There are SO many venues that host children’s theater & musical performances throughout DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia. From holiday productions to seasonal shows and concerts, this listing will be continuously updated with reviews of current shows in children’s theater that we’ve attended & upcoming performances to check out.
Note: The lists of current and upcoming children’s theater performances will be reviewed and updated on a monthly basis; however, things can change at any moment. Be sure to click the links and confirm performance details prior to heading out!
I don’t get paid to do reviews. My daughter really enjoys theatre, so we go!
Lastly, although the Kennedy Center is one of my most FAVORITE venues, I will not list any performances held there for the foreseeable future. Thank you for tuning in!
In this blog...
Current Children's Theater Reviews
Stay tuned for more performance reviews!
On Stage This Month
All children’s theater performances listed below are paid admission unless otherwise noted.
Washington, DC
- September 10 – November 1 | The Fruits of Our Labor: Rhythm. Resilience. Reflection. presented by Step Afrika! at Arena Stage in SW
- A powerful new production exploring rhythm, resilience, and the unfinished story of the American experience.
- September 25 – September 26 | Special Event: Dance Theatre of Harlem Firebird at The National Theatre in NW
- Let Your Spirit Take Flight! Experience the power and passion of Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) as the company returns to Washington Performing Arts with the bold revival of Firebird, the company’s iconic take on the classic tale of love and transformation.
Maryland
Northern Virginia
Local Book Rec: Jocelyn Learns to Dance
Upcoming Children's Theater
All children’s theater performances listed below are paid admission unless otherwise noted.
Washington, DC
October 2026
- October 17 – 31 | Pancho Villa y Los Niños de la Bola at Gala Hispanicémoste Theatre in NW
- Bilingual ~ An old man, a young man, and a child revisit the Mexican Revolution, resurrecting Pancho Villa through memory, corridos, and myth. As history blurs with folklore, a new portrait emerges—of a revolutionary who understood the power of storytelling.
- October 27 – 29 | Professor Wingnut Wants to Fly! at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 3-8)
- Join wacky citizen-scientist Professor Wingnut and his friend Seymour Seagull as they explore the amazing science of flight! From birds to airplanes, this pair loves all things airborne and are in pursuit of the secret to what makes them fly.
November 2026
- November 5-6 | Dance Stories with Kalanidhi Dance at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 5+)
- Kalanidhi Dance leads an exciting Asian adventure through the South Indian classical dance form of Kuchipudi. Discover how dancers use rhythms, hand gestures, and facial expressions to tell stories and watch as the Fable of the Monkey and the Crocodile comes to life through movement in this entertaining and very interactive show.
- November 17 – 22 | The Hip-Hop Nutcracker at The National Theatre in NW
- This contemporary dance spectacle is a re-mixed and re-imagined version of the classic, smashing hip hop dance and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music together into a heart-stirring and inspirational holiday event.
- November 19 – December 31 | A Christmas Carol – 2026 at Ford’s Theatre in NW (Best for ages 5+)
- Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption.
- November 22 at 7:00 pm | Jim Henson’s Labyrinth in Concert ~ 40th Anniversary at the Lincoln Theatre in NW
- An unforgettable night of fantasy, music, and nostalgia awaits, as fans celebrate the 40th anniversary of the movie’s 1986 release.
- November 24 – December 6 | Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen at The National Theatre in NW (Best for ages 8+)
- Your journey begins with Ali, a 17-year-old girl full of fire, searching for freedom, passion, and her place in the world. Along the way, you’ll meet the musical mentor who changes her life, her dynamic family, and the neighborhood that helps her grow.
- November 29 – December 28 | The Washington Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” at Warner Theatre in NW ($)
- It’s Christmas Eve in 1882 in a Georgetown mansion. Clara and her family prepare for a holiday celebration. As the guests arrive, Clara’s mysterious godfather, Mr. Drosselmeyer, enters with his handsome young nephew, who greets Clara with a kiss on her hand. Drosselmeyer entertains the guests with a puppet show and dancing dolls and presents Clara with a special gift—a nutcracker.
December 2026
- December 1- 18 | Seasons of Light at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 5-10)
- This signature Discovery Theater show celebrates the history and customs of Diwali (Devali), Chanukah, Las Posadas, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice in an interactive event that bridges communities and cultures.
- December 9 – 11 | Little Red and the Gingerbread Man with Barefoot Puppets at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 3-7)
- This show mixes a pair of well-loved, classic stories to create an original fun-filled romp through fairyland.
