Thanks to the ongoing support of the Society of London Theatres, Kids Week – now in its 17th year of sending kids free to the great London shows — is back in force, and for the entire month of August.
During Kids Week, a child aged 16 or under can experience the magic of London theater and see a fantastic selection of shows for free.
Have more than one child? Two additional children can go at half price (per transaction), as long as they are accompanied by a full paying adult.
Children can also take part in a fantastic range of free activities and events organized by many of the top cultural institutions. The Kids Week fun kicks off with a free, daylong party August 1st in Regents Park.
Shows where this is in effect — 30 in all — include some of London’s most popular: Disney’s The Lion King, Matilda, Wicked and, for older kids, Billy Elliot, Jersey Boys, Once and more. You can also catch a Beatles themed musical or one devoted to the work of Michael Jackson.
To make it easier for parents who may not be familiar with what’s on on the West End, the shows are categorized by Musical, Play, Dance and Entertainment, and have age range guides as well to help you judge the appropriateness of the subject matter.
Additionally, all month long there are behind-the-scenes tours, lots of workshops, opportunities for kids to learn to dance, sing with the cast and enjoy exclusive post show Q & As. For a full list of all the shows participating and activities that require tickets, try the 24-hour Kids Week Ticketmaster hotline at 011- 44(0) 844 248 5151 or visit KidsWeek.co.uk
For a comprehensive list of what else is on, not on the Kids Week list but of interest to young adults, such as the Open Air Theatre in Regent’s Park, Shakespeare’s Globe and others, log on to Official London Theatre. The website also offer discounted tickets to students ages 16-26.
Many city institutions have turned out to be provide even more cultural events, free activities and star-sightings for those who follow Twitter using #kidsgofree.
For all things British — not just theatre — check out Visit Britain. In addition to our roundup of what’s great and new in attractions for families visiting London, the website to go to is Visit London.
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