Stepping into the magical world of Broadway is an experience unlike any other, and for kids, it can spark a lifelong love for theatre. While finding the absolute best Broadway plays for kids to watch live can be a delightful challenge, many young dreamers want more than just a seat in the audience. They want to sing along, learn the iconic tunes, and maybe even imagine themselves under the spotlights!
This article isn’t just about the shows you can see, but about the fantastic resources that help kids truly engage with Broadway’s magic, from learning classic songs to embracing their inner performer. We’ve rounded up 7 top picks that let your child explore the enchanting world of musical theatre, helping them connect with the stories and songs that make Broadway so unforgettable. Whether they’re future stars or just love the music, these selections are perfect for bringing a piece of the Great White Way right into your home!
The Magic of Musical Theatre for Young Minds
Before we dive into our specific recommendations, let’s acknowledge why Broadway resonates so deeply with children. It’s the vibrant costumes, the powerful storytelling, the catchy tunes, and the sheer spectacle of live performance. These elements combined make Broadway musicals for children an incredible educational and inspiring experience. Our selection below provides tools that help kids explore these elements hands-on, encouraging their creativity and fostering their stage dreams.
Our Top 7 Broadway-Inspired Picks for Kids
Let’s explore some incredible resources designed to bring the magic of Broadway closer to your child.
Kids’ Musical Theatre Collection | Volumes 1 and 2
This collection is an absolute treasure trove for any young vocalist ready to belt out some Broadway hits! Spanning two volumes, it brings together a fantastic selection of age-appropriate songs from various Broadway productions. It’s ideal for kids who are just starting their vocal journey or those looking for audition songs that truly showcase their talent. The arrangements are designed for young voices, making these popular show tunes accessible and fun to sing. This set truly helps kids get a feel for the diverse world of best Broadway plays for kids through song.
- Features: A collection of musical theatre songs for young voices
- Variety of popular Broadway tunes suitable for children
- Designed for vocal practice and performance
Pros:
– Excellent variety of songs to keep kids engaged
– Arrangements are suitable for younger vocal ranges
– Great resource for aspiring youth Broadway performers
– Helps build a repertoire for auditions or recitals
Cons:
– May require adult assistance for younger children to read music
– Does not include full orchestral backing tracks (typically just piano accompaniment)
User Impressions: Parents rave about the carefully curated song selection, noting how much their children enjoy singing along to familiar tunes and discovering new ones. Many appreciate it as a go-to for kids’ theatre songs and performance practice.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Broadway Presents! Kids’ Musical Theatre Anthology |…
For the truly dedicated young performer, this anthology is a goldmine. Curated by Lisa DeSpain, it offers a comprehensive selection of musical theatre pieces specifically chosen for kids. What makes this stand out is its format, often including a CD with accompaniment tracks, allowing children to practice with a full musical backing. This is a crucial tool for developing timing, rhythm, and confidence, mimicking a real performance setting. It’s an essential item for any child serious about their musical theatre education.
- Features: Format: Book & CD, Genre: Broadway, Category: General Music and Classroom Publications, Contributors: Ed. Lisa DeSpain, Pub Date: 11/2008
- Comprehensive anthology specifically for kids
- Includes accompaniment tracks for practice
Pros:
– CD with accompaniment tracks is invaluable for solo practice
– Expertly edited and curated by Lisa DeSpain
– Broad selection covering different styles and vocal challenges
– Excellent for audition preparation
Cons:
– Published in 2008, so may not include the very latest Broadway hits
– Some songs might be more challenging for absolute beginners
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the included CD as a major benefit, saying it elevates practice sessions. They also appreciate the thoughtfulness behind the song choices, making it a staple for aspiring young actors.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Kids’ Broadway Songbook – Revised Edition Book/Online Audio…
This revised edition offers a modern approach to learning Broadway songs for kids, with the convenience of online audio access. Gone are the days of searching for a CD player – now, high-quality accompaniment tracks are just a click away! This songbook is packed with kid-friendly vocal pieces from beloved musicals, making it perfect for both casual singing and more serious practice. Its accessibility makes it a fantastic tool for encouraging children to dive into the world of theatre songs.
