performing arts for kids

COCA's The Kid at the Edge of Everything

In this new production from COCA, the Center of Creative Arts, 12-year-old Simon lives an overwhelming and overscheduled life, but they really want to find a place where they can stop and think. At the same time, on the other side of the universe, The Kid at the Edge of Everything lives alone, bored, and isolated. Following a startling sequence of events involving "lots and lots of fireworks" and a rocket ship, their worlds collide, changing the trajectory of the children's lives forever.

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SLSO Family Concert: A Zoo Called Earth

Join the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra for an afternoon of fun for kids and families. Through Peter Schickele's A Zoo Called Earth you'll hear creatures ranging from fish and dinosaurs to kangaroos and elephants come to life from the perspective of an extraterrestrial tourist.

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Pippin: The Summer Musical at COCA

Pippin is a coming-of-age story that perfectly captures the teenage years of life and the search to find what fulfills us. With an infectiously unforgettable score from Stephen Schwartz, Pippin tells the story of the quest to live an extraordinary life.

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Drawn In: The New Animated, Literacy-Boosting Series that's Made in STL

Tyler, Nevaeh, Jadyn, and Grace – the fearless foursome of the new animated series “Drawn In” – have captured the imagination of viewers in St. Louis and ignited their love of learning with every new adventure. The show was conceived, created, and produced in St. Louis, and the majority of voice talent is based in the metro area. You can catch it on Nine PBS.

Matilda the Musical at COCA

COCA presents its summer musical, Matilda live on stage! Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with extraordinary powers, uses her love of reading and storytelling as an escape from her life with her neglectful parents. She befriends a kind teacher who encourages her to embrace her uniqueness, and leads her to discover her own remarkable powers.

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Metro Theater Company to Mark 50th Anniversary With a Season of Unforgettable Shows

For the past five decades, Metro Theater Company (MTC) has charmed, delighted, and educated generations of St. Louis families. This year, MTC is excited to celebrate its 50th Anniversary Season with a line-up of spectacular shows starting in September.

Cinderella presented by DaySpring Arts & Education

Cinderella, presented by DaySpring Dance, is an enchanting new ballet production of the iconic fairytale. Incorporating elements from both the Disney film and the traditional ballet, this show is a magical experience for the whole family.

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Things to Do

Budding Artists Preschool Art Program

At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!

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Storytime at the Nature Playscape in Forest Park

Monday, May 6, 2024

Monday, May 13, 2024

Monday, May 20, 2024

Meet up at the Nature Playscape in Forest Park for a fun storytime followed by nature adventures! These free story times are open to children of all ages and their caregivers.

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Daytime Playtime at Olympia Gymnastics

Daytime Playtime is an open gym for children ages 2-5 where the possibilities for fun and learning (through fun) are endless! Children will participate in activities that build coordination, strength, balance and self-confidence. They'll develop stronger motor skills, social skills, and take part in theme-based creative activities.

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Dinoroarus at the Saint Louis Zoo

Dinoroarus is back for a limited time at the Saint Louis Zoo. This engaging attraction for all ages features 14 groupings of animatronic and stationary dinosaurs - colorful, prehistoric creatures that move realistically, some roaring and spiting or placidly munching on lush vegetation.

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Tuesday Tales Storytime from the APA of Missouri

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Visit the Animal Protective Association (APA) of Missouri for a free story time for preschoolers and help foster their love of animals. Kids will learn about caring for our four-legged friends as well as be entertained by fun stories and make a craft. They'll even meet a furry friend! Geared to ages 2-5.

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Child development researchers at Washington University School of Medicine are inviting 4-7-year-old children and a caregiver to participate in a study investigating what children know about suicide along with risk factors for experiencing suicidality early in life. We are seeking children who have and who have not experienced suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Children who participate will 1) answer brief questions about their understanding of suicide (we want to learn what children at different ages know, we do not teach them anything new), 2) play games, and 3) complete a safe and non-invasive EEG. Caregivers will complete interviews and surveys. Families can earn up to $110 for participating. LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP HERE

We also have current studies for 12-14-year-old girls and their mothers. Check out our website or email us at childlab@wustl.edu.

In this thrilling blend of classical music and classic animation Bugs Bunny and his Looney Tunes pals join audiences of all ages at Stifel Theatre with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra for Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. A dozen of the world’s most iconic Looney Tunes—What’s Opera, Doc?, The Rabbit of Seville, Corny Concerto, Baton Bunny, Long-Haired Hare, and many others—plus five brand-new animated shorts—will be projected on the big screen, while their exhilarating original scores are played live by the SLSO, conducted by George Daugherty. Bugs Bunny at the Symphony will be presented on Saturday, May 11 at 7 p.m. at Stifel Theatre. LEARN MORE AND GET TICKETS.

Witness high-flying canine athletes, experience up-close encounters with farm animals, or visit adoptable cats and dogs all at the Purina Farms Visitor Center, located just 30 minutes west of St. Louis! Officially opening for the 2024 season on April 20 & 21, guests who visit opening weekend will get the first look at the newly renovated Visitor Center lobby. Visit on Saturdays this season to attend our NEW magic show focused on responsible pet ownership. Open mid-April to October, Wednesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Daily admission is free unless otherwise stated during a special event. We look forward to seeing you! LEARN MORE

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COCA Ignites Creativity and Sparks Fun for Kids of All Ages, All Summer Long

Stroll along the Walk of Fame in the Delmar Loop, and you’ll spot the playwrights, actors, and artists who got their start in St. Louis, from Tennessee Williams and Katherine Dunham, to Tina Turner and John Goodman. Just a few steps away and around the corner, a new generation of Gateway City superstars will discover their love for the visual and performing arts this summer.

Farmer's Markets Make Great Family Outings! Here is Your 2024 Guide to Farmers Markets Across the St. Louis Area

A trip to the farmer’s market is a fun outing for the entire family – and it can be educational too. Make plans to visit one (or several) of these top St. Louis farmers’ markets this spring and summer, so that you and your kids can learn more about where your food comes from and indulge in some of the freshest, seasonal produce the St. Louis region has to offer. Plus, many of these markets offer activities just for kids, feature food trucks, welcome dogs, and more.

SUE: The T. Rex Experience to Roar Into the Saint Louis Science Center

Starting in June, families can meet Sue, the most complete, best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex ever found, in the Lou! The Saint Louis Science Center will welcome SUE: The T. rex Experience beginning June 8. The special exhibition features the latest scientific discoveries about the species as a whole along as well immersive, sensory exploration of life in the Cretaceous period.

Life Lessons Learned at Overnight Camp

With the perfect blend of adventure and responsibility, camp life teaches kids valuable lessons they can use for the rest of their lives. If you send your child to overnight camp, here are some life lessons they are likely to learn.

10 Reasons Your Teen Might Love to be a Camp Counselor

Day or sleepaway summer camp is the perfect place for teens to transition to the world of the employed. The paycheck is nice, but being a summer camp counselor has other rewards, too.