Best Broadway Musicals for Families

The Lion King is frequently recommended as a top choice for families due to its captivating visuals and universal appeal. It is considered a spectacle that can encourage further interest in theater [3:5], [3:7]. Aladdin is another Disney classic that offers a visually stunning experience, though some find it lacking in other areas [2:7].

Shows with Unique Appeal

For families looking for something different, "The Play That Goes Wrong" offers slapstick humor that appeals to all ages [2:1]. Peter Pan Goes Wrong is also noted for its interactive elements and rowdy audience atmosphere, making it suitable for younger viewers [1:4], [1:5].

Musicals with Engaging Themes

& Juliet has been suggested for its clever take on the jukebox musical format and queer themes, appealing to older kids and teens [4:3], [5:1]. Hamilton and Hadestown are recommended for their engaging music and historical or mythological themes [3:1], though Hadestown may not be ideal for very young audiences due to its complex narrative [3:5].

Considerations for Younger Audiences

When considering shows for younger children, it's important to ensure they can sit quietly through longer performances. Wicked, while popular, might be too intense for very young children [2:8]. For those who are unsure about their child's readiness, shorter shows or off-Broadway productions like Sesame Street or The Gazillion Bubble Show could be better options [2:2].

Additional Recommendations

Other notable mentions include Kimberly Akimbo, praised for its mature yet non-violent themes [1:3], and Little Shop of Horrors, which remains a favorite despite being off-Broadway [5:1]. For dance enthusiasts, City Center's ballet events offer an alternative to traditional musicals [4:2].

See less

Helpful

Not helpful

Gigabrain for Chrome works on Bing too.

It's not just for google search! The Gigabrain extension can also bring you the most relevant and informative answers when you search on Bing.

Add to Chrome

Source Threads

POST SUMMARY • [1]

Summarize

Best Shows for Kids

Posted by BreezyFebreezy · in r/Broadway · 2 years ago

26 upvotes on reddit

12 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

ORIGINAL POST

We’re looking to see more shows with our 8 y/o and 6 y/o.

I know this sub tends to frown on kids in Broadway theaters but both are experienced theatergoers and have seen touring productions of Hamilton, Into the Woods, and Six. They are respectful, quiet, and can and do sit still for the duration.

We (the parents) are not particularly into jukebox musicals (we can’t get through the &Juliet recording, but like the Moulin Rouge recording and plan to see the tour.)

We plan to catch Wicked on tour, and the kids aren’t interested in The Lion King or Aladdin.

I’m also not particularly concerned about language or innuendo—innuendo flies over their heads (they loved Six and love the recordings of Beetlejuice and Shucked) and I’m just generally not concerned about exposure to strong language.

12 replies

BreezyFebreezy · OP · 2 years ago

I’m with you—I’m sure our lines are similar!

I have a line for sure (I vetoed Jagged Little Pill and would likely veto Sweeney for the younger one, but not the older one), but it’s further out than most. The 6 y/o was still on the younger half of 5 for Hamilton.

I honestly wonder if my kids (mostly the younger one) would grasp that Kimberly is supposed to be young? It might be an interesting experiment (and they love the music, except ironically the song they did at the Tonys— it’s actually the one they usually ask to skip!)

5 upvotes on reddit

Blowmewhileiplaycod · 2 years ago

Life of pi, while a bit intense, can definitely captivate young kids with the spectacle however there's a bit of a reveal at the end which is rather nasty. It's also not a musical.

Cursed child if they're into potter at all, it's really cool. Worth it for the special effects.

Maybe Kimberly akimbo? Themes are mature but it isn't violent or intense, and it won best musical this year for a reason.

I think if you're looking before it closes however, your best bet is Peter pan goes wrong.

The play that goes wrong off Broadway is also an excellent choice but will likely continue running a while so less urgent.

15 upvotes on reddit

rsqit · 2 years ago

I saw Peter Pan Goes Wrong, and there were lots of children in the audience. It’s also a good show since the audience is expected to be a bit rowdy and there’s some interaction with the cast.

2 upvotes on reddit

BreezyFebreezy · OP · 2 years ago

Thank you!!! It definitely doesn’t need to be a musical! I always forget about Peter Pan Goes Wrong but I think they would love it! :)

8 upvotes on reddit

Fuzzy_Celebration_54 · 2 years ago

I went to see it with my sister who’s 11 and she loved it. It’s a great show for kids!

3 upvotes on reddit

potatocromwell · 2 years ago

Completely agree. I recently saw Annie on tour, and the number of little girls dressed up as Annie made my heart soar. I can’t wait to take my little girl to her first show.

1 upvotes on reddit

Schackshuka · 2 years ago

I recently saw Into the Woods on tour and was surprised how many kids were there—-I think of it as a dark show but remembered that I was eight or so when I got obsessed with it—-and the audience of kids was so well behaved! I love seeing all the lil Sondheim fans.

