Chicagoland Kids Theater Guide: Spring – Summer 2021

Sharing the arts with your kids is such an unforgettable, wonderful experience! And, thankfully, there are some amazing, family-friendly theater productions happening in the months to come throughout the Chicagoland area! Kidlist has you covered with an excellent listing of shows (both virtual and hopefully in-person, too) that include adult ensembles, all-kids casts, virtual puppet shows, and even audio adventures. Line up your theater time today using our handy kids theater guide.

2021 Spring/Summer Kids Theater

Productions with a Cast of Adult Performers

X-Marks the Spot: An X-Tra Sensory Podcast Series!
Running now through January 29, 2022
Chicago Children’s Theatre
New episodes will be released each Friday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud or Pocketcast. An all-text, captioned version will also be posted on their YouTube channel, CCTv. Recommended for children ages 7+ and their families. $25 suggested donation.

Scribble Showdown
March 10, 2021
Chicago Theatre
175 N State St.
Chicago, IL 60601
Check back closer to the date for more details.

Leo Lionni’s Frederick
Running now through March 31, 2021
Chicago Children’s Theatre
A virtual puppet theatre show. Watch via CCTv. $25 suggested donation.

Stories Come Alive
Running now through April 17, 2021
Lifeline Theater
Virtual classes that delve into some new and favorite stories! Join their teaching artists on designated Saturdays as they read, discuss, and lead your children through activities that bring wonderful stories to life! Recommended for ages 4-11. Requires registration and admission purchased in advance.

Diamond’s Dream
Running now through May 21, 2021
Chicago Children’s Theatre
A virtual puppet performance. Watch via CCTv. Recommended for ages 9+. $25 suggested donation.

My Magic Breath
Running now through May 21, 2021
Chicago Children’s Theatre
A short video featuring animated storybook illustrations, solo musical performances by musicians from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and narration by Amy Eshleman. Ideal for ages 4-8.

Walkie Talkies
Running now through August 6, 2021
Chicago Children’s Theatre
Unique and fun audio experiences families can listen to together while exploring different Chicago neighborhoods.

Doll Face Has a Party!
Running now through September 10, 2021
Chicago Children’s Theatre
A short toy theatre show. Watch via CCTv. $25 suggested donation.

My Fair Lady
May 12 – 23, 2021
Cadillac Palace Theatre
151 W Randolph St
Chicago, IL 60601
Recommended for ages 8+.

Aladdin
July 31, 2021
Metropolis Performing Arts Center
111 W Campbell St
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Recommended for PreK through 4th grade.

Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!
Specific dates in 2021 coming soon
Marriott Theater
Ten Marriott Drive
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Based on the beloved characters by Mo Willems.

The Sound of Music
Specific dates in 2021 coming soon
Marriott Theater
Ten Marriott Drive
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Kid-friendly version of the classic play.

The Wizard of Oz
Specific dates in 2021 coming soon
Marriott Theater
Ten Marriott Drive
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
One-hour version of this beloved story for children.

Productions with a Cast of Child/Teen Performers

Spamalot
March 19-20, 2021
Riverside Brookfield High School
Streaming Performances
Recommended for teens and older.

Wizard of Oz
March 20 – 21, 2021 (Live/Virtual Performances – TBD)
BAM Theatre
641 S. Bodin St.
Hinsdale, IL 60521

Shrek, Jr
April 23 – 24 (tentative performances)
Ovation Academy For The Performing Arts
1010 Madison St.
Oak Park, IL 60302

Alice in Wonderland, A Pop Musical
April 30 – May 1, 2021
Christian Youth Theatre
Streaming Performances

Wizard of Oz
April 30 – May 2, 2021
Christian Youth Theatre
Streaming Performances

Shrek the Musical
May 1 – 2, 2021
Christian Youth Theatre
Streaming Performances

Cinderella
May 14 – 16, 2021
Christian Youth Theatre
Streaming Performances

Annie Jr
May 14 – 16, 2021
Christian Youth Theatre
Streaming Performances

2nd Story Theatre and 2nd Act Playmakers
June 12, 2021
Footlight Players of LaGrange Park
Memorial Park Ampitheater
La Grange Park, IL 60526

Little Women
July 23 – 24, 2021 (Tentative Dates)
LATTE (LaGrange Area Teen Theater Ensemble)
20 N Ashland Ave
La Grange, IL 60525

For more awesome ideas for family fun, check out our indoor activities page!