Tag Archives: Ripley Center

Math Comes Alive at the Smithsonian

 

Math has never been so sweet!  As you can see, that’s what the promos claim about MathAlive!, a new exhibition opening at the Smithsonian’s S. Dillon Ripley Center this Saturday, March 10.  And from the descriptions I’ve read and photos I’ve seen, I think it will easily live up to the hype.

The exhibit demonstrates how math works in the context of real life, not just some problems to figure out in algebra class or on geometry homework.  And it presents it in a way that kids will find cool by showing them its uses in things they enjoy, like sports, video games, fashion, robotics and more. Through an array of interactive displays, guests can ride in a 3D snowboard race, operate NASA robotics simulations, design and play their own video games, control a Mars rover, and experience real math at work in everything from nature to music to dancing to movie-making.

I can’t wait to check it out.  And I think my kids will dig it, too.

MathAlive! will be on exhibit at the Ripley Center (the small domed kiosk next to the Smithsonian Castle) through June 3.  Hours are 10am – 5pm daily.  Admission is free.

 

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Filed under All ages, DC, Educational, Free, Museums, Weekdays, Weekend

Stay Entertained Through Summer

There’s no lack of live entertainment to enjoy around the DC area this summer. Here’s what you can catch the rest of the season, from currently running shows and series, to productions opening today, to performances coming up over the next few weeks. Most descriptions are pulled straight from the websites, and just about all tickets can be purchase online.

The Wind in the Willows
Where: Imagination Stage
When: June 22 – August 15
Tickets: $10 – $22 (Use the code Willows25 for a 25% discount)
Go on a wild ride with Mr. Toad! It’s early in the twentieth century, and Mr. Toad embraces the motor car with reckless abandon. When it is clear that he is on a road to disaster, Toad’s friends Mole, Ratty and Mr. Badger decide to intervene. Can they save Toad from himself? In an adventure with police chases, prison breaks and bandits, Mr. Toad learns the true meaning of friendship. This musical event is faithful to the classic, enchanting novel. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Charlotte’s Web
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: June 24 – September 5
Tickets: $17
E. B. White’s popular tale of love and devotion, takes theatergoers to Zuckerman’s Farm, where the delightful runt pig Wilbur appears headed for the dinner table — as main course, not as guest. Yet he is saved by the remarkably crafty spider, Charlotte, and the whole town begins talking about it. Some pig! Recommended for ages 3 and up, the show runs about 1 hour.

Children’s Theater in the Woods
Where: Wolf Trap
When: June 28 – August 13
Tickets: $8 for a day pass – two shows in one
With 70 performances from late June through early August, Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods presents family-friendly shows at 10am and 11:15am on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Amidst 117 rolling wooded acres and nestled in a shady grove, the stage is set for lively adventures in music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and theater. All performances are recommended for children between Kindergarten and 6th grade. The full schedule of shows in available of the Wolf Trap website.

Oklahoma!
Where: Arena Stage
When: July 14 – October 2
Tickets: $61-106
The classic show is back by popular demand, remounting its fall production after receiving numerous accolades, including 4 Helen Hayes Awards. Inspired by the toughness of the prairie, Artistic Director Molly Smith sets her production in the robust world of territory life filled with a dynamic cast as rich and complex as the great tapestry of America itself. With Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless music, Oklahoma! celebrates the vigor of America’s pioneering spirit with athletic dance and boot-stomping energy that will thrill audiences young and old. Oklahoma! runs approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Every Saturday afternoon, free family-friendly events will be held in and around the Mead Center from 12:30-1:30pm., prior to the 2:00pm matinee. Enjoy pony rides and a petting zoo, learn some of the award-winning dance moves, or share a box social lunch with your friends and family.

Rocknoceros
Where: Jammin’ Java
When: July 16, 11am & 7pm
Tickets: $10
The local band adored by kids is doubling up the entertainment with two shows in one day. It’s the hometown debut of their new album “Colonel Purple Turtle,” which tells tales through song of the Colonel and his friends in their make-believe home of Soggy Bog. Families can opt for a mid-morning performance at 11am or rock out at the 7pm happy hour show.

Boogie Babes
Where: North Hall of Eastern Market
When: Thursdays at 10:30am through August 25
Tickets: $5/child, free for siblings 6 months and under
Make a weekly date with the Boogie Babes all summer long! Little ones can boogie along with their favorite local musicians in the cool, open space of Eastern Market’s North Hall every Thursday morning. Go for the show, then grab lunch in the Market and stay to play. See the line-up of performers on the Boogie Babes website.

