kids theatre shows Manchester 2026
There are loads of great kids theatre shows in Manchester. This post will be regularly updated to make sure all the kids theatre shows I can find are listed for you. I include as much detail as I can find about what age the show is best for, when and where you can see it and of course there are booking links included for you. Find more great Family days out North West England here.
Ad – This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through them I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Our top picks for all ages
The best theatre shows in Manchester this year for under 5s
For this age group, I don’t think you can beat the Julia Donaldson stage shows and there are lots to choose from including:
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar at The Lowry in October
- The Gruffalo, Waterside, in November
- Shiny Christmas, Z-arts, December
The best Manchester Theatre shows for children aged 5 – 10 years
For children aged 5 – 10 years, some of the recommendations above still stand out.
- The Jolly Christmas Postman, The Lowry, in December
- Cinderella, Bolton Octagon, December
- Mr Popper’s Penguins, Waterside, in December
- Monster Disco, Z-Arts, October
- Disney On Ice, AO Arena, December
Best Manchester theatre shows for teens and tweens
For this age group, I’d particularly recommend:
- Legally Blonde the musical at Opera House in November 2026
- The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, HOME, November and December
Kids theatre shows at Palace Theatre Manchester
Where – 97 Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 6FT
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show, Palace Theatre
When – 14th – 15th August 2026
Duration – Not clear
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones and is the perfect introduction to theatre.
Book here – Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show
Surinderella
When – 4th – 5th September 2026
Welcome to The Bolly-woods, where the dancing is non-stop, the drama is bigger than your aunties, and the romance is straight out of a filmi blockbuster! Meet Surinder, sweet, strong, and stuck in a never-ending chore list thanks to her two Insta-fame obsessed stepsisters, Lovely and Bubbly. Her only real support? The one and only Basanti, a cow with the dance skills of Bollywood superstar! Meanwhile, Prince Kavi is drowning in marriage pressure from his royal family. But when he accidentally bumps into Surinder, sparks fly.
Book here – Surinderella
Kids theatre shows at Opera House Manchester
Where – 3 Quay St, Manchester M3 3HP,
Piff & Pop’s Magic Shoppe, Opera House
When – 17th September 2026
Their brand-new show, Piff & Pop’s Magic Shoppe, promises a night of jaw-dropping magic, side-splitting comedy, and unforgettable showmanship. Split in two halves, Act one will feature a solo act from both Pop (Penn Jillette) and Piff The Magic Dragon along with Mr Piffles – the world’s only magic-performing Chihuahua.
Each will take to the stage to showcase their signature styles of magic, wit and wonder from Penn’s sharp storytelling and world-class sleight of hand to Piff’s eccentric comedy and offbeat illusions.
Act two will see the pair return to the stage as a duo, blending their unique talents into a one-of-a-kind double act. Expect the unexpected as the ‘Dragons’ combine forces into a larger-than-life finale.
Minimum age is 5 years old.
Book here – Piff & Pop’s Magic Shoppe
Legally Blonde the musical, Opera House
When – 3rd – 14th November 2026.
This ultimate feel-good rom-com, based on the award-winning film starring Reese Witherspoon, follows Elle Woods on her transformation from It Girl fashionista to legal ace at Harvard Law School, all in the name of love.
Suitable for 8+ years
Book here – Legally Blonde the musical
Dick Whittington, Opera House
When – 5th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Sparkling with Manchester’s favourite pantomime traditions, this action-packed show promises laugh-out-loud comedy, plenty of boos and hisses, and lavish sets and costumes from The London Palladium.
Book here – Dick Whittington
Kids theatre shows at The Lowry, Salford
Where – Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
Dear Zoo, The Lowry
When – 11th – 16th August 2026
See our characters write to the Zoo. Who will be delivered? A cheeky monkey, a jumpy frog and of course a perfect puppy.
Help your children learn as the book leaps onto the stage and share a magical experience as the story unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.
Rod Campbell’s best-selling lift the flap book has delighted generations of young readers since it was first published in 1982. And has sold more than 8 million copies worldwide.
