Kids Week in London's West End theatre land

Kids Week 2007 will run for two weeks from 17 to 31 August 2007 when a child (aged 5 to 16) goes free when accompanied by a full paying adult. You can also purchase up to two additional children's tickets at half price. There is limited ticket allocation per show and the offer is subject to availability and not applicable to tickets already purchased. It is expected that booking will open on Tuesday 24 July 2007. Dates and information are to be confirmed.

Kids Week 2006 run from 18 August and 1 September 2006 with some 35 shows taking part in the scheme, giving out over 20,000 free children's tickets. It is hope that the tenth annual Kids Week in 2007 will be even bigger and better!

Please note that not all shows are offering the Kids Week deal on all performances during Kids Week - please check the full show listings for restrictions and the latest availability. Additionally please remember, there are booking or postage fees on Kidsweek tickets and no group bookings can be made.

Kids Week isn't just about shows - there are lots of fabulous theatre-based activities to enjoy too. You'll find full details on each event page, from the full show listings page. You might take a peek backstage and discover the secrets of the shows, or meet the stars, learn to dance, to stage-fight, to slap on stage make-up - and generally have a whale of a time!

When Babe is won by Farmer Hogget at the village fair, an extraordinary friendship begins. Based on Dick King-Smith's best-seller, and directed by top children's playwright David Wood, this is a wonderful tale charting the rise of one little piglet from his humble beginnings. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18, Monday 21, Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23, Friday 25 August 2.30pm

Blue Man Group is London's not to be missed entertainment phenomenon that is thrilling audiences of all ages. With stunning images and dynamic rhythms, Blue Man Group dazzles the senses in an award-winning, 100 minute live stage spectacular. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 August 8.00pm, Saturday 19 August 3.00pm, 6.00pm and 9.00pm, Monday 21, Thursday 24 and Friday 25 August 8.00pm, Saturday 26 August 3.00pm, 6.00pm and 9.00pm, Sunday 20, 27 August 3.00pm, Tuesday 29, Thursday 31 August and Friday 1 September 8.00pm
A number of Activities linked to this show are also available including Physical Theatre Workshop, Prop Making Workshop, Backstage Tour and a Blue Man Group Question and Answer

Sandy Wilson's musical romance is set in the 1920s at a fashionable finishing school on the sun-kissed French Riviera. Polly Browne, a millionaire's daughter, tries to escape her father and find true love but when Polly falls for Tony the delivery boy, things get rather complicated! Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Wednesday 23 August 8.00pm, Thursday 24 August 2.30pm, 8.00pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Learn the Charleston

Experience the magic of Motown with this sensational celebration of some of the greatest music of all time. Now in its second year in the West End, Dancing in the Streets is a perfect night out and is guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles! Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 Aug, Monday 21 – Friday 25 Aug, Monday 28 August – Friday 1 September 8.00pm, Thursday 24, 31 August 3.00pm, Saturday 26 August 4.00pm

Indisputably the world's most popular musical is now in its 21st recordbreaking year. This vivid adaptation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece continues to thrill audiences of all ages. See the power, the passion and the triumph that is Les Misérables. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Friday 25 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 – Friday 1 September 7.30pm, Wednesday 23, 30 August 2.30pm

A spectacular visual feast, this adaptation of Disney's much-loved film transports audiences to a dazzling world that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Wednesday 30 August 2pm. Please note there is limited availability for this show.
There is one Activity linked to this show available: The Lion King Puppet Workshop

On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men back to the island they last visited 20 years ago! ABBA's timeless songs propel this tale of love, and laughter. Every night, everyone's having the time of their lives at MAMMA MIA! Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 August – Friday 1 Sept, Monday – Thursday 7.30pm, Friday 5.00pm

Now in its second supercalifragilistic year, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins, a musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, is a triumphant spectacle, full of dazzling choreography and unforgettable songs. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Thursday 31 August 7.30pm. Please note there is limited availability for this show.

This tale of warring fairies and mismatched lovers set in an enchanted forest has become synonymous with the Open Air Theatre. Their most successful production of the show returns with Ian Talbot directing. If you missed it before, now's your chance to catch this inspired production. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 28 – Wednesday 30 August 8.00pm

Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical masterpiece is London's most haunting love story. The combination of opulent sets and costumes, fabulous special effects and a spine-tingling, unforgettable score make this a theatre experience not to be missed. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Thursday 24 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 – Thursday 31 August 7.30pm, Tuesday 22 August 2.30pm