- December 16 – February 7 | Hamilton at The National Theatre in NW (Best for ages 10+)
- HAMILTON is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation.
February 2027
- February 2 – 5 | Jammin’ Through the Jazz Age at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 6-12)
- Exploding with story, history, and sound, young audiences will leave with appreciation for jazz’s past, excitement about its present, and empowerment to carry this music into the future.
- February 18 – 19 | Jazz to Hip Hop with Vinton “The Music Man” Jones at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 5-8)
- Team up with Vinton “The Music Man” Jones for an exciting musical journey from jazz to hip hop as he explores the evolution of these genres, highlighting their roots, rhythms, and cultural significance.
March 2027
- March 13 – 20 & 29 – April 1 | La Odisea Contada Como Sea at Gala Hispanic Theatre in NW
- Bilingual ~ A professor accidentally walks into the wrong class and must teach The Odyssey from memory and the help of a Janitor. What begins as panic turns into a wildly imaginative adventure, as desks become ships and classrooms transform into epic battlegrounds. A joyful celebration of creativity under pressure.
- March 16 – 18 | Wild Waves: The Science of Light and Sound! with the Science Guys of Baltimore at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 6-11)
- The Science Guys return to reveal the wild world of visible and invisible waves. They dive into the science of light, color, and sound, showing how the spectrum works and how sound travels.
April 2027
- April 6 – 9 | Powerful Pollinators at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 3-8)
- Bats, butterflies, and bees-Oh, my! Set off on a journey to learn about the world of our planet’s powerful pantheon of pollinators.
June 2027
- June 2 – 4 | New Squid on the Block with Barefoot Puppets at Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater in SW (Best for ages 3-8)
- ravel to Antarctica with a curious squid who seeks connection in the most unlikely of places. Penguins, orcas, and jellyfish abound in an icy landscape for this heartwarming tale of friendship.
Maryland
- October 31 – November 1st | CoCo Live-to-Film Concert at Strathmore in North Bethesda ($)
- AMP presents Disney Pixar’s CocoLive-to-Film Concert on Tour, featuring a screening of the complete film with Oscar- and Grammy-winning composer Michael Giacchino’s musical score performed live by the 20-member Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México.
Northern Virginia
- November 29th at 1:00 pm & 5:00 pm | Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Balletat Capital One Hall in Tysons
- Celebrate America’s favorite Christmas tradition with an international all-star cast that blends world-class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes, and stunning acrobatics!
For Teens
Teens behind the Scenes via The National Theatre
Past Performance Reviews
Here’s a listing of past kid-friendly theatre performances we’ve reviewed! Keep in mind, these shows may come back into town sometime in the future or at a different theatre.
Pete the Cat: A Live Rock Musical
Imagination Stage
Date Reviewed: 6/27/2026
- Dates: June 17 – August 2, 2026
- Location: 4908 Auburn Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814
- Nearest metro station: Bethesda (red line) + 20 min. walk
- Run Time: 55 minutes with no intermission
- Sensory Friendly/Inclusive: Sunday, July 12 at 10:00 am
- ASL-interpreted: Saturday, July 25 at 1:00 pm
- Ticket Prices: $15 – $45 per ticket
- Best for ages: 4 – 10
Life is a really, really, really big adventure as Pete the Cat and the Biddle family rock out in a fast-paced, globe-trotting musical based on the smash hit book series. When Jimmy Biddle is anxious about finishing second grade, Pete takes him to Paris in his VW bus and Jimmy connects with his inner artist.
4DMV Kids’ Review
Pete the Cat: A Live Rock Musical is a colorful, upbeat production that my kids thoroughly enjoyed. Their favorite moment was watching the life-sized VW van cruise across the stage—a moment that took everyone by surprise. The vibrant, psychedelic-inspired sets and costumes perfectly complemented the show’s energetic musical numbers, while the cast brought enthusiasm and warmth to every scene. Although there isn’t much audience participation or call-and-response, the engaging performances and easy-to-follow storyline kept my kids entertained from beginning to end. Having never read the Pete the Cat books myself, I found the storyline relatable and well-suited for the target audience.
4DMV Kids Tip: This production in my opinion is best suited for elementary-aged children. If your child loves music, colorful visuals, and imaginative adventures, they’ll likely have a great time!