Book here – Dear Zoo
Disney’s High School Musical
When – 22nd August – 19th September 2026
Based on the hit Disney Channel Original Movie – join Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High as they navigate the highs and lows of first love, friendships, and self-discovery — all while juggling classes, basketball games, auditions and the expectations of their peers. This fresh and exciting new production will transform the Lowry’s Lyric Theatre into an immersive East High experience, with extended staging and on-stage seating that puts the audience right in the middle of the game.
Book here – Disney’s High School Musical
CBeebies House Party Live! The Lowry,
When – 29th – 30th August 2026
A family fun-packed stage show with sensational songs, stupendous surprises and mega moments.
Join the superstars of CBeebies – Mister Maker, Rebecca Keatley, Dodge, George Webster and Duggee – as they throw an epic party just for YOU!
Book here – CBeebies House Party Live!
The Selfish Giant, The Lowry,
When – 20th September 2026
The Giant is angry. He returns from Cornwall to find children – children! – playing happily in his beautiful garden!
Every day after school, they come and run about, laughing and playing games under the blossom on his peach trees, listening to the delightful songs of the birds! So he puts up a big wall and an even bigger KEEP OUT notice to put a stop to all that. Then winter seizes the garden in its icy fingers…
Will this grip ever be broken?
Through vivid, interactive story-telling, original music, puppetry and humour, Riding Lights Theatre Company brings you this brilliant story of transformation. Perfect for families. No one, not even the story-tellers themselves, can be left unaffected by this inspiring tale of love and generosity.
Book here – The Selfish Giant
Sherlock Holmes and The Curious Case of the Masked Magian, The Lowry
When – 20th September – 16th January 2027
It’s 1906 – the Golden Age of Magic. The Masked Magician bestrides London’s world of Magic like a colossus, UNTIL… one night, in mid-performance, the Magician vanishes. Dead? Kidnapped? In hiding?
After a month Scotland Yard is baffled (obviously) and call in Sherlock Holmes to solve the mystery of the Masked Magician’s disappearance. Holmes (with an excitable Watson in tow) plunges into the secret world of Edwardian Magic only to find that the Masked Magician’s identity is Magic’s best kept secret.
Book here – Sherlock Holmes and The Curious Case of the Masked Magian
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
When – 26th October – 1st November 2026
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed show features a menagerie of over 75 magical and larger-than-life puppets, including the star of the show –The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
Alongside The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the show features three other Eric Carle stories. These beloved tales are brought to life by a captivating cast of storytellers, sweeping original music, and stunning puppetry.
Book here – The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Hay
When – 8th November 2026
There is only one word used in the show – it’s ‘Hay!’ Like the stuffing in Geenie’s scarecrow, ‘Hay!’ like the sound she makes when he comes to life and ‘Hay!’ when he sees all the wonders of the natural world for the first time. Only one word but so many meanings in a show about growing up in the heart of the countryside and discovering that you don’t have to stay stuck in the mud – you can live your dreams, spread your wings and fly like the birds. A highly accessible show filled with music, clowning, song and dance.
Age recommendation 3+
Book here – Hay
The Jolly Christmas Postman
When – 4th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Based on the award-winning children’s book by much-loved duo Janet and Allan Ahlberg, this family show sees the Jolly Postman cycling through the snow to deliver parcels and letters to familiar friends as they prepare for Christmas celebrations.
There are visits to Red Riding Hood, Humpty Dumpty, the Gingerbread Man, and not forgetting the big, bad wolf!
As the snow continues to fall, who will help the Jolly Postman get home in time for Christmas?
Live music, original songs and a sprinkling of theatre magic bring this favourite festive classic to life for all ages to enjoy.
Book here – The Jolly Christmas Postman
A Christmas Carol
When – 11th December 2026 – 10th January 2027
Matthew Warchus’ big-hearted, smash hit production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic comes to Lowry following nine sell out years at The Old Vic, joyously adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, His Dark Materials).
A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. A unique staging immerses the audience in London’s longest running adaptation of this beloved festive favourite.
Book here – A Christmas Carol
A Very Messy Christmas
When – 23rd December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
From the team who brought you Little Penguin’s First Christmas and Little Bear and the Christmas Lights; A Very Messy Christmas is a brand new sensory show for 0-3 year olds.