Professor Bumm and his assistant Doctor Whee invite you to the unveiling of his latest invention in this crackpot comedy. Mayhem, mirth and mess are guaranteed as the two eggheads race to turn ideas from the audience into stories with the help of their unpredictable new machine. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21, Tuesday 22, Wednesday 30 August 3.00pm, 7.00pm, Tuesday 29 August 3.00pm
A number of Activities linked to this show are also available including: Professor Bumm's Story Workshop and Professor Bumm's Question and Answer

It is 1942, and the storm clouds are gathering. In the idyllic village of Merton-cum-Middlewick they are preparing for German invasion. At the vicarage, five unexpected arrivals set a dizzying series of mistaken identities in motion sending rumours flying. Hilarious classic comedy. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Tuesday 22 August – Friday 25 August 7.30pm, Wednesday 23, Friday 25, Saturday 26 2.30pm, Tuesday 29 August – Friday 1 September 7.30pm, Wednesday 30 Aug, Friday 1 September 2.30pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Preparing For Invasion

A new production of the classic musical made famous by the celebrated MGM film. A romantic romp, with dazzling dance routines, fabulous sets, colourful costumes and 16 smash hit showstoppers including Wonderful Wonderful Day, Goin' Courtin', and Spring, Spring, Spring. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Thursday 24 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 – Thursday 31 August 7.30pm, Tuesday 22, 29 Aug, Saturday 26 Aug, 2 September 2.30pm

This electrifying new show marks Frank Sinatra's most ambitious comeback. Cutting-edge technology puts him centre stage, larger than life, and lets him perform with a brilliant company of dancers and singers, supported by a 24-piece live orchestra. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 August – Friday 25 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 August – Friday 1 September 7.30pm

A unique combination of theatre, dance, comedy and percussion: eight performers use boots, bins, brooms and everything including the kitchen sink to create a pulsating theatrical event. Seen by over 10 million people in 42 countries, the show is a phenomenon not to be missed. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 August 8.00pm, Tuesday 29 August – Friday 1 September 8.00pm, Thursday 24, 31 Aug, Saturday 26 Aug, Sunday 27 August 3.00pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Post-Show Musical Workshop

After the death of his father, Petruchio arrives in Padua to seek his fortune by marrying feisty Katherina. A riotous, passionate and tender tale, The Taming of the Shrew is perhaps the most famous play ever written about the battle of the sexes. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Thursday 31 August 2.30pm, 8.00pm

Willy Russell's legendary musical tells the tale of twins, separated at birth, growing up on opposite sides of the tracks. The memorable score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the smash hit Tell Me It's Not True. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 August – Friday 1 September 7.45.00pm, Thursday 24, 31 August 3.00pm, Saturday 26 August 4.00pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Blood Brothers Question and Answer

Chicago is now the longest-running American musical ever to play the West End. As the hottest show in town, it would be a crime to miss it! Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 August – Friday 1 Sept, Monday – Thursday 8.00pm, Friday 4.30pm, 8.00pm, Saturday 3.00pm, 8.00pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Shimmy With Chicago

This new musical, set to the tunes of Boney M, follows Sunny, a young Londoner that lives for music. Echoing the tale of Romeo And Juliet, it stars Michelle Collins, Harvey and Javine and includes classics such as Rivers of Babylon, Brown Girl In The Ring, Ma Baker, Girl You Know It's True, Where Do You Go, One Way Ticket, and Mary's Boychild. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Tuesday 22 August - Friday 1 Sept, Tuesday - Thursday 7.30pm, Friday 5.00pm and 8.30pm, Saturday 3.00pm

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical tells the passionate and tragic story of Eva Peron, Argentina's First Lady and the world's first political celebrity. Includes Don't Cry for Me Argentina, and the Oscar-winning song You Must Love Me. Please note there is limited availability for this show. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Thursday 24 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 – Thursday 31 August 7.30pm, Thursday 24, 31 August 2.30pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Talent For Tango

Footloose is the happiest, most electrifying hit in town for all the family. Featuring the amazing David Essex and Cheryl Baker, this fastpaced show serves up 80s classics including Holding Out For A Hero, Let's Hear It For The Boy and, of course, Footloose. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 August – Thursday 24 August 7.45.00pm, Monday 28 August – Thursday 31 August 7.45.00pm, Friday 18, 25 Aug, 1 September 5.30pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Dance Footloose

This dazzling new production of Frank Loesser's musical won the Outstanding Musical Production award at this year's Oliviers. Starring Patrick Swayze, the show features a star cast and classics such as Luck Be A Lady and Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat. Please note there is limited availability for this show. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Thursday 24 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 – Thursday 31 August 7.30pm, Wednesday 23, 30 August 2.30pm

It's probably the funniest musical that you are ever likely to see and has picked up every single major Best Musical award on both Broadway and in the West End. Take this chance to discover why The Producers remains one of the hottest shows in town. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 18 August – Friday 1 September 7.30pm, Wednesday 23, 30 Aug, Saturday 26 August 2.30pm

