So much entertainment coming to the Kennedy Center and more venues around DC!
With the new season comes a whole new line-up of shows for young audiences. Here’s where you can catch live entertainment around the DC area throughout spring. Tickets are available for just about all of them now, so go save your seats!
Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 1-2
Admission: $20
Ten-year-old Belinda loves to tell stories, but when she’s in the basement preparing for a party upstairs, she’ll have to get creative. Using everyday objects like a teapot and doily, Belinda recreates the classic tale of Cinderella. Glass Half Full Theatre from Austin, Texas, presents its award-winning “story within a story” using puppetry, Spanish, and English. Recommended for ages 5+.
This is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 2, 2pm & 4pm
Admission: $18
Jacqueline Woodson’s book, This is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration, has been set to music by young Black composer Quinn Mason, and will be performed by the National Symphony Orchestra with the author herself as narrator. The story follows three generations of a Black family who moves from the South to Harlem, New York seeking better opportunities and equality, as more than six million African American families did during the Great Migration in the early 1900s through the 70s. As the family moves and grows, they take with them a piece of rope that helps them in normal aspects of life, but really symbolizes their cultural bonds, progress, and hope. Recommended for ages 7+.
The Jungle
Where: Harman Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through April 16
Tickets: $59-135
Welcome to The Jungle where cultures collide and thousands dream of crossing the English Channel to the possibility of freedom. Laughter, tears, allegiances, and prayers are shared by this extraordinary community of refugees caught up in a global crisis beyond their control. Recommended for ages 12+.
Shout Sister Shout
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through May 13
Tickets: (look for discount)
Based on Gayle F. Wald’s book Shout, Sister, Shout!, this new musical tells the story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe—one of America’s most influential rock, R&B and gospel crossover singers and guitarists. Ambitious, courageous and uncompromisingly public, Tharpe became a pioneer of the women’s movement for racial and sexual equality and musical legend who redefined the national and international music scene in the 1930s and 40s and beyond. Dive into Cheryl L. West’s spirited, authentic and emotionally charged story about a charismatic music forerunner and the authentic roots of rock-and-roll. Recommended for ages 12+.
The Hula Hoopin’ Queen
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Tickets: $12-39
Kameeka is confident that today she will finally beat her rival, Jamara, and become the Hula-Hoopin’ Queen of 139th Street in Harlem. But she has to prepare for Miz Adeline’s birthday party, and almost ruins the day. Until Miz Adeline confesses that she’s also got the itch–the hula-hoopin’ itch! Her fingers start snappin’. Her hips start swingin’. Soon everyone’s hips are swinging as the party spills out onto the street.
Sleeping Beauty on Strings
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Through April 9
Admission: $15
In the Puppet Co.’s version of Sleeping Beauty, a funny frog storyteller ribbits the tale of offended fairies, silly royalty, and magic spells. Relive this classic fairy tale in this lovely Legacy rod-puppet show. Directed by Elizabeth Dapo. Recommended ages 4+. Run time approximately 45 minutes.
RiverRun Festival
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: Through April 22
Admission: Varies by event (some free)
This international festival celebrating the world’s rivers is bringing all kinds of performances and events from across the globe to the Kennedy Center. Live entertainment includes concerts, dance performances, a youth orchestra, a play for kids and families, and more. See the website for the full schedule.
Wake Up, Brother Bear
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 8
Tickets: $12-39
Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in an unforgettable theatre experience. Recommended for ages 1-5.
Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Through April 23
Tickets: $76-95
Tony Kushner’s Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning drama Angels in America is one of the great epic American plays of this past century. We meet Louis and Prior and Harper and Joe, two couples whose relationships are on the rocks; the former because of Prior’s AIDS diagnosis and Louis’ inability to cope with illness, and the latter because of Joe’s closeted homosexuality and Harper’s incessant fears and hallucinations. Recommended for teens and older.