Backyard Theatre for Children
Where: Strathmore
When: July 21 & July 28 ,9:30am & 11:30am
Tickets: $8, free for ages 2 and under
This theatre series brings children the music and mystery of exotic locales from around the world – all outdoors under a big tent! In the two weeks of the season, travel to India and Russia through these performances. Bring blankets or low chairs to sit on and a bag lunch for a picnic after show.

The Wizard of Oz
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: July 22 – September 4
Tickets: $10
This new version of L. Frank Baum’s “Great American Fairy Tale, “ recreates the characters illustrated by W.W. Denslow in a wide variety of puppet styles. Based on Baum’s first, best known, and best-loved of the classic Oz tales, rather than the 1939 MGM movie, the “wicked witch” is a minor character, dispatched easily with humor, and adventures never seen in the movie are brought to fore.

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Ongoing – Wednesdays, Saturdays, & Sundays at 10am
Tickets: $5
The series presents puppet shows designed for the youngest theater patrons (ages 0-4). They are shorter, the lights stay on, and the doors stay open. They have an arsenal of shows that they switch up every performance, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s playing when you go.

Reptiles Alive!
Where: Discovery Theatre, Ripley Center, Smithsonian
When: July 20-22, 10:15am & 11:30am
Tickets: $6/adult, $5/child, $3/under 2
Reptiles Alive! is the most popular traveling wildlife education program based in the Washington Metropolitan area. We are very pleased to be welcoming them back to Discovery Theater to present Snakes Alive! Uncover the secret life of snakes during this spectacular show. Myths will be debunked about these misunderstood animals. You might see pythons, boa constrictors, legless lizards, milk snakes and more sssuper sssnakes! Recommended for ages 6 and up.

The Wizard of Oz
Where: Encore Stage
When: July 22 – 31
Tickets: $15/adults, $10/children
After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, Dorothy and her new friends, a scarecrow, a tin man, and a cowardly lion, set off to find the powerful Wizard who can send her home. Based on the books by L. Frank Baum, this production will be performed by the Act III Theatre Company, an Arlington group presenting musical productions that are ideal for children and adults of all ages.

Just a Dream: The Green Play
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: July 25, 7pm
Tickets: FREE, RSVP to cmorrison@adventuretheatre.org by July 22
Adventure Theatre will make its international debut with Just a Dream: The Green Play, which in the Spring of 2011 took the message of environmentalism to over 50 Washington, DC-area schools and organizations. Based on the book by Chris Van Allsburgtt, the play will be presented in Singapore and Malaysia, but you have a chance to see it first. Adventure Theatre will also be hosting a free open rehearsal and kick-off party of this earth-friendly show at Glen Echo Park.

Urban Artistry
Where: Discovery Theater, Ripley Center, Smithsonian
When: July 26-29, 10:15am & 11:30am, July 27 & 29, 1:00
Tickets: $6/adult, $5/child, $3/under 2
They are guided by the origins of the drum, the energy of the underground dance movement and the art that documents all of our histories. Urban Artistry illuminates the counterculture styles of urban dance (often referred to as hip-hop), and their calling to create a diverse community of people with whom to share the experience. Returning to Discovery Theater this summer after a sold out run in 2009, this award-winning dance troupe will inspire you to get up on your feet! For ages 2 and up.

Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies
Where: Wolf Trap
When: August 4, 8:30pm
Tickets: $20-52
Hear National Symphony Orchestra perform music from Disney’s hit movies at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center. The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and more come to life with video clips and songs from your favorite Disney movies on giant screens in-house and on the lawn.

Fox and Branch
Where: Jammin’ Java
When: August 20, 10:30am
Tickets: $10
Dave Fox and Will Branch play a timeless kind of music. Their crowd-pleasing mix of old blues, jug band songs, fiddle tunes, New Orleans-flavored numbers and Cajun tunes makes people stop and smile. The duo has played to appreciative audiences at clubs, festivals, schools and libraries all over the Midwest, as well as on the east coast and south to Louisiana. Their music has been played on folk radio across the United States and Canada.

Peter Pan
Where: Wolf Trap
When: September 1-4
Tickets: $55-70
Tony Award-nominee Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all-new production of Peter Pan, filled with timeless magical moments and a captivating hook. The legend you thought you knew is now the adventure you never dreamed possible…Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan!

