As the curtains rise on a new theater season in Washington, DC, families have a lot to look forward to! Our city is home to an array of theaters offering diverse performances that will ignite the imagination, spark joy, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re introducing your little ones to the world of theater or continuing a family tradition, here’s your guide to some of the best family-friendly theater experiences in the area.
Imagination Stage: Where Stories Come to Life
Located in Bethesda, Imagination Stage has long been a favorite for families. This season, they’re offering a mix of beloved classics and new stories that promise to captivate young audiences.
- Winnie The Pooh – September 20 – October 27, 2024
Everyone’s favorite bear from the 100 Acre Wood is surrounded by Christopher Robin, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, and Owl in this delightful and gentle musical. Set during one busy day, there’s a Heffalump to catch, Eeyore’s tail to find, and a misunderstanding between Rabbit and Kanga to sort out. In the end, friendship and understanding win the day. - A Cajun Red Riding Hood – December 14, 2024 – February 8, 2025
A Cajun Red Riding Hood updates the classic tale, sending the plucky heroine—now a red-robed little duck—and her ‘fraidy cat friend TeJean on an adventurous journey through the bayou. Along the way the pair tangle with a Big Bad Gator, but Petite is no sitting duck and leads her nemesis on a merry Mardi Gras chase through New Orleans. A chorus of swamp dwellers sings backup to the Zydeco-driven songs in this foot-stomping musical. - Paper Dreams – January 12 – February 16, 2025
This charming and dreamy dance-based performance imagines two friends who live inside a wastepaper basket! Together they discover what imaginative ideas might unfold from a crumpled piece of paper. Can mistakes inspire our greatest ideas? DC Theatre Arts called Paper Dreams “an enchanting production that…educates and entertains and sparks inquiry into the creative process for young and old alike.” - Mother Goose – March 2 – April 13, 2025
Through innovative puppets, props, and original music, eight classic Mother Goose rhymes come gently and tunefully to life. The magical Mother Goose invites the children in the audience to join in with each rhyme’s story, teaching them that the very best way to do what needs to be done is to do it together. Among the rhymes the children will experience are “The Itsy Bitsy Spider,” “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” “Old King Cole,” and “Humpty Dumpty.” - Dory Fantasmagory – June 18 – August 3, 2025
It’s tough being the youngest! Dory’s siblings won’t play with her and there are monsters to battle all over the house, like the hair-raising Mrs. Gobble Gracker. With the help of her fairy godfather, Mr. Nuggy, her monster-friend, Mary, and her mighty imagination, Dory sets out to win what she wants most: her family’s attention.
Imagination Stage also offers sensory-friendly performances, ensuring that every child can enjoy the magic of theater.
Adventure Theatre: Adventure Awaits
Adventure Theatre MTC in Glen Echo Park is known for its high-energy productions and interactive storytelling. This season, they’ve lined up shows that promise plenty of excitement for audiences.
- She Persisted – October 4- November 3, 2024
Fourth-grader Naomi’s field trip to a Women’s History Museum turns into a time travel adventure where she encounters inspirational women who have overcome barriers and made waves throughout U.S. history. From activists to athletes, artists and more, the musical features the stories of female trailblazers such as Harriet Tubman, Virginia Apgar, Ruby Bridges, Sally Ride, Florence Griffith Joyner, and Sonia Sotomayor. - ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas -December 6, 2024 – January 5, 2025
“‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But wait! A mouse is stirring – because Santa missed his house last year. Before you can say “Merry Christmas!”, we are off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf, and a spunky little girl who just will not take no for an answer. Do not miss this joyful tribute to the holiday season! - Dragons Love Tacos – February 7– March 30, 2025
You know what Dragons really love? Tacos of course! A boy and his dog are watching a TV show about dragons when they unexpectedly get caught up in the ‘Dos and Don’ts’ of what to serve to dragons to eat. Dragons love tacos, but if they accidentally eat spicy salsa…watch out! - Charlotte’s Web – April 25 – May 25, 2025
Charlotte’s mission to save Wilbur unfolds with the unveiling of her miraculous web, adorned with the proclamation “Some pig.” Thus begins a triumphant crusade, culminating in Wilbur’s salvation and a poignant gesture honoring Charlotte’s legacy. This timeless tale celebrates the power of friendship and the enduring impact of kindness, promising both actors and audience an enchanting afternoon filled with warmth and wonder. - The Lightning Thief – June 20 – August 17, 2025
This dynamic musical adaptation of Rick Riordan’s bestselling book opened on Broadway in 2019. When teenager Percy Jackson discovers he’s a demigod, he and his friends embark on an epic journey to find Zeus’ missing lightning bolt and prevent a war among the gods.
