9 Kid-Friendly Broadway and Off-Broadway Shows Great for the Entire Family
Broadway took a hit during the pandemic, but now the shows are back on, and the lights are shining bright. Talent is everywhere and will be cherished by all ages. Whether it be a matinee or the glow of an early evening show- it’s difficult for kids to forget their first Broadway experience. Plan to dine before or after the show to make your Broadway experience even more fun. And this in New York, baby -from pizza to fine dining, you can map out the ultimate experience out on the town with the fam!
Check out these kid-friendly Broadway and Off-Broadway shows that the entire family will enjoy! It’s important to remember that, like movies, not every show will be appropriate for the whole family. But no need to worry; we’ve got you covered.
Looking for an at-home alternative? Check out 10 Best Summer Movies for Kids to Stream This Summer!
The Lion King
Tickets starting at $89.00
2 hours 30 min, one intermission
This stage adaptation of the 1994 Disney film follows the story of a young lion prince in the African Pride Lands. After young Simba’s father is killed, it is up to him to fulfill his destiny of becoming king. Follow along his journey of meeting new friends and enduring adventure to achieve his goal. From the intricate costume design to ever-so rhythmic music, this truly is an encapsulating spectacle. Similar to the memorable film, prepare to be entranced by song and dance as you and your family watch the story come alive. Recommended for ages 6+ years, children under 2 years are not permitted.
Aladdin
Tickets starting at $65.00
2 hours 30 min, one intermission
Aladdin’s stage adaptation of the hit Disney motion picture will deliver a magical experience for its viewers. After charming street urchin Aladdin discovers a magic lamp in the Cave of Wonders and is granted three wishes, his life turns upside down in his pursuit of Princess Jasmine. With the help of familiar faces like Genie (and some new faces not featured in the 1992 film), this production is just as entertaining as the original. And yes, up-beat musical favorites like “Friend Like Me” and the classic love ballad “A Whole New World” are included too! This shining show is bound to knock your socks off. Recommended for ages 6+, children under the age of 2 years are not permitted.
Between the Lines
Tickets starting at $55.00
2 hours 30 min, one intermission
Between the Lines is based on the New York Times bestseller by Jodi Picoult and Samantha van Leer. This Off-Broadway musical follows 15-year-old Delilah who enters a new school and finds herself seeking comfort in her favorite book. It’s here, in the lines of each page, that she truly feels understood. This show is about finding the power to rewrite one’s own story and balancing the lines between fantasy and reality. Recommended for ages 12+, but is appropriate for younger children as well.
Come From Away
Tickets starting at $45.00
1 hour 40 min, no intermission
Come From Away is based on the true story of individuals coming together in the community of Gander, Newfoundland in the days following the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center. It’s a story of resilience and how people from different backgrounds can come together to help each other. This show is suitable for an older audience and teaches a great lesson to all ages. The Broadway production of Come From Away is closing on Oct. 2 of this year, so see it while you still can! Recommended for ages 10+ years, children under 4 years are not permitted.
Dear Evan Hansen
Tickets starting at $59.00
2 hours 30 min, one intermission
Looking for something to do with your pre-teen or teenager? Dear Evan Hansen’s a great choice. When Evan Hansen’s letter to himself falls into the wrong hands, he finds himself at the center of a personal tragedy and a lie that just keeps on growing.
It’s a story that focuses on mental health and how our lives impact and intersect with the lives of others. Even though it opened on Broadway six years ago, the creators of the show have skillfully put together a powerful story through song and script in this timeless production. Dear Evan Hansen closes on Sept. 18, so make a trip to the Music Box Theatre soon. Recommended for ages 12+ years, children under 4 years are not permitted.
Gazillion Bubble Show
Tickets start from $59.00
65 min, no intermission
Watch the Master of Bubbles, Fan Yang, and his family put on an enchanting bubble performance unlike any other. You and your family will be in awe over this “unbubblievable” experience as you are engulfed (quite literally) in bubble magic! This family-friendly show is perfect for all ages, especially younger kids. This accumulation of lights, music, color, and bubbles make this Off-Broadway show a must-see! Recommended for ages 2+ years.
Harry Potter & the Cursed Child
Tickets start from $59.00
3 hours 30 min, one intermission
Many know the magical world of Harry Potter from the novels and movies, but get ready to enter a whole new story in this magical Broadway production. Set 19 years after the conclusion of the original Harry Potter series, a new generation of wizards embark on a time-traveling adventure to stop a mysterious force. For Harry Potter-lovers or even those who have yet to discover all that Hogwarts has to offer, this continuation of these epic stories is sure to please all. Recommended for ages 8+ years, children under 5 years are not permitted.
Six
Tickets start from $79.00
1 hour 20 min, no intermission
This mock concert is filled with girl power and history. The six wives of Tudor monarch Henry VIII air out their frustrations and insert their stories back into history in this modern pop production. Each Queen in this production is inspired by real-life queens of pop, like Beyonce, Rihanna and Adele. Watch as these phenomenal women sing from their hearts in this jaw dropping musical production. New York Times has dubbed Six “pure entertainment”! Recommended for ages 10+ years, children under the age of 4 are not permitted.
Wicked
Tickets start from $99.00
2 hours 45 min, one intermission
Adventure into the land of Oz, but view it from a different angle than we’ve seen in the past. Elphaba, a fiery girl with emerald skin meets Galinda, a bubbly girl with exceptional popularity. Follow along as this unlikely friendship unfolds and the world deems to call one “good” and the other “wicked”. This show is filled with magical effects, and follows a compelling story that will be enjoyed by all. Recommended for ages 8+ years, children under the age of 5 years will not be permitted.