See upcoming performances at Imagination Stage.
CrazySexyCool – The TLC Musical
Arena Stage
Date Reviewed: 6/27/2026
- Dates: June 12 – August 9, 2026
- Location: 1101 Sixth Street SW Washington, DC 20024
- Nearest metro station: Waterfront (green line) + 5 min. walk
- Run Time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission
- Ticket prices: $83 – $133 per person
- Best for: Older teens & adults
TLC blazed a trail and changed the game. The trio stormed the ’90s music scene, not only topping the charts—but creating the look, sound, and soul of a generation. With their unforgettable anthems, fly dance moves, and head-turning style, Tionne ‘T-Boz’ Watkins, Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes, and Rozonda ‘Chilli’ Thomas defined what it meant to be women in music. The most successful female group of all time, they’ve spent over three decades breaking boundaries and empowering generations. Now their journey comes to the stage with the fresh, new musical CrazySexyCool.
4DMV Kids’ Review
CrazySexyCool: The TLC Musical is one of the best musicals I’ve seen in a very long time. From the opening number to the final curtain call, I sang and danced along as if I had been transported back to the ’90s and early 2000s. This production features TLC’s original hits and captures the group’s energy, style, and lasting impact on music and women in hip-hop. I also appreciated learning more about the ladies behind the music, including T-Boz’s battle with sickle cell disease and Chilli’s deep faith. Jade Milan’s portrayal of Left Eye was absolutely breathtaking—her performance was so powerful that I found myself wondering if Left Eye herself sang like that. While Act 1 is full of nostalgia and high-energy performances, Act 2 delivers an emotional punch that had me in tears. Although this is an outstanding production, I wouldn’t recommend it for children due to mature themes, including references to sex and violence. Instead, make it a girls’ night out or date night—you won’t be disappointed!
See more performances at Arena Stage!
Héctor, el niño eléctrico (Héctor, The Electric Kid)
GALA Hispanic Theatre
Date Reviewed: 10/18/2025
- Location: 3333 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20010
- Nearest metro station: Columbia Heights (green line) + 6 min. walk
- Run Time: 60 minutes with no intermission
- Best for: 12 & under in my opinion
Hector, a shy 10-year-old boy, meets a wizard in the auto shop where his mother works. After this mysterious encounter, Hector finds he has a special power: Now Hector is electric. Can Hector manage his new power?
Héctor, un tímido niño de 10 años, conoce a un mago en el taller donde trabaja su mamá. Tras este misterioso encuentro, Héctor descubre que tiene un superpoder: ahora es eléctrico. ¿Podrá Héctor lidiar con este nuevo poder?
4DMV Kids’ Review
Get ready to rock out with this electrifying performance at GALA Theatre! This bilingual (Spanish/English) musical is interactive, colorful and enlightening. I spoke with the Composer, Aldo Ortega, who said he was inspired by Classic Rock bands like the Eagles, which really livened up this performance. The audience sang along, learned new words in Spanish (or practiced their knowledge of the language), participated in call and response games and even headed to the stage for a birthday party (select audience members). The stage set felt like home to me and invited the audience into Hector’s world. My daughter (age 11) said she could relate to Hector and his insecurities about his height, looks, etc. My son (age 6) was engaged from start to finish and loved seeing the “electric” scenes of this performance. It was also a great way for both of my kids to practice listening to and responding in the Spanish language. I highly recommend this performance and would absolutely go see it again.
See upcoming performances at GALA Hispanic Theatre.
Dory Fantasmagory
Imagination Stage
Date Reviewed: 6/22/2025
- Location: 4908 Auburn Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814
- Nearest metro station: Bethesda (red line) + 20 min. walk
- Run Time: 1 hour & 5 minutes with no intermission
- Best for: ages 4+
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.
4DMV Kids’ Review
Hilarious performance + interactive so kids will have plenty of fun throughout! There are call and response elements that bring the audience into the plot of this charming tale. The main characters have big personalities and get into situations that children at any age will relate to. My daughter and I both agreed that it got a bit slow towards the end but the ending definitely made me shed a tear or two. She also mentioned it being funny and seeing it again if she had the chance to.
See upcoming performances at Imagination Stage.
Sleepova
Olney Theatre Center
Date Reviewed: 3/27/2025
- Location: 2001 Olney Sandy Spring Rd, Olney, MD 20832
- Nearest metro station: Glenmont (red line) + 20 min. bus #53 ride + 15 min. walk
- I recommend sitting in the center rows in front of the stage. From the sides, it’s hard to see the full stage.
