Celebrate the start of a new decade with something to look forward to: a family show! It seems as though York’s theatres are pulling out the stops with their children’s programming, with lots of great kids’ shows to choose from for all ages. From Peppa Pig fans to David Walliams’ devotees, there really is something for everyone. Here’s our pick of the best family shows in York in 2020 (so far!).
Oliver! The Musical
York Light Opera Company returns with the much-loved Dickens tale. Travel with orphaned Oliver as he escapes the workhouse and finds himself in London’s murky underworld. Featuring all the favourite songs, you’ll leave asking for more.
Where – York Theatre Royal
When – 12 to 22nd February 2020
More – Visit the York Theatre Royal website for more details and to book.
Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever – Live in York
Our youngest’s first experience of the theatre was seeing Peppa Pig live at the Grand Opera House in York and she couldn’t believe her eyes (or her luck). It’s a brilliant way to introduce children to the joys of the theatre, and is bound to be a hit with fans of the famous pig family.
Where – Grand Opera House York
When – 4th and 5th March 2020
More – Visit the ATG website for more information and to book
Green Eggs & Ham
All but the luckiest parent can relate to the plight of Dr Seuss’s Sam-I-Am in the classic tale, Green Eggs and Ham. It’s a hilarious story that highlights the importance of trying something before you decide that you don’t like it! This spring, the talented folk of Opera North will be bringing the story to life with two opera singers and a nine piece orchestra. Suitable for 4 to 7 year-olds, it’s a great introduction to live music and wonderful instruments.
Where – National Centre for Early Music, York (NCEM)
When – 22nd March 2020
More – Visit the NCEM website for more details
Room on the Broom
The fabulous Julia Donaldson tale about the witch and her cat is coming to York! The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog. But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two… just as the hungry dragon appears! Will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? Find out in the magical Olivier Award-nominated show for everyone aged 3 and up.
Where – York Theatre Royal
When – 24th to 25th March 2020
More – Visit the York Theatre Royal website for more details and to book
Billionaire Boy
Joe Spud is twelve years old and the richest boy in the country! He has his own sports car, two crocodiles as pets and £100,000 a week pocket money!But what Joe doesn’t have is a friend. So he decides to leave his posh school and start at the local comp. But things don’t go as planned for Joe and life becomes a rollercoaster as he tries to find what money can’t buy.
Where – Grand Opera House, York
When – 6th to 9th May 2020
More – For more details and to book, visit the ATG website
Pippi Longstocking
We’re big fans of the Pippi Longstocking books in the Little Vikings household, so we’re really excited about this year’s summer show at York Theatre Royal. Nine-year-old Pippi is strong, brave and fearless. When she comes to live in her new home with her monkey and horse but with no parents and no rules, she brings mischief, chaos and confusion to the folk of this ordinary Midlands town (yes, she’s moved from her traditional Swedish home for this version!) . Pippi takes charge of her own crazy adventures, with her two new friends, Tommy and Annika. What else would you expect from the daughter of a swashbuckling pirate captain?
Where – York Theatre Royal
When – 31st July to 15th August 2020
More – Visit the York Theatre Royal website for more details