1 upvotes on reddit

MorningHorror5872 · 2 years ago

I took my daughter to see “Annie” when she was only four and then three years later she landed her first role as Molly! The sooner you expose your kids to shows, the sooner they’ll learn if they are going to catch the bug or not too! Only my youngest really did “catch the bug” but after her very first Broadway show (Cinderella) she pointed to the stage after the performance was over and told me very knowingly “that’s where I want to be someday! “ and she has never looked back!

1 upvotes on reddit

herehaveaname2 · 2 years ago

I saw Six this past week, and thought it was fine. Loved the costumes, but nothing about the show was super memorable to me.....except for the audience. Mostly younger people, a lot of middle school kids by us, and they were having an absolutely amazing time. Being able to see young kids energized by theater? Worth the cost of admission, I'd do that again.

4 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 2 years ago

I don’t think anyone cares about actually well behaved kids being there, and I’ve totally sat next to well behaved children, it’s that many people think their kids are appropriately behaved when they aren’t. But it sounds like Op’s kids already have significant theater experience here

25 upvotes on reddit

ecb0039 · 2 years ago

I JUST got back from a trip to London, and saw it there! I cannot wait to see it on Broadway! Cannot recommend back to the future enough!

3 upvotes on reddit

ThrowAwayJustBcz · 2 years ago

fwiw my opinion is that & Juliet's cast album and promotional materials do a poor job conveying the experience of the show.

I went into it with low expectations as a result and ended up loving it. The show is quite funny and has great energy. It was so fun I actually saw it twice!

8 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/Broadway • [2]

Summarize

Best show for kids/where to get tickets

Posted by Something-creative7 · in r/Broadway · 2 years ago

I’m looking to bring our extended family, including about 2-4 kids (between 5-12) to see a Broadway show soon. Wicked is at the top of my list. I’ve seen it a few times, and have always been spoiled with great orchestra seats. When I went to price the tickets I found that the best seats are about 250/each and was shocked! Are there better places to get tickets or deals, or is that just what it is these days?

Also, any other show recs for kids? Thanks

11 upvotes on reddit

8 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

8 replies

[deleted] · 2 years ago

The minimum recommended age for Wicked, The Play That Goes Wrong, and many other shows being mentioned here is 8.

Unless your 5 year old has demonstrated the ability to sit quietly for 2 1/2 hours, please do not take them to a Broadway show. (See the shocking price of $250, people who pay that don't want their experience disturbed by disruptive children). Sesame Street and the Gazillion Bubble Show are appropriate for 5 year-olds.

49 upvotes on reddit

annang · 2 years ago

I brought a 5 year old to see Wicked a few years ago. But that was only after taking her to a shorter show first, and then to The Nutcracker to test out her behavior. Every time, we got aisle seats, and we had a talk before each show about etiquette and about how we could leave any time if she wanted to talk or felt squirmy. She behaved perfectly. She sat mesmerized, didn’t talk or fidget at all, and had a lot of awesome questions and comments at intermission and after the show. She did awesome, and I’d take her to any show any time, but only because I know her so well and took all those precautions the first few times.

4 upvotes on reddit

Hello_Gorgeous1985 · 2 years ago

Exactly this. Broadway is not the place for little kids unless you know for sure they can sit through a show. Meaning they regularly sit quietly through 2-3 hour movies, etc.

And this is coming from a music teacher who regularly works with young kids. They have a hard time with a 30 minute music class...I'd never bring them to a lengthy stage musical.

5 upvotes on reddit

shipping_addict · 2 years ago

You should always be buying from the official ticket vendor for each show. Just go to each shows website and it’ll tell you which vendor sells their tickets: Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, Telecharge, and TodayTix (for &Juliet at least) are usually what shows officially sell tickets from. Buying from any other sites risks you getting charged huge fees or not being able to get a refund if something happens where you can’t attend your show.

IMO the best show for kids would either be a Disney show (Lion King or Aladdin—Lion King would be my pick of the two) or an off-Broadway show called The Play That Goes Wrong. It’s slap schtick humor and great for all ages.

If you want discounted tickets then go to the TKTS booth (download the app beforehand to see what’s available). Wicked is never at the TKTS booth since it always sells well, plus we’re getting closer to tourist season. Use the site “a view from my seat” if you see a cheaper seat and wanna know what the view is like from that seat. Usually orchestra is gonna be more expensive, but sometimes you can get a better deal if you go to the box office 30 mins before a show and ask what they have available as well.

16 upvotes on reddit

Hello_Gorgeous1985 · 2 years ago

>IMO the best show for kids would either be a Disney show (Lion King or Aladdin—Lion King would be my pick of the two) or an off-Broadway show called The Play That Goes Wrong. It’s slap schtick humor and great for all ages.

