Why Every Child Should See a Musical at Least Once

There's a moment that happens when the house lights dim and the orchestra strikes its first note. A hush falls over the room. And if you happen to be sitting next to a child, you'll catch it: eyes wide, mouth open, completely under the spell of what's about to unfold. We've watched it happen thousands of times here in the Sullivan Catskills, and it never gets old.

A live musical gives kids something a screen simply can't. Real voices fill the air. Dancers move just feet away. The story breathes in the same room they're sitting in. We believe every child deserves at least one of these moments, and the good news is that it's never too early or too late to start. Here's why a single trip to the theatre can leave a mark that lasts a lifetime.

Musicals Spark Imagination Like Nothing Else!

Children are natural dreamers, and musical hands them fuel for that fire. When a cardboard set becomes a sprawling kingdom, or a few props transform into a city street, kids learn that imagination can build entire worlds. They watch the magic happen in real time, and they start to understand that creativity has no limits.

This kind of make-believe sticks with them long after the curtain falls. We've seen children leave a show humming the songs, acting out scenes in the lobby, and inventing their own stories on the car ride home. A great musical doesn't just entertain your child for an afternoon. It plants seeds of wonder that grow for years.

A Front-Row Seat to Empathy!

Here's something wonderful about live theatre: it teaches kids to walk in someone else's shoes. When a character faces a hard choice, feels left out, or finds the courage to be brave, children feel it right alongside them. They laugh when the characters laugh and tug your sleeve when things get tense. That emotional connection is empathy in action.

Stories told through song especially reach the heart. A lyric can capture a feeling that's hard to put into everyday words, and children pick up on it instantly. By watching characters grow, struggle, and triumph, kids practice understanding the people around them. We can't think of a better life skill to nurture early, and a musical does it without a single lecture.

Confidence, Focus & Lasting Family Memories!

Sitting through a live show builds a quiet kind of discipline. Kids learn to settle in, pay attention, and follow a story that unfolds over an hour or two. In a world of quick clips and constant scrolling, that's a genuine gift. The reward of staying focused, the big finale, the standing ovation, teaches them that good things are worth the wait.

A trip to the theatre also gives children a confidence boost. Many leave inspired to sing, dance, or join a school play of their own. And let's not forget the family side of things. The drive, the dressed-up evening, the shared snacks at intermission, and the conversation afterward all become part of a memory you'll treasure together. Years from now, your child may not remember every plot point, but they'll remember the night you took them to a show. As a welcoming, family-friendly theatre in the heart of the Sullivan Catskills, we're proud to be the place where those memories begin.

The Curtain Is Always Rising on Something New!

A child's first musical can open a door that stays open for life. Imagination, empathy, focus, confidence, and the simple joy of time spent together all of it waits inside one theatre seat. You don't need your child to become a Broadway star to make the trip worthwhile. You just need to give them one chance to fall in love with the experience.

Here at The Forestburgh Playhouse, the oldest operating professional summer theater in New York, we offer Theatre for Young Audiences alongside our Broadway-caliber shows, so there's always something for the whole family. Pick a date, grab your tickets, and watch your child's face light up. We'd love to share that moment with you!

Frequently Asked Questions 

At what age is it best to bring a child to their first musical?

There's no single right answer, and it really depends on your child. Many kids do wonderfully starting around ages four to six, especially with shows made for young audiences. We offer Theatre for Young Audiences productions designed with shorter run times and kid-friendly stories, making them a perfect first step.

How long do musicals usually last?

Most full-length musicals run about two to two and a half hours, including an intermission. Shows created for younger viewers are often shorter, sometimes around an hour, which helps little ones stay engaged. If you're unsure which production fits your child's attention span, our team is always happy to point you toward the right show.

What should my child wear to the theatre?

Comfort comes first! There's no strict dress code, so feel free to keep it casual or let your child dress up if that's part of the fun for them. Many families enjoy making a special evening of it, while others come straight from a day of summer adventures. Either way, you and your child are welcome here.

Will my child enjoy a musical if they've never seen live theatre?

Most children take to it instantly. Live performance is colorful, musical, and full of movement, which keeps young eyes glued to the stage. To help your child settle in, you can talk about the story beforehand and remind them that real people are performing just for them. That little bit of prep often turns a curious kid into a captivated fan.

Do you offer tickets or programs for groups and students?

Yes, we do! We welcome children's groups, school outings, and students with special ticket options, plus year-round arts education through the Forestburgh Playhouse Academy. Whether you're planning a family night or a class field trip, we have a way for young people to experience the magic of live theatre. Reach out, and we'll help you find the best fit.

We are The Forestburgh Playhouse, the oldest operating professional summer theater in New York, bringing Musicals, Plays, Cabaret, Concerts, Arts Education & More to families across the Sullivan Catskills since 1947! From Broadway-caliber productions to Theatre for Young Audiences, we create live entertainment the whole family can love. Come see a show with us, buy tickets today!