Top 5 Mum Friendly Theatre Shows for Mother’s Day 2014

Taking your mum on a theatre break is always a special treat, but when you’re spending quite a bit of money on such a short break you need to make sure that it’s going to be perfect.

With so many West End shows available these days, it can be a little difficult to know which one to choose, so to help make this Mother’s Day perfect for both you and your mum, here are the top 5 family shows on the London stage today:

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

 This classic Roald Dahl tale is always a winner whatever age your group ranges from. Following the original Gene Wilder film closely, the impressive production has everything from giant squirrels to a chocolate waterfall and, of course, the Oompa Loompas.

The huge set is mind-blowing and with top-class acting from the adults and children alike, it’ll appeal to the whole family. There’s even the chance for a bit of a sing-along at the end to the iconic song, Pure Imagination. For a bit of cheesy fun, good-old fashioned storytelling and a treat for all the ages, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a great choice.

Wicked

One of the most popular shows in London is a fabulous spin-off of the well renowned Wizard of Oz. The shows follows the oddly coloured Elphaba as she struggles for acceptance amongst her peers, until it all becomes too much and she’s outcast as the Wicked Witch.

With incredible vocals and some heartfelt storylines, Wicked is a must see for lovers of a traditional West End musical. Jazz hands and tissues at the ready.

War Horse

 Since it shot to fame after its West End opening in 2009, War Horse has taken Theatreland by storm and has fast become one of the most impressive productions to ever hit the stage. Marvel at the amazing puppetry that you soon forget isn’t real and follow the solemn and passionate tale of one boy and his horse.

Based on the 1982 novel of the same name, there’s no escaping the emotional connection that audience members can’t help but claim when they see the show. A play with more heart than you’re likely to see elsewhere on the stage, War Horse is definitely one to consider for Mum this year.

Riverdance

For a good night out of music and dancing, there’s nothing better than Riverdance which is currently showing in Edinburgh. After huge international success, the show hits Edinburgh Playhouse to show you why it’s captured the hearts and minds of millions across the globe.

As well as the iconic and impossible dancing prowess, there’s a phenomenal theatrical tale to back it up. If she’s after an upbeat show with plenty of passion and pizazz, this is the one for her.

Lion King

The show that speaks for itself. However many theatre shows you’ve seen and however many times you’ve seen the film Lion King the Musical is a must see. Your whole group will be wowed by the amazing scenery, costumes and songs the fill you with emotion during one of the greatest stories ever told. This classic Disney tale is brought to life on stage (and in the aisles!) with lifelike giraffes, lions and monkeys that will blow you away. If she’s a novice to theatre breaks, this is definitely a winning start.

Hopefully picking a theatre break for Mother’s Day 2014 will be a little easier for you now, but with so many great shows to choose from you’re guaranteed to have a great night nonetheless. Make sure you take advantage of the abundance of bars and restaurants dotted around the theatres too, that’ll make for the perfect family night out!

 Guest Post