Family theatre to see this half term
© Ellie Kurtz
Curious Incident
© Brinkhoff Mögenburg
It may have already had a major stint on Shaftesbury Avenue, but The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is back in the West End for a limited run. Simon Stephens' adaptation of Mark Haddon's novel is a magical odyssey with boggling technical flare – the perfect way to capture the imagination of easily distracted pre-teens! Piccadilly Theatre, until 23 February
Icarus
It's a truth universally acknowledged that if you want top-tier family friendly theatre then the Unicorn is the place to be! As part of a running trend of adapting classic tales for the present day, this half term the venue is presenting the tragic story of Icarus, the boy who flew too close to the sun, for all ages. It's worth checking out the venue's complete listings as they have shows on at all times of day in multiple spaces. Unicorn Theatre, until 10 March
The Worst Witch
© Manuel Harlan
Jill Murphy's Worst Witch books, first published in 1974, have enchanted generations of youngsters to date and, 45 years on, the stage production featuring Danielle Bird as the always-unfortunate Mildred Hubble is soaring its way across the UK. The show is going to be out on the road until June, so this might be perfect for the Easter holidays as well! Derby Theatre, 18 to 20 February and Marlowe Theatre Canterbury 21 to 23 February
The Comedy About A Bank Robbery
© Robert Day
If it's a comedy you're after, then Mischief Theatre is the best place to look! With hilarious hijinks and some of the most classy slapstick on offer, this laugh-out-loud crime caper is one of several shows the Olivier Award-winning company are ruling the West End (not to mention the UK) with. London's Criterion Theatre, booking until 3 November 2019. Cambridge Arts Theatre, 19 February to 2 March
Matilda
© RSC, photo by Manuel Harlan
The multi-award winning musical has been encouraging kids to dream big (and be a bit naughty) for a number of years, and the show is also out on a major UK tour. So it's worth checking if it's stopping off near you soon! Cambridge Theatre and booking until 24 May 2020, Bradford Alhambra from 19 February to 23 March
Wicked
© Matt Crockett
A West End staple and a magical treat for all ages, Wicked is the sort of inspiring, empowering tale that's perfect for a theatre treat. Plus the whole family will be humming Stephen Schwartz's stand-out tunes for weeks on end afterwards. Apollo Victoria Theatre, booking until 30 November 2019
The Lion King
The UK production is now in its 20th year, so this is a perfect reason to head to the West End to see "The Circle of Life" in all its glory! "Be Prepared" for some of the best theatre of the last few decades. Lyceum Theatre, booking until 1 June 2019
National Theatre's The Winter's Tale
© Ellie Kurtz
Shakespeare's classic may be best known for its immortal bear-related stage direction, but Justin Audibert's adaptation, suitable for those aged 8 and over, might be a perfect introduction to the Bard. The piece ran last year and was a big hit, so we can't image 2019 will be any different. National Theatre, 2 to 21 February
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
Why see a classic musical when you can watch a show being created right in front of your eyes! Perfect for all the family, Showstopper currently has a long run at The Other Palace, with the Olivier Award-winning comedy troupe showcasing their improv chops. The Other Palace, until 16 March
Annie
© Paul Coltas
It's a hard knock life these days, but don't let that put you off a glorious night out at the theatre with the cast of Annie. Having just kickstarted its new tour, Anita Dobson and Craig Revel Horwood lead as the villainous Miss Hannigan. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, 19 to 23 February
