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Your Guide to Kid-Friendly Stage Shows in Orlando

Dr. Phillips Center Brings a Season Full of Theater for Young Audiences This Year

Blog Shows
Aug 19

Orlando is packed with exciting things to do with kids: theme parks, beaches, dinner shows and much more. One option often overlooked by both locals and visitors is the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene, especially live theater created for children and families. Taking your little ones to a show is a great way to introduce them to the magic of theater while enjoying a unique screen-free form of entertainment. And when Florida’s heat becomes too much, a cool indoor performance is also a welcome escape.

Getting kids to the theater can feel a bit intimidating. You have to think about pre-show planning, show content and how your child might react to the experience. This guide will help you feel prepared and confident. It also highlights the family-friendly shows coming to Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, which offers a great lineup for young audiences.

Choosing the Right Show

Kid-friendly shows come in all different styles. Some are high-energy with lots of action and audience participation. Others move at a slower pace with more story and quiet moments. Think about your child’s personality. Do they love big, bright, loud productions, or would they enjoy something a little calmer?

It helps to do a little homework. Check out the plot and characters. See if the show has preview videos or social media posts that give you a feel for it. The event page is a great place to start. It's here you’ll find trailers, FAQs or behind-the-scenes clips.

If you’re not sure where to start, pick something based on a TV show or movie your child already loves. Dr. Phillips Center has hosted Bluey’s Big Play in the past, and this season you can catch Peppa Pig: My First Concert and Blippi: Join the Band Tour. For kids who can sit through a movie, the arts center also hosts several films in concert throughout the year. Movies like Moana are played on an oversized projector while a live orchestra performsthe score in synchronicity. Shows like films-in-concert are a great way to introduce kids to the arts while remaining entertaining and engaging.

Special Experiences

VIP and Meet & Greets

Some shows give you the chance to meet the characters after the performance. If your child adores a certain show or character, this can be the highlight of their experience.

Merchandise

Many productions have merch like shirts, plush toys or fun extras that are part of the show experience. If you think your child will want something, plan to browse before the show starts. Arriving early will help you avoid waiting in long merch lines during intermission.

Dressing Up

There’s no strict dress code at Dr. Phillips Center, so wear what makes you comfortable. Some families like to make it extra fun by wearing themed outfits or costumes. Others just keep it casual. Either way works, it’s all about what makes your family happy!

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Before You Go: Planning Essentials

Pick the Right Seat

Once you’ve chosen the right show, it’s time to start planning your visit to the venue. It’s best to buy tickets ahead of time so you can ensure that you have the best seat based on your preferences.

Want to be close to the action? Choose stage-level seats near the front. Prefer a little distance and fewer distractions? Go for balcony seating. Aisle seats are great if you think you might need to step out for a bathroom or sensory break. If your child has trouble seeing over the row in front, ask Guest Services for a booster seat. The team supplies a limited supply of boosters for each performance.

Arrive Early

All guests receive a Know Before You Go email from Dr. Phillips Center that tells you important information like when the building and theater doors open. Arriving early means less rushing and more time to explore before the show begins! Head here to learn more about the venues and more important information.

Parking and Valet

Nearby garages are your best bet, and you can pre-pay for parking to make it easier. Valet service is also available and convenient when traveling with a group. You can also drop off your group at the front entrance before parking. Go here to learn more about parking and valet options.

Concessions

Getting there early also gives you time to check out the building. There are plenty of spots to sit and relax before the show, plus concessions on every floor. Kids love the gummi bears, sour gummi worms, chocolate-covered pretzels and fresh-baked cookies. If the kids need something more filling, grab a cheese and cracker charcuterie box.

Grown-ups can partake in any of the fresh cocktails, wine and beer. And, because many of the concessions have a full bar, kids can get creative with their beverages too. Order a Shirley Temple with a side of gummi bears and they will be hyped for the show.

Bathroom Breaks and Quiet Rooms

Bathrooms are located on every floor, including family restrooms with changing tables. They’re close to the theater entrances so you can get in and out quickly. Most family shows allow reentry, but it’s worth checking with Guest Services just in case.

If you’re seeing a show in Walt Disney Theater, there’s also a quiet room where you can adjust the volume to a more comfortable level. Just let an usher or Guest Services know if you’d like to use it! Learn more about accessibility options here.

Ready to plan your next family outing? Check out the upcoming family-friendly shows at Dr. Phillips Center and grab your tickets early so you don’t miss out.

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