Millennium Stage
Where: Kennedy Center
When: Wednesday – Sunday, 6pm
Tickets: Free
The Kennedy Center presents these free performances Wednesday – Sunday at 6pm, and the public is welcome to enjoy them. The acts span the genres — you can see everything from contemporary dance to folk music to film screenings to comedy shows to opera scenes. This is a great series to keep in mind for whenever you’re looking for some free, easy entertainment. Just be sure to reserve tickets in advance!
King Lear
Where: Klein Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 30 – April 16
Tickets: $55-135 (look for discount)
Caught in a carousel of memory, the head of a dysfunctional royal family grapples with power-hungry children and the threat of losing the empire he created. Real and imagined worlds coalesce, creating a political and personal horror that threatens to swallow the mind of the monarch. The incomparable Patrick Page (Hadestown, The Gilded Age) returns to STC as the once-revered king caught in an emotional hurricane ravaging his home, head, and heart.
Jennifer Who is Leaving
Where: Roundhouse Theatre | Bethesda, MD
When: March 30 – May 7
Tickets: $39-81
Nan is working the night shift, fielding periodic calls from her retired husband with questions about reheating dinner and where his car keys are. Jennifer is trying to tune out Joey, her elderly patient who is relishing getting on her last nerve. And Lili is stressing out about her upcoming SATs. Set in a Dunkin Donuts on the side of a Massachusetts highway, Jennifer Who Is Leaving is a familiar and hilarious exploration of the expectations placed on women; the physical, mental, and emotional labor of being a caregiver; and what happens when we reach our breaking point. Recommended for teens and older.
My Fair Lady
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 6-9
Tickets: $45-115 (look for discount)
The Broadway hit My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?
The Washington Ballet: Aurora’s Wedding
Where: Capital One Hall | Tysons, VA
When: April 7-9
Tickets: $48+
Join The Washington Ballet for a 90-minute, family-friendly performance featuring Act III of The Sleeping Beauty. Fans of Puss-in-Boots, Red Riding Hood, Princess Florine, and all the classic characters will be delighted. Plus, TWB will perform Balanchine’s Theme and Variations, the iconic classic ballet for new & seasoned fans alike. Go early for the matinee performances for Family Fun Events that feature photo opportunities with dancers, coloring stations, and more. Use code BEAUTY at purchase for 30% off your tickets.
Once Upon a Moon
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: April 12-14
Tickets: $3-9
Let’s go to the moon! Celebrate the spirit of the Apollo landing in this exciting, interactive show for our youngest audiences. Performers and exquisite puppets spin new and old stories about the moon’s magic, create a “living exhibit” of its phases, and introduce the amazing science that brought us to its surface. You might even get the chance to be a moonwalking astronaut. Recommended for ages 4-7.
Rocknoceros Concert
Where: Jammin Java | Vienna, VA
When: April 15, 11am (doors open at 10am)
Tickets: $10
Rocknoceros is returning to Jammin Java with a new show called “All About the Sprout.” The concert will include classic Rocknoceros songs and new music about seeds, sprouts, and spring. Seating is first some, first served. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
Disney’s Aladdin
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 19-30
Tickets: $29-155 (look for discount)
Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical.From the producer of The Lion King comes the timeless story of ALADDIN, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Where: The Puppet Company | Glen Echo, MD
When: April 20 – May 21
Tickets: $15
Enjoy this multimedia Legacy production that tells the story of a lazy lad whose life changes because of some magic beans! Using rod puppets and full masks and costumes, TPC fans may recognize The Giant from our annual Nutcracker show. Directed by Danny Pushkin. Recommended for ages 4+.
Sense and Sensibility
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: April 21-23
Tickets: $12
A student production from Imagination. Stage… A playful new adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel follows the fortunes (and misfortunes) of the Dashwood sisters When Elinor and Marianne Dashwood’s lives are turned upside down by the sudden death of their father, they must navigate financial challenge, romance, and the talk of the town while using good sense or risk their chance at love and happiness. Set in gossipy late 18th-century England, with a fresh female voice, the play is full of humor, emotional depth, and bold theatricality. Recommended for ages 11+.
