Taking my niece to the theater is one of my greatest joys!  We've been seeing shows in New York City & Washington DC together since she was 7 years old (she's 18 now).  She's always loved going to the stage door, and lobbies hard for repeat visits to her favorite shows.  My important lesson from the experiences we've had is not to assume her tastes; she definitely prefers musicals, but likes a wide variety of  shows and is open to trying new things.  And it's an absolute blast talking to her about what we've seen (both before and after the show)!

While I am not a parent, I have a child's heart; I thoroughly enjoy traditionally "family" or "kid" shows, as well as the adult-appropriate offerings as well.  Because I attend shows so frequently, I also have a sense of what shows children are attending.  As with big, grownup kids (aka adults :)), each child must be evaluated as an individual; some have very mature interests and perspectives (there are very young Shakespeare fans of course, and some adults that can't stand Shakespeare :)!), and some are happy with the latest Disney or comparable choice.  Also, please don't assume that because your child enjoys a particular genre of music, or band, that the show featuring that music will be an acceptable choice.  For example, American Idiot (with Green Day's music) was arguably not suitable for children under about 14 (and even some of that age would not have found it comfortable) despite the band having fans of all ages.  I attended a Jesus Christ Superstar performance at which I sat directly in front of a group of kids of varying ages from 8-13 (as near as I could tell).  While the 13 year old definitely enjoyed the show, the younger kids had trouble following the nuanced production.  That said, the recent Godspell revival was absolutely family-friendly, and appealed to even the youngest, but that doesn't guarantee your particular young person will find it interesting.

See below for a list of current shows that might be of interest if your theater companion is of the child-persuasion :).

Meet Iain Loves Theatre!

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Iain Armitage is 8 years old, and can inspire anyone to love theater, but perhaps especially your kids. He uses social media under "Iain Loves Theatre" to share his passion for all things theatre, and is quite the entertainer. His parents are theater folks, so he had a bit of a head start, but we're all the better for it!

Meeting Iain at Arena Stage in 2015 at Dear Evan Hansen's Opening Night, was a delight, complete with his expert tapping as he visited with admirers. He's an example, by the way, of a very precocious child who is able and motivated to see even the more mature shows. That may not be appropriate for most kids his age, but it illustrates how each child will have a unique theatre personality!

Here's his YouTube channel:  IainLovesTheatre where you can see a variety of Iain's commentary, and enjoy a recent review of the current Broadway show In Transit below.

Old enough?

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Shows will generally specify an age suitability; and, in some cases, will impose a restriction on the age permitted in the theater.  Your child's attention span and ability to sit still is critical to your decision.  Even if a show is suitable for children, it is disruptive to actors and other audience members to have children roaming the aisles and/or talking loudly, eating, etc.  

Make sure you explain the story to a younger child in advance, and maybe have a related diversion ready in case they can't pay attention (their favorite plush toy from the story, for example). I've been at shows where the adult kept an audible running explanation of the action for the child throughout the show. Try to ensure that your young friends know that being quiet during the show allows the actors to perform for them. 

Another important consideration is the ability of the child to see the stage.  Most theaters have booster cushions available-ask an usher as soon as you realize there may be a problem.  That said, please be considerate of the people behind you.  If you can put your child in front of the shorter person sitting behind you, it will be forever appreciated!  Many children I know love the first few rows of the mezzanine because the view is generally less obstructed than orchestra seats.  Likewise, the very first row of a theater may be the worst choice because the height of the stage may make block the view of those in the first row (or even the first couple of rows depending on the theater or show staging).

If Telecharge.com is the ticket service for the show, the page for that show should indicate an age limit for the theater, and perhaps a "may be appropriate for" age.  

NYTIX.com has a list of some of the Broadway musicals with age recommendations.

Show ready?

