How to Make Your Child's First Theatre Visit Unforgettable

Published 24 July 2024 at 10:36

Tickikids Blog Singapore >  Parenting >  How to Make Your Child's First Theatre Visit Unforgettable

Theatre is a fantastic destination for family outings. Introducing children to the arts through live performances can ignite their imaginations and provide enjoyment for parents too. However, preparing kids for a first visit to a theatre, finding a suitable show can be challenging!  First kid’s trip to the theatre is one of the most cherished family memories! It is worth introducing your children to live performances from a very young age - as watching their faces light up as the action unfolds on stage is truly magical!

If you've been eager to take your kids to a theatre show but feel uncertain about how to start, you're not alone. You might wonder if your children are ready or feel inexperienced with live shows yourself. Many parents feel nervous, thinking about visiting a theatre with children, especially highly energetic preschoolers. This perspective looks intriguing: Could my kids actually enjoy a live show? How would we actually make that happen?

To help families prepare for their first theatre experience, TickiKids’s going to share some valuable tips!

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Pick the Right Show

While many big shows are not tailored for young audiences, several theatres offer productions specifically for children. Most of venues offer special family-friendly matinees where usual age restrictions are relaxed. Always double-check the age ratings and recommendations before booking!

Shows with short attention spans  are perfect for young kids. Such performances typically have shorter running times and kid-friendly content. Since the audience is usually made up of younger families, you won't feel alone if your kids ask questions, shuffle in their seats, or need a bathroom break during the performance. It’s a great way for families to ease into the world of theatre!

Talk to Your Child About What to Expect

Prepare your child for their theatre visit by watching a preview of the show or reading a related book together! This preparation can make the experience more engaging and less intimidating. Watching a preview provides a visual and contextual understanding of the story, characters, and setting, helping children know what to expect. Reading a related book, such as the story on which the play is based, familiarises them with the plot and themes, sparking their imagination and excitement. This pre-visit activity also opens up discussions about the storyline, allowing parents to explain any complex elements and answer questions. By building this foundation, children are more likely to connect with the performance, enhancing their overall enjoyment and making the theatre visit a memorable adventure.

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Many shows have promotional materials like short videos that can help children know what to expect!

Play Home Theatre

Talking about the art of theatre with kids before their first visit is crucial for creating a positive and enriching experience. Introducing children to the concept of live performances, storytelling, and stagecraft can help demystify the theatre and build anticipation. Parents can play home theatre, encouraging kids to act out stories, use props, and engage in imaginative play. This hands-on approach will make the actual visit less intimidating and more enjoyable. By discussing what to expect, such as the role of actors, the significance of the audience, and the magic of live performance, parents can help children feel more prepared and excited. This preparation not only enhances their understanding and appreciation of the arts but also equips them with the confidence to fully immerse themselves in the theatrical experience.

Attending drama classes can ignite a lifelong interest in theatre. These classes engage children in the art of performance, sparking curiosity and excitement about live shows. By participating in drama activities, children gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of theatre, making them more eager to attend performances regularly. This early exposure fosters a lasting passion for the arts, encouraging children to develop a habit of attending theatre that can continue throughout their lives.

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Pack for Success

When thinking about the first visit to a theatre of a very young child, bring comfort items, quiet fidgets, comfortable clothes, and even snacks. Many theatres allow parents to bring small, easy-to-access snacks and water for kids. If your child is sensitive to loud noises, consider bringing sensory headphones. Check the theatre's bag policy in advance - theatre may allow diaper bags but not backpacks.

Dress up for the Theatre

For the older children’s audience, it is worth considering special outfits for their theatre visit! Dressing up for a show can add to the excitement and make the experience feel more special. Elegant attire, such as a nice dress for girls or smart trousers and a collared shirt for boys, can make the outing memorable and teach children about dressing appropriately for different occasions. While comfort should always be a priority, a little bit of formality can enhance the sense of occasion and contribute to the overall enjoyment of the theatre experience. Encouraging older children to dress up can also instil a sense of respect and appreciation for the performing arts, making the event even more magical and engaging.

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Get Early to Scope Things Out

Arrive early to avoid feeling rushed. Use the bathroom, get a drink, find stroller parking, and locate your seats. Teach young children how to sit properly in a theatre seat ("keep your feet on the floor and your bottom on the seat"). Establish a meeting spot in case you get separated and point out theatre employees as "safe adults" who can help if needed. Also, identify a quiet spot to retreat to if your child becomes overwhelmed.

Relax, Enjoy the Show, and Let Your Kid Be a Kid

The importance of having fun when visiting a theatre for the first time is hard to overestimate! Ensuring that children have a positive and enjoyable experience can shape their appreciation for the performing arts and encourage a lifelong interest in theatre. The most important thing children need to come away with is the sentiment, "It was fun!" This enjoyment helps them associate theatre with positive emotions and exciting memories.

Allow your child to ask quiet questions and enjoy their genuine reactions to the performance, as this engagement helps them feel more connected to the story unfolding before them. Relax and savor the time together as a family, making the most of the shared experience. This can be an opportunity for bonding, creating cherished memories, and instilling a sense of wonder and curiosity in your child. By focusing on fun and enjoyment, you help foster a love for the arts that can last a lifetime, turning each visit to the theatre into a treasured family tradition.

General Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Explain the experience of live theatre step by step: arriving with a large group of people, finding seats, the lights dimming to signal the start;
• Arrive early to secure booster seats and take care of bathroom visits;
  
• Study the theatre map in advance and choose the best seating levels for children, check for baby-changing facilities;
• Matinees are usually more suitable for children than evening performances;
• Research the show beforehand to ensure it’s suitable for your child;
• Teach children appropriate theatre behaviour: the importance of using quiet voices since others can hear them;

Embark on a memorable theatre experience with your family, and enjoy the magic of live performances together!