Winter is rough, especially for parents looking to keep cooped-up kids entertained. Don’t let freezing temps keep you at home, though. Instead, catch one of these children’s shows coming to Chicago.
“Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic”
Jan. 20-24, Allstate Arena
Jan. 27 to Feb. 7, United Center
More than 50 of your child’s favorite Disney characters are coming to Chicago. Join Mickey and Minnie, the Disney princesses and the “Frozen” gang on a journey through “Toy Story,” “Finding Nemo,” “The Lion King,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin” and other Disney classics. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont; United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago
“Snowflake”
Jan. 27 to Feb. 14
“Snow Angel”
Feb. 16-21
If you’re looking for theater appropriate for younger audiences, Chicago Children’s Theatre is a great place to start. “Snowflake” follows a man who transforms simple objects into treasures with a little bit of imagination. “Snow Angel,” perfect for kids ages 3-8, is a wordless play about a brother and sister who find a magic wonderland as it snows. Unfortunately, their neighbor stands in their way of exploring it. The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago
Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago
Feb. 3-4
The largest African dance company in the country will perform three shows in Skokie during African-American History Month. The shows are part of North Shore Center’s Youtheatre, a program that provides access to performing arts for kids in Kindergarten through 12th grade. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie
“The Compass”
Feb. 24 to March 12
This Steppenwolf for Young Adults play revolves around the trial of a teen that always ends differently because you decide the outcome. Although this is an interactive show, don’t let that scare you — you won’t be pulled up onstage. Instead, the audience will participate in a group discussion led by an actor. The play asks, “When someone else, or something else, tells you what to do, what exactly are you responsible for?” Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s Downstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago
“Cinderella … After the Ball”
March 3 to May 8
This tale is all about girl power! After Happily Ever After, Cinderella joins Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty on a quest to save their kingdom from the evil Pinocchio. Even parents will enjoy the music and humor in this take on a favorite princess story. The Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire
“Disney Live: Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic”
March 11-13
Disneyphiles have a second opportunity to see beloved characters this winter when Mickey and Minnie and the gang hang up their skates and take to the stage for music, dancing and more Disney magic. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont
“Magic Tree House: A Night in New Orleans”
March 19 to April 10
Give your kids something to look forward to all winter long (and let’s be honest, it’s usually cold until May). Based on the “Magic Tree House” books, this play follows Jack and Annie as they meet a teen Louis Armstrong. Although the play is best suited for kids ages 5-13, the show does include mature dialogue and alludes to gun violence and racial segregation. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago
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