I love London’s West End. Whenever my wallet allows, I’m the first in line for the latest musical or play. Shows like The Lion King, Matilda, and Wicked are incredible—and we all love to take our kids to them. But ticket prices are rising steeply, and with the cost of living increasing daily, many families are finding it harder to enjoy these iconic shows. In mum groups and “Visit London” forums, I often get asked, “What should I see when I’m in London next?” Yes, the big West End shows are unforgettable—but they aren’t the only option.

If you look beyond the West End, into the so-called Off West End, there are brilliant plays, musicals, and performances that are often more affordable—especially for families. This summer, for example, many theatres ran the Kids Week scheme, which made catching a show with children far more manageable. I snapped tickets for Saving Mozart at The Other Palace for just £25 for both of us, and for Alice in Wonderland at the Marylebone Theatre, it was £30 for both.

The Other Palace: Saving Mozart

Jack Chambers and Aimie Atkinson in Saving Mozart, © Danny Kaan

Saving Mozart, which finished on August 31st, was truly memorable. My daughter, who has been studying piano for two years, was captivated. She had some familiarity with Mozart’s music—especially since I’ve been trying to tackle his Turkish March this July- not going to well!- but she didn’t know much about his life. The movie Amadeus is almost three hours long and unsuitable for her age, so Saving Mozart offered the perfect introduction.

The production reframed Mozart’s story for a modern audience, focusing on the women in his life: his sister Nannerl, his mother Anna Maria, and his wife Constanze. The visual and musical presentation was bold and playful, merging 2000s-inspired power pop with steampunk aesthetics, vibrant costumes, and clever choreography. While some biographical details of Mozart’s life were necessarily condensed, the emotional impact and creative staging made the story come alive for children and adults alike. My daughter came away genuinely moved, commenting on how “emotional” it was—an invaluable response for a first-time theatre experience.

The cast of Saving Mozart, © Danny Kaan

Marylebone Theatre: Alice in Wonderland

We also saw Alice in Wonderland at the Marylebone Theatre, which also finished at the end of August, a hour-long adaptation aimed at children. The set and puppetry were impressive, bringing Carroll’s whimsical world to life. The Queen of Hearts, played by Daniel Page, was a standout, with larger-than-life expressions and pantomime-inspired humor that delighted kids and adults alike.

While the production necessarily streamlined the story, it captured the essence of Wonderland beautifully, and the Marylebone Theatre itself—small, modern, and welcoming—made for a perfect family-friendly experience.

These experiences reaffirm that London’s Off West End theatres are a treasure trove. From Saving Mozart to Alice in Wonderland, there’s so much creativity, talent, and excitement outside the glitzy West End marquees. With schemes like Kids Week, tickets can be far more accessible, making theatre a realistic treat for families who want to enjoy London’s vibrant cultural scene without breaking the bank.

Next time you’re planning a theatre outing in London, don’t just look at the West End. Venture beyond, explore smaller venues, and discover productions that are as artistically rewarding, emotionally engaging, and entertaining as the big-name shows—sometimes even more so. Your wallet—and your children—will thank you.

Next time you’re planning a theatre outing in London, consider exploring Off West End venues such as:

The Other Palace: Known for hosting new musicals and family-oriented productions.

Marylebone Theatre: Offers intimate performances, including adaptations of classic tales suitable for children.

Southwark Playhouse: Features a diverse range of productions, including family-friendly shows and musicals.

The Vaults: Hosts immersive and interactive theatre experiences that can be engaging for older children and teenagers.

Omnibus Theatre: Offers a variety of performances, including those suitable for younger audiences.

The Donmar Warehouse – smaller-scale productions from top creative talent; mainstage shows are usually aimed at adults.

The Almeida Theatre – contemporary plays and reimagined classics; family-friendly shows are occasional rather than regular.