Adventure Theatre also hosts acting classes and workshops, providing kids with the opportunity to step into the spotlight themselves. The Puppet Co. Playhouse at Glen Echo, next door to Adventure Theatre has magical Mainstage productions. For the little ones and those new to theater, check out the Tiny Tots program.
The National Theatre: Broadway and Beyond
The National Theatre, located in the heart of downtown DC, brings the magic of Broadway to local audiences. While many of their shows are geared towards older kids and adults, there are still plenty of opportunities for family outings.
- MJ The Musical – August 13-September 8
- Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert– September 27-28
- Mean Girls – October 15-20
- The Life and Music of George Michael – October 25
- Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Live in Concert – November 8-9
- SIX The Musical – November 12-December 1
- A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical – December 3-8
- A Magical Cirque Christmas – December 12-15
- The Hip Hop Nutcracker – December 20-22
The National Theatre also hosts a Saturday Morning Series, featuring free performances perfect for introducing little ones to live theater.
The Kennedy Center: World-Class Performances for All Ages
The Kennedy Center is a cultural landmark in DC, offering world-class performances that range from Broadway tours to innovative new works. This season, their Family Theater lineup is packed with must-see shows.
- MO at the NSO – September 21–22, 2024
With the help of all-star guests, New York Times best-selling author/illustrator Mo Willems introduces fun musical ideas, explores big emotions, and invites viewers to listen, play, and create. In partnership with the National Symphony Orchestra and conductor Enrico LopezYañez, Willems uses music and storytelling to take kids and former kids on a playful journey of symphonic delights. - Spells of the Sea – October 12–20, 2024
When Finley Frankfurter’s father, a famed fisherman, is struck by the Big Bad Sickness of the Sea, she embarks on an extraordinary quest for the elixir of life. Can Finley, a girl with dreams as vast as the ocean but plagued by self-doubt, save her father against all odds? This enchanting family musical blends laughter, magic, and music to tell a coming-of-age story about facing fears, embracing emotions, and believing in yourself. Spells of the Sea is not just a musical; it’s an inspiring journey for dreamers of all ages. - Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure! – October 26–November 3, 2024
Equal parts interactive science, comedy, and personal empowerment messages, Doktor Kaboom returns with a new show. Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure! illustrates physical science concepts, which are also metaphors for real-life mental and emotional pressures. Praised for keeping crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter, Doktor Kaboom is also known for empowering volunteers from the audience to be the heroes of the moment. In Under Pressure!, Kaboom validates the pressures some students may feel, and shares tools and life lessons as resources for dealing with the difficulties that face us all. - Halloween Spooktacular! NSO Family Concert – October 27, 2024
An annual tradition! The Concert Hall transforms into a ghostly sight when ghoulishly attired National Symphony Orchestra musicians, led by conductor Michelle Merrill, celebrate Halloween. Enjoy a concert filled with musical treats from fa-boo-lous new works to spooky old classics. Arrive early for trick-or-treating and a special Haunted Hall Musical PLAYspace! - Willems’ Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!”: Back by popular demand, this musical adaptation of Mo Willems’ beloved book is a hilarious, high-energy show that will delight children and parents alike.
