Children’s theater offers youngsters a chance to express themselves, tell stories, and be original. It also allows the audience members to witness the impressive experience. A few local theaters offer theater for children. One is the Broadway Palm Children’s Theatre, and the other is the Youth Theatre at the Alliance for the Arts. 

Broadway Palm Children’s Theatre presents full-scale productions that are great for all ages and include a kid-friendly buffet,” says Kathy Bernier, Director of Sales and Marketing. 

Through May 24, Tilly the Trickster is playing. The show is a high-spirited musical that celebrating adventure, play, and imagination. The mischievous youngster, Tilly, loves nothing more than to pay pranks and cause a little trouble. The musical Lyle, Lyle Crocodile, based on the book, runs from July 11-August 2, 2024. The show is about finding one’s voice, following one’s passion, learning the importance of family, and believing in oneself. After each show, the cast stays on stage to answer various questions from the audience. The $25 shows for all ages are matinees with 12-noon lunch and showtimes at 1 pm. 

Plan Your Visit: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-278-4422, broadwaypalm.com. 

The touching musical, Alice by Heart, was inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and is playing at the Youth Theatre at the Alliance for the Arts. Set in in the London Blitz of Works War II, the musical encourages us all to celebrate the transformational power of the imagination, even in the harshest of times. Showtimes are May 23-25, 2004, at 7:30pm, and May 25-26, 2004, at 2 pm. Tickets range from $12-20. 

The Alliance’s experienced Youth Theatre Director, Carmen Crussard, works with theatre groups ranging from elementary to high school age. Through her efforts, they are exposed to the entire theatre process, from behind-the-scenes activities to receiving encouragement and nurturing to elevate their skill levels to learning the importance of teamwork—all resulting in a high appreciation of the arts and a greater understanding of oneself and others. 

Plan Your Visit: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-939-2787, artinlee.org. 

When children participate in theater, they increase self-confidence, enjoy improved communication skills, and develop more vital self-expression skills. When guests, no matter the age, come to the theater  to see children’s shows, they are entertained, captivated, uplifted, and heart-warmed. 

Ann Marie O’Phelan is a SW Florida resident and a regular contributor to TOTI Media.