Best family shows for children

Watch as Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka are all brought to life in a new stage production especially created in a purpose-built show dome. Entirely protected from the elements, the venue also has plenty of loos, baby changing facilities and buggy parking.

There are two different shows to choose from – each one lasts an hour and follows a different story starring all of the characters. You can choose which one to see - or even see both!

The Town Mouse & the Country Mouse, London, July 31 – August 15

One of the most famous children’s tales comes to the stage at one of the most unusual venues - a riverboat! The Puppet Theatre Barge moored in Richmond-On-Thames, presents a production of The Town Mouse & The Country Mouse. This classic tale performed at this unorthodox venue offers a unique experience for parents and kids alike.

Peppa Pig, across UK, 17 Aug – 2 Jan

The BAFTA Award winning Peppa Pig comes alive on stage in a brand new production from the producers of Lazy Town Live! and Roald Dahl’s The BFG. The whole family are invited to join Peppa Pig and her family in this playful show, which is set to tour the United Kingdom throughout the rest of 2010.

Disney On Ice, across UK, September 2010 – January 2011

As soon as summer ends these days Christmas seems to arrive with a bang, so a great way to welcome in the festive spirit is a trip to see your favourite Disney characters on ice.

Disney On Ice brings 65 of the best-loved Disney characters to life from all walks of the company’s 100 year history including Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and the casts from recent hit movies such as Finding Nemo and the Toy Story trilogy.

Visiting the biggest venues in the UK, the tour begins in Glasgow on September before finishing in Dublin in January.

Fireman Sam Live, across UK, 7 August - 27 November

Mini Firefighters are invited to join Fireman Sam and his friends as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival in Fireman Sam Live. This fun packed family adventure features songs and daring rescues and runs from August to November.

Thomas – Live! On Stage, across UK, 10 September – 18 March 2011

Thomas and Friends Live! On Stage sees the nation’s favourite tank engine bought to life alongside his friends in a brand new musical show. Encountering adventures throughout the show, Thomas, Percy and co. share a story that helps encourage discovery, friendship and cooperation. Set to visit venues across the UK between September and March.

DangerMouse Saves The World, across UK, 13 Aug – 30 Oct

DangerMouse Saves The World tells the tale of the crime fighting DangerMouse from his early years right up to the present day in 2010, when the now retired secret agent is called upon to save the world one more time. This 80s favourite might stir a few memories for parents as well as entertaining little ones.

Kids AM Screenings, Vue cinemas, 30 Jul – 19 Aug

For a cheap, local way to entertain your children this summer holiday take a look at the Kids AM screenings. The scheme, which is being run by Vue cinemas, sees family friendly films screened nationwide every single morning until 19 August with children able to attend for just 95p each.

To make this deal even better, adult tickets are only 95p as well (providing that adult’s are accompanied by a child).

The Little Big Club – Live in Concert, across UK, 8 Aug – 21 Nov

The Little Big Club – Live in Concert embarks on a nationwide tour of the UK from August 6. The Little Big Club is a who’s who of children’s favourites including Bob The Builder, Barney & Friends, Angelina Ballerina, Fireman Sam, Fifi Forget-me-not and Pingu.

Backed by The Little Big Club band, the audience are encouraged to join in. (You have been warned!)

George’s Marvellous Medicine, across UK, 10 August – 30 April

One of Roald Dahl's most loved stories, George’s Marvellous Medicine, comes to the stage this year in a new adaptation from the Birmingham Stage Company. The show tours in 29 theatres across the country until April 2011.