It’s sad to say but Christmas really is a time for the kids. As much as watching Home Alone for the hundredth time and wandering around London watching drunken office workers fall out of bars is fun, the true magic and excitement of the Yuletide season pretty much dies once you hit 13. The same sentiment is reflected in the theatre as suburban venues are taken over by a host of half-recognisable has-beens camping it up more than Boy George at Pride.
But never fear. If you do want to give some children an entry point into the world of live performance but can’t face Melinda Messenger doing her best Barbara Windsor impression, this year there are some child-friendly productions that don’t necessitate group shouting, don’t patronise the audience and don’t turn sweets into sinister missles.
Normally associated with controversial reworkings of canonical plays, Katie Mitchell shows her lighter side with the stage version of Dr Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat. Taking over the National’s Cottlesloe Theatre, Mitchell brings life to the much-loved American classic offering what promises to be a lively and engaging theatre experience for 3-6 year olds.
Across town another modernisation is taking place as circus and physical theatre venue Jackson’s Lane update the much-loved fairy tale Cinderella. Playing with elements of contemporary life - reality TV shows, space hoppers and the like – the rags to riches tale is brought hurtling into the twenty-first century complete with acrobatic stunts and magic tricks.
A similar array of tricks and stunts is on offer at the Barbican as site-specific performance artists Lone Twin create a cabaret spectacular specifically aimed at children. Cabaret Simon brings together a host of acts including flamenco dervish Samantha Quy, Mr Melon the world’s clumsiest circus performer and the mind-bending experimenter Little Professor Walton. Word of warning – there’s a strict no entry policy for unaccompanied adults.
If you’re more into the classics and are keen to induct some under 5s into the dance culture preparing them for the work of George Balanchine at a later date, Sadler’s Wells is bringing back the balletic adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman. Exciting children for years, this production continues to be a firm family favourite and a perfect way to celebrate the festive season with all the family.
The Cat in the Hat runs at the Cottlesloe Theatre until 18th January when it transfers to the Young Vic
Cinderella runs at Jackson’s Lane Theatre until 3rd January
Cabaret Simon runs at the Barbican Pit until 31st December
The Snowman runs at Sadler’s Wells Peacock Theatre until 10th January
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