Eve likes everything to be calm and tidy and quiet but Christmas is loud and chaotic and cold so she doesn’t let it into her home. One day, a mysterious box arrives and a tiny bit of Christmas escapes! Despite her best efforts, Christmas has sneaked into Eve’s house and is causing mayhem but she soon realises that she likes the music and the silliness, she even likes the snow! Maybe a bit of Christmassy chaos is exactly what Eve needs.
With clowning, original music and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, this is an interactive, sensory show that is perfect for little ones!
Baby- friendly
Book here – A Very Messy Christmas
Kids theatre shows at Waterside, Sale
Where – 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford M33 7ZF.
Not now, Bernard
When – 25th October 2026
Bernard’s got a problem. There’s a monster in the garden… but his mum and dad are too busy to notice. So Bernard does what any sensible child would do — he tries to befriend it. That doesn’t quite go to plan.
A wildly funny, physical theatre adaptation of David McKee’s much-loved picture book, bursting with chaos, live music made from instruments and household objects, and an ENORMOUS purple monster.
Recommended for children 3+ years
Book here – Not now, Bernard
The Nick Cope Family Show 2026
When – 1st November 2026
Nick has a magical way of reaching into people’s hearts, igniting children’s imagination in an organic, unpatronizing, educational and fun way.
With his charming songs and humour Nick engages, entertains, and enthrals all generations.
Nick’s live performances are legendary. If you haven’t heard his songs or seen his shows before, come along and find out what you’ve been missing.
Recommended for children aged 3 years +
Book here – The Nick Cope Family Show 2026
Mr Popper’s Penguins
When – 30th November – 27th December 2026
Painter and decorator by day, Mr Popper spends his time dreaming of Antarctic adventures. He is astounded when one day a packing crate arrives at his home and a penguin waddles out!
Featuring catchy songs and performing penguin puppets, this delightful, action-packed musical is based on the popular book. Filled with heart, invention and plenty of penguins, it’s a perfect treat for the whole family!
Recommended for children 3 years plus
Book here – Mr Popper’s Penguins
Comdeysportz The Totally Improvised Pantomime (juniors and tots)
When – 18th & 19th December 2026
Bored of the same pantomimes every year? The award-winning Totally Improvised Company present The Totally Improvised Pantomime! Heroes, villains, songs and silliness are guaranteed this December as the gang create brand-new pantomime adventures using audience suggestions and a sprinkling of fairy dust. Oh yes they do!
Book juniors (age 7+) here – Comdeysportz The Totally Improvised Pantomime
Book tots (6 years and under) – Comdeysportz The Totally Improvised Pantomime
Pinocchio
When – 21st February 2027
Steve Tiplady, as Geppetto, uses the objects of a carpenter’s workshop to tell the tale of the puppet that wants to be a real boy, and the puppet-maker who wants to be a real father.
Pinocchio is carved on stage, brushes become a fox and the shadow of two saws transforms into a giant shark. An element of improvisation makes each performance unique to its audience.
Puppetry, shadows, illusion and especially composed music combine to create a show with something for all ages; it’s inventive, visually and verbally witty with a big heart.
Recommended for children 4 years +
Book here – Pinocchio
kids theatre shows at Z-Arts, Hulme
Where – 335 Stretford Road, Hulme, Manchester, M15 5ZA
Newsies Jr
When – 28th – 29th August 2026
Inspired by the rousing true story of newsboys in turn-of-the-century New York City, Newsies JR. features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein.
When powerful newspaper publishers raise prices at the newsboys’ expense, the charismatic Jack Kelly rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions. Together, the newsies learn that they are stronger united and create a movement to fight for what’s right.
Book here – Newsies Jr
A Message for the Future
When – 12th September 2026.
This is an inclusive, multi-sensory art installation and gig theatre experience designed for early years (ages 0-3) and family audiences.
DIY punk poetry gig theatre parents Brigitte Aphrodite and Quiet Boy offer a multi-sensory experience that subverts the early years genre through joyful rock n roll storytelling, celebrating a journey of nature and kindness. This calm pocket of punky joy explores a future full of hope, the wonders of the environment, and its unsung heroes.
Suitable for children 3 and under.
