On Friday 12th December London Mums Magazine spent an evening where the children were treated to something a little bit special – a 7.30pm performance of Moomins at Jacksons Lane Theatre in Archway. Going to the theatre in the evening instantly made it feel like a proper occasion, and driving home afterwards in pyjamas only added to the magic.
From the moment we walked into the auditorium, the tone was set. The stage immediately caught the audience’s attention: softly lit captions of the narration glowed in the background, and the set itself felt like a miniature winter wonderland. Calm, inviting and beautifully atmospheric, it was clear this was going to be a magical experience for Christmas – perfect for younger audiences.
The story, adapted from Tove Jansson’s classic tales follows the Moomins as they wake early from their winter sleep. Usually they don’t emerge until spring, so when they discover Christmas for the very first time, everything is new and curious – from Christmas trees and decorations to presents and festive traditions. The colourful Woodies, a group of playful acrobats, guide the Moomins through these discoveries, explaining what everything is and gently introducing them to the magic of Christmas tradition by tradition.
The acrobatics are a real highlight, but importantly they were soft and skilful rather than overpowering the performance – flowing, playful movements. This makes the production especially suitable for younger or more sensitive children – it was louder at moments but I’d describe it as excitably so. The show also felt perfectly paced: not too long, never rushed, and just the right length to keep little ones engaged without restlessness creeping in.
The costumes deserve a special mention. The Moomins’ large, expressive faces are cleverly designed and worn over the actors’ own faces. They don’t completely mask the performers – which did spark a few curious questions from the children – but the effect is charming rather than distracting, and beautifully executed overall.
What really shines through is the joyful depiction of both Moominvalley and Christmas itself. Visually enchanting and emotionally warm, the production captures that sense of wonder, discovery and cosiness that defines both worlds. By the end, the Moomins have fully embraced the magic of Christmas before returning to their winter sleep – content, happy and ready to wake again in spring.
This is a thoughtful, calming and visually lovely festive theatre experience that feels ideal for families. A gentle introduction to theatre, a beautiful celebration of Christmas, and a real treat as an evening outing – especially when it ends with sleepy children heading home in pyjamas.
It’s actually one of my favourite theatre experiences for younger children – and I loved it too – it took me nostalgically straight back to my childhood!
Highly recommended for a festive family night out.
Tickets from https://www.jacksonslane.org.uk/events/christmas-comes-to-moominvalley-2025/
Show trailer
I am a mother of two teenagers and a London Mums magazine’s contributor. I review attractions, movies, restaurants, toys. In my profile picture, I am together with my partner in crime and London Mums’ editor Monica Costa.