- Run Time: 2 hours with 1 short intermission (15 minutes)
- Best for: teens & adults! It’s rated PG-13 for strong language. There were two brief conversations referencing sex.
This London hit makes its U.S. Premiere in the Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab! Whether or not sleepover parties with friends were part of your upbringing, you’re invited to join Elle, Shan, Funmi, and Rey at theirs. These four Black British teenagers are growing up fast, each coping with unique challenges. But even these issues – whether living with sickle cell disease, coming out to family, a crisis of faith, or a romantic misadventure, are confronted with humor, sincerity, and optimism. Most of all, Sleepova is a testament to the joys of friendship, centering a quartet of young women finding strength in each other, as they face the world together.
4DMV Kids’ Review
A great girls night out option for teens and adults! I really loved the character development of each of the four friends. Each friend uplifted the other through their challenges in a nostalgic, sisterhood way, which I feel NEEDS to be seen by girls and women, especially those of color. Themes discussed included not only health challenges with Sickle Cell, growing up Queer, and highly religious black family life but also growing up under an African household and the ups and downs of teenage friendship. With it being set in the late 20-teens, I think it’s also interesting to see the similarities between UK-living and US-living during that time. It makes London feel a little closer to home, especially from a black teen perspective. I would ABSOLUTELY see it again!
See more performances at Olney Theater Center.
A Christmas Carol
Ford’s Theatre
Date Reviewed: 12/05/24
- Location: 511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
- Nearest metro station: Gallery Place Chinatown on the green, yellow and red line
- Pay close attention to the seating chart! This is a historic theatre so there are columns that may obstruct your view of the entire stage. Those seats are labeled “Obstructed View”.
- Run Time: 2 hours with 1 short intermission
- Best for: Recommended for ages 5+
Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic, with familiar characters, ghosts and a children’s ensemble in the spirit of the holidays.
4DMV Kids’ Review
BAH HUMBUG…
This performance is split into two acts with the first ending with scenes of Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Past. The first act was a bit slower than the second, from which I assume some children may lose interest. However, the second act was more lively and featured the Ghosts of Christmas Present and Future.
Note that there is a flickering light throughout some scenes and the Ghost of Christmas Future can be considered scary to some kids.
The high energy captured the essence of Victorian England, where A Christmas Carol is set. From the singing to the costumes, this period piece is definitely something to consider for the older kids exploring history and literature.
I also recommend this performance for children who are attentive to details or really enjoy learning about the past. Point out the differences between then and now (clothes, mannerisms, language, toys, etc.) throughout the performance if their attention spans begin to drift. I also recommend this performance as a possible date night during the holidays!
See more performances at Ford’s Theatre.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
The National Theatre
Date Reviewed: 12/20/24
- Location: The National Theatre – 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
- Nearest metro station: Metro Center on the red, orange, blue and silver lines
- Run time: 2 hours with a 10 minute intermission
- Best for: all ages
The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a contemporary dance spectacle that is a re-mixed and re-imagined version of the classic, smashing hip hop dance and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music together into a heart-stirring and inspirational holiday event. This production is brought to life by a powerhouse cast of a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers, who opens the show with a short set.
4DMV Kids’ Review
Talk about a REMIX!
The Hip Hop Nutcracker takes a modern approach to this holiday classic with hip-hop based moves from break dancing to doing the Urkel. Act I includes appearances from the Mouse King and the journey to the Land of Snow. Act II features the Land of Sweets, which is transformed into an 80s dance battle. Although it’s set in the 80s, it reminded me of the Save the Last Dance club scene LOL.
My son absolutely LOVED this show! The break dancing and backflips were his favorite parts. He even tried some of the moves in the aisle, LOL. One question he asked multiple times dealt with why the dancers never spoke. It was a great lesson for him in the different types of performances.
My daughter didn’t enjoy the show as much. She mentioned loving the outfits worn and missing the ballet aspect of previous performances of the Nutcracker she’s seen.
This performance in my opinion is great for all ages and family members/friends across generations. Kurtis Blow opened the night with old school hip-hop tracks & a mini dance party. The dancers then took us on a journey through the decades of hip-hop and ended with modern-day moves that wowed the audience!
See more performances at The National Theatre!
