photo: courtesy of Adventure Stage
After schlepping the kids to the movies nearly every weekend, you're ready for something new. Why not introduce them to the wonderful world of theater? We searched all over town for shows that are designed especially for kids, and picked out the cream of the crop. Not only will your children's imaginations expand; these productions will hold their short attention spans—not to mention your own.
"That's Weird, Grandma"
There's nothing like a child's imagination. Barrel of Monkeys Theatre Company recognizes that, and partners with the Chicago Public Schools and Chicago Communities in Schools to get little kids' writing noticed—and, eventually, performed live on stage. For 90 minutes each week for a six-week session, three volunteer teachers conduct classes at public schools, where students brainstorm and write stories. After each residency ends, actors from the company adapt these pieces, act them out during a school-wide assembly, and take some of them to the weekly Monday evening show at Andersonville's Neo-Futurarium. This ever-changing variety show delights parents and children alike.
"The Dirty Cowboy"
Chicagoan Amy Timberlake wrote this neat little story about a dirty cowboy who desperately needs a bath. Once he's cleaned up, however, no one knows who the heck he is. Like the dirt all over his body, the cowboy's identity was washed away. Not even his loyal dog recognizes him! When mistaken identity issues take hold, the cowboy and his faithful hound belt out a musical battle. Shole Milos directs this play, adapted for the stage by James E. Grote with music by Victoria DeIorio, that's suggested for families with kids ages 5 to 10.
"The Blue House"
Little Maricela lives in Pilsen, a Chicago neighborhood with a rich, yet devastating, history. When the 13-year-old starts having dreams about strangers from another time, she ends up in an abandoned lot where the 'Blue House' once stood. What secrets will she discover? Set during the 1919 Race Riots and told in English and Spanish, this world premiere of the play by Jose Cruz Gonzalez is rich in Chicago history. The show is recommended for kids eight and up, and on most Saturdays before the performance, kids and parents can participate in workshops that involve teamwork, problem solving and discussion topics that center on the play's dream theme.
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