When it comes to family festive shows there’s more on offer in Manchester than cheesy pantos. We’ve picked out a few of the best, including a number of shows for very small children. Venues like the Lowry and Waterside offer relaxed performances for children with special needs too, so everyone can join the fun. Click on the links below for more details.
Wow! Said the Owl at Home Manchester
Little Angel Theatre present this family friendly show based on the book by Tim Hopgood. Join little owl on a mission to stay away all night to see what daylight brings, in a colourful show that includes story-telling, puppetry and music. Suitable for ages 2-5.
Wed 14 – Fri 30 Dec, Home, 2 Tony Wilson Place, First Street, Manchester M15 4FN. Tel: 0161 200 1500, times and prices vary, www.homemcr.org
Elf at the Lowry
There are a number of places to meet Will Ferrell’s famous character, Elf, this year including the Albert Hall’s Christmas party and film screening. Those seeking something for the whole family should plump for this West End musical version. Suitable for ages 7+
Sat 25 Nov 2016 – Sat 7 Jan 2017, The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, times and prices vary, www.thelowry.com
The Wizard of Oz at Z-Arts
A locally produced take on the family classic by Meighan Youth Theatre (MYT) theatre. Suitable for all ages.
Wed 14 – Sat 17 Dec, Z-Arts, 335 Stretford Road, Manchester M15 5ZA. Tel: 0161 226 1912, times & prices vary, www.z-arts.org
Sorry Christmas is cancelled.. Katie Saves the Day at the Lowry (pictured)
Topsy Turvy theatre present this sweet show riffing on the popular ‘let’s save Christmas!’ theme. Expect more storytelling, puppets and music plus cool sets. Suitable for ages 2-7.
Tue 22 Dec 2016 – Sat 7 Jan 2017, The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, times and prices vary, www.thelowry.com
Underneath a Magical Moon at Waterside Arts Centre
Tutti Frutti and York Theatre Royal present a re-imagining of Peter Pan as told by Wendy Darling. Expect singing, dancing, wonderful sets and a gripping tale. Suitable for ages 3+.
Thu 8-Sat 31 Dec, Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF. Tel: 0161 912 5616, times and prices vary, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk
Peter Pan at Stockport Plaza
John Altman (Eastender’s Nasty Nick) takes the lead as evil Captain Hook in this pantomine take on J.M. Barrie’s fantastic tale. Suitable for all the family.
Fri 2 Dec – Sun 8 Jan, Stockport Plaza, The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport SK1 1SP. Tel: 0161 477 7779, times and prices vary, www.stockportplaza.co.uk
- Words:
- Ruth Allan
- Published on:
- Tue 5 Jan 2016