Aladdin and Play That Goes Wrong are 8+. Lion King is 6+.

4 upvotes on reddit

QuietTreebook · 2 years ago

Check out Broadway for Beginners' Guide.

As other commenters mentioned, Lion King is a great choice.

I would like to recommend The Blue Man Group at the TKTS Booth. It's not a Broadway show; it's off-broadway and more of a comedic performance. Also cheaper

8 upvotes on reddit

dobbydisneyfan · 2 years ago

Seconding Lion King or Aladdin as a great show to see. Lion King is better.

I don’t know your familiarity with Beetlejuice, but I’m just going to warn you that it is most definitely NOT for kids (a lot of people seem to mistake that it is).

Aladdin is very visually stunning, but pretty weak just about everywhere else.

9 upvotes on reddit

Key-Wheel123 · 2 years ago

Wicked is scary for 5 year olds. Is the 5 year old able to sit still and silently for close to 3 hours? If not, don’t waste your money and time. Also quite rude to everybody else in attendance. Maybe try Sesame Street or another show aimed at children?

8 upvotes on reddit

See 8 replies

r/musicals • [3]

Summarize

best broadway shows to watch with the family?

Posted by Purple_Stick_1179 · in r/musicals · 3 months ago

i have a ten year old brother and i'm watching my first ever broadway show soon with my family! which would you recommend? 🩷

4 upvotes on reddit

8 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

8 replies

uhmnothankyou · 3 months ago

disney is always a good go-to; someone already said it but lion king would be an incredible broadway show. cursed child too if you can snap up tickets

5 upvotes on reddit

accountant2012 · 3 months ago

Hamilton or Hadestown. American history and greek mythology can usually be enjoyed by all. Both also have excellent music.

2 upvotes on reddit

Purple_Stick_1179 · OP · 3 months ago

i would LOVE to see hadestown, but as a first broadway show i’ve heard it’s not the best one to see?? what do you think?

2 upvotes on reddit

Ionan89 · 3 months ago

Hadestown is fantastic, but it's NOT a great choice for a first musical...especially that young. Also, sad or bittersweet endings are way too risky for an introduction to live theater.

The Lion King is also a great musical, but more easily accessible for the inexperienced. The Lion King is a spectacle and is more likely to encourage him to WANT to take a deeper dive into the variety of choices for musicals.

1 upvotes on reddit

accountant2012 · 3 months ago

I think it depends on how much he likes musicals. Maybe play him a couple songs and see how he likes it. Another one that is worth checking out is Operation Mincemeat. The music is excellent, and it is so funny that even if he doesnt love the musical aspect, the jokes he would likely enjoy.

1 upvotes on reddit

Substantial_Room3793 · 3 months ago

I would consider Boop! It is a fun entertaining show that I think the whole family would love.

7 upvotes on reddit

Br00klynBelle · 3 months ago

The Lion King

The opening number brings me to tears every time I see it. It’s amazing!

7 upvotes on reddit

ReBrandenham · 3 months ago

Boop! or Operation Mincemeat imo

2 upvotes on reddit

See 8 replies

r/Broadway • [4]

Summarize

Sending my wife and 13yo dance/theatre loving kid to NYC in a couple of weeks. Looking for recs!

Posted by RonDumsfeld · in r/Broadway · 8 months ago

My wife and kid (bio girl, they/them) are coming to NYC over MLK weekend, and I have been tasked with finding a show for them to attend. They've had a tough year in middle school and I want them and my wife to have a special time and NYC was a great choice as they've never been. But there's so much to choose from! Let me tell you about my kid, in hopes that will narrow it down:

My kid LOVES dance. They really wanted to see Alvin Ailey but will just miss their January show window. Likewise the big ballet companies. I might send them to the Joyce for the dance show going on there. For a musical, I'd prefer a show with great dancing. (Chicago?)

They are queer. This is relevant because they really relate to stories around the Queer experience. (Cabaret?).

They loved Six when it came through our city but my wife did not. They've both seen Wicked live too, and 2x in the movies, so that's out.

That's where I'm at. I've read a ton of recommendations for Maybe Happy Ending but it doesn't really check the boxes I'm looking for. Maybe it's so good that I shouldn't care. MJ might be good, too.

Anyways, I am now looking to the wisdom of this sub. Thanks in advance for any help!

5 upvotes on reddit

5 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

5 replies

16note · 8 months ago

You’ve got some great recommendations for musicals, so I’ll steer in the dance direction.

City Center is having the IBStage Stars Gala over MLK Weekend, which should have a bunch of ballet superstars in case they want to see some real dance-y dance!

1 upvotes on reddit

an-inevitable-end · 8 months ago

& Juliet! It’s a jukebox musical but done in a very clever way, and it has queer themes.

