Introducing a Toddler to the World of Theater

I’ll admit, I had no idea what to expect when taking my 2 year old, Becca, “to the theater” for the first time. But the Alliance Theatre’s offerings turned out to be a fun and engaging introduction.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear the experience was built with little ones in mind. Families are welcomed into a preshow play area filled with several areas to build and create. The space includes building blocks, a reading corner and felt walls and crayons for kids to make whatever their creative minds come up with. It’s the perfect way for kids to warm up, explore and get their wiggles out before the performance begins. Honestly, next time, we’ll plan to arrive earlier just to enjoy more of the space.

When it was time for the show, “Rhythm and Thread,” we moved into the Selig Family Black Box Theatre, where little mats are laid out for the kids. The cast encouraged kids to stay on their mats but also let them know they’d be able to participate throughout the performance. Becca was a bit unsure at first — bright lights, a large instrument and a new environment can be a lot — but by the end, she was eagerly joining the cast “on stage” with a huge smile and a little wave to us.

One of the most refreshing parts of the experience was the atmosphere. You’re surrounded by parents and young children, which means no one is shushing, side-eyeing or expecting perfect behavior. Kids are free to react, participate and experience the show in their own way. For us, it was the ideal first theater outing and left us excited to return for more.

After the performance, we headed downstairs to explore the new PNC PlaySpace, another gem for families with young children. Designed for ages five and younger, the space features interactive light elements that stretch from the floor to the ceiling. The PlaySpace is free, though a waiver is required, and advance timeslot reservations are recommended. Alliance Theatre also offers several free weekly programs, from baby raves to “meet the musician” sessions. Along with Alliance Theatre’s Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young, the space is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Music for the Very Young Concert Series with different shows throughout the year.

For parents looking to introduce their little ones to the arts in a low-pressure, joy-filled environment, Alliance Theatre’s productions and spaces are a wonderful place to start.

The Details

Alliance Theatre. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. alliancetheatre.org

PNC PlaySpace. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. Located within the Memorial Arts Building at the Woodruff Arts Center, home to the Alliance Theatre and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Admission: Free. Ages 5 and younger. Hours: Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

-Jordan Lisvosky