- Features: Book/Online Audio, Pages: 96, Instrumentation: Vocal
- Revised edition with convenient online audio access
- Focus on vocal pieces for children
Pros:
– Easy access to online audio tracks from any device
– Revised content ensures relevant and engaging song choices
– Clearly laid out for young singers to follow
– Great value with both sheet music and audio backing
Cons:
– Requires an internet connection for audio access
– Primarily focused on vocal performance, less on piano accompaniment
User Impressions: Users love the convenience of the online audio, noting that it makes practice much easier and more enjoyable. They also praise the selection of songs for being age-appropriate and fun.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Broadway Songs for Kids
For the young pianist in your life, this book is a wonderful entry point into the world of musical theatre. Featuring easy piano arrangements, it allows budding musicians to play melodies from popular Broadway shows. It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to the intricate scores of their favorite musicals, helping them develop their piano skills while playing songs they love. This book makes the music of the best Broadway plays for kids accessible to budding instrumentalists.
- Features: Easy Piano, Pages: 80, Instrumentation: Piano/Keyboard
- Simplified arrangements for young piano players
- Focus on popular Broadway melodies
Pros:
– Accessible for beginners learning piano
– Features recognizable and engaging Broadway tunes
– Helps develop sight-reading and rhythmic skills
– A fun way to connect piano lessons with musical theatre
Cons:
– Arrangements are simplified, so they may not be the full, complex versions
– Primarily for piano, not suitable for vocal practice without separate sheet music
User Impressions: Piano teachers and parents alike appreciate the “easy piano” format, saying it builds confidence in young players. Kids enjoy being able to play songs they recognize from Broadway.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
The Easiest Easy Piano Songs Simple Songs: 50 Fun and…
While not exclusively a Broadway songbook, “The Easiest Easy Piano Songs” is an excellent foundational resource for any child aspiring to play show tunes. With 50 fun and simple songs, it’s designed to build basic piano skills and confidence. Once they’ve mastered these fundamental pieces, transitioning to simplified Broadway arrangements (like the previous entry) will feel much more achievable. Think of it as the perfect warm-up act before they hit the grand Broadway stage!
- Features: Easy Piano, Pages: 122, Instrumentation: Piano/Keyboard
- Collection of 50 simple, fun songs
- Designed for absolute piano beginners
Pros:
– Perfect for building foundational piano skills
– Large number of songs provides extended learning and practice
– Highly accessible for very young or new piano students
– Great confidence builder before tackling more complex pieces
Cons:
– Does not exclusively feature Broadway songs
– May be too simple for children already past the beginner stage
User Impressions: Users love this book for its true “easy” approach, which empowers children to play songs quickly. It’s often recommended as a first piano songbook for kids due to its clarity and engaging content.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Performer Gift Cosmetic Bag, The Stage is My Happy Place…
Every aspiring Broadway star or dedicated theatre fan needs a place to keep their essentials, and this “The Stage is My Happy Place” cosmetic bag is absolutely perfect! It’s not just practical for holding makeup or stage-day necessities; it’s a fun, thoughtful gift that celebrates their passion. Made from durable, eco-friendly material, it’s stylish and serves as a constant reminder of their love for the performing arts. This bag is a delightful way to carry a piece of their stage dreams with them everywhere.
- Features: 【Sufficient Quantity & Perfect Size】Our package comes with 1 piece of double-sided cosmetic bag in package. Each makeup bag is the perfect size of 9″W x 7″ L., 【Reliable Material & Design】Made of high-quality natural and eco-friendly cotton linen material, durable, beautiful, convenient and practical. These cosmetic bags have clear and pretty printing, simple but eye-catching, which are the ideal gifts for women., 【Thoughtful Design】The makeup bag has a smooth zipper, easy to open and close, securely holding various kinds of daily beauty supplies, which is ideal for travel, vacation, business trip, gym, camping, bathroom organization and outdoor activity., 【Wide Uses】These makeup bags can not only be filled with skin care products and various cosmetics but can serve as an everyday bag for your jewelry, sunglasses, keys, headphones, chargers, candy, gum, rubber band, vitamin, mini toothpaste, etc., 【Ideal Gifts】Our personalized makeup gift bag can be given as a birthday gift, anniversary gift, graduation gift, wedding gift, bridal shower gift, retirement gift, Christmas gift to your family, friends and colleagues.