1 upvotes on reddit

RonDumsfeld · OP · 8 months ago

Wow, what a fun thing to wake up to! You all really came through and I appreciate it. Leaning toward the All Star Ballet event + TBD Broadway show. When this is all over I am going to show my kid this thread, so they can see that "it gets better" and there are many kind souls in the world.

This was very uplifting. Thank you all.

1 upvotes on reddit

theatrefan2 · 8 months ago

& Juliet

1 upvotes on reddit

False_Ride · 8 months ago

Thought I’d give feedback on ones I haven’t seen mentioned. A lot of it will be determined by your content comfort level. I took my 11yo to SIX last year, but I don’t think she’s ready for Book of Mormon, so a lot of that will be up to you to research…

Hamilton - still too expensive imo but has great choreo and good youthful energy. PG-13, swear words, one sexy song, and a couple of F Bombs

Little Shop of Horrors - haven’t seen this current production, but this is a great show for her age

Urinetown - a very sharp musical, very funny, but satirical in a way a kid their age can grasp (likewise with Little Shop)

Book of Mormon - okay, this is a mature show, and it really depends on your child’s maturity level and your comfort level with the content. I list it because, well, 13yo me would have found it hilarious and awesome, but then I also know adults that I still wouldn’t suggest it to. It has great choreography, an especially great tap number called “Turn It Off” (it also features this hilarious line of peak satire: “Imagine that your mind is made of tiny boxes, ya find the box that’s gay and CRUSH IT!!!” Which, I think your kid will dig and find hilarious) If they are allowed to watch South Park style content, give the soundtrack a listen and then make the decision.

And, I don’t wanna tell you how to live your life, but you should see SIX again, it’s so worth it. We sat center row upper balcony and still had an awesome view and experience since it is so concert like.

Tip #1 - don’t buy tickets online unless it looks like the show will sell out, because those fees are ridiculous. If possible, wait until you are in the city and go to the box offices. You should also look into “rush” tickets, which are generally steeply discounted.

Tip #2 - Cosmic Diner in the Theater District is a great spot, good service. It’s on 8th between 52nd and 53rd. Order the Diner Lobster.

1 upvotes on reddit

See 5 replies

r/Broadway • [5]

Summarize

Best show for teens

Posted by Mega-thrasher545 · in r/Broadway · 6 months ago

We are planning a trip with our 2 teens (boy and girl) and would like suggestions of something they would enjoy. Wicked would end up costing us $1100 and waiting for a lottery is too risky.

Our kids have not been to a Broadway show, so I am not sure they would like something heavy on singing/dancing ( I hope that does sound odd). Old posts suggest Beetlejuice and Little Shop of Horrors, but they are no longer playing.

8 upvotes on reddit

5 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

5 replies

alyoop50 · 6 months ago

I would see The Outsiders. It is incredible, dramatic with serious themes, but very entertaining and moving. They are probably familiar with the book as well. Try to get well priced tickets through Todaytixcom or Broadwaybox.com for better prices, or go directly to the box office.

1 upvotes on reddit

Sea-Examination-5512 · 6 months ago

Hadestown!

1 upvotes on reddit

netflixnpoptarts · 6 months ago

No ones said Harry Potter yet but that’s a crowd pleaser of a show

1 upvotes on reddit

eringobrah21 · 6 months ago

Maybe Happy Ending was great (with Darren Criss from Glee).

1 upvotes on reddit

majelbstoat · 6 months ago

Maybe a strange call, but I’d suggest & Juliet. They’ll probably be familiar with a bunch of songs, and maybe also at least the premise of the story? It’s light and easy and funny. Simple empowerment message. I’ve recommended it to a bunch of families with teens, and they’ve all seemed to enjoy it.

Little Shop is still playing though! It’s just off-Broadway at the Westside Theatre.

1 upvotes on reddit

See 5 replies

r/Broadway • [6]

Summarize

Is The Play That Goes Wrong good for kids? First show for us, feel free to recommend others!

Posted by desertlefty · in r/Broadway · 3 months ago

Heading to NYC soon and we want to go see some sort of show as a family. On or off Broadway. 3 boys aged 9-11. Aladdin is an option but it’s quite expensive. TPTGW is like half the price. I’ve never seen a show in my life so I’m going in blind here. What do yall recommend?

47 upvotes on reddit

7 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

7 replies

Ornery-Ad-5696 · 3 months ago

I don't recall any strong language or overtly adult situations. Some of the spoken humor might go over their heads but they would find the slapstick funny. Keep in mind it is like the Three Stooges or Looney Tunes where ridiculous things happen and people get hurt in a silly way.

To get a flavor of it, watch their other show The Peter Pan that Goes Wrong online. It's very similar in tone and action. https://youtu.be/6H1UjfpPf48

20 upvotes on reddit

xaledonia · 3 months ago

There's also their series, The Goes Wrong Show, that's available on YouTube. It has ads, though. The episode "90 Degrees" is my favorite. Legit couldn't breathe from laughing so hard. Edit: search for the goes wrong show in the search bar on YouTube and the "free with ads" playlist should popup.