A Magical Cirque Christmas
The National Theatre
Date Reviewed: 12/12/24
- Location: The National Theatre – 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
- Nearest metro station: Metro Center on the red, orange, blue and silver lines
- Best for: all ages
Embrace the holiday spirit with A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS, a variety show full of nostalgia, charm, and awe-inspiring performances for all ages. Get ready to be dazzled, enchanted, and filled with holiday cheer as you witness the incredible talents of world-class entertainers performing to your favorite holiday music.
4DMV Kids’ Contributor Review
A scaled-down version of Cirque du Soleil! It was a very cute show from start to finish. The host was a magician and a comedian, who called for audience participation. It was a great gesture to have children participate more so than the adults.
There was a point in the show where the magician was in the audience performing a magic trick and spoke of his father who had passed. It was a touching moment as you could feel his pain as he got through the act.
The female contortionist stole the show with her excellent performance! There was also plenty of balancing, tumbling, swinging and jumping from the incredible acrobats. All of them had your heart pounding and fearful they were going to fall but they succeeded every stunt. Overall great show!
See more performances at National Theatre!
Disney in Concert: A Dream is a Wish
Young Artists of America
Date Reviewed: 11/17/24
- Location: Capital One Hall in Tysons Corner, VA
- Run Time: 1 hour & 35 min. with 15 min intermission
- Best for: all ages!
Featuring over 150 students in YAAOrchestra, YAACompany & YAAJunior
DISNEY IN CONCERT: A Dream is a Wish transports audiences into the musical world of classic and contemporary Disney Animated Feature films to discover that dreams really do come true. Join YAA as we awaken a little mermaid who longs to be human, a lion cub who struggles to find his place in the circle of life, and two sisters who wish to warm a frozen relationship.
4DMV Kids’ Review
Riveting performance by an all youth ensemble & cast! YAA is the award-winning, premier youth talent development program in the DMV with classes and intensives for kids as early as 3rd grade. From instrumentalists to actors, singers and dancers, this nonprofit thrives on developing the skills of “theatre kids” throughout our area.
I loved the varying levels of talent displayed throughout this performance. From the dancing and singing of the younger kids to the stage presence and voices of the older kids, the dynamic across the age groups drew me in from start to finish. My daughter loved seeing the performance of Frozen, which was saved for last as well as seeing kids her own age on stage. The actor who sang for Sebastian in The Little Mermaid among other roles was PHENOMENAL! These kids are definitely going places with the training received from YAA.
See more performances by Young Artists of America.
SIX the Musical
The National Theatre
Date Reviewed: 11/12/24
- Location: The National Theatre – 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
- Run Time: 80 minutes with no intermission
- Best for: ages 10+ but really all ages may enjoy!
- Food: There’s two bars with snacks; one on the ground floor and one on the third floor.
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.
From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!
4DMV Kids’ Review
My daughter and I LOVE this Broadway musical! This was our second time seeing this amazing, woman-led production. From the actresses to the band on stage; who run the world?? GIRLS
My daughter mentioned her favorite aspects of the show include the outfits and the songs. I love that it’s 80 minutes, which is shorter than most shows we’ve seen at The National Theatre. It felt like the right amount of time, especially with tweens & teens in tow.
This production is mostly song and dance. Each of the six wives details their time with Henry VIII while mixing in modern-day and pop-culture references for kicks and giggles. There are a couple of sexual innuendos that went over my daughter’s head but nothing super obvious. We will definitely support this performance again when it comes back!
See more performances at the National Theatre.
The Lion King Jr.
Encore Stage & Studio
Date Reviewed: 11/08/24
- Location: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre; 125 S. Old Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22204
- Run Time: 1 hour & 15 min. with 15 min. intermission
- Best for: ages 4+
- Food: They have snack packs that include water, chips and snacks for sale. Note that there’s no eating/drinking in the theatre.
In this adaptation of the beloved Disney animated film, young actors bring the story of Simba and his friends to life! The young and carefree lion cub faces serious consequences that force him to flee his kingdom, leaving his cruel uncle Scar to rule in his place.
4DMV Kids’ Review
So inspiring! We loved this majority kid/teen cast & crew led production of The Lion King. This production is a direct reflection of the Disney movie we all love and includes songs and lines exactly as you’ve remembered them.
My daughter mentioned the cast being “kids my age” several times as she detailed her favorite parts of the performance. She loved the parts with the hyenas and the singing/dancing of the Saharan animals. My son’s eyes were glued to the stage for the first half of the performance, which was action-packed.
