Heading to the theatre for the first time can be a big experience for children. It’s a public space with lots of people, there are sound and lighting effects that will be unfamiliar, and there’s a certain level of etiquette that must be observed. To make the experience enjoyable for everyone, here are some key things kids should know before they take their seat. 

It’s different from the cinema

In a cinema the audience looks at a screen, but in the theatre you’re watching a live performance. That means the actors can hear you if you shout out. It also means that any characters who might feel a bit scary are really just ordinary people dressed up. So while it might feel a little daunting, there’s nothing to worry about. 

It can be interactive

If you’re going to a show aimed at children - like The Lion Inside, a story about a lion and a mouse who form an unlikely friendship - there may be opportunities to interact. You might be invited to sing or dance along, or to call out to the actors when they prompt you. It’s worth noting, though, that you’ll be told when you can interact; it’s important not to interrupt the performance.

You can eat and drink

The theatre is quite a relaxed place to be, which means that you can have snacks and drinks while you’re there. It’s best not to take anything that will make a lot of mess, but you won’t have to sit there with a hungry tummy. 

It’s OK to ask questions

If you get a bit confused about the story or you have a question about the production, it’s OK to ask your grown-up during the show. Try to ask in a quiet voice so you don’t disturb the people around you, and your grown-up will try to explain quietly too. If you have a lot of questions, try to ask them during the interval or at the end of the performance because a lot of talking might distract the people around you. 

There might be loud noises or lighting effects

Lots of theatre shows have sound and lighting effects to add drama to the story. Be aware that you might see flashing lights or hear loud noises as part of the show. These are nothing to worry about, but if you get upset by loud noises, you can bring ear defenders along - lots of children wear them at the theatre. 

See The Lion Inside on stage

The Lion Inside is a fantastic first theatre show for children aged three and up. Based on the lion and the mouse book of the same name, by Rachel Bright and Jim Field, it uses songs, dancing and puppetry to keep children engaged, and lasts just 55 minutes with no interval. This award-winning lion and mouse story is coming to a theatre near you this summer - browse the tour dates and locations on our home page and book your tickets today.