They also have A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong, but it looks like they took it down because I can't find it anymore.

5 upvotes on reddit

KvnComma · 3 months ago

Saw it a few years back, I think it’s perfect for kids! The humour is very visual and very physical. Some of the more clever bits, pop culture references, set ups and pay offs might go over their heads but I think the slapstick humour would work for them!

I do know some adults who found it a bit crude or lame, but I’ve not heard of kids who didn’t enjoy it

74 upvotes on reddit

EmergencySundae · 3 months ago

Yes, saw it last year when my kids were 13 & 9. They loved it.

7 upvotes on reddit

DramaMama611 · 3 months ago

It's very silly - it would be terrific.

49 upvotes on reddit

CarlosHDanger · 3 months ago

I saw it last year in a theater full of kids. They were all laughing their heads off. I am taking my 9 year old granddaughter next month, since I know she’ll love it.

9 upvotes on reddit

realitytvjunkie29 · 3 months ago

When I saw it there were a LOT of kids in the audience and they loved it. Fun night for the whole family it seemed.

8 upvotes on reddit

See 7 replies

r/Broadway • [7]

Summarize

Broadway for kids

Posted by socal-sally · in r/Broadway · 1 year ago

I’m finally bringing my little theatre kid (she’s 8) to NYC for spring break in April. I’d like to see two (age-appropriate) shows while we are there and am wondering if there’s any show that’s not obvious that I should take her to! Right now I’m deciding between Wicked, &Juliet, Six or Little Shop of Horrors. In terms of preference, she’s seen Cats and The Lion King on tour and loved them both. We’re going to see the touring Aladdin show next month. She loves watching Hamilton on Disney+ and knows all the music but never makes it through watching the whole show in one sitting. She’s about to have her first real role on stage in Annie (she’s playing Molly). So… that’s a lot but I’d love to hear about what other kids have loved and if there’s anything else I should think about before I buy the tickets! Thanks for any and all advice…

3 upvotes on reddit

12 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

12 replies

hnz13 · 1 year ago

I recommend Wicked for sure.

31 upvotes on reddit

leslie_knopee · 1 year ago

you will literally blow your child's mind at wicked!!! she will love it forever!!!

also, I hope Shrek is touring near you soon! because that is a MUST SEE!!!

5 upvotes on reddit

Forsaken_Bison_8623 · 1 year ago

My 8 year old has been to Six, & Juliet, Wicked, Frozen, and Beetlejuice

Top two for her were Wicked and & Juliet. She's actually totally obsessed with & Juliet now, singing along with the album often and playing the roles. Highly recommend those two for this age

Enjoy! So fun to share Broadway with the next generation

9 upvotes on reddit

socal-sally · OP · 1 year ago

I just have a feeling about & Juliet. She’s a little pop diva and will likely know most of the originals already. And she knows the basic premise of Romeo & Juliet, I think I explained it in context of the Taylor Swift song. (Plus, I have a degree in literature and wrote my thesis about it, LOL.) I think she’ll love it, and I know I will!

4 upvotes on reddit

Forsaken_Bison_8623 · 1 year ago

It was amazing, really wonderful show. And so fun to see them get into the backstreet boys songs of our youth lol

We did Six the night before &Juliet and she enjoyed Six (and the inappropriate things did go over her head) but & Juliet took the top spot immediately and she's been talking about it and singing it ever since. Have so much fun!

3 upvotes on reddit

eczemaaaaa · 1 year ago

My votes are for Wicked and Little Shop of Horrors. I just saw Little Shop a few months back and it was phenomenal and hilarious!

6 upvotes on reddit

Snarkosaurus-Rex · 1 year ago

Six is a tight 90 mins with no intermission. There is some sexual innuendo, but not a ton, and it may honestly go over her head. The current cast is exceptional, the show is high energy, and the overall message is girl power/connection over competition.

19 upvotes on reddit

KnitMama-2016 · 1 year ago

Current cast RULES.

5 upvotes on reddit

Snarkosaurus-Rex · 1 year ago

I just saw them and was absolutely blown away.

2 upvotes on reddit

Snarkosaurus-Rex · 1 year ago

Though now I'm remembering that All You Wanna Do is pretty intense, so maybe listen to the cast recording yourself before you decide!

9 upvotes on reddit

MysteriousVolume1825 · 1 year ago

This is awesome. She’s going to remember this for the rest of her life

Wicked would be great!

