A Resource Guide for Children's Theater

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If you are a culture vulture like me, you love festival performances of all types, from the circus to historical plays to the corny Shakespeare at Renaissance Fairs.

I have selected a few places where you can take children that are not formal theatre but will prepare them to love the performing arts all their lives.

In the United States, museums and institutions offer engaging theater experiences for children.

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., hosts interactive historical reenactments and storytelling sessions for young audiences.

The Children's Museum of Manhattan in New York City also regularly features theater productions that combine education and entertainment.

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For Spanish-language children's productions:

The Museo del Barrio in New York City, known for its cultural and artistic events, is an excellent choice.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., offers captivating Black history theater experiences for children.

For international options:

Europe: Little Angel Theatre in London is known for its exceptional puppetry performances. South America-Sesc Palladium in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, frequently hosts children's theater productions.

Asia-I Theatre in Singapore is renowned for its imaginative children's plays. Please visit each region's museum websites or local listings for more information and show listings.

Circuses My Mother never missed a circus. She loved them. My husband and I make it a point to see a circus wherever and wherever we can. Today, circuses have abandoned cruel animal practices, but before you go, please check online reviews to ensure that they do not continue some inhuman practices with animals.

Here are some options.

For Children's Theater in the United States:

Smithsonian National Museum of American History (Washington, D.C.):
- Website: National Museum of American History
Children's Museum of Manhattan (New York City):
- Website: Children's Museum of Manhattan
Museo del Barrio (New York City):
- Website: El Museo del Barrio
National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.):
- Website: NMAAHC

For International Options:

Little Angel Theatre (London, Europe):
- Website: Little Angel Theatre
Sesc Palladium (Belo Horizonte, Brazil - South America):
- Website: Sesc Palladium
I Theatre (Singapore, Asia):
- Website: I Theatre

For Circuses:

United States:

Big Apple Circus (Various Locations):
- Website: Big Apple Circus
Circus Flora (St. Louis, Missouri):
- Website: Circus Flora
Circus Smirkus (Vermont and Touring):
- Website: Circus Smirkus

Other Countries:

Cirque du Soleil (Canada and Worldwide):
- Website: Cirque du Soleil
Circo Hermanos Vazquez (Mexico and U.S.):
- Website: Circo Hermanos Vazquez
Cirque Pinder (France):
- Website: Cirque Pinder
Circus Krone (Germany):
- Website: Circus Krone
The Great Moscow Circus (Russia and International):
- Website: The Great Moscow Circus
Circus Oz (Australia):
- Website: Circus Oz

Please note that the availability and schedules of circus performances may vary, so it's advisable to check their official websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on showtimes, locations, and ticket prices. Circuses often travel and may have seasonal performances, so it's worth planning your visit accordingly.