Rhythm & Thread

Casey Ford

As Cassie helps her grandparents move, she finds a collection of quilts, and she, Gigi and Pops share stories and adventures as they explore the collection. Feb. 28-April 26. See websites for showtimes. $12.50; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free.

Parent Review: Rhythm & Thread

I’ll admit, I had no idea what to expect when taking my two‑year‑old, Becca, “to the theater” for the first time. But “Rhythm and Thread,” the latest production in the Alliance Theatre’s Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young series (designed specifically for ages 0-5), 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 pre‑show 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’s time for the show, families move into the Selig Family Black Box Theatre, where little mats are laid out for the kids. The cast encourages kids to stay on their mats but also lets them know they’ll 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.

The story focuses on moving day for Cassie and her grandparents. From sorting through boxes, uncovering the stories in each patch work and sewing or “so-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ing” as they sang a new story. “Rhythm & Thread” celebrates family, imagination and the beauty of storytelling through the art of quilting. It also features textiles by the late Marquetta Johnson, an Atlanta quilt maker and longtime High Museum of Art teaching artist. Her vibrant work adds a beautiful visual layer to the performance, and the show is presented in her memory.

One of the most refreshing parts of the experience is 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 theatre 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 0-5, the space features interactive light elements that stretch from the floor to the ceiling, plus a large window overlooking the street—perfect for a little people‑watching or, if you’re lucky like we were, catching a parade rolling by. The PlaySpace is free, though a waiver is required, and advance time‑slot 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, “Rhythm & Thread” is a wonderful place to start.