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Filed under All ages, DC, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Music, Outdoor, Seasonal, Summer, Theatre

Spring into Summer with a New Selection of Family Entertainment

There’s a whole new crop of live entertainment for kids coming to area performing arts venues this spring and summer. Catch some of these performances as soon as this week or save your seats for shows opening at later dates. Here are details on all of them, with most descriptions straight from the websites.

Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Where: Kennedy Center Millennium Stage
When: May 7 at 6pm
Tickets: FREE!
Join the artist of the 2010 Parents’ Choice® Gold Award-winning album, I’m a Rock Star, as she celebrate the releae of her new album, What a Zoo!, with a performance on the Kennedy Center’s Milliennum Stage. Joanie Leeds and her band, The Nightlights, will make their Washington, DC, debut with a FREE rocking family show. If you haven’t heard Joanie’s music, go take a listen on her website—it’s easy to see why her poppy sound and fun lyrics strike a chord with kids. The concert is part of The Kennedy Center’s daily Free Performance series.

Various Performances for Children
Where: Discovery Theater
When: Ongoing
Tickets: $3 – $6
From plays based on ancient fables to unique dance performances to magic shows to animal encounters, Discovery Theater entertains audiences with a variety of productions for all ages. Most performances take place at the Smithsonian’s Ripley Center. See the complete schedule of shows on the theater’s website.

NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Bears, Bears Everywhere
Where: Kennedy Center
When: May 7-8
Tickets: $18
It’s a big bear world out there, and every sort of bear has its own look and growl. This Teddy Bear Concert takes a peek at these adorable creatures and the sounds of their homelands–music that is as unique as they are. NSO musicians on violin, bassoon, and, percussion assemble a wild combination of instruments in order to create music from around the world. Children will also be introduced to an out-of-this-world instrument, the Theremin, which is used to create the crazy sounds in a lot of classic films. Recommended for ages 3-5. Ge there early for “musical playtime”—starting a half-hour before each Teddy Bear Concert, there are music and movement activities designed especially for small children.

George and Martha – Tons of Fun
Where: Imagination Stage
When: Through May 29
Tickets: $11 – $22
The two endearing hippos from the James Marshall picture books stomp onto stage in this warm and funny musical adaptation. George and Martha are best friends. They play music together and share meals, presents, picnics, and exciting adventures like flying a balloon. Sometimes they have differences as all friends do. But it cannot last. Like all good friends George and Martha just can’t stay angry for long! This simple story says much about our relationships at any age. Geared for our youngest theatre-goers but enjoyable for all, this new musical by Joan Cushing sparkles with clever lyrics and laughter. Enjoyed by ages 3 and up.

Liberty Smith
Where: Ford’s Theatre
When: Through May 21
Tickets: $39 – $55
Ford’s Theatre presents the world premiere of Liberty Smith, a madcap musical romp through Revolutionary America. A childhood friend of George Washington, apprentice to Benjamin Franklin and linked to Paul Revere’s remarkable ride, the elusive Liberty Smith weaves his way through familiar tales of a young nation. Rife with melody and blazing with adventure, Liberty Smith recalls the lush heyday of the American musical. Experience the birth of America through the eyes of our forgotten founding father: Liberty Smith.

The Day John Henry Came to School
Where: Imagination Stage
When: Through May 29
Tickets: $11 – $22
Johnny is way into video games and not especially motivated at school. Imagine his surprise one night when there’s a loud knock at the door and his ancestor John Henry bursts into his bedroom, wielding a 12 lb hammer and insisting that he will visit Johnny’s class the next day for “Show & Tell.” At first unimpressed by John Henry’s tragic tale about his race with the steam engine, the kids in Johnny’s class come to appreciate the importance of his ultimate sacrifice. Recommended for ages 7 and up.

A Year with Frog and Toad
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: May 10 – June 5
Tickets: $15
Arnold Lobel’s well-loved characters hop from the page to the stage in Robert and Willie Reale’s musical. It follows two great friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad through four fun-filled seasons. Waking from hibernation in the spring, they proceed to plant gardens, swim, rake leaves and go sledding, learning life lessons along the way, including a most important one about friendship and rejoicing in the attributes that make each of us different and special. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Imagination Movers
Where: Lisner Auditorium
When: May 12
Tickets: $32 or $112 for the Mini-movers package (Groupon has a deal thru 5/1 – see below)
Disney’s Emmy Award-winning Imagination Movers come to Lisner as part of their “In a Big Warehouse” concert tour. The wildly popular New Orleans-based rock band for kids of all ages will play their most popular songs and bring the magic of the Imagination Movers television series’ Idea Warehouse to life. Concertgoers can expect special appearances from Nina, Warehouse Mouse and other characters from the TV series. Get 50% off tickets through Groupon, but buy them soon, as the deal only lasts through May 1.

