Spring is coming! And so are Elmo, Anastasia, Pinkalicious, PAW Patrol, and so many more productions sure to delight kids of all ages. Here’s what to look forward to this season in Philly.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Through April 28

Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St.

 

Winner of the Tony Award for Best Play, this adaptation of the popular novel is great for teens. See the world through the eyes of a unique fifteen-year-old as he investigates the death of his neighbor’s dog after being accused of the crime. Walnut Street Theatre has included a study guide online for anyone who wants to learn more.

Nickelodeon’s ‘Double Dare’ Live

March 28–29

Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.

 

80s kids rejoice! Double Dare is coming to Philly in all its slime-covered glory! So bring your whole family to share in the fun—you might even get chosen to compete, including the obstacle course! Kids have to be 10 or older to be a contestant, and you have to sign a waiver in advance to be entered into the database for selection. VIP packages include photo ops and a meet-and-greet with Marc Summers.

Pinkalicious: The Musical

March 29–April 13

Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St.

 

This “cupcake-tastic” musical based on the popular kids’ books by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann is a fun and charming story for kids of all ages. Part of the WST for Kids series, this play has a very manageable one-hour runtime.

 

PAW Patrol Live!

April 5—7

Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

 

PAW Patrol: Race to the Rescue is full of music, adventure, teamwork, and all your kids’ favorite pups live on stage. The show is geared towards kids ages 2-6, so it’s a great way to introduce your kids to a theater setting with some familiar faces on stage. The VIP (Very Important Pup) package includes a premium seat, special souvenir gift, and exclusive access to a Meet and Greet with Ryder and two additional PAW Patrol characters after the show.

Sakura Sunday

April 14, 10 am—5 pm

Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, 100 N. Horticultural Dr.

 

The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival closes out with a day-long festival including a full day of performances on multiple stages, including fashion shows, taiko drum and dance, J-pop, and so much more.

Peg + Cat Live!

March 30, 2 pm

Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.

 

Based on the PBS Kids show, this totally awesome musical features wild comedy, countless favorite songs from the show, math, and audience participation to solve a Really Big Problem! Prepare for the show with this free activity guide.

Treasure Island

April 3–June 9

Arden Theatre, 40 N. Second St.

 

Arden stages a retelling of the classic pirate tale by Robert Louis Stevenson. In this version, Emily – a young girl with big dreams – transforms her living room into the wild seas!

 

Anastasia

April 9—14

Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

 

As Anya uncovers her mysterious past as the lost Grand Duchess, you’ll be swept away in 1920s style and show-stopping musical numbers. Journey to the past with the hit Broadway musical adapted from the animated film Anastasia.

Sesame Street Live

April 11—14

Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad St.

 

Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic brings Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster, and the whole gang to Philly this spring! Sing and dance along with your favorite furry friends, and learn something along the way. A pre-show Meet and Greet experience with Elmo (and two muppets to be named later) is available as an add-on.

Sheherazade

April 27, 11:30 am

Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.

 

Using the magic of music and theater, The Philadelphia Orchestra and Enchantment Theater Company bring you the legendary stories of Sheherazade and her tales of 1,001 Arabian nights. Watch these fantastic fables come to life on stage, dramatically portrayed with masks, puppets, magic, and movement.

 

Philadelphia Children’s Festival

May 2—4

Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut St.

 

The Annenberg Center’s Philadelphia Children’s Festival returns this May for its 34^th year, bringing three days of kid-friendly performances for the whole family, ranging from ballet to circus arts, and so much more. Shows include Prince Charming by Pennsylvania Ballet II, circus-style adventure Air Play, music by Moona Luna, and other great performances. Check out our full preview of the festival and get your tickets now if you have your heart set on something!

The Animated Orchestra

May 11, 11:30 am

Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.

 

Kids will learn about the orchestra and its instruments through the help of Ari, a playful ferret, and even be a part of the story! This concert has been designed to create a welcoming environment for families with children with special needs and sensory sensitivities, and anyone who may benefit from being in a more relaxed environment.

Legally Blonde: The Musical

May 14–July 14

Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St.

 

“Omigod, you guys!” This Broadway musical based on the movie is way too much fun! Follow Elle Woods from the sorority house to the courthouse with lots of upbeat music along the way.

 

Lead photograph courtesy of Feld Entertainment.