Entertaining the kids for six weeks over the summer holidays is no easy task. So, wouldn’t it be great if there was a selection of world-class shows and theatre productions taking place across the region that could capture their attention for an hour or two?

Never fear parents, that’s exactly what Greater Manchester has to offer this summer. From shows tailored to tiny tots to musicals that bigger kids will love, the stage is set for a summer of fun across Greater Manchester so why not book a ticket to a show they won’t stop talking about until school starts again.

Here’s a list of all of the family-friendly shows taking place across the region this summer:

Winnie the Pooh at Opera House Manchester

From Monday 24 July to Wednesday 26 July, everyone’s favourite bear is bringing all of his friends to Manchester from the Hundred Acre Wood and you’re invited to join them! This beautifully crafted stage musical is told with life-sized puppetry through the eyes of Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Ronin, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, Owl and of course, Tigger. Follow the friends on their adventures for a totally enchanting afternoon of fun. Tickets cost £17.50 and there are various showtimes. Learn more.

Buzz at Waterside Sale

On Thursday 27 and Friday 28 July, Waterside Sale is hosting a wonderful 30-minute interactive performance perfect for ages 3 and above. BUZZ follows the story of a young worker bee who doesn’t think her work makes a difference when so many other bees are doing the same role, so would anyone notice if she didn’t bother? Through musical and physical storytelling, this performance is sure to have little ones entertained. Tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children. Learn more.

Shrek the Musical

From Tuesday 1 August to Saturday 12 August, the Palace Theatre is going to be transformed into the land of far far away. Join Shrek and Donkey as they embark on a big, bright musical adventure, leaving their swamp for an epic quest. Shrek the Musical is a hilarious musical comedy, featuring all of your favourite characters from the classic DreamWorks film and songs that will have you singing your heart out or dancing in the aisles. One for the bigger kids, it’s a great night out for the young and the young at heart. Tickets start from £13 per person. Learn more.

Cirque The Greatest Show

On Thursday 3 August and Friday 4 August, the spotlight is on The Lowry Theatre as it's time for Cirque The Greatest Show. Musical Theatre meets circus spectaculars in this jaw-dropping show that will fascinate both young and old, leaving you in awe as well as singing your hearts out. The performance will feature your favourite musical hits like you’ve never seen them before with the help of amazing circus performers and thrilling feats of agility and flair. Roll up, roll up and get ready for an unforgettable night out. Tickets start from £36.50. Learn more.

Robin Hood Outdoor Theatre

On Friday 18 August Bury’s Holcombe Hill and its stunning views will be the backdrop to an unforgettable outdoor theatre production. We couldn’t think of a better place to set the scene for a classic tale like Robin Hood!

Bring your own seating (whether that’s a picnic blanket or camping chairs), make sure you’re prepared for all weather and get ready for story time as you watch the tale of Robin Hood come to life before your eyes. The show runs for 1 hour and 50 minutes so make sure you pack a picnic, although there is food, tea, coffee and soft drinks available on site. Learn more.

Zog at The Lowry

Based on the classic children’s book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Zog will be taking over the Lowry Theatre from Friday 4 August to Sunday 3 September. Little ones will love watching Zog as he works his way through Madam Dragon’s School, the place where dragons learn everything they need to know, and gets ready for his biggest challenge yet, a duel with Sir Gadabout the Great. This smash-hit stage adaptation will be a roar-some way to entertain your little ones as it’s jam-packed with lively songs, bright colours and that Zog magic. Tickets cost £17. Learn more.

Remember, the Lowry is also hosting a free exhibition on the work of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler “Julia and Axel 30 Years of Favourite Stories” this summer so make sure you get there early to see how stories like Zog are brought to life.

Hey Duggee! At The Lowry

Big, lovable dog HEY DUGGEE is touring for the first time ever and he’ll be at The Lowry between Thursday 31 August and Saturday 2 September. He’ll be bringing along all of your favourite characters including the Squirrels, Betty, Happy, Tag, Norrie and Roly. Join them in the Clubhouse and be a part of the hit CBeebies show in a vibrant, interactive production. Expect music, puppets and lots of laughs that little ones will love. Tickets cost £16.50. Learn more.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at The Lowry

Another one for big kids and a way to end their summer holidays in serious style, The Lowry will host smash hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie from Thursday 7 September to Saturday 16 September. This critically acclaimed West End musical is funny, fabulous and feel-good, so what could be a better curtain call for the summer holidays? Watch as Jamie, a sixteen-year-old from a council estate in Sheffield who doesn’t quite fit in prepares to become a sensation. Adult tickets cost £33.50 and children cost £30.50. Learn more.

So, if you’re looking to make this summer holiday a showstopper, Greater Manchester has just the ticket. Whatever age your kids or whatever their interests are, there’s sure to be a performance that will capture their imagination this summer.

To view more events taking place across Greater Manchester throughout the summer holidays visit our What’s On page. Or more ideas on how to entertain the kids, take a look at our blog.