17 upvotes on reddit

socal-sally · OP · 1 year ago

My parents brought me when I was maybe 10 and I saw 42nd Street. I will never forget it either. ❤️

6 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/Broadway • [8]

Summarize

An 11 year old’s reviews of Wicked, & Juliet, Six, Hamilton and Aladdin

Posted by Vegetable-Run-530 · in r/Broadway · 5 months ago

I was inspired by another post that included a child’s reviews. My 11 year old daughter and I love seeing shows together and I always check Reddit before I buy tickets. Here’s our feedback (hers, then mine) about current Broadway shows. Hope it’s helpful!

Wicked - 10/10 - Sets, music and costumes are amazing. It is a classic, you just have to see it. Ages 7 and up would enjoy it. I prefer the play to the movie. (My take - it's a spectacle and a fun night out. Crowd pleaser for a family with kids of all ages. Some knowledge of the Wizard of Oz would be helpful. Maybe a quick plot overview for younger kids - lots of storylines, can be a little tricky to follow on first watch.)

& Juliet - 10/10! 100%! Great storyline, it shows a lot of modern love - like with boys dating boys. The music is fantastic for a jukebox musical. The dancing and costumes are amazing. The sets are amazing. All ages would enjoy it. (My take - this one was the most fun. I've seen it three times now. It's perfect for millenials who grew up with early 2000s pop music. It has a female empowerment message and a storyline that's easy to follow. Perfect pick for tweens/teens. Some background on the basics of Romeo & Juliet would be helpful, but not necessary.)

Hamilton - 10/10 Great for older ages. Amazing music. Some of the best dancing in the world. Ages 10 and up because the content was a little inappropriate for children, like death and shooting and inappropriate words. It feels like you're there because of the dancing and the sets. (My take - still worth seeing in person even if you've watched it a million times on Disney+. Powerful story that holds up. Some of the songs/rapping is fast and might be hard for a child to follow if they were seeing it for the first time and didn't have any background info. The duel scene is emotional - could be tough for a younger/more sensitive child.)

Six - 9/10 - Amazing musical. The colors are great. It didn't really have a story, it was mainly focused on music - no strong plot. The costumes are phenomenal. Ages 9 and up would like it because there was a little more inappropriate content - inappropriate words and showy costumes. (My take - 90 minutes, no intermission, concert style. Great female empowerment message. Definitely some inappropriate content and references that went over her head. Even with no knowledge of Henry VIII, children would definitely still enjoy it because it's essentially a pop concert with impressive visuals and vocals. Meeting the queens at the stage door afterwards was a lot of fun.)

Aladdin - 8/10 - Definitely all ages. It was great because of the amazing sets and costumes and dances. I rated it lower because kids my age wouldn't really be as into it because it's geared toward younger children. Overall it's a great musical. It's a great first show to see on Broadway. It has easy concepts. (My take - great for younger kids...Disney knows how to capture their attention. Very impressive and fun. A no-brainer for family-friendly entertainment.)

i.redd.it

52 upvotes on reddit

10 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

10 replies

dobbydisneyfan · 5 months ago

I agree with all of your guys’ assessments except Aladdin. I honestly think that even its target audience could get bored with it as it is quite long at a cool 2.5 hours (the movie is 1.5 hours for comparison), mediocre energy throughout (based on my experience and pretty much the experience of anyone I’ve ever read), a completely bland and unmemorable ending, and like two good sequences. Also the elimination or major changing of loved characters.

Somehow it still sells tickets though.

6 upvotes on reddit

Vegetable-Run-530 · OP · 5 months ago

I see what you mean. It was her first Broadway shows, so obviously a big step up from our local high school/community theater productions. Our Genie (Michael James Scott) was fun, but she put it at the bottom of her list without a second thought.

6 upvotes on reddit

dobbydisneyfan · 5 months ago

That man I’m fairly certain was my Genie all the way back in 2019. Felt he was good but that he didn’t have a whole lot to work with

2 upvotes on reddit

Busy_Strategy_7758 · 5 months ago

I felt like this when I saw the NT. Genie was great and Friend Like Me had to be one of my favorite scenes I've seen on stage, but the rest of the show falls kinda flat and un-immersive. Still worth seeing though if you like the movie.

2 upvotes on reddit

unomasme · 5 months ago

I absolutely adore all these parents getting their kids excited about theater!

1 upvotes on reddit

Vegetable-Run-530 · OP · 5 months ago

Yes! I just bought tickets for Hell’s Kitchen and Moulin Rouge. I was on the fence about both of them, and it was so helpful to read other people’s experiences.

2 upvotes on reddit

narwhal_knitting · 5 months ago

I had my kid rank shows in order of her top ones to try to see, with a goal of making 4 shows if we can find deals on 1 or 2 of them. Her current order is 1) Maybe Happy Ending, 2) & Juliet, 3) Outsiders, and 4) Little Shop of Horrors. (Wicked is #5, but we'll give the lottery a shot for any on her top 10 to see what happens.) Six would have been up there, but she recently saw the national tour & some teens from her local theater group put on the teen version of Six. (She loves that show, but let me tell you that watching a 15 year old play the role of Katharine Parr makes her life story even more upsetting.)

