Favourite Subject: Science
The Lion King
What is The Lion King about? For those enamoured by animal science and the circle of life, Disney's The Lion King brings the 1994 animated film to life, featuring stunning puppetry and visuals. The story follows Simba, a young lion prince, as he grows up and learns to embrace his destiny as king of the Pride Lands.
Fun Fact: The musical features an incredible 232 puppets!
Awards: The West End production won two Olivier Awards, while the Broadway version claimed six Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Back to the Future the Musical
What is Back to the Future the Musical about? Back to the Future: The Musical follows Marty McFly as he travels back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean, where he must ensure his parents fall in love to save his future. With the help of the eccentric Doc Brown, Marty races against time to return to 1985.
Fun Fact: The film score's composer, Alan Silvestri, co-wrote the music and lyrics for the musical adaptation. During his 50-year career, Silvestri has composed scores for more than 140 films!
Awards: The show has scooped up an Olivier Award for Best New Musical, four WhatsOnStage Awards, including Best New Musical, and the Broadway World Award for Best New Musical.
Favourite Subject: Home Economics
Mrs. Doubtfire
What is Mrs Doubtfire about? Based on the beloved Robin Williams film, Mrs. Doubtfire tells the story of Daniel Hillard, a down-on-his-luck actor who disguises himself as an elderly Scottish nanny in order to spend time with his children after a messy divorce. It's a heartwarming comedy about family, love, and the lengths one will go to for their kids.
Fun Fact: Mrs. Doubtfire musical features over 30 quick changes altogether, (and they say women take an age to get dressed)
Awards: The Tony nominated musical received the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Wig and Hair Design.
Favourite Subject: English
Matilda the Musical
What is Matilda the Musical about? Adapted from Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, Matilda the Musical tells the story of an extraordinary young girl with a love of books and magical powers. Faced with neglectful parents and a tyrannical headmistress, Matilda uses her wit, imagination, and courage to change her destiny.
Fun Fact: Award-winning comedian, Tim Minchin, composed the music for the show. The character Miss Trunchbull is always played by a man, most notably Bertie Carvel who won an Olivier award for his performance, giving her a towering, intimidating presence on stage.
Awards: Matilda the Musical has won 7 Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, and 4 Tony Awards, making it one of the most successful West End shows.
Favourite Subject: Philosophy
Wicked
What is Wicked about? Wicked tells the untold story of the witches of Oz, long before Dorothy dropped in. It focuses on the unlikely friendship between Glinda the Good and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring themes of prejudice, power, and morality.
Fun Fact: The recognisable ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ from The Wizard of Oz can be found in the first few notes of ‘Unlimited / I’m Limited’ theme. Schwartz uses the first seven notes, even though they are used in a different chord, harmonised differently, etc, to pay homage to the show’s roots.
Awards: Wicked has won 3 Tony Awards and an Olivier Award, and it continues to be a fan favourite.
Favourite Subject: Classics
Hadestown
What is Hadestown about? Hadestown intertwines the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone. This Tony-winning musical is set in a dystopian, jazz-infused underworld, blending folk music and New Orleans-inspired jazz as it tells a story of love, sacrifice, and hope.
Fun Fact: Hadestown marks the first time in over a decade that a woman has been the solo author of a musical: writing the music, lyrics, and book, and is only the fourth time in Broadway history that a woman has accomplished this creative feat.
Awards: Hadestown won 8 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and the 2020 Olivier Award for Best New Musical.
Favourite Subject: Defense Against the Dark Arts
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
What is Harry Potter and the Cursed Child about? Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues the magic of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, following Harry, Hermione, and Ron as adults. The story centres on Harry’s son, Albus, and his struggles with his family legacy. Full of breathtaking stage illusions and magical effects, the play is a two-part theatrical experience that enchants Potterheads of all ages.
Fun Fact: The script for The Cursed Child was released as a book on July 31, 2016. What is the importance of the date? It's Harry Potter's birthday!
Awards: The show has won a record-breaking 9 Olivier Awards and 6 Tony Awards, including Best Play.
Fancy some extra credit? There are plenty more family-friendly shows to watch this half-term.