Which Broadway Shows are Appropriate for Kids?
Are there age restrictions for Broadway shows?
If you're planning a family trip to New York City and Broadway is on your must-list, you already know that there are many questions that make decision making complicated.
Is my child mature enough to appreciate a Broadway show?
Is this show age-appropriate for my kid?
Is my child even old enough to even get into a Broadway show?
Theatre tickets are a commitment- of both your time and your money- so before you make your decision, it's important to understand how to best determine which Broadway musical or play might be best for your whole family. Below, we break it down into two simple steps:
1. Follow the age recommendations
If you have a specific show in mind for your kid, first check the show's official website for age restrictions. Typically, you'll find the informations you need in the FAQ section, or where you purchase tickets (ie: Ticketmaster or Telecharge).
NOTE:
-Most shows will offer both a recommended aged limit and minimum age requirements. Generally, children under the age of 4 are not permitted at Broadway shows.
- All audience members require a ticket to see a Broadway show, regardless of age. Even if you intend to seat your child on your lap during the show, both you and your child will need tickets to get into the building.
Official age recommendations for currently-running Broadway shows:
& Juliet: Recommended for ages 8+ with adult language.
Aladdin: Intended for ages 8+ and is not recommended for anyone under the age of 4.
The Book of Mormon: Parental advisory: explicit language.
Buena Vista Social Club: Recommended for ages 8 and up.
Chicago: May be inappropriate for 12 and under.
The Great Gatsby: Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Hadestown: Recommended for ages 8+.
Hamilton: Appropriate for ages 10+.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Suitable for ages 10 and up. Children under 4 are not permitted in the theatre. Children under the age of 15 will not be admitted to the theatre without the accompaniment of an adult.
Just in Time: Recommended for ages 10 and up.
The Lion King: Not intended for children under 4. The show is recommended for ages 8+.
The Lost Boys: May be inappropriate for ages 10 and under.
Maybe Happy Ending: Recommended for ages 8 and up.
MJ the Musical: Recommended for ages 8 and older.
Moulin Rouge!: Recommended for 12+.
Oh, Mary!: Recommended for ages 14 and up
The Outsiders: Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Operation Mincemeat: Recommended for ages 5 and up.
The Rocky Horror Show: Recommended for ages 14 and up due to some adult themes and sexual content.
Schmigadoon!: Recommended for patrons ages 10 and up.
Six: Recommended for 10+.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow: Recommended for 12+. Under 5s are not permitted. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Titanique: Recommended for ages 12+ for sexual innuendo, adult humor, and language.
Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York): Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Wicked: Recommended age for children is 8 and up.
2. Follow the Kid Critics' recommendations
Still unsure? Take the advice of our Kid Critics. Click here for lots more reviews!
Want to learn even more about Broadway? We've got info on all 41 Broadway theatres, the longest-running shows of all time, what's on tour, what dance captains do, which shows are best for high schools, plus tips on how to win a Broadway ticket lottery, when to buy tickets to a Broadway show, how to visit the stage door, how to get there, what to wear, what you can bring, where to eat, and where to drink.