Book here – A Message for the Future
Dance in the Dark
When – 26th September 2026.
A captivating dance and music show with fun interaction for aged 3+ and their families.
Come in your favourite PJs for a slumber party in a giant sleepover den and a playful night-time adventure. As darkness descends, giggle as we get ready for bed, explore spooky shadows, listen to night-time sounds, and feel the wind and rain on our faces.
We’ll meet friendly nocturnal creatures, some slithering slugs, magical moths, and fantastical fireflies. Discover the magic of the dark, whirl and twirl, catch a shooting star and learn to be brave at bedtime.
Suitable for children aged 3+
Book here – Dance in the Dark
Alice in Wonderland JR
When – 9th – 10th October 2026
The most junior section of Manchester Musical Youth, ‘Apprentices’ return following last years smash hit production of Finding Nemo Jr with the classic ‘Alice in Wonderland Jr’.
When young Alice finds herself in a strange world where everything seems upside down, she must find her way home…and find herself along the way. As she travels through Wonderland, she encounters all of the iconic characters that audiences have come to love: including the ever-tardy White Rabbit, the grinning Cheshire Cat, a cool Caterpillar, the wacky Mad Hatter, and the hot- tempered Queen of Hearts.
Book here – Alice in Wonderland JR
The Magic Stick
When – 17th October 2026
When eight‑year‑old Diya receives a mysterious Magic Stick, she discovers she can see kindness come alive! Guided by the glowing energy of her Talking Karam (good deeds) Tree, she journeys through the Utsav (Kindness) Festival, meeting colourful characters and learning how every choice creates a ripple of light.
Blending Indian dance, music, storytelling, and stage magic, The Magic Stick is a heart‑warming family show celebrating compassion, selflessness, and generosity – and inviting everyone to reflect on one simple thought: how kind have you been today?
Suitable for ages 6-12 years
Book here – The Magic Stick
The Enormous Turnip
When – 24th – 25th October 2026
Living in their tiny shed squeezed in amongst the garden tools, Mr and Mrs Chickweed’s amazing prize-winning vegetables have taken over everything! Before they retire, they can’t resist planting one last seed, try for one more champion vegetable and one more trophy!
Suitable for age 3 years and up
Book here – The Enormous Turnip
Dennis the Menace’s Year of Mischief!
When – 28th October 2026
Beano’s Directors of Mischief and Mayhem, Mike Stirling and Craig Graham, help him, revealing their top-secret tips for creating the laugh-out-loud stories and comic strips in Beano, where Dennis has starred since 1951. PLUS they reveal insider info on how they’ve reinvented reading with their smash-hit latest Beano Boomic Dennis the Menace: Mischief at the Museum!
Suitable for aged 6 years plus
Book here – Dennis the Menace’s Year of Mischief!
Monster Disco
When – 31st October 2026
The Monster Disco is a 45 minute interactive puppet performance by Headstrung Puppets. Music, dance and puppetry are brought together with accessibility and inclusivity to create a joyous and uplifting family experience.
Suitable for ages 4-8 years
Book here – Monster Disco
The Gruffalo
When – 27th – 29th November 2026
Tall Stories’ much-loved magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler returns by popular demand, celebrating the show’s 25th anniversary.
On a daring adventure in search of hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high-spirited Snake. Will the story of the scary Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?
Suitable for aged 3 years plus
Book here – The Gruffalo
A Very Merry Minifest
When – 5th December 2026
The gig is jam packed with songs written especially to stimulate young imaginations and encourage physical activity, and some familiar festive favourites too!
Played by the brilliant Artful Playground Band, you are treated to a wide variety of musical styles ranging from Rock and Roll, to Gypsy Jazz, to Rap! Even though it’s all aimed at children, packed with educational themes and ideas, there really is something for everyone.
Suitable for ages 2- 8 years
Book here – A Very Merry Minifest
Shiny Christmas
When – 11th – 30th December 2026
Touch, explore, and join in as all that glitters unfolds before your very eyes.
In a long-forgotten room, two people find friendship, joy and treasures that turn from ordinary to extraordinary.
