Can’t-Miss Spring Performances Coming to Philly

Get your tickets and hit the theater with your kids!

March 11, 2020

Spring is coming! And so are Elmo, the Cat in the Hat, Daniel Tiger, and so many more productions sure to delight kids of all ages. Here’s what to look forward to this season in Philly.

Les Misérables

March 17–29

Academy Of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

Do you hear the people sing? A new production of the Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon about love, heartbreak, and redemption in 19th Century France comes to the Academy of Music. From “I Dreamed a Dream” to “One Day More,” practically every song is an unforgettable classic.

Philly POPS presents Disney’s Broadway Hits

April 4, 3 pm

The Met, 858 N. Broad St.

Experience the magic of Disney on Broadway with an unforgettable night of music. Performed by a live symphony orchestra, this major concert event features beloved songs from beloved Disney movies-turned-plays like Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Newsies, and more.

Dear Evan Hansen

April 7—May 3

Forrest Theatre, 1114 Walnut St.

The remarkable Tony Award-Winning Best Musical comes to Philly, with issues of teen mental health, suicide, fitting in, and performative tragedy. The story is compelling, and the songs are even more memorable. Recommended for ages 12 and up (no one under 4 will be admitted). Tickets available online.

Jesus Christ Superstar

April 7—12

Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

The iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber rock opera about the final weeks in the life of Jesus (as seen from Judas’ perspective), this musical celebrates its 50^th anniversary this year! Recommended for ages 10 and up.

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat

April 8—June 7

Arden Theatre, 40 N. Second St.

This production of Dr. Seuss’s treasured children’s story is full of joy and mischief! This production is made especially for kids, and runs one hour with no intermission.

Photograph courtesy of Feld Entertainment

Sesame Street Live

April 16—19

Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad St.

Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party! 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 Big Bird (and two Muppets to be named later) is available as an add-on, where you can also walk on stage, create your own party streamer, and meet Maya Monster in her Information Booth.

Pilobolus: Come to Your Senses

April 16—18

Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut Street

With a mix of beloved classics and new works, Pilobolus brings its signature acrobatics and artistry to the Annenberg Center stage. Please note, this performance contains one piece with partial nudity.

The Johnny Shortcake Show

April 18, 11 am

World Café Live, 3025 Walnut Street

“Suppose your nose was where your elbows goes — would you call them smellbows?” The funky and surreal Johnny Shortcake Show will have you dancing, laughing, and wishing everyday was “Cupcake Tuesday” right alongside your kids! Read more about the man, the music, and the “pop magic” inspiration in our interview.

Wild Kratts Live

April 18

Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.

Help the Kratt brothers save the day in this theatrical stage show based on the hit PBS show. The brothers keep all ages entertained as they activate fan-favorite Creature Power Suits and go “off to the creature rescue” with the help of the Wild Kratts team – and audience members! VIP tickets include admission to a special meet and greet with Chris and Martin Kratt right after the show.

The Life and Times of Beethoven

May 2, 11:30 am

Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.

Featuring the music of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, this Really Inventive Stuff program for families celebrates Beethoven’s 250th birthday and teaches the audience about the composer and his era in fun ways. Enhance your family’s experience with Pre-Concert Adventures, free for all ticket holders, beginning one hour before the concert.

Philadelphia Children’s Festival

May 7—9

Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut St.

The Annenberg Center’s Philadelphia Children’s Festival returns this May for its 35^th year, bringing three days of kid-friendly performances for the whole family, ranging from music to circus arts to storytelling, and so much more. Get your tickets now if you have your heart set on something!

Photograph courtesy of Annenberg Center

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live

May 9

Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood! This live theatrical production based on the popular PBS show is filled with music, dancing, laughter and “grr-ific” surprises to delight all the little ones! VIP Ticket includes a premium seat and a post-show photo opportunity.