- Sailing on String – November 2–5, 2024
Two curious explorers take off on a voyage into a world made of string. Yarn birds fly through the air, and a string ship travels the sea. This gentle, engaging performance from Arts on the Horizon features object transformation, movement, live string music, and captivating design. Watch as a simple piece of yarn takes on countless new forms in this special immersive performance for the youngest audience members. - Uncle Devin – November 9, 2024
Go on a magical journey through the Land of Percussion to see and hear different percussion instruments with D.C.-based musician Uncle Devin. Through this interactive musical experience, kids and their families will discover the history of percussion, the oldest and most diverse form of musical creativity. Known as the “children’s drumcussionist,” Uncle Devin is a national leader in the children’s music industry and an award-winning drummer and percussionist specializing in Family Funk. - Finn – November 23–December 22, 2024
From the creator of Doc McStuffins and Vampirina, Finn explores the depths of the brilliant and beautiful ocean, with quirky sea creature characters and catchy tunes. Hilarious and heartwarming, this underwater musical chronicles the coming-of-age journey of Finn, a young shark who dreams of following in his family’s footsteps by joining the prestigious Shark Guard. As Finn faces the challenges of growing up and following his heart, the musical takes us on a magical journey of self-discovery, friendship, and adventure. - Washington National Opera Jungle Book – December 13–15, 2024
Step into the jungle, where adventure awaits! Join Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera, and more animal characters for a heartwarming tale about friendship, compassion, and forgiveness. The jungle may be filled with dangers but there is strength in chosen family. Our holiday opera returns for all ages with a new take on the Kipling classic from Kamala Sankaram and Kelley Rourke. The beloved story gets a contemporary twist with music from South Asian and Western music traditions and mesmerizing Bollywood dance from Indian classical dance company Taal. - Havana Hop: A Children’s Tale of Culture and Confidence! – January 11–12, 2025 Young Yeila dreams of being a superstar, but her lack of confidence gives her awful stage fright. With advice from her mother and mentors, Yeila begins to find her roots, gain confidence, and be her amazing self! Travel with Yeila as she visits her grandmother in Cuba to add salsa flavor to her own hip hop style. The audience gets to dance along in this dynamic participation play where one actress creates three generations of lively women.
- Grey Skies Blue – January 17–19, 2025
A group of youth face a life-altering experience when one of their Black brothers encounters a policeman. Two lifelong friends embrace their journey of self-identity together. A young woman refuses to be defined by her family’s history of addiction, and a promising relationship is challenged beyond deceit. SHAPESHIFT presents powerful stories of friendship through interconnected vignettes, exploring emotional themes of social injustice, sexual identity, addiction, and betrayal. Join as nine accomplished dancers combine hip hop moves with the lyricism of contemporary dance to illuminate the human experience. - NSO Music for Young Audiences Old MacDonald’s Symphony – January 18–19, 2025
The whole farmyard is getting ready for a hoedown—but it needs your help with the farm chores. This immersive show, developed specifically for toddlers, will have audience members laughing and dancing along with Old MacDonald and the farmhands. Join for a silly adventure featuring puppets, storytelling, dancing, and a string quartet from the National Symphony Orchestra, presented in collaboration with Teller Productions. - NSO Music for Young Audiences M² = (Math x Music) – February 1–2, 2025
The Last Stand Quartet performs a lively program linking the ways in which math is present in all music-making, creating music to move to and engage with on a deeper level. Add together four National Symphony Orchestra musicians—violinists Joel Fuller and Derek Powell, violist Mahoko Eguchi, and cellist Rachel Young—and this ensemble will show audiences how math times music equals fun! - The Other Children of the Sun – February 22–March 9, 2025 This tale of a Navajo creation legend unfolds not on earth, but in the house of the Sun, where the lesser-known siblings of the Hero Twins reside. These celestial children set forth on a journey to slay monsters—and find their own place in creation. The Other Children of the Sun challenges us to look at heroism through a new lens and reminds us that every journey—no matter how small—has the power to change the course of the universe! This superhero adventure is brought to life by writer and co-director Rhiana Yazzie, a Navajo playwright and trailblazer of Native American storytelling, and co-director Steven Paul Judd, a Kiowa/Choctaw filmmaker and screenwriter.
- Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band – March 15, 2025
Bring the whole family to enjoy smart, crafty lyrics with irresistibly fresh pop beats. Performing in Spanish and English, Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band is on the pulse of all things kids’ music, creating indie sounds rooted in whimsical imagination. A two-time Latin Grammy Award® winner with several Grammy® and Emmy Award nominations, this husband-and-wife duo have been named “THE face of kindie music” (The Washington Post) and “the Rolling Stones of kids music” (Style Network). - Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster – March 28–April 6, 2025
Leonardo is a terrible monster. He tries so hard to be scary, but he just…isn’t. Then Leonardo finds Sam, the most scaredy-cat kid in the world. Will Leonardo finally get to scare the tuna salad out of someone? Or will it be the start of an unlikely friendship? Originally commissioned as a virtual broadcast by the Kennedy Center, Leonardo! uses hundreds of illustrated paper puppets, book pages, two-dimensional props, furry monster puppets, and songs to bring Mo Willems’ books to life. Recreating the experience of holding one of Mo’s books, Manual Cinema brings a show that’s big, bold, colorful, and full of visual rhythm with a playful use of scale. - NSO Family Concert Earth to Space – March 30, 2025
Get ready to explore the vastness of space with music inspired by the planets, stars, and beyond! In anticipation of the September 2025 voyage of Artemis II, the first crewed mission to the moon in over 50 years, the National Symphony Orchestra celebrates the discoveries and beauty of space through music and images. Longtime friend of the NSO and space enthusiast, conductor Emil de Cou will lead this program of musical adventures and celestial learnings. - Falu – April 26, 2025
Falu introduces children to the wonders of the world. Her “ethereal and transcendent” (Billboard) songs take families on musical journeys through South Asia and the day-to-day of a child’s wonder. A Grammy Award®–winning and internationally recognized artist, Falu is known for her rare ability to seamlessly blend a signature modern style with traditions of Indian classical and folk music. Each concert is a celebration of how music can beautifully express both difference and connection across cultures. - Marooned! A Space Comedy – May 3–4, 2025
An astronaut crashes on an uncharted planet. Will she survive strange creatures, an abnormal atmosphere, and isolation in order to find her way home? See for yourself…in Marooned! Featuring music from the Voyager Golden Record, this innovative new puppet show takes place at the outer reaches of space. - Minty Fresh Circus – May 8, 2025
With an Afro-futuristic vibe and a steam-punk look, Minty Fresh Circus features movement, music, and circus arts in a time-bending journey of redemption. Watch as the artists perform a range of spectacular circus and dance skills sourced from the African Diaspora, including percussive dance, Lindy, hip hop, rope jumping, and more. Conceived by Monique Martin, this U.S.-based circus show features an all-Black cast with a majority-Black creative team. Minty Fresh Circus celebrates the power of Black music and movement, infused with the joy and resilience of those who traversed the transatlantic slave trade. - Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in Ten Blocks – May 9–11, 2025
Ten unique perspectives are brilliantly woven into one funny, piercingly poignant look at the detours we face on the walk home, and in life. Washington, D.C.–area native, New York Times best-selling author, and Kennedy Center Next 50 leader Jason Reynolds conjures 10 tales (1 per block) about what happens after the dismissal bell rings. - Sesame Street the Musical – July 10–August 31, 2025
Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, and everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends are taking the stage! Featuring classic Sesame Street songs and brand-new musical numbers, this is your chance to see the Muppets from Sesame Street in a show the New York Times calls “playful and captivating; a beguiling place to play pretend.”
This post was sponsored by Imagination Stage.
Save the Date:
Kidz Bop Live: Aug. 10
Cirque du Soleil: Sept. 11-15
Blippi Live: Sept. 16 & 27
Disney on the Ice: Oct. 10-14
Disney Jr. Live at Warner Theatre : Oct. 10
Laurie Berkner Band: Oct. 20
Sonic Symphony: Jan. 11
Additional venues:
Arena Stage
Atlas Performing Arts Center Arts for Young Audiences
BlackRock Center for the Arts
Bloombars
Busboys + Poets
Discovery Theater
Encore Stage and Studio, Theatre for Kids, By Kids
Jammin Java
Olney Theatre Center
Other Voices Theatre
Strathmore
Synetic Theater
The Arlington Players
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