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Taking your child to their first Broadway show is one of those magical parenting moments you’ll both remember forever. The look of wonder on your child’s face as the curtain rises is one you won’t forget, and it’s an experience that can spark a lifelong love of the arts. But let’s be honest: the prospect of choosing the right show can feel overwhelming, especially when tickets often run well over $100 each.
What if you pick something too mature? What if your child gets bored or restless? What if there’s content that leads to awkward conversations on the cab ride back to the hotel? These are completely valid concerns, and you’re not alone in having them.
The good news is that Broadway offers several family-friendly productions featuring characters your kids probably already know and love. With a little planning and the right information, you can set your family up for a successful—and genuinely enjoyable—first theatre experience.
How to Know Your Child is Ready to See a Broadway Show
Before you start browsing showtimes, be aware of the fact that, according to Broadway.com, children under the age of 4 are generally not permitted in Broadway theaters.
This policy is not something to take lightly, because it is in place for good reason. Broadway performances typically run two to three hours, and the environment requires audience members to remain seated and relatively quiet throughout.
This means generally avoiding concession stand trips, bathroom breaks, and question-asking outside of the designated intermission period.
If your child can successfully sit through similar environments, like a two-hour movie at home or in a movie theater with little-to-no interruptions, then they’re likely ready to see a Broadway performance.
As you make your decision, consider these practical factors:
How old is your child, really? Not just their chronological age, but their maturity level. Be honest with yourself here—there’s no shame in waiting another year if your child isn’t quite ready.
What characters do they already love? Familiarity breeds engagement. A child who has watched the movie version dozens of times at home will likely stay more focused during the musical than one seeing completely new characters.
What are the actual restrictions? Most Broadway shows offer a “recommended minimum age” at which children would typically enjoy and understand the show. These are good guidelines, but are not strict cut-offs. On the other hand, an age restriction means children below that age will not be admitted, period. If a show’s website says it doesn’t permit children under 5 and your child is 4, that’s not negotiable—don’t risk showing up and being turned away.
Four Broadway Shows Perfect for Young Theatre-Goers
The Lion King: A Spectacular Choice for Younger Children
If you have a child on the younger end of the spectrum, The Lion King deserves serious consideration. This stunning adaptation of the 1994 Disney film follows young lion prince Simba living in the flourishing African Pride Lands—a story your child has likely already seen and loved at home.
What makes this show particularly appealing for first-time theatre families is its accessibility. The Lion King is recommended for ages 6 and up, however there are no age restrictions. This flexibility means that if you have a mature 4 or 5-year-old who can sit through a full performance, you won’t be turned away at the door.
The show’s visual spectacle—featuring elaborate puppetry, vibrant costumes, and innovative staging—tends to captivate young audiences in ways that keep them engaged throughout. The familiar songs like “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata” give children distinct moments they recognize, which can help them stay connected to the story.
Aladdin: Disney Magic for All Ages
Another excellent option for families with younger children is Aladdin, the adaptation of the 1992 Disney film. The story follows Princess Jasmine of Agrabah who forms an instant connection that leads to romance with Aladdin, a charming street urchin and reformed thief.
Like The Lion King, Aladdin is recommended for ages 6 and up, however there are no age restrictions. This makes it another flexible choice for families with children in that 4-6 age range where you’re not quite sure if they’re ready.
The show features beloved songs your child probably already knows, including “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me.” The Genie character, in particular, tends to be a huge hit with young audiences, bringing comedy and energy that keeps children laughing and engaged.
Wicked: Ideal for Slightly Older Kids
For children ages 8 and up, Wicked offers a fantastic introduction to more sophisticated musical theatre. Based on the 1995 novel, the show offers a look at what happened in the Land of Oz long before Dorothy arrives in The Wizard of Oz.
This is an important distinction for parents: while your child may know Dorothy’s story, Wicked tells a different tale—one about friendship, identity, and what it means to be different. The show is recommended for ages 8 and up, and children under the age of 5 are not permitted.
If your child has seen the classic Wizard of Oz film, they’ll enjoy recognizing familiar elements while discovering a new perspective on the story. The show’s themes of friendship and staying true to yourself resonate well with elementary and middle school-aged children.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: For Your Young Wizards
Does your household include a Harry Potter fan? Harry Potter and the Cursed Child might be the perfect choice. This theatrical production serves as a continuation of the famous book and movie series, following the beloved characters Harry Potter, his rival Draco Malfoy and their sons in a new adventure.
This show has the most specific age requirements of the four recommendations. It is recommended for ages 8 and up, and children under the age of 5 are not permitted. Additionally, ages 15 and under will not be admitted without an adult—so plan to attend together as a family rather than dropping older kids off.
For children who have read the books or watched the films, seeing these characters brought to life on stage creates a uniquely thrilling experience. The theatrical magic used to recreate spells and wizardry is genuinely impressive and tends to leave young Potter fans absolutely spellbound.
