Theatre with kids help
 

New York in April. First of all, is Chicago appropriate for 11 and 13 yr olds? Lion King is probably not going to be available and the boys won't see Beauty and the Beast. I just want them to have a chance at experiencing theatre on broadway. They enjoy comedy, which I know Chicago is not, but I would like to see some dancing myself. I know I have read on here that you can get tickets the day of the show. Is this as easy as it sounds as far as getting tickets? I would hate to wait and then not get to see a show. I would just like to know if there are an abundant # of tick. available for different shows or a small amount of select seats. I was thinking about Chicago, because they seem to have some good prices for tickets. Thanks in advance for all of your help! Also what about Carmines for dinner?

CHicago is a bit racey. try Phantom of the opera, Les Miserables, Kiss me kate (i've taken my daughter to all of these). off-broadway there's 'blue man group','stomp', and 'the Fantastiks'. For matinees go the day before to TKTS booth in the world trade center. Get there around noon, the line is never that bad. you can get evening tix day of at same location. there's another location at 47th st & Broadway but the line is always miserable. There is a decent selection of tickets available and some with decent seat. i've done many times. pick up a new york magazine, there's a listing in the back with all the on & off broadway shows wihth brief write-ups. also check website for theater devel. fund: http://www.tdf.org/ for TKTS info and NYTODAY.com (part of new york times). you can get reviews, ticket availability, etc. <BR>

Well, "Chicago" is not as sleazy as "Cabaret" but the costumes and dancing are provocative and the theme is sophisticated (about a female murderer who cultivates publicity and mass sympathy in an attempt to go free). I have two boys the same ages as yours, and I wouldn't consider it suitable for them. Also, I don't think they'd much care for it. Look for plays with adolescent themes or, at least, with a lot of swordfighting! It doesn't have to be on Broadway - small theatres can be a much better venue for young people.

Chicago is really not appropriate for kids that young. While the themes are "adult," it is not so much suggestiveness that would be a problem as that they would likely be bored out of their minds by it. Not a show recommended for kids. <BR> <BR>If you're intent on seeing a traditional Broadway musical, and want some comedy for them, some dancing for you, and something they'll follow and enjoy, I'd suggest one of the following revivals: The Music Man, Kiss Me Kate, or Annie Get Your Gun. I don't think there's anything objectionable in these shows for kids that age, and kids that age seem to enjoy them. <BR> <BR>Getting reduced-price tickets the day of the show at the TKTS booth is not a problem. Your choices, in terms of both shows and seats, will be limited by what's available on that given day, but the shows mentioned above are often available, especially on weekdays. That said, if you're coming during the spring break, the theaters will be doing brisk business. If you're a bit flexible about what you see, TKTS should work fine; if you have your heart set on a particular show, you should buy in advance. <BR> <BR>Carmine's is a good choice for a family dinner, but reserve in advance.

Chicago's one of my all-time favorites, but I agree with the previous posters, mainly because they probably wouldn't enjoy as much as something else. The Music Man or Annie Get Your Gun seem the most appropriate. If you're coming during spring vacation and/or Easter holiday time, it might not be that easy to get tickets for some shows. You might want to check the Playbill website (playbill.com), join its club (free and it's not a gimmick) and then you can get discounted tickets for shows in advance, usually from 25-33% off. The advantage is that you won't have to wait in line at the discount booth but can go right to the box office. It may be too early for April performances now, but keep checking. And there's a good chance that both of the above-mentioned shows will be available with the Playbill discount.

Thank you for the advice. I did join Playbill, so I will keep checking for specials or wait and get tickets when we get there. We will be there the week after Easter,staying at the Marquis. I really don't want to see Annie Get Your Gun, but Music Man seems to be a unanimous choice, so maybe that is what we should see. Regardless, we are so looking forward to being in New york. What exactly is Blue Group? It seems I've heard of them before. Thanks again!!

Blue Man Group is an Off-Broadway extravaganza, more performance art than traditional theater (not a narrative or a musical revue, etc.). It is actually a send-up of avant-guard art, but is hilarious and is universally enjoyed by kids (and adults). It's very popular with visitors with kids, but I didn't mention it because you said you want to give your sons a Broadway theater experience and this is quite different. Check www.bluemangroup.com for info. I would still recommend Kiss Me Kate; it's a first-rate (Tony winning) revival with lots of comedy, both kids and adults enjoy it a lot, and you can't beat those classic Cole Porter tunes.