The Taming of the Shrew
Where: Synetic Theater | Crystal City, VA
When: April 21-30
Tickets: $35-50 (look for discount)
Glam! Glitteratzi! Fashionistas! High art! In a world surrounded by the rich and fabulous, two unlikely suitors — her a rebel, him steampunk — find themselves embroiled in a passionate battle of wills. This electrifying “Silent Shakespeare” adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew follows Katherina and Petruchio as they discover the journey to love isn’t always the easiest of roads. This is a Synetic Teen Company production.
Les Misérables
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 22-23
Admission: $69-225
In 1986, the Kennedy Center hosted the pre-Broadway run of what has become, undisputedly, one of the world’s most popular musicals. Now, they are bringing her home. Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice, and redemption—a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Recommended for ages 12 +.
The Ice Cream Truck Is Broken! & Other Emotional Arias
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 22-23
Admission: $25
Join hosts Kennedy Center Artistic Advisor Renée Fleming and inaugural Education Artist-in-Residence Mo Willems for a family-friendly event exploring our strongest emotions through one of the world’s most dramatic genre…opera! Together with the Washington National Opera Cafritz Young Artists, Mo and Renée present famous arias as you’ve never heard them before, bursting with Mo-ified lyrics to explore the range of human emotions in a way audiences new and old can appreciate and enjoy. Recommended for ages 5+.
Gravity & Other Myths: a Simple Space
Where: Strathmore | Bethesda, MD
When: April 26-27
Tickets: $34-54
Bring the whole family to see Gravity & Other Myths, an Australian circus company pushing the boundaries of contemporary circus. In A Simple Space, you’ll witness seven acrobats pushed to their physical limits in an intimate setting. This poignant performance is simultaneously frantic and delicate. Propelled by the driving sound of live percussion and without the need for contrived theatrical overlay, A Simple Space evokes a visceral response, as the performers are encouraged to let down their guard and share the reality of failure and weakness. With nothing left to hide behind, the personal narratives come through naturally.
Each Kindness
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 28-29
Admission: $20 (look for discount)
This world premiere concert features Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson reading the book, Each Kindness, onstage to music composed, arranged, and performed by six members of celebrated string production company Rootstock Republic, along with projections of E.B. Lewis’ striking artwork. About the book: Every time the new girl Maya tries to join Chloe and her friends, they reject her. Eventually Maya stops coming to school. When Chloe’s teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the lost opportunity for friendship, and thinks about how much better it could have been if she’d shown a little kindness toward Maya. Recommended for ages 7+.
Fyütch
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 2, 11am
Admission: $20
Discover community, Black history, and culture through a blend of hip hop, soul, R&B, pop, and reggae! Fyütch’s live shows are filled with spirited songs, spoken word, and visual storytelling to educate, entertain, and empower the next generation.
Monty Python’s Spamalot
Where: Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 12-21
Admission: $69-325
Telling the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table and the quest for the Holy Grail in song, Monty Python’s Spamalot features a chorus line of knights, men in tights, killer rabbits, and sexy dancing divas. The score will be performed onstage by the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra. Recommended for ages 13+.
Beetlejuice
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: May 16-28
Tickets: $60-140 (look for discount)
It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!
New Squid on the Block
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: June 1-2
Tickets: $3-9
This brand new show from Barefoot Puppets celebrates creative thinking, problem-solving, friendship, and fun! Featuring penguins, a submarine, MORE PENGUINS, orcas, and a curious squid, this show takes the audience on an epic journey to Antarctica, encountering unusual creatures in the depths of the ocean on the way. Featuring beautifully handcrafted puppets, a magical set, and an original score by Ned Haskins, this comedic, wordless performance celebrates the ability to create connections despite our differences. Recommended for ages 4-8.
