Tips for a Stress-Free Theatre Trip

For many parents, taking kids to the theatre for the first time is a milestone moment, watching their eyes light up as stories come alive on stage, seeing little feet tap to the beat and perhaps hearing their first sing-along. Yet, between nap times, snack breaks, and short attention spans, a trip to the theatre can also feel daunting.

At Esplanade, Singapore’s national performing arts centre, we understand that a child’s early theatre experiences should be joyful for them and stress-free for you. That’s why our spaces, programmes, and facilities are thoughtfully designed to make family outings easy, comfortable, and enriching. Whether you’re attending a PLAYtime! show or exploring PIP’s PLAYbox before curtain-up, here’s some tips for a smooth and memorable visit.

Choose the Right Show

The key to a great experience starts with finding the right show. For young audiences, it’s best to select performances designed specifically for children like Esplanade’s PLAYtime! series, which invites little ones aged three to six to explore storytelling. Instead of expecting children to sit still, PLAYtime! shows welcome laughter, questions and even wiggling in their seats.

For a gentle first experience, we recommend a “Relaxed Performance”. These shows are specially designed for children who may need a little more flexibility. The lights never go completely dark, sound levels are gentle and you’re free to step out and return if your child needs a break. These modifications are supported by research into neurodivergence and sensory processing issues, which frequently note that children with conditions like autism spectrum disorder experience auditory hypersensitivity and anxiety from loud, sudden noises.

Prepare Your Child Ahead of Time

Setting expectations can go a long way in helping your child feel comfortable. In the days leading up to the show, talk about what theatre is. Explain that the theatre isn’t like television or movies. There are no screens, and the magic happens in real time, often just a few steps away.

You can build familiarity through simple activities:

• Read storybooks about performing or imagination, like the Jimmy & The Magic Key series.

• Watch short clips of live performances online. (And you would be in luck, as archival footage of past child-oriented performances like Fatimah and Her Magic Socks has been released for a limited time.)

• Revisit past experiences like storytelling sessions at libraries, puppet shows or PIP’s PLAYbox.

It’s important to let your child know what to expect by describing what happens, for example, “The lights might dim, and people will clap when the show begins and ends.” For sensitive children, this reassurance helps them feel safe and excited rather than anxious. 

Time Your Day Well

Timing is everything when it comes to kids’ energy levels. Whenever possible, choose a showtime that fits your child’s natural rhythm. Morning or early afternoon sessions are often best for younger audiences, because that’s when they’re most alert, well-rested and ready to engage. 

Arrive early so there’s time to settle in and explore. A quick stop at PIP’s PLAYbox, Esplanade’s cosy arts space on Level Four, can help children get comfortable before the show. They can play or read there, giving them a sense of familiarity with the surroundings.

Avoid rushing by planning meals and bathroom breaks in advance. Grab a light bite at Esplanade Mall before your performance or pack a small snack for after the show. It helps keep little tummies (and tempers) in check.

Pack Smart but Light

You probably already know how to keep your child comfortable, but just in case, here are some essentials you definitely need to pack:

• A water bottle to stay hydrated.

• A light cardigan in case the theatre feels chilly.

• Tissues or wet wipes for quick clean-ups.

• A small snack for after the performance.

For younger children, a familiar comfort item like a soft toy or blanket can help them feel secure. Avoid bringing bulky bags or toys that might distract from the performance. Remember, the aim is to keep things light so you can move around easily.

Make Use of Family-Friendly Facilities

Esplanade is built with families in mind. From stroller parking areas to barrier-free routes, every feature supports your comfort and convenience. Nursing rooms and child-sized toilets are located near PIP’s PLAYbox, making them easy to access before and after shows.

If your child needs a break mid-performance, don’t worry. You can step out and return when they’re ready. Just let the ushers know and they can guide you to re-enter quietly. 

Embrace the Experience, Not Perfection

No theatre visit with children goes perfectly, and that’s okay! Your child may whisper during quiet moments, clap at unexpected times or decide to dance along. Instead of worrying that they’re not behaving, focus on enjoying the experience together. The goal isn’t to have your child “sit still” but to nurture their curiosity and confidence. 

Remember: every child experiences art differently. One might be mesmerised by the music; another might connect deeply with a character. Allow them space to express what they feel.

Extend the Magic After the Show

The theatre experience doesn’t have to end when the curtain falls. Keep the magic alive by talking about the show on your way home, and encourage creativity through art by having your children draw a scene or make up their own version of the story. 

You can also bring them to the Esplanade Concourse or DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre, which have free performances (every day at the Concourse, and on Fridays to Sundays at the Outdoor Theatre). These are relaxed, drop-in events where kids can continue exploring music and movement in an open setting.

Wrapping Up Your Family Theatre Day

Bringing children to the theatre doesn’t have to be stressful. A little planning will help a lot. Choose age-appropriate shows, prepare your child ahead of time and make use of Esplanade’s family-friendly facilities. These small efforts can transform the experience into a day of wonder and connection.

Build anticipation with Esplanade Offstage tutorials and stories, then start small with a PLAYtime! show, where Relaxed Performances welcome all forms of participation. Pair it with a visit to PIP’s PLAYbox, or extend your day with free outdoor music by the bay. 

So if you’re searching for theatre tips or planning your child’s first kids’ theatre experience, Esplanade is the perfect place to begin. With family-friendly facilities, easy accessibility, and free performances at the Concourse and Outdoor Theatre, Esplanade makes the arts feel joyful, approachable and memorable, the ideal setting to spark the imagination and create lasting family memories.