Dance company Turned On Its Head makes exciting participatory theatre for early years, taking children on a creative adventure, engaging audiences and encouraging lots of Christmas family interaction. Treat your little one to some Christmas magic this December, and you’ll find a world that sparkles and dazzles at your fingertips!
Suitable for children 4 and under
Book here – Shiny Christmas
Family theatre at HOME, Manchester
Where – HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester, M15 4FN
At Sea
When – 12th September 2026
A Fantastical Puppet Adventure for All! At Sea is an uplifting tale of a sailor’s triumph over darkness; non-verbal, with stunning projections and original music.
Our Sailor loses their way after having their heart compass stolen. Their quest to get it back takes them through a coral reef, a siren’s lair and to the very bottom of the ocean. Will they ever find their way back to the surface? Or will they end up trapped in the belly of the beast who steals sailors’ hearts?
“At Sea” was created by Life and Limb Puppets, in association with Alphabetti Theatre. Developed with support from Horse + Bamboo and the National Theatre’s Generate Programme, with public funding from Arts Council England.
Suitable for 6 years and over
Book here – At Sea
The Littlest Yak
When – 27th – 29th October 2026
This musical adaptation of the award-winning children’s book will delight audiences young and old with beautiful puppets, catchy tunes and an uplifting tale of self-acceptance for all the family. Gertie is great at being THE LITTLEST YAK, with the CURLIEST, WHILRLIEST wool and the GRIPPIEST of hooves for clip-clopping up cliffs. Only, Gertie doesn’t want to be the littlest. She’s in a rush to grow up and be just like THE BIG YAKS. But what if there are some things that only a GERTIE can do? A gorgeous story celebrating YOU being perfect … just the way you are! Kent-based theatre company, LAStheatre, bring The Littlest Yak to the stage in a spectacular fashion. Join them for a dazzling adventure, into the heart of the Himalayas, that is sure to get even the grumpiest of yaks into the festive spririt. Based on the book by Lu Fraser and Kate Hindley.
Book here – The Littlest Yak
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
When – 27th November 2026 – 2nd January 2027
Against the backdrop of the Northern Lights, a small town has been pushed to the brink of collapse in a bid for progress and prosperity. To rescue Midgard from certain destruction, the sorcerer and his apprentice must work out how to make magic together, and fast! This gripping family-friendly story sees brooms coming to life and love blossoming anew, as apprentice Eva discovers the explosive possibilities of her newfound magical powers, leaving havoc, catastrophe and joy in her wake.
Book here – The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
Family theatre, AO Arena
Where – AO Arena Manchester, Victoria Station , Manchester, M3 1AR
Gladiators live, Ao arena
When – 14th – 15th November 2026
This adrenaline-fuelled two-hour arena event sees the legendary Gladiators storm back into the arena to face fearless contenders in a heart-pounding live adaptation of the smash-hit television phenomenon. Expect iconic fan-favourite events, breathtaking stunts, epic head-to-head battles and the unforgettable Eliminator finale. With non-stop action, heroic showdowns and moments guaranteed to have the entire arena on its feet, Gladiators Live delivers edge-of-your-seat entertainment for the whole family.
Book here – Gladiators
Disney On Ice
When – 16th – 20th December 2026
Celebrate Disney magic at Disney On Ice presents Discover the Magic, a fast-paced, family-friendly production that follows the search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds. Explore the colourful spirit realm of Coco with Miguel, brave the ocean with Moana, marvel at Belle’s enchanted chandelier, and sing with Elsa. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Featuring spectacular ice skating, daring aerial stunts, and memorable moments from Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid, this all-out celebration delivers non-stop music, mischief, and memories.
Book here – Disney On Ice
Disney Descendants, ZOMBIES & Camp Rock: Worlds Collide Concert Tour
When – 10th February 2027
The “Disney Worlds Collide Concert Tour” is a full-scale arena pop concert bringing together three of Disney’s biggest live-action music franchises — “Descendants,” “ZOMBIES,” and “Camp Rock” — for the first time on UK and European stages.
Book here – Disney Descendants, ZOMBIES & Camp Rock: Worlds Collide Concert Tour
Stockport Plaza,
Where – Mersey Square, Stockport, SK1 1SP
A Christmas Carol
When – 11th – 12th November 2026
Dickens Theatre Company present A Christmas Carol as part of their Revision On Tour programme, staging exciting theatre adaptations of classic English GCSE texts for both students and lovers of literature alike.