Hope you have fun on your next 2! Just saw Moulin Rouge tour as a birthday present for my mom, but we just did that one with the adults in the fam. It is quite the spectacle as far as big shows.

1 upvotes on reddit

Vegetable-Run-530 · OP · 5 months ago

Please let me know how it goes! We’re planning to catch the Outsiders on tour this winter, and adding MHE to the list for a future trip. I was looking into John Proctor is the Villain but she’s not quite old enough. I felt like Boop was an obvious choice for us, but for some reason, I just couldn’t get excited about it. Hopefully my two picks aren’t too mature for her - having a tween can be tricky.

2 upvotes on reddit

narwhal_knitting · 5 months ago

This is a great idea. I may see if my 10yo wants to do similar after our trip. It's helpful to have the kid/tween's perspective, as I will sometimes see people ask about recommendations for certain ages and some of them feel like younger recs to me. (such as your kid's perspective on Aladdin)

8 upvotes on reddit

AutoModerator · 5 months ago

It looks like you've shared an image. If this image is of a Playbill or stage, we ask that you provide your thoughts on the show[s] you saw in order to make your thread stand out and help the community enjoy your experience as well. Without context your photo is just another picture of a Playbill or a stage, and on a sub of far over 100k subscribers, If you don't want to share your experience... consider sharing it on your own social media! This is an automated message, if it is not applicable please report this comment.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

1 upvotes on reddit

See 10 replies

r/Broadway • [9]

Summarize

Show suggestions for an almost-6 year old girl who loves Broadway!

Posted by True-Day-9332 · in r/Broadway · 2 months ago

Last year I took my daughter to her first Broadway show, and she loved it. I get all tickets through lottery or sales, keeping an eye for both Broadway and Off Broadway. So far together we've seen: -Once Upon a Mattress -Lion King -Elf -Annie -The Play that Goes Wrong -Aladdin -&Juliet

As we see the ones I know she'll like, I'm running out of new ones to try for :). The ones I keep trying for now are quite difficult to get. They are: -Hamilton (I know, impossible, but we both love the soundtrack and have seen the Disney+ showing) -Wicked -Little Shop of Horrors -Maybe Happy Ending

Are there others I'm not thinking of that may be good ones? I think the following may be too risqué for her, but I'd love to hear otherwise - Six, Gypsy, Moulin Rouge, Chicago.

She's a very well-behaved theatre goer (in fact, she makes comments to me post-show about other attendees that talked too much or leaned forward haha). I know I lucked out!

11 upvotes on reddit

12 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

12 replies

AccidentalAllegro · 2 months ago

I think Six would be fine. It’s overall loud and fun and while “all you wanna do” is both a bit racy and sad, I imagine it would go over her head. There were lots of kids there when I saw it

Edit: also mamma Mia will be here soon and that’s a good one to take her to so I’d keep an eye on that

21 upvotes on reddit

happily-caffeinated · 2 months ago

I agree with these. I didn’t even really catch the raciness in SIX until my teen started listening to the soundtrack on repeat after we saw it, and I really started listening to the lyrics. The songs are really fun/catchy, in general.

We saw Mamma Mia very recently on tour, and it was very much an all-ages audience. That’s another fun one where the more adult themes are likely to go over your daughter’s head.

8 upvotes on reddit

SonjasInternNumber3 · 2 months ago

Good to know about Six! Saw lots of mixed reviews, my child really wants to see it lol

3 upvotes on reddit

AccidentalAllegro · 2 months ago

The cast recording is like 90% of the show so you can always listen in advance if you’re worried !

3 upvotes on reddit

Vegetable-Run-530 · 2 months ago

I was going to say the same thing about Six! I brought my 10 year old daughter and there were lots of young girls in the crowd.

5 upvotes on reddit

IWTLEverything · 2 months ago

My six year old loves both Six and Mamma Mia. Six was actually her first show and it turned out to be perfect for her. No “bad guy” that would scare her, its super short, pro-girl, catchy music, innuendo went over her head.

2 upvotes on reddit

Odd_Pause5123 · 2 months ago

Just saw Wicked on Bway again after 15 years It has become a kids show, with lots of girls there as young as 6.

13 upvotes on reddit

butterflyvision · 2 months ago

Mamma Mia is one of the most family friendly shows ever lmao.

12 upvotes on reddit

sparkmel_90 · 2 months ago

If you can see Boop before it closes definitely see that. My six year old loved it

58 upvotes on reddit

Odd_Pause5123 · 2 months ago

Boop. One of the main characters is a teen-age girl. Lots of dancing, colorful costumes and a cute dog.

18 upvotes on reddit

penrph · 2 months ago

Boop!!! Very family friendly and so much fun!

