Top Children’s Theatre Productions to Watch with Your Kids

little kids at the theatre in clown makeup

If you hold the love of theatre in your heart, share it with your kids. By taking them to live children’s theatre productions, you can give them a unique experience that shows them entertainment is more than just movies and television. 

Share the storytelling, live audience, costumes, music, and so much more. It is the perfect way for families to bond and make unforgettable memories. 

Let’s dive into the top family productions as well as how to make the most of the experience. 

Top Must-See Children’s Theatre Productions

While the list of theatre productions that you should watch with your kids is extensive, we have included a few of the best below. 

Wicked

Wicked has been the talk of the town these days since its debut on the big screen. But that doesn’t match the joy that comes from seeing the stage production. As a backstory to the Land of Oz, Wicked explores the friendship between the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch. 

Between the powerful music and stunning costumes, it is the essence of entertainment. 

Keep in mind that Wicked is most loved by older children, tweens, and teens — and their parents, too. 

Shrek the Musical

Shrek the Musical is a wonderful production for your kiddos to experience. Not only does it allow them to see some of their favorite animated characters come to life, but the vibrant costumes, catchy songs, and heartwarming story will suck them in. It is truly a work for kids and adults of all ages.

Shrek the Musical has a beautiful and humorous way of sharing valuable life lessons about things like friendship, acceptance, and inner beauty. 

Peter Pan

Peter Pan is a timeless classic. If you don’t already know the tale, it is about a boy who never grows up as he goes on adventures with characters like Tinkerbell and Captain Hook. The productions can vary greatly, but you can almost always expect high-flying acrobatic sets that are created with much imagination. 

Kids will learn about the importance of believing in this musical. 

The Lion King

The Lion King is loved by people of all ages — especially young kids. Bringing the story to life on the stage with music and elaborate costumes opens up a whole new way for families to hear about Simba’s journey to becoming the king. 

Lots of themes, such as love, loss, family, responsibility, overcoming adversity, and more are found throughout. 

How to Make The Most Out of Your Kid’s Experience

There are a few things you can do to ensure that little ones have the best time during their trip to the theatre. Be sure to select an age-appropriate show. Choosing something that is for older kids may be too intense or too long for young ones. What’s more, older kids may not be interested in those geared for little kids so select your show mindfully. 

Discuss with your child what they can expect. Let them know the importance of being quiet and focusing on the stage. Arriving early will allow you to find your seats without doing so in the dark. It will also give you time to use the restroom, buy souvenirs, and maybe even indulge in a snack.

During the show, encourage your child to engage, such as clapping and reacting appropriately. 

Finally, when it is all over, talk about it. Discuss what they liked about the show—or what may have confused them. This shared experience can foster a lot of communication. 

Introduce Your Child to the Magic of Theatre in Forestburgh 

With our musicals, plays, arts education, special events, and more, The Forestburgh Playhouse welcomes kids of all ages.  This year, the Playhouse will present Shrek the Musical running every Thursday and Saturday at 11 AM from July 10-August 16!  Don’t miss another family favorite, Disney’s Newsies on the mainstage and running from July 29-August 10.  We have offered the best live entertainment in the Sullivan Catskills since 1947 for the whole family. 

Come see for yourself. Check out our tickets for the upcoming season. 

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