Peter and the Wolf
Where: Alden Theatre
When: May 14
Tickets: $12, $8/McLean residents

This is an adaptation of the traditional Russian folktale set to music by Sergei Prokofiev. While providing a charming introduction to the world of music and musical instruments, this enchanting tale is all about the adventure of growing up. Danger becomes reality and creative innovation becomes essential as young Peter meets the challenge of survival in the outside world.  Recommended for ages 5 and up.

NSO Family Concert: Beethoven Lives Upstairs
Where: Kennedy Center
When: May 15
Tickets: $15-18
What to do about the loud neighbor upstairs? When Ludwig van Beethoven moves into his family’s Vienna boarding house, young Christoph begins writing letters to his uncle about the “madman” living above him. Through a touching correspondence dramatically underscored with more than twenty-five excerpts from the composer’s most beautiful works, Christoph comes to understand the genius of Beethoven, the beauty of his music, and the torment of his deafness. Part history, part drama, all fun, this is an excellent introduction to the master’s music, including the Moonlight Sonata, Für Elise, and the great Fifth and Ninth Symphonies. Recommended for age 5 and up. Get to the show an hour early for the Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo,” where young concertgoers can get up close and hands-on with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage—from violins, trumpets, and oboes to trombones and percussion—in the Kennedy Center Atrium.

Drumming with Dishes
Where: Art on the Horizon at Landmark Mall
When: May 18 – June 5
Tickets: $8 or $25 for a Family 4-Pack
Join an adventurous toddler as she introduces her imaginary friend to a very special kitchen, where instead of food, they’ll cook up beautiful music. This gentle, whimsical adventure celebrates turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, as you never know just what will become a musical instrument next. Pasta box shakers and dishes drumming away with spoons are just some of the friendly surprises that encourage a child’s sense of play. And as our heroine empowers her timid friend to create music, we discover just what wonders can be accomplished when we all work together. This world-premiere production is a 30-minute interactive, non-verbal show, which features two adult actors and a musician. Geared towards children ages 2-5.

NSO Kinderkonzert: Got Rhythm?
Where: Kennedy Center
When: May 15
Tickets: $18
Rhythm is everywhere: it flavors our lives and lives within music. Join Glenn Donnellan, Richard Barber, Edward Cabarga, Adel Sanchez, and Joe Connell for vivid selections by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Rossini, and more. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Free musical instrument “Petting Zoo” one hour prior to each performance. Get to the show an hour early for the Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo,” where young concertgoers can get up close and hands-on with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage in the Kennedy Center Atrium.

Jack & the Bean-Stalk
Where:  1st Stage Theater
When:    May 15-June 19
Tickets: $15
Enjoy a hilarious, laugh-out-loud, brand-new adaptation of the classic fairy tale, “Jack and the Bean-Stalk.” This play is a fun-for-the-whole-family, comic rollercoaster ride of quirky characters, including an irreverent Cow, a crafty, bean-peddling Stranger, and a saucy Hen What Lays the Golden Eggs. Aimed at younger audiences, but with lots of laughs built in for adults, it’s a perfect fit for families who want to share the joy of live-performance theater. Special “Family Night Out” performances on Saturdays, June 4 and 18 at 6pm.

Click, Clack, Moo
Where:  Alden Theatre
When:    June 5
Tickets: $12, $8/McLean residents
“Cows that type? Hens on strike! Whoever heard of such a thing?!” Farmer Brown cries. When his grandaughter Jenny comes to visit, Farmer Brown declares a “tech-free zone”. This hilariously “mooooo-ving” new musical is about negotiation and compromise. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

The Great Dinosaur Mystery
Where: The Puppet Co. Playhouse
When: June 9 – July 17
Tickets: $10
DinoRock Productions returns to the Puppet Co. Playhouse with this story is set in the basement of the Natural History Museum. Dr. Vander Plastercaster is about to give the audience a behind-the-scenes tour of a new dinosaur exhibit when she finds a mysterious box. Enter Detective Joe Kafootsie, Special Forces: Strange Phenomena Detail. He’s found a giant shoe and thinks it might belong to a dinosaur! Suddenly dinosaurs begin appearing with messages from a mysterious character named Tootsie. Who is Tootsie? What do the messages mean? What’s going on? It’s all part of the great, great, great, great Great Dinosaur Mystery! Recommended for ages 4 and up.

