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FAMILY FESTIVAL SERIES

Some of the best experiences you can share with your children are live performances. Imagine the looks on their faces when they see the light circus of Luma or the awe-inspiring acrobats of Cirque Eloise. Or perhaps you have an aspiring musician or dancer. Let them see what it's like to put years of dedication and passion into something they love.

Whether your child is six, 12, or 17, we have performances that the entire family can enjoy. And with the discounted youth tickets and the flexible and affordable subscription, you'll find the right package with your family's budget and busy schedule in mind.Our 30th anniversary season is packed with family-friendly events. And with discounted children's tickets and the flexible and affordable subscription options, you'll be able to find the right package with your family's budget and busy schedule in mind.

We have noted a few events as a guide to what might be appropriate for certain ages based on the type of event. Of course, you know your children best and there may be other events that you would like them to experience based on their particular interest. You are certainly welcome to bring your family to any of our events. Weeknight performances start at 7:30pm for those early bedtimes.

For more detailed information on the events listed below, check out the Center Series Calendar. And don't forget to check out the other great programs and events here at the Fine Arts Center! You can also join our mailing list at the link to the left and get a monthly newsletter detailing what's coming up at the Fine Arts Center.

Great for families with children 6 and older:

Shaolin Warriors - Tuesday, November 27

Great for families with youth 12 and older:
(In addition to events listed above)

Rosanne Cash: Black Cadillac The Concert - Saturday, October 20
The American Beauty Project - Friday, November 16
Dark Star Orchestra- Saturday, November 17

Would you like to know more about the event so that you can prepare your family ahead of time?

Check out our on-line newsletter, playbill and press room for more detailed information and, when available, the web sites of the artists you're interested in.

Take Your Kids to the Theater!
Tips for Making the First Experience a Hit

Telling stories, dancing, playing with puppets, singing, pounding drums, and tooting horns -- for kids, these are all just part of everyday play. No wonder they love live performances, where this kind of fun is transformed into art. Before you pack your kids up for their first show, though, review a few of these tips from veteran theater-going parents. They'll help ensure that everyone in your crew enjoys the excitement -- and that all their expectations are met.

1. Tell your kids all about the performance in advance. The more they feel familiar with what's going to happen, the more they -- and you -- can relax at the show. (Don't worry about spoiling the surprise, kids thrive on repetition.)

2. Make your evening an event. Theater is an excuse to get dressed up, go out to dinner, and have a full evening of fun and conversation with your kids.

3. Come prepared. Bring binoculars, bottled water, which is allowed in many theaters including the Fine Arts Center, and if you like, unwrapped hard candies (to avoid a lot of paper rustling).

4. Read the program together. While you are waiting for the show to begin, show your child pictures of the performers, explain the structure of the show (For example, is it in three acts?), and review any words that are new to them, such as intermission or orchestra. Be sure your child saves the program, too, for the family scrapbook.

5. Review basic theater etiquette with your kids. There is no talking in the theater (Whisper!), and if you have to leave your seat during the performance, you will be ushered back in between acts.

-- from the Editors at FamilyFun magazine

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