With half-term on the horizon, Sam Rogg highlights three stories which are waiting in the wings to make a day out extra memorable. Expect lions, magic and Victorian mischief, with plenty of wit and theatrical spectacle for grown-ups to enjoy too.
At the Lyceum Theatre and now in its 27th year, Disney’s The Lion King remains one of London’s great family favourites. Julie Taymor’s inventive stage adaptation follows Simba from carefree cub to future king of the Pridelands, accompanied by the much-loved songs of Sir Elton John, Sir Tim Rice and Lebo M. The production is remarkable in scale, with more than 232 puppets used throughout the show, including a 13-foot-long elephant requiring four performers to manoeuvre it. For kids discovering the story for the first time, it’s an unforgettable introduction to live theatre.
Over at the Cambridge Theatre, Matilda The Musical marks 15 years in the West End, with Roald Dahl’s extraordinary young heroine continuing to win over new generations. Dennis Kelly’s book and Tim Minchin’s music and lyrics turn Matilda’s battle against her selfish parents and terrifying headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, into a funny, spirited story about courage and standing up for yourself. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of Danny DeVito’s classic film, and on 30 October he returns to London for Matilda in Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, hosting and narrating the movie and appearing in a live interview with composer David Newman.
And finally, for a taste of Victorian London, head to the Gielgud Theatre for Oliver!, Sir Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed revival of Lionel Bart’s musical based on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. Directed and choreographed by Sir Matthew Bourne – the Olivier, Tony and Emmy Award-winning theatre-maker famed for his inventive reworkings of classics including Swan Lake – the production gives the familiar story a fresh theatrical treatment. Matt Lucas (Little Britain) is currently playing Fagin for a limited run, while songs including Oom-Pah-Pah, Food, Glorious Food, I’d Do Anything and Consider Yourself provide a suitably rousing soundtrack.
Three family-friendly tales, three very different theatrical experiences, and plenty of reasons to add a West End show to your October itinerary.
