Things to do in Dubai: Fantastic family shows to book this month

As Dubai opens up yet further, it’s time to get booking into the wonderful live entertainment options that are on offer. While live theatre remains closed in many parts of the world, this means that Dubai is able to benefit from the best of the best actors from prestigious theatres in places like London’s West End coming over to perform especially for families here. From kid-friendly improvisation, to wacky comedies, colourful musicals and singalong concerts, there’s something to keep every member of the family entertained happening in Dubai over the next month…

THE LITTLE MERMAID: From 13-22 May the magical tale of The Little Mermaid is taking over the stage at Theatre by QE2. This fun-filled family musical is a unique adaptation of the much-loved classic Hans Christian Anderson fairytale, and features a whole host of marine-themed comic characters, who help the little mermaid to fulfil her dreams of a life above the waves. DETAILS: The Little Mermaid at The Theatre by QE2, 13-22 May 2021, shows at various child-friendly times throughout the weeks, from Dh120 per ticket, tickets are sold in ‘bubbles’ of two or three together.

NURSERY RHYME TIME: This fun, singalong family show is perfect for kids aged from 6 months to 4 years old, and will have little ones delighting in all the classic nursery rhymes, from Incy Wincy to Humpty Dumpty. Put on by Art For All, you can expect a first-rate performance by professional actors from London’s West End, and a buoyant, interactive concert atmosphere, all in the surrounds of The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates. DETAILS: 27-29 May 2021, Nursery Rhyme Time at The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates, tickets from Dh75.

HORRIBLE HISTORIES: Originally slated for earlier in the year, the rescheduled dates for this hilarious show with run from June 3-5 2021. With the subhead “Barmy Britain”, this educational and entertaining show takes a grotesque and witty slant on the most weird and fascinating aspects of some of the most famous characters from British history. From Boudicca to Henry VIII and Guy Fawkes, kids and adults will delight in the cheeky comic performances and gruesomely gory details of times gone by. DETAILS: 3-5 June 2021 at The Theatre by QE2, tickets from Dh120.

WHOSE LINE IS IT?: The Noise Next Door is an improvised theatre group that’s putting on a family friendly version of their wacky and witty improv show ‘Whose Line Is It?’ on June 11 2021. Having starred in TV shows “Britain’s Got Talent” and “The One Show”, the talented quartet puts on an hour of interactive songs, scenes and gags all based on live audience suggestions. Suitable for kids from age 6 upwards, plenty of laughs are guaranteed. DETAILS: Whose line is it? On June 11 2021, 3pm, at Theatre by QE2, tickets from Dh130.

LA PERLE: Dubai’s one-of-a-kind acrobatic, special effects and stunt spectacular is jaw-dropping fun for the whole family. Kids will love gawping at the glorious costumes and scenery and the sensational antics performed by the talented crew. With daily performances at 6.30pm, and an especially kid-friendly showing time of 4pm on Saturdays, the family offer sees kids under the age of 12 receiving a ticket as well as a complimentary popcorn for Dh169. DETAILS: Tickets from Dh169 for children, La Perle by Dragone at Habtoor City, regular performances ongoing, Laperle.com.

SUMMER GALA BALLET: Inspire mini dancers with this student ballet performance, which blends professional solo variations, story-telling, and emotive original works, with beautiful costumes, vibrant music and wonderful dancing, for a family-friendly show that will entertain everybody. DETAILS: 11 June, shows at 11am and 2.30pm, performance is one hour, at The Theatre, Mall of the Emirates, for more information email marie@thenationalballetstudio.com or call 054 711 7376.