Christmas Plays

Christmas in London is a time when thousands of families and friends make a theatre trip. Many office parties will even include a trip to a Christmas play.

For many, festive theartre is synonymous with pantomime. But if you're not up for a traditional 'he's behind you' panto experience, London's theatres offer a wealth of festive shows designed to warm the cockles of your heart without forcing you to get all excited about pirates or pantomime horses.

Check out five of the best alternative shows in town this season.


Cinderella

Melly Still brings her incredible theatrical vision to bear on this faithful adaptation of the Brothers Grimm's dark-edged tale.

Best for: Snow effects, live music, magical sets.

The Scarecrow and his Servant

Philip Pullman's new fairystory is the most intelligent children's show of the year. You need to keep your wits about you on this surreal adventure.

Best for: Smart, believable characters in wild situations.

Ida Barr: So this is Christmas...

Drag artist Christopher Green wows a small crowd nightly at the Pit with a fully interactive Christmas party including music hall numbers, hip hop, bingo and conga lines.

Best for: Festive hilarity along the lines of a well-tuned office party.

The Snowman

Sadler's Wells' perenial holiday favourite is less panto, more a heart-stopping piece of dance complete with magical flying sequences. Honourable mention shoudl also go to their interpretation of Edward Scissorhands, choreographed by Matthew Bourne.

Best for: Enchanting dance and live music.

The Little Prince

Not a specifically Christmas show at the Hampstead, but this may be  the show that adults drag their kids to for a brilliantly realised vision of the timeless children's book.

Best for: Tears of nostalgia


Can't understand why you wouldn't want to go to a panto? Check out London Pantomime

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