Northeast Ohio boasts an array of performing arts venues, offering everything from community productions to hit Broadway titles to music concerts and other performances. There are many productions that are made just for kids or are family-friendly. Here’s a look at some of the family-friendly live performances and programs scheduled in 2024.
April 2024
April 19-20
Fairmount Youth Theatre: Seussical Jr. A whimsical journey with Dr. Seuss’ most beloved characters. In this epic tale narrated by the Cat in the Hat, you’ll travel all the way from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus. Follow Horton the Elephant as he navigates his way through danger and uncertainty to protect the Whos and guard Mayzie La Bird’s abandoned egg. Along the way Horton discovers the importance of friendship, loyalty, family and community. Hawken Upper School Auditorium, fairmountcenter.org
April 19-21
The Addams Family. Musical presented by Central Catholic and St. Thomas Aquinas High Schools. Canton Palace Theatre, cantonpalacetheatre.org
April 24
Sesame Street Live! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello. Sing and dance with your favorite furry friends while enjoying fun surprises along the way. KeyBank State Theatre, sesamestreetlive.com
April 25-May 12
The Prom. The Prom expertly captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy with a message that resonates with audiences now more than ever. Weathervane Playhouse, weathervaneplayhouse.com
May 2024
May 3-11
Judy Moody and the Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt. Pirates! Hidden clues! Secret codes and tricky puzzles! A hilarious adventure as the very moody Judy Moody and her little brother Stink embark on a crazy treasure hunt. Most enjoyed by families ages 6 and up. Magical Theatre Co. magicaltheatre.org
May 4
Family Theater Day at Playhouse Square. Playhouse Square’s annual Family Theater Day will feature three ticketed shows and plenty of free-for-all offerings on May 4 in downtown Cleveland. The shows include Poli Pop, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Show Way, the Musical, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and BAM Percussion, 3:30 p.m. playhousesquare.org
May 4-5
Beauty and the Beast. Ballet Theatre of Ohio presents the company premiere. Glistening costumes, breathtaking choreography, and sweeping sets have this new, full-length ballet promising to be a visual delight for all. Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com
May 10-19
The Wizard of Oz. This charming musical features students ages 6-19, with Little Dorothy Gale of Kansas who dreams of what lies beyond the rainbow. Together they learn about friendship, bravery, and ultimately, that There’s No Place Like Home. Beck Center for the Arts. beckcenter.org
May 18-26
The Toothpaste Millionaire. Sixth-grader Rufus Mayflower is aghast when he sees that the price of toothpaste has gone up. He and his friends try to solve this real-life math problem. For kids 8 and older. Accessible performances during the second weekend of each production. Talespinner Children’s Theatre. talespinnercle.org
June 7-9
The Little Mermaid. This Disney favorite features a cast and musicians made up of our area’s most talented high school aged performers and supported by a professional creative team and crew. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com
June 11- July 7
Back to the Future Musical. When Marty McFly finds himself transported back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown. For children ages 6 and up. KeyBank State Theatre. playhousesquare.org
Check out a few tips on taking your child to a live performance.