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I think etiquette for attending a Broadway show (as compared with a show specifically for children, ex. Sesame Street Live, Disney on Ice) with a young child is mostly common sense, but here are some thoughts:
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  • Gentle warning: Tickets are expensive, as we all know, and you are going to be the recipient of glares and possibly more, if you do not attempt to manage a young child who is disrupting the experience of others.  
  • If you think you want to take your child to live theater, I'd suggest some training first.  Take them to a range of easy events early and often, whether it's a preschool show on stage, or the community theater production of Jack and the Beanstalk.  Make the events slightly longer as you go along, and test their interest and staying power.  
  • Many of the stage shows for very young children encourage lots of participation, so it might be important to explain to the child at their first Broadway show, that we don't talk during the show, for example.  
  • My niece suggests, for musicals, that the child become familiar with the songs/music from the show in advance.  Then, when they see the show in person, they have an idea of the story and will be better able to follow along.
  • If you are concerned about your child's "readiness," consider getting the "cheap seats" for the first show. Then you can leave if necessary, without feeling you've forfeited a lot of money, and you won't be as inclined to stay beyond the point of no return. 
  • Try to set aside an allowance for a souvenir at the show if possible.  They're absolutely overpriced from a practical standpoint, but even a magnet or the souvenir program will seem like a treat.   
  • If you have multiple children to consider, you really do have to go with what will be appropriate for the youngest child (or split up and go to different shows if you have another adult to go around).  Taking a child to a show for which they are not ready can backfire on both you and the child.  The advantage to big Broadway musicals is that even the most family-friendly show will likely have elements for all.  For example, Aladdin probably skews the youngest of the shows currently on Broadway, but has some great dancing, classic songs and a genie that will please most everyone.
  • Get them involved in theater themselves if they show interest; e.g., school, camp, informal fun with friends. Whether on or off stage, whether short term interest, or life long career, they will thank you!
  • Did you know that some shows have begun offering autism-friendly performances? Read more at tdf.org and autismspeaks.org, and check for local opportunities as well; e.g., Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey.

​Stage Door Tips For Sprites 
[see the Stage Door section on this site for general info]
  • Let the child hold his/her own Playbill so that the actors will interact directly with them.  My experience is that the actors love meeting the kids!  They understand that these are the future adult fans!
  • Have a felt tip marker ready in case the actor does not have one.
  • ​​Many actors are more than happy to take photos with your child (and you if you want!).  Have your camera ready -there is often only a moment to get the photo taken.
  • Encourage your child to speak to the actor themselves, even if they only say "thank you" :).  If they have a question for the actor, encourage them to ask (ex. "Do you really fly Mary Poppins?" :) or "What was your favorite part of the show to perform?").
  • If you are willing to stand behind your child, ask if someone in front will make room for the child at the barricade.  Don't use the child to push your way to the front.  For example, I am more than willing to assist in helping the child have a good experience, but I'm short too!  Also, offer to take photos for the person who made room, and they will likely help you too!
  • Explain to the child in advance that there may be crowds and a long wait at the stage door, especially if heavy makeup is involved in the performance, or if the actor has other guests visiting them backstage.  I've seen incredible patience in children at stage doors such as Annie, Newsies, Pippin, etc., but I wouldn't want them to think they'll get to the stage door and out will pop the actors!  In my experience though, the casts of shows that appeal to children will try to come out fairly promptly.
  • Depending on the age of the child, it might be helpful to prepare her/him for seeing the actors without their makeup.  It's always surprising to me how different some actors look sans makeup and costume; they will sometimes not even be recognized by the adults!
  • The delight I've seen in the faces of both child fans and the actors at the stage door makes me believe that you may be creating a lifelong memory for your child and/or a lifelong love of theater!

Current (including touring) Broadway Shows That May Suit You and Your Sprite: 

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Kids Night on Broadway 

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"Kids Night on Broadway" is a bit of a misnomer, as this annual event goes on for a week, and features an array of events for children (ages 6-18), including allowing kids to attend participating shows for free with their paying adult companion.  And it's not just in NYC!  Some of the touring shows participate as well.  The event is generally held in the late February/early March time frame, and you'll find a list of shows expected to participate on the website.

Theater Camps?

If you have and/or know a child who would enjoy a theater-focused camp this summer (and some theater's have kids' programs all year round!), Broadway Direct has an overview of some considerations when searching for the right place!  

Check your local theaters for associated children's programs as well.

Websites for Further Reference

  • Playbill.com has a Kids' Theatre NYC page
  • Broadway.com has a Kid Friendly NYC page
  • TheatreAccess.nyc is a site specifically addressing accessibility guidance for Broadway shows, including autism-friendly performances 
  • BroadwayGirlNYC has a wonderful article on taking kids to the theater on BroadwayWorld.com here.