The Wind in the Willows
Where: Imagination Stage
When: June 22 – August 15
Tickets: $10 – $22
Go on a wild ride with Mr. Toad! It’s early in the twentieth century, and Mr. Toad embraces the motor car with reckless abandon. When it is clear that he is on a road to disaster, Toad’s friends Mole, Ratty and Mr. Badger decide to intervene. Can they save Toad from himself? In an adventure with police chases, prison breaks and bandits, Mr. Toad learns the true meaning of friendship. This musical event is faithful to the classic, enchanting novel. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Children’s Theater in the Woods
Where: Wolf Trap
When: June 28 – August 13
Tickets: $8 for a day pass – two shows in one
With 70 performances from late June through early August, Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods presents family-friendly shows at 10am and 11:15am on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Amidst 117 rolling wooded acres and nestled in a shady grove, the stage is set for lively adventures in music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and theater. All performances are recommended for children between Kindergarten and 6th grade. The full schedule of shows in available of the Wolf Trap website.

PLAY! A Video Game Symphony
Where: Wolf Trap
When: July 8, 8:30pm
Tickets: $20 – $52
Award-winning music from Super Mario Brothers, World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy, the Legend of Zelda, Halo, Battlefield 1942, and many more. Outstanding visuals on huge screens in-house and on the lawn highlight memorable moments from these blockbuster video games.

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Filed under All ages, DC, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Music, Theatre

Weekday Fun for Little Ones

It’s easy to fall into weekday routines with the kiddos — regular storytimes at local libraries and book stores, playtime at the neighborhood park, maybe a class at a children’s gym. If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are a few special events for kids happening this week.

Old McDonald’s Farm
When: Wednesday, November 17, 10am
The animals on Old McDonald’s Farm come out to entertain at The Puppet Co.’s Tiny Tots production this week. Al E. Cat will introduce the audience to his barnyard buddies who will delight and amaze with their antics! The Tiny Tots program is designed for the youngest theater patrons. The lights stay on, the doors stay open, and everyone has a great time! All individuals must have a ticket, including babes-in-arms. Tickets are $5. The Puppet Co. is located at Glen Echo Park at 7300 MacArthur Boulevard.

Introduction to Rock Creek Park
When: Wednesday, November 17, 10am
Join volunteers Kevin and his therapy dog, Ava, for an introductory hike around the nature center, Woodland Trail and horse stables. Dogs, on a leash, are welcome, too. This activity is free and recommended for all ages. Meet at the Nature Center located at 5200 Glover Road NW.

Dinosaurs! at the Publick Playhouse
When: Thursday, November 18, 10:15am & 12pm
Jim West’s Dinosaurs! weaves classical music, puppet construction and facts about dinosaurs into an engaging and funny performance. A box turns into a Tyrannosaurus, cardboard becomes a Brachiosaurus, and newspaper transforms into an Apatosaurus before your very eyes! Jim’s do-it-yourself creations will inspire audiences to take these great puppet-making ideas home. This show is part of the Tiny Tots Thursday series. Tickets are $3, recommended for Pre-K and up. The Publick Playhouse is located at 6600 Kenilworth Avenue in Riverdale, MD.

Potato Chip Science
When: Friday, November 19, 10:15am & 11:30am
This yummy show will really get kids’ attention! Allen Kurzweil demonstrates 29 cool experiments (or “snacktivities”) using potato chips, spuds, bags, tubes, and lids. Aerodynamics is a potato chip bag kite, conservation of energy a homemade chipmobile, and a (potato) mummy introduces the archaeologist’s concept of desiccation. This show from the Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater will take place at the Ripley Center Lecture Hall. Tickets are $3 – $6, recommended for ages 6 – 12. The Ripley Center is located at 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. Enter via the copper-domed kiosk between the Smithsonian Castle and Freer Gallery.

Cabin John Kids Sing-a-Long
When: Friday, November 19, 10:30am
On the first and third Fridays of every month, the Cabin John Shopping Center and Mall is hosting free children’s entertainment, crafts, and more. This week kids can enjoy a sing-a-long with the One-Man Band for Kids, Peter McCory. The Cabin John Mall is located at the intersection of Seven Locks Road and Tuckerman Lane in Potomac, MD.

