and is a small intimate space, which offers a really memorable first experience of theatre. The Christmas show is Oliver Jeffers Lost and Found. Upstairs in the main house is an adaptation of The Snow Queen.

It's a lovely venue too - with a dressing up box, children's book corner, playground, garden and home to the the teddy bear museum, all creating a child friendly environment which offers an experience very different to other adult theatres.

I confess to working there but my enthusiasm and love for the place is genuine.

[MrsP]

Greenwich theatre have got Cinderella on at xmas and new year.

[plimsoul]

hey belle, lucky you working there, what a great place. i've just had a look on the site, my boys are 5 do you think that they'll be too old for lost and found, it's an old favourite you see!

[Bellenden Belle]

Hi Plimsoul, I think they would be fine.

We have two different versions - one for 1-2 year olds and one for 3-5 year olds, so the play is very specifically targeted at particular age groups. And even I have been enchanted by some of the Adventure Theatre shows at the ripe old age of thirty-something!

There are only 70 spaces in the Adventure theatre which does mean it sells incredibly quickly - a number of performances are already sold out. Just to warn you!

[EmilyE]

ENB at the Coliseum, St Martins Lane do family performances of the Nutcracker where you can take children for free. 2 children with each paying adult. There are only 1 or 2 and they do sell out very quickly. Think you have to call the box office for details.