With quirky historical stage shows, popular musical favourites, and interactive dinosaur tales, there are plenty of options to entertain children through the summer holidays.
Starting on July 20, families are invited to relive the adventures of Simba and his pals on the big screen with a showing of the live-action remake of Disney’s classic “The Lion King.”
This event, which is part of Dartford Borough Council and The Orchard West’s new Community Cinema initiative, is open to all ages.
Over the weekend of August 8 to 10, the Summer Youth Project – A Musical Journey – will bring a medley of musical favourites to life, performed by a cast of 100 local young talents.
Under the summer sun, audiences can look forward to numbers from beloved shows such as “The Wizard of Oz,” “School of Rock,” and “Oliver.”
For lovers of history, the acclaimed production of “Horrible Histories: Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians” is set to take over the theatre on August 13.
Horrible Histories brings gory Georgians and vile Victorians to Dartford (Image: The Orchard Theatre) With a blend of factual history and the “nasty bits left in,” it’s bound to bring the past alive.
Brace yourself for a prehistoric adventure with “Dino Tales” on August 20.
With state-of-the-art walking dinosaurs including Freya the dancing Raptor and Bruce the mighty T-Rex, the show promises a wild rescue mission full of interactive fun.
“Pop Princesses” takes the stage on August 27.
This magical show featuring fairy tale princesses who turn into pop stars offers a “children’s pop concert with a big difference.”
Audiences can enjoy a soundtrack of pop hits from Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa, and Lizzo.
In September, children can accompany a band of pirates as they embark on a quest for the fabled Pants of Gold in the stage adaptation of “Pirates Love Underpants,” an adaptation of the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort.
Filled with music, puppetry, and glittering pants of gold, it will set sail for two days on September 13 and 14.
Looking ahead, Tom Gates’ Epic Stage Show, based on the bestselling books by Liz Pichon, will come to the theatre on October 4.
With lively musical numbers, engaging illustrations, and hilarious performances, it brings the best of the Brilliant World of Tom Gates live on stage.
Further along, “The Dinosaur That Pooped a Rock Show” takes over on November 29.
Adapted from the books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the show involves Danny and Dino’s adventures to attend their favourite rock band’s last concert.
“Aladdin” is set to bring the festive spirit from December 13 to January 4, 2026.
The cast includes Linda Robson, Rikki Jay, Jason-Marc-Williams, Mandy Muden, and Cleve September.
The pantomime includes open casting for the role of Princess Jasmine, making it an opportunity for any aspiring young actor.
The performances are planned to be relaxed and designed with accessibility in mind, with special performances including a relaxed performance, an audio-described show, and a British Sign Language-interpreted show.
Ticket prices start from £15, with concessions, school, and group rates available for selected performances.
The Orchard Theatre’s summer itinerary offers something for children of all ages and promises to provide a lively introduction to performing arts.
The shows take place at various times throughout the coming months, so readers are encouraged to check specific dates and times for the performances they wish to see.
This summer, why not introduce your children to the joy of live arts and make some great memories?