The Rat Pack – Live from Las Vegas It's the coolest party in town as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jnr and Dean Martin wow West End audiences once more. This recreation of one sensational night at the Sands Hotel features some of the best music ever written, and hilarious onstage antics. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 August – Friday 1 September 8.00pm, Thursday 24, 31 August 3.00pm, Saturday 26 August 4.30pm

Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's musical takes its inspiration from a painting by Seurat. The show has two halves: the first, set in 1884, as the artist creates his masterpiece, the second a century later, as Seurat's great-grandson strives to find inspiration in the modern art world. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Thursday 24 August 7.30pm, Monday 28 – Thursday 31 August 7.30pm, Wednesday 23, 30 August 2.30pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Acting In The Park With George

Four actors play more than 150 roles in a spectacular new version of the classic thriller. Every legendary scene from the award-winning movie by Alfred Hitchcock is here including the chase on the Flying Scotsman, the first theatrical bi-plane crash ever staged, and the sensational finale. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Saturday 19 August – Friday 1 September 8.00pm, Saturday 19, 26 August 4.00pm, Wednesday 23 August 2pm

With standing ovations every night, We Will Rock You is now in its 5th triumphant year. Over five million people have now seen Queen's mega-musical which includes Killer Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody, Radio Ga Ga and, of course, We Will Rock You. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 August – Friday 1 September 7.30pm, Wednesday 30 August 2.30pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Kids West End Goes Ga Ga>

Acclaimed by the critics, Stephen Mallatratt's adaptation of Susan Hill's best-selling novel gives audiences an evening of heart-stopping drama as they are transported into a terrifying and ghostly world. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 August – Friday 1 September 8.00pm, Tuesday 22, 29 August 3.00pm, Saturday 26 August 4.00pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Backstage At Black

A funny, heart-warming and feel-good celebration of one young boy's dream in a gripping tale of triumph over adversity. The show has won a host of awards, including Best Musical at the Olivier Awards. Please note there is limited availability for this show and halfprice child tickets are not available. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Thursday 24, 31 August 7.30pm

Chaucer's collection of bawdy stories draws together a great mixture of serious, comical, satirical and sacred as different social classes join together on their pilgrimage. The RSC presents its journey in two parts that can be seen together, or as entirely separate shows. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Friday 18 August – Friday 1 Sept, Part I: Mon, Wednesday & Fri, 7.30pm, Thursday 24, 31 Aug, Saturday 19, 26 August 2pm, Part II: Tues, Thursday & Sat, 7.30pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: Comedy and Character Workshop>

This new play by David Eldridge is a journey through the decade that gave us the Rubik Cube, shell-suits, and The Iron Lady. The fast, funny, mouthy world of Essex market traders is brought to life against a soundtrack of classic hits from the 80s. Kids Week 2006 Performances Where: Monday 21 – Thur 24 August 7.30pm, Tuesday 22 August 2pm
There is one Activity linked to this show available: First Steps In Directing

Find out how West End theatre posters, leaflets and adverts are designed for world famous shows, at AKA, one of London's leading theatrical marketing and design agencies. AKA's clients include Dirty Dancing, Billy Elliot and Footloose. Date: 24 August, Time: 3.00 – 5.00pm, Age: 14-16. To book: Call 020 7257 8086 and quote Kids Week.

Beginning in the historical theatre auditorium you will be taken backstage and on stage to stand in the shoes of some of the most famous actors in the world. From there you will be taken to one of our dressing rooms to be turned into some of theatres most famous characters. From there you will work with Old Vic actors to create a mini play performed in one of our rehearsal rooms at the end of the session. Date: 23, 24 and 25 August, Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm, Age: 8-12 (Wednesday), 13-15 (Thursday), 16-18 (Friday). To book: Call the Education Department on 020 7902 7594 and quote Kids Week.

Grab a unique backstage view of the set, plus the chance to take part in a Q and A session with a cast member. Date: 24 August, Time: 11.00am – 12.15pm, Age: 11+. To book for this activity and the show on 24 August at 2.30pm only, call 0870 850 9171.

Join Sadler's Wells for a free family Mask Making Workshop in conjunction with Brasil Brasilerio the spectacular samba dance extravaganza where 50 performers from Rio de Janeiro bring alive the sprit that makes Brazil so unique. This fun filled workshop takes place before the performance of Brasil Brasilerio at 2.30pm at Sadler's Wells. Ask the ticket office for more details at time of booking. Date: 19 August, Time: 11.30am – 1.30pm, Age: 7+. To book: Call 0870 737 7737 Monday to Saturday, 9am - 8.30pm and quote Kids Week.