Pros:
– Inspirational “The Stage is My Happy Place” design
– Versatile for holding cosmetics, accessories, or small personal items
– Made from durable, eco-friendly cotton linen
– Thoughtful gift for any young performer or Broadway enthusiast
Cons:
– Not directly related to learning songs or plays
– Only one bag per package
User Impressions: Customers love this bag as a gift, noting that it’s well-made and the message resonates strongly with theatre lovers. It’s considered a charming and practical accessory for anyone with a passion for the stage.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
The Best Broadway Songs Ever – 6th Edition |…
For slightly older children or those with more advanced musical skills, “The Best Broadway Songs Ever – 6th Edition” is an expansive and essential collection. This comprehensive book features piano/vocal/guitar (P/V/G) arrangements of hundreds of classic and contemporary Broadway hits. It’s perfect for kids who can read music well and want to explore a wider range of musical theatre repertoire, whether they’re singing, playing the piano, or even strumming a guitar. It truly represents a deep dive into the musical landscape of the best Broadway plays for kids and adults alike.
- Features: P/V/G, Pages: 416, Instrumentation: Piano/Vocal/Guitar
- Comprehensive collection of Broadway songs
- Arrangements for Piano, Vocal, and Guitar
Pros:
– Huge selection of songs, offering immense value
– P/V/G arrangements cater to multiple musicians
– Covers a wide range of Broadway history
– Excellent for advanced students or family singalongs
Cons:
– May be overwhelming for beginners due to its size and complexity
– Heavy and large, not ideal for carrying around easily
User Impressions: Reviewers praise the sheer volume and quality of the songs included, often calling it a “must-have” for any serious musical theatre fan. It’s frequently used for performance preparation and family entertainment.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
FAQ: All About Broadway for Kids
Broadway offers an enriching experience for children, fostering creativity and a love for the performing arts. Here are some frequently asked questions about introducing kids to Broadway.
Q1: What age is appropriate for a child’s first Broadway show?
A: Generally, most Broadway shows recommend children be at least 4-6 years old. However, it largely depends on the specific show, its themes, length, and your child’s attention span. Family-friendly Broadway shows like The Lion King or Aladdin are often great first choices. Always check the show’s official website for age recommendations.
Q2: How can I make a Broadway show experience enjoyable for my child?
A: Prepare them in advance! Listen to the soundtrack, read a synopsis, or watch clips online. Ensure they’re well-rested and fed. Choose a matinee performance for earlier timing, and pick seats with a good view. Discuss theatre etiquette like being quiet during the show and waiting for applause.
Q3: Are there any specific Broadway plays for kids that are highly recommended?
A: Absolutely! Some perennial favorites include The Lion King, Aladdin, Wicked (for slightly older kids, 8+), and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (again, for older children and fans of the books). Shows like Frozen or SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical (when running) are also fantastic options. Always research the current lineup for family-friendly options.
Q4: My child loves to sing. How can they get involved with musical theatre?
A: There are many ways! Look for local children’s theatre groups, school drama clubs, or performing arts classes that offer musical theatre training. Our reviewed songbooks and anthologies are also excellent for at-home practice, helping them learn kids’ theatre songs and develop their vocal skills.
Q5: What’s the difference between a “play” and a “musical” on Broadway?
A: A “play” primarily tells a story through dialogue and acting, sometimes with minimal music. A “musical,” on the other hand, integrates songs and often dance as central elements of the storytelling, where characters express their emotions and advance the plot through music. Most of the famous Broadway shows for kids, like The Lion King, are musicals.
Q6: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for articles like this?
A: LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are words and phrases semantically related to your main topic. For “best Broadway plays for kids,” LSI keywords would include “Broadway musicals for children,” “family-friendly Broadway shows,” “kids’ theatre songs,” “youth Broadway performers,” and “musical theatre education.” They help search engines understand the full context of your article, improving its relevance and SEO strength by showing a deeper understanding of the topic, without keyword stuffing.
Q7: Can these songbooks help my child prepare for auditions?
A: Absolutely! Many of the collections we’ve reviewed are specifically curated with age-appropriate audition songs. Practicing with these books, especially those with online audio or CD accompaniments, is an excellent way to build confidence and refine performance skills for youth Broadway performers.