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Filed under Babies, DC, Gradeschoolers, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Preschoolers, Theatre, Toddlers

Summer Shows

The school year is ending. The days are getting longer. The heat is on. Not that we even need an excuse, but this is all good motivation to check out some great productions at our local performing arts venues this summer. And there are plenty of live shows to see, both on stage now and in the coming months. Here’s the run-down of what’s playing.

The Puppet Co.
“Sleeping Beauty” is on the puppet stage now through July 25 at Glen Echo Park. After that, kids can catch “Little Red Riding Hood & The Three Little Pigs” from July 30 – September 5. Performances for both shows are every Thursday & Friday at 10am & 11:30am and Saturday & Sunday at 11:30am & 1pm. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online, at the box office, or by calling 301.634-5380. Both are recommended for Pre-K and up.

And babies and toddlers haven’t been left out! The Puppet Co. has Tiny Tots performances for littler ones every Tuesday Wednesday and Saturday at 10am. The shows change frequently, so check out the schedule to see what’s playing on specific dates. Tickets are $5 per person, including babies, and can be purchased online, at the box office, or by calling 301.634-5380.

Imagination Stage
The pirate productions I posted about recently begin in just a couple of days at Imagination Stage in Bethesda. “How I Became a Pirate” is a musical adventure recommended for children ages 3 and up. The show will be running from June 23 – August 14, with show times on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30pm & 4pm, and Tuesday – Friday at 10:30am. Tickets are $10 – $21 and available for purchase online here.

“Pirates! A Boy at Sea” is a pirate drama recommended for a slightly older crowd, ages 7 and up. It will be playing in the Lerner Family Theatre from July 2 – August 15. Show times are Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30pm & 4pm, and Tuesday – Friday at 10:30am. Tickets range from $10 – $21 and can be purchased online.

Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods at Wolf Trap
Starting June 29, Wolf Trap will host six week’s worth of family-friendly shows on a stage nestled in a shady grove on 117 enchanting wooded acres. Performances, ranging from music and dance to puppetry and storytelling, will take place Tuesday – Saturday at 10am and 11:15am through August 7. See their calendar for the complete schedule of shows. Tickets for all performances are $8 and can be purchased online by clicking “more” on the calendar. Shows are recommended for kids kindergarten age and up.

Adventure Theatre
Also at Glen Echo Park, Adventure Theatre has a new play on the way. “If You Give a Pig a Pancake” will run from July 2 through August 15. The tale follows a little girl who plays hostess to a challenging piglet and all the debacles that arise along the way. Tickets are $15/adults and $12/children 12 and under. Reserve your seats online or by calling 301.634-2270.

Discovery Theater
Presented by the Smithsonian Associates, all kinds of acts are on the line-up at Discovery Theater this summer, from musical performers to tappers and breakdancers to a science circus. Next up is Granny’s Appalachian Tales, a fun mix of puppetry, music, and drama playing July 1-2. See the website for the complete summer schedule. All shows take place at the Ripley Center, accessed through the little copper-domed building just off Independence Avenue on Jefferson Drive, between the Smithsonian Castle and the Freer gallery of Art. General admission tickets are $6/adults, $5/children, free for kids 2 and under.

Mary Poppins
Every kid should know how to spell sing “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” The tale of the nanny with the magical touch is a classic, and this particular production of the Broadway musical has gotten great reviews. “Mary Poppins” will be on stage at the Kennedy Center July 1 – August 22. I posted about this a couple of months ago, but if you haven’t gotten tickets yet, they are still available, ranging from $25 – $125.

Star Wars: in Concert
Fans young and old will be transported to another galaxy for two hours as an 86-member orchestra plays the “Star Wars” soundtrack accompanied by clips from the film classic displayed on a 60-foot wide screen. The show just started its national tour last week, and so far it’s gotten great reviews. It will land at the Verizon Center on July 17 for two shows, at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets range from $35 – $75 and can be purchased online.

Yo Gabba Gabba Live!
Get the sillies out this summer! DJ Lance Rock, Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Toodee, Plex, and other special guests are coming to the stage at Jiffy Lube Live (formerly Nissan Pavilion) on August 28 for two shows, at 2pm and 6pm. Tickets range from $35 – $55. Reserve your seats now.

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Filed under All ages, Live Entertainment, Music, Summer, Theatre