English National Ballet English National Ballet is opening its doors for the chance to participate in ballet workshops, see costumes worn by real dancers and go behind the scenes at one of Britain's leading classical ballet companies. Session 1 (Beginners), Date: 23 August, Time: 7.00 – 9.00pm, Age: 11+ (no experience necessary). Session 2 (Masterclass), Date: 24 August, Time: 7.00 – 9.00pm, Age: 11+ (must be Grade 4 or above). To book: To reserve your place for this session, please send your name, age, address, phone number, ballet grade, together with details of any special requirements you may have to: The Education Unit, English National Ballet, Markova House, 39 Jay Mews, SW7 2ES. Alternatively, you can email the information to:education@ballet.org.uk

This is your chance to take part in a singing workshop with a West End Musical Director - come and reveal your talents! Attendees are asked to familiarise themselves with a song from the musical before the workshop. Date: 30 August, Time: 12 noon – 2.00pm, Age: 10+. To book: Please call Box office on 0870 0606646. Joseph runs from 18 to 23 September. Get the Kids Week deal on tickets for 19 Septtember 7.30pm and 20 September 2.30pm, 7.30pm. To book call 0870 060 6646 and quote 'Kids Week'. Offer valid on top price tickets only.

Budding performers can join West End professionals at these fun workshops to learn the songs and dance-steps from some of London's top shows. Held in the Theatre Museum's professional studio space, children can get a real feel for the bright lights of performing in musical theatre. Participants should wear loose, comfortable clothing. An initiative of The Society of London Theatre. Date: 22, 23, 29, 30 and 31 August, Time: 1.45 – 4.15pm, Age: 8-12. To book: Call 020 7943 4751/4750, booking lines open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5.30pm. Mention Kids Week.

Use your body, your imagination and your voice to explore stories and songs from west end shows! This Kid's Week, you can come and join us to fly through the air with ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' and play the goodies and the baddies from the show! Date: 23, 25, 30 and 1 September, Time: 2.00 – 3.00pm, Age: 5-7. To book: Call 020 7943 4751/4750, booking lines open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5.30pm. Please mention Kids Week when booking.

A two-hour long experience that includes a backstage tour, games and the chance to meet a member of the cast. Date: 23 August, Time: 10.30am – 1.30pm, Age: 8-15. To book for this activity and the show on 23 August at 2.30pm only, call 0870 850 9171 and quote Kids Week.

Following the matinee, you can view the fascinating stage re-set and take part in a Q and A session with a company/crew member. Date: 29 August, Time: 5.00 – 5.45pm, All ages, To book for this activity and the show on 29 August at 2.30pm only, call 0870 850 9171 and quote Kids Week

Suitable for the under 5s - Rock and rumble into the jungle, shake your rattle and roll! Sing, dance and act at this unique multi-sensory show for babies and young children aged 4 months – 4 years and their grown-ups. Using their imaginations to make theatre together, join Griotora the storyteller and Cheeky the monkey in a journey through African rhythms to discover the sights, sounds and tastes of the rainforest. Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23, Thursday 24, Tuesday 29, Wednesday 30, Thursday 31 August. Times: 11am and 12pm for ages 6mths to 2yrs (one child per adult). Times: 2pm and 3pm for ages 2-4yrs (maximum of 2 children per adult). To book: Call 020 7943 4750/4751 (Box Office open Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5.30pm) or email tmbookings@vam.ac.uk

Suitable for age 5 and up - Author L. Frank Baum sits down to write The Wizard of Oz when he finds a spirited girl, Dot, hiding in his house. Together, they turn the office upside down and transform it into the Land of Oz where the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion come alive. Friday 18, Saturday 19, Friday 25, Saturday 26 August, Friday 1 September 2.30pm, 7pm, Sunday 20, Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23, Thursday 24, Sunday 27, Tuesday 29, Wednesday 30, Thursday 31 August 2.30pm. To book call 020 7645 0560 and quote ‘Kids Week'.

Some content may be unsuitable for the under 12s - National Youth Theatre presents six new plays by six leading writers, each focusing on one decade from the 1950s to the present day, celebrating lost tribes and iconic moments. To book, call 0870 429 6883 and quote ‘Kids Week'.

For 15+ contains strong langauge and sexual references - Jamaica, a sensual paradise where the sun, the sea and sand are free, but anything more comes at a price in this new play by Tanika Gupta. Welcome to the 21st century where women travel the world in search of sex, love and liberation. Toned torsos and sweet talk meet beneath the coconut trees. Friday 18 August – Friday 1 September 7.30pm, Saturday 19, 26 August 3.30pm. To book, call 020 7565 5000 and quote ‘Kids Week'.