23 upvotes on reddit

AccidentalAllegro · 2 months ago

I just don’t think a 6 year old is really going to get that, it’s just going to be fun music and dancing and a wedding. I’m sure she has friends with blended families and such .

8 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/AskNYC • [10]

Summarize

What Broadway show should I see as a tourist?

Posted by Appropriate_Fan5547 · in r/AskNYC · 6 months ago

Hey y'all, I'm visiting NYC in March with a couple of friends, and I want to get everyone tickets to a Broadway show.

I'm struggling to choose a show though, since they all seem so good! I'm stuck between the following and would love some input from the community.

Hamilton
Wicked!
Hadestown
Little Shop of Horrors

I'm personally leaning towards Little Shop of Horrors; but, I worry that we'll miss out on some of these other amazing performances that are well know to be solid shows.

Thougths?

6 upvotes on reddit

7 replies

Helpful

Not helpful

View Source

7 replies

MerrilyDreaming · 6 months ago

Don’t buy from Broadway.com - they charge tons of fees. Either buy directly through the show websites or from todaytix.

Little shop of horrors is a great show (technically off broadway if being able to say you saw something “on Broadway” is important to you). It’s so Much campy fun, the theater is really intimate and the puppet is cool.

You can’t go wrong with Hadestown or wicked either. Hadestown is such a beautiful but tragic show and the set is unique and the tour set isn’t the same. Wicked is just very flashy and everything you’d expect from a Broadway show. And of course it’s having quite the moment.

I’d probably skip Hamilton unless you know you love it. You can always watch the proshot on Disney plus.

13 upvotes on reddit

Culturejunkie75 · 6 months ago

Hadestown is one of my favorite shows. I love how it uses the space and the score. There are a lot of call backs musically in the second act to the first act.

Wicked and Hamilton are excellent but I agree that you can experience some of the magic with the movies.

I haven’t seen the most recent little shop of horrors but it is the most campy of all these options. Hard to know if you like that campy over the top vibe or not.

8 upvotes on reddit

cogginsmatt · 6 months ago

Little Shop is technically off-Broadway. It's a fantastic production and tickets are a lot easier to come by than the other three. I haven't seen the others but have only heard good things about them.

10 upvotes on reddit

CantoErgoSum · 6 months ago

Seconded Little House. I saw it a week ago and it was a blast.

0 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 6 months ago

FYI, outside of the really popular ongoing stuff, there's a production of Glengarry Glen Ross this month that has a killer cast, if that's your kind of thing. Kieran Culkin, Bill Burr, Michael McKean, Bob Odenkirk.

16 upvotes on reddit

Dry-Train8749 · 6 months ago

Just bought tickets for GGR in May. I generally can't bring myself to gamble time and money on such an awkward and contrived form of storytelling as live theatre in a large venue, but with a cast like that and such a touchstone play, I have enough faith they can pull it off. And if they don't, I'll be able to shit-talk it with authority.

-3 upvotes on reddit

jaded_toast · 6 months ago

No bio available

24511

Karma

260

Posts

5136

Comments

View Profile

Chat w/ Profile AI

theatrefan2

No bio available

Karma

Posts

Comments

View Profile

Chat w/ Profile AI

AI Answer

🤖

best broadway musicals for families

Key Considerations for Family-Friendly Broadway Musicals

Content Appropriateness: Ensure the musical has themes and language suitable for children and families. Look for shows that are light-hearted and fun.
Engaging Storylines: Choose musicals with captivating stories that can hold the attention of both kids and adults.
Catchy Music: Look for shows with memorable songs that are enjoyable for all ages. A good soundtrack can enhance the experience.
Visual Appeal: Musicals with vibrant sets, costumes, and choreography can be particularly engaging for younger audiences.
Positive Messages: Consider shows that promote values such as friendship, kindness, and perseverance.

Top Recommendations:

The Lion King: A visually stunning adaptation of the beloved Disney film, featuring memorable music by Elton John and Tim Rice. It’s great for all ages and has a powerful message about family and responsibility.
Wicked: This musical offers a unique twist on the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and is filled with catchy songs and a strong friendship theme. It’s suitable for older children and teens.
Aladdin: Another Disney classic brought to life on stage, featuring colorful visuals, great music, and a fun story that appeals to families.
Matilda the Musical: Based on Roald Dahl's beloved book, this show is both humorous and inspiring, with catchy songs and a strong message about standing up for oneself.
Annie: A timeless classic about optimism and resilience, featuring well-known songs like "Tomorrow." It’s a heartwarming story that resonates with families.

Takeaway: These musicals not only entertain but also provide valuable lessons and memorable experiences for families. Be sure to check age recommendations and reviews to ensure the best fit for your family!

Still looking for a better answer?

Get more comprehensive results summarized by our most cutting edge AI model. Plus deep Youtube search.

Try Gigabrain Pro for Free

Add to Chrome