Winter for kids means sweaters, hot chocolate, possibly snow, and no school! But with the
kiddos on break and the weather outside being, well … frightful, it can be hard to find fun
activities inside. Never fear, theater is here! There are a number of wonderful, kid-friendly plays and musicals all around town this December, including holiday favorites like “The Nutcracker”and “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Dickens’ classic ghost story returns to Portland Playhouse in an adaptation filled with music and charm. The production offers a fresh take on a classic tale as it takes you on a song-filled journey of second chances. portlandplayhouse.org/christmas
FROGZ
This unforgettable show from Imago Theatre is back! Frogz is a lively, wonderful, and crazy experience for children and adults. Complete with masks, movement, music, acrobatics, and animals with human characteristics, this show brings to life the fun and absurd. There’s mime, dance, penguins, frogs, and fun for the whole family. imagotheatre.com
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
The beloved 1946 film is brought to life on stage, as a musical! For a third season, Stumptown Stages tells the familiar story of George Bailey, reminding us how we touch the lives of those we love in ways we can’t even imagine. To enjoy this classic story with a new, heartwarming score, turn off the TV movie and come to the Portland Center for Performing Arts. stumptownstages.org
MARY POPPINS
It’s a jolly holiday with Mary at Northwest Children’s Theater! Everyone’s favorite nanny is landing onstage this month in the beloved film turned Broadway musical. This show, filled with the songs and characters that kids know and love, along with some new adventures, will make this holiday season practically perfect in every way. nwcts.org
THE NUTCRACKER
It simply wouldn’t be the holidays without “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker”. The iconic ballet is filled with toy soldiers, dancing rats, a sugar plum fairy, and plenty of magic. The memorable score and breathtaking dancing make this holiday tale a must see. obt.org
THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS
Based on the hit book by Jon Scieszka and performed by the talented teen performers of Oregon Children’s Theatre’s Young Professionals Company, this hilarious musical gives us the story of the three little pigs from the point of view of the Big Bad Wolf, who may not be all that bad. Alexander T. Wolf is on trial, and the audience gets to decide if he’s innocent or guilty. octc.org
By Maya Barbon
Maya Barbon is a self-professed theater geek whose love for watching shows is only surpassed by her love for performing in them. She was last seen onstage as a pirate in Westview High School’s “Peter Pan”. Arrrrrr
