


The Ed Asner Family Center
About
The Ed Asner Family Center brings the magic of theater to life through inclusive, family-friendly productions and hands-on workshops in the heart of Van Nuys. This community theater specializes in accessible entertainment programming that welcomes children of all abilities, offering both performances to watch and opportunities for kids to develop their own creative skills on stage.
Highlights
- ✓Family-friendly musical theater productions featuring local young performers
- ✓Hands-on theater workshops where kids learn acting, singing, and stagecraft
- ✓Inclusive programming designed for children with special needs and disabilities
- ✓Intimate theater setting where every seat offers a great view
- ✓Opportunities for kids to perform on stage and build confidence
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their calendar online before visiting, as performances and workshops run on specific dates rather than daily schedules.
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early for shows to find parking in the plaza and let kids use the restroom before curtain time.
- 3.Sign up early for workshops and classes as they fill quickly, especially during school breaks.
- 4.Ask about their inclusive programming if you have a child with special needs. The center specializes in making theater accessible to all abilities.
- 5.Bring a light sweater as theater spaces can be cool, even in summer.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday evenings and Friday afternoons work well for catching performances. Weekend workshops often book up fast, so weekday sessions may offer more availability and smaller class sizes for more personalized attention.
What to Know
Ticket prices are moderate ($$) and the center is located in a strip mall with ample free parking. The venue is fully accessible and committed to inclusion for children with special needs. Check their website for current show schedules and workshop registration.
Seasonal Notes
The center operates year-round with varied programming throughout the year. Special holiday-themed productions typically run during winter months. Summer often features intensive theater camps and workshops when school is out.
Nearby Eats
Head to Cupid's Hot Dogs (about 2 miles away) for classic LA-style hot dogs that kids love, or visit Islands Restaurant for burgers and a casual family atmosphere with a kids menu.
More Activities Near Los Angeles
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a treasure trove for curious minds, featuring one of the world's most impressive dinosaur halls with towering T-Rex skeletons and hundreds of fossils. Beyond prehistoric giants, kids can explore sparkling gems, live animals in the Discovery Center, and hands-on exhibits that bring natural history to life. With its engaging displays and interactive opportunities, this museum turns learning into an adventure that captivates children of all ages.
Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon Park offers families an accessible Hollywood Hills adventure with rewarding panoramic views of Los Angeles, from downtown to the Pacific Ocean. The well-maintained trails range from easy stroller-friendly paths to moderate hikes that challenge older kids, and the off-leash dog areas mean your four-legged family members can join the fun too.
Griffith Park
Griffith Park is a massive 4,300-acre urban oasis offering families endless entertainment options without spending a dime. From riding the vintage 1926 merry-go-round to chugging along on the miniature train through a tunnel and past playful displays, kids will find adventure around every corner, plus miles of family-friendly hiking trails with stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and LA basin.
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory offers an unforgettable cosmic adventure where kids can peer through real telescopes, touch a meteorite, and explore interactive space exhibits,all completely free! Perched high in the hills, it delivers spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA, making it both an educational experience and a quintessential Los Angeles destination that won't break the family budget.