With the rest of the acting cast stuck on a train, the great Charles Dickens himself, aided by his faithful tour manager, George Dolby, takes on the daunting challenge of portraying not just Ebenezer Scrooge, but over 30 other characters in this classic festive tale! Surely it can’t be done?
Book here – A Christmas Carol
Jack and The Beanstalk
When – 4th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Fe-fi-fo-fum! Stockport’s GIANT Family Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk starring Todd Carty (Eastenders/The Bill) as Fleshcreep, will delight audiences of all ages in this Spectacular Magical production that will provide you, your family and friends with sensational memories that will last a lifetime….Oh Yes They Will!
Book here – Jack and The Beanstalk
Octagon Bolton
Where – Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South, BL1 1SB
Cinderella: A Fairytale
When: 20th November 2026 – 9th January 2027
This brilliantly reimagined version of the classic story is packed with music, magic and laughter for the whole family.
When Ella’s father remarries, her world is turned upside down. Escaping her cruel new family, she finds comfort in the woods among her bird friends. But a chance encounter with a mysterious bird-loving boy and an invitation to the Royal Ball soon set her on an unforgettable adventure.
Suitable for ages 5+, but all are welcome (some scenes may be a little frightening for younger children).
Book here – Cinderella
Sammy the Snowman’s Christmas Surprise
When – 9th – 24th December 2026
Sammy the Snowman is bored of the freezing North Pole.
He dreams of sunshine, sand, and a holiday in the sun! But when a snowman heads somewhere hot, things might get a little… melty! Will Sammy’s big adventure end in disaster, or will Christmas magic save the day?
Expect big laughs, silly songs, shouting-out, a water pistol or two, and lots of Christmas magic: all things that make the Octagon’s studio show a Christmas highlight for young audiences and their families.
Book here – Sammy the Snowman’s Christmas Surprise
Victoria Hall, Bolton
Where – The Victoria Hall, 37 -39 Knowsley Street, Bolton, BL1 2AS
The Jungle Book
When – 15th – 23rd August 2026.
Swing into the jungle this summer and join Mowgli and friends Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther, a gang of mischievous monkeys lead by King Louie in this enchanting new musical comedy adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s much-loved classic.
Book here – The Jungle Book at The Victoria Hall
The Miss Rachel experience
When – 17th August 2026.
Step into a sunshine-filled world of fun, music and learning with The Miss Rachel Experience – Summer Special! This interactive show will have your little ones singing, dancing and smiling from the very start.
Get ready to hop like a bunny, clap along, and dance to all your favourite songs in a bright, beachy adventure!
Book here – Theatre Events at The Victoria Hall
Freezin
When – 29th -31st October 2026
October half term Panto. When the wicked Jack Frost sweeps into the kingdom and casts a spell of eternal winter, fountains freeze, forests frost over and the Royal Palace is plunged into chaos! With his icy powers growing stronger by the minute, he’s determined to keep the kingdom frozen forever…
Book here – Freezing
The Santa Express – Lost in Lapland
When – 7th November 2026
When Santa’s magical train takes a wrong turn, the journey to Christmas is thrown into chaos! Join our brave festive friends as they race through snowy forests, sparkling skies and the heart of Lapland itself to get Santa back on track before Christmas is lost forever.
Upon arrival at the venue, every child will receive a special golden ticket – and it may just help save the day! We encourage all audience members to come dressed in their Christmas PJs, festive jumpers or their very best Christmas outfits to truly join in the magic.
Book here – The Santa Express
Goldilocks and the Three Bears
When – 14th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Step right up and meet Dame Betty Barnum, proud owner of Betty’s Big Top Circus, and her loveable son Silly Billy, the wannabe magician whose tricks don’t always go quite to plan! Their star performer Goldilocks keeps the crowds cheering with her golden voice, but trouble is brewing beneath the big top.
Book here – Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Family theatre at Middleton Arena
Where: Middleton Arena, Lance Corporal Joel Halliwell VC Way, Middleton, Manchester M24 1AQ
Sing the Musicals
When – 19th September 2026
Direct from London’s West End – the first national tour of the greatest musicals of all time.
