If you’re a theater-lover and want to introduce your kids to the theater, there are many children’s theater companies that create fun and engaging shows that delight and entertain kids, and the whole family. Check out some of their current shows mentioned below.
Ma-Yi Theater Company The superpower Wong Kids in their newest exciting adventure “The Secret of the Space Chupacabra Go!” (through February 16) entertains kids and families with storytelling, puppetry, and magic. ma-yitheatre.org
The New Victory Theater “Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds” (February 7-23) presented by Adventure Theatre MTC is a musical featuring the iconic music and lyrics of Bob Marley, based on the children’s book by his daughter Cedella. The show shares the legendary reggae artist’s message of peace and love with young listeners. Recommended for ages 5 and up. newvictory.org
The Paper Bag Players “Hiccup Help!” (through May 9) presents some of Paper Bag Players’ all-time favorite sketches and brand new material too. This award-winning children’s theater company has been entertaining families for over 50 years. Ages 4 and up. thepaperbagplayers.org
Puppetworks The classic story of “Cinderella” (through April 13) has been adapted for marionettes by Puppetworks founder Nicolas Coppola. Ages 3 and up. puppetworks.org
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre Contemporary and innovative marionette productions based on children’s classics. “Bessie’s Big Shot” (through June 29) follows Bessie The Cow’s dream of joining the circus. Audiences cheer for Bessie as she attempts the impossible and searches for her special talents. cityparksfoundation.org
Vital Children’s Theatre Two long-running shows “Angelina Ballerina-The Musical” and “Pinkalicious-The Musical” (both running through April 27) are engaging hour-long performances for children of all ages. vitaltheatre.org
Literally Alive The timeless story of “The Little Mermaid” (February 16-April 27), about a young mermaid and her hopes, dreams, and quest for love—and the sacrifices she makes along the way is currently playing. literallyalive.com
Theatreworks USA Plays, musicals, puppet shows and magic acts—there is something for every-kid. Each season has a new repertoire of shows for all ages. theatreworksusa.org
Story Pirates Story Pirates believe that every child has a story to tell. Their sketch comedy musical theater is based entirely on stories by grade schoolers! Grown ups will enjoy the fun too. storypirates.org
13th Street Repertory 13th Street Repertory Company offers 45-60 minute performances for children ages 3 and up. A variety of shows for all interests, from interactive shows to musicals to fairytale adaptations. 13thstreetrep.org
Galli Theater Galli Theater presents fairytale shows for kids and families. The actors engage the children to come on stage and interact so kids don’t have to sit quietly or get bored. For bi-lingual families, shows are performed in English, French and German. gallitheaterny.com
And be sure to check out these long-running Broadway and Off-Broadway hit shows that are great for the whole family: The Lion King, Wicked, Matilda-The Musical, Cinderella, Newsies, Aladdin, Stomp, Blue Man Group, Gazillion Bubble Show.