Something to note about Encore Stage and Studio: While chatting with the Executive Director I learned that they, as a nonprofit, hold open auditions for their performances; meaning they encourage and develop local youth talent. It’s also free of cost for selected participants to perform. How awesome is that!
See more performances at Encore Stage & Studio.
Mean Girls
The National Theatre
Date Reviewed: 10/15/24
- Location: The National Theatre – 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 2000
- Run Time: 2 hours with 20 min. intermission
- Best for: teens & adults
Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.
4DMV Kids’ Review
Best for teens & adults! Much like the movie (& I heard very similar to the musical movie), Mean Girls has plenty of dancing, singing and high school drama. There’s a bit of cursing and sexual references throughout the performance, which again is much like the movie!
Although 2 hours is common for a Broadway musical, this one felt longer than others we’ve seen! My daughter loved it and sang along to the songs. She also left asking a few questions I wasn’t expecting! I recommend this performance for more mature audience groups.
See more performances at The National Theatre!
Spells of the Sea
The Kennedy Center
Date Reviewed: 10/13/24
- Location: The Kennedy Center – 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
- Run Time: 70 min. with no intermission
- Best for: ages 6+
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?
4DMV Kids’ Review
Calling all mermaids and mermen, princesses and princes… This musical tale has beautiful costumes, sea creatures, funny and sad moments and is “magical” from start to finish but “dark at times”. My daughter mentioned the magical part as she described the songs and funny moments. There are themes of loss and grief embedded in the story, which made it dark at times. Even though some of the songs were sad, the beautiful voices kept us wanting more.
Keep an eye on the dynamic between main characters Finley and H.S. Crank. It makes for a good lesson that anyone can become family. My daughter’s favorite character was the princess, who wore a fabulous pink dress and rocked the stage with her vivacious songs. I absolutely recommend this performance for younger & middle school aged kids!
She Persisted
Adventure Theatre & ATMTC Academy
Date Reviewed: 10/05/24
- Location: Glen Echo Park at 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD 20812
- Best for: ages 6+
- Need to know info: This show uses strobe and flashing lights as visual effects. Please be advised that people with photo sensitivity may be affected.
Fourth-grader Naomi’s field trip to a Women’s History Museum turns into a time travel adventure where she encountersinspirational 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.
4DMV Kids’ Review
From the actresses to the production, we loved this performance, which is a little over 60 minutes with no intermission. My daughter (age 10) says her favorite part was seeing the famous figures in vulnerable moments and how they overcame certain situations (paraphrasing). For example, Judge Sotomayor had a situation in her childhood where she didn’t know what to do but she persisted. This performance is best for elementary and middle school kids, most specifically girls but I believe boys can learn a thing or two from it as well. My son (age 5) was a bit disinterested after the first 15 minutes.
See more performances at Glen Echo’s Adventure Theatre.
Winnie the Pooh
Imagination Stage
Date Reviewed: 09/21/24
- Location: 4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, MD 20814
- Best for: ages 3+
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.
4DMV Kids’ Review
My daughter and I both agreed this performance started out a bit slow and picked up towards the end, most specifically the songs. This musical is based on the original A.A. Milne story so you won’t see Tigger, unless you look very closely at Piglet’s costume (there’s a stitched figure of Tigger). I think younger children (ages 2-5) would really get a kick out of the characters and movement on stage and off!
See more performances at Imagination Stage!
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Arena Stage
Date Reviewed: 09/21/24
- Location: Arena Stage ~ 1101 Sixth Street SW Washington, DC 20024
- Run Time: 90 min. with no intermission
- Best for: middle grade and older
Step into the vibrant world of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, a riotously funny yet deeply resonant play by Jocelyn Bioh. Set in the pulsating heart of Harlem, this comedic gem unravels the complexities of cultural identity, assimilation, and the pursuit of the American Dream within the African immigrant community.
4DMV Kids’ Review
SO many good things to say about this performance. From the acting to the cultural references, you’ll think, laugh and shed a tear or two. What I really appreciated about this performance was the display of the realities of immigration. It was both eye-opening and thought provoking. It left my daughter (age 10) with a bunch of questions, which was good exposure to issues she never knew existed. She also wanted to know whether there’ll be a part 2, which is a great question!
See more performances at Arena Stage!