Performed by a sensational live band and character singers, a giant screen with sing-along lyrics make this the must see show of 2025/26.
Featuring tunes from Mamma Mia, The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, The Rocky Horror Show, Mary Poppins, Oliver!, We Will Rock You and many more.
Book here – Sing the Musicals
Fun for Little Ones – Live Tribute to Ms Rachel
When – 1st November 2026
Get ready for singing, dancing, giggles and non-stop fun as the magic of Ms Rachel comes to life on stage in an interactive, high-energy live tribute performance made just for little ones and their grownups!
Book here – Fun for little ones
Cinderella
When – 26th November – 28th December 2026
Cinderella has always dreamed of leaving her dull life as a servant to meet a handsome Prince. After the announcement that Prince Charming is going to hold a royal ball, it seems she may get her wish after all, but with the Ugly Sisters around, who knows what will happen. Maybe with the help of Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother and a generous helping of fairy dust, and a glass slipper, perhaps Cinderella’s wish could come true and she will live happily ever after?
Book here – Cinderella
Family theatre at The Met, Bury
Where: The Met, Market Street, Bury, BL9 0BW
The Brain Bending Science Illusion Show
When – 27th October 2026
Alongside impossible optical illusions and baffling tricks you can try at home, discover the devious deceptions and wily wordplay used to sell us ideas. Can you believe your eyes? Can you trust your own brain? Can Crowbert use the tricks he learns to start a new career in advertising?
Suitable for children 6 years plus
Book here – The Brain Bending Science Illusion Show
The Magic Stick
When – 31st October 2026
When eight‑year‑old Diya receives a mysterious Magic Stick, she discovers she can see kindness come alive! Guided by the glowing energy of her Talking Karam (good deeds) Tree, she journeys through the Utsav (Kindness) Festival, meeting colourful characters and learning how every choice creates a ripple of light.
Blending Indian dance, music, storytelling, and stage magic, The Magic Stick is a heart‑warming family show celebrating compassion, selflessness, and generosity – and inviting everyone to reflect on one simple thought: how kind have you been today?
Suitable for ages 6-12 years
Book here – The Magic Stick
Jack and the Beanstalk
When – 5th – 28th December 2026
When Jack trades the family cow for a handful of mysterious beans, he finds himself on an unexpected journey filled with towering dangers, magical surprises, and a kingdom in need of a hero. With the help of Dame Trot and Fairy Beansprout, Jack must face the Giant and uncover the secrets hidden high above the clouds.
Can Jack outsmart the Giant? What will he discover in the land above the clouds? And will the Trot family’s luck finally change?
Book here – Jack and the Beanstalk
Family theatre at Millgate Arts Centre
Where – Millgate Arts Centre, Saddleworth, OL3 5DY
Wind in the Willows
When – 14th November 2026
Tired of spring-cleaning, Mole leaves Mole End and ventures out to the riverbank, where he befriends the resourceful Ratty, the gruff Badger and the infamous Toad of Toad Hall (Poop-poop!). Together they explore the Wide World, and the Wild Wood, and try to keep Toad out of trouble…!
This delightful stage adaptation combines all the joy and mystery of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved classic with the lightness of touch and playful theatricality that award-winning playwright Mike Kenny is known for.
Book here – The Wind in the Willows
The Pied Piper of Hamelin
When – 5th December 2026 – 2nd January 2027
When the dastardly Pied Piper arrives in Saddleworth with plans to strip away everything that makes the valley special, only Fairy Mary and her magic can stop him.
Join Rudy, a young shop keeper in Uppermill, as he falls head over heels for the girl of his dreams and helps his mum, Little Bea Poop save all the Yorkshire puddings in Saddleworth. With a cast of colourful characters, this hilarious show features show-stopping musical numbers, spectacular effects, and all the audience participation you’ve come to expect from Saddleworth’s famous pantomime!
Book – The Pied Piper of Hamelin
More things to do with kids in Manchester
Find loads of things to do with teenagers in Manchester here.
Find loads of things to do with toddlers in Manchester here.
