While theater may not be the first thing that comes to mind when exploring Washington, D.C., with children, it would be a mistake not to seek out some of the many wonderful live performance opportunities for kids available in the D.C. Metro area.

My two young kids tend to be very sensitive, and a visit to the theater can sometimes be an overwhelming experience. Walking in, they are unnerved by the big stage, endless rows of seats and crowds of chatty people. When the show starts there are sudden sounds, the lights go from bright to black and the actors are so … dramatic. But after the initial hesitation, they find the set and costumes alluring, and the actors intrigue them. If it’s a good production, it’s an enjoyable, special experience.  

The following recommendations for good theater in the D.C. Metro area reflect the needs and interests of a young audience.

Washington, D.C.

• Discovery Theater (www.discoverytheater.org), tel. 202-633-3030: Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the Discovery Theater is located downtown in the new S. Dillon Ripley Center on the National Mall between the Castle and the Freer Gallery of Art. Look for the copper-domed kiosk. The 200-seat theater offers a year-round schedule of live performances for children ages 4 to 12. Kids sit on the carpeted floor space, while chairs and risers outline the perimeter of the room.

• An aerial view of a theatrical performance at the Filene Center in D.C.
• Robert Llewellyn

While the theater is terrific, I’m a particular fan of its Meet the Museum performances that take place in different Smithsonian galleries and introduce the collections to young audiences with a 20- to 30-minute performance and then a walk through the gallery to see objects, artifacts or artwork on that theme. All programs are wrapped up in an hour.  

• Kennedy Center (www.kennedy-center.org), tel. 800-444-1324: Don’t save this experience for the adults. Throughout the year, the Kennedy Center hosts a wide variety of children’s plays, programs and activities in a spectacular setting. The theater’s annual Open House Arts Festival, held in September, offers tons of interactive activities, performances and events for all ages, and best of all—it’s free. Best for ages 6 and up.

• Shakespeare Theatre’s “Shakespeare Free for All” (www.shakespearetheatre.org), tel. 202-547-1122: Shakespeare performances are popular around Washington, D.C., and the city boasts an impressive Shakespeare Theater dedicated solely to his works. Each summer, the theater presents 10 free performances of Shakespeare at Carter Barron Amphitheater in Rock Creek Park under the stars. Best for kids 8 and up.

The Shakespeare Theater is located in the new Harman Center for the Arts in the Penn Quarter neighborhood. Bring your teen to see Shakespeare as it was meant to be experienced, not in a book but live on stage.