Photo: RoadTrip NewEngland
Photo: RoadTrip NewEngland
Photo: L
Dedham Community Theatre
★4.7(283 reviews)$Theater
🕑 2-2.5 hours including intermission for most productions; family matinees may be slightly shorter👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger elementary-aged children will be captivated by the colorful productions and close-up stage action, while tweens and teens can participate in youth theater programs and workshops to develop their own performance skills.🧡 Saved by 24 families
About
Dedham Community Theatre brings live theater magic to families in an intimate, welcoming setting where kids can experience the performing arts up close. With family-friendly productions throughout the year and youth programs that let budding actors take the stage themselves, it's a wonderful way to introduce children to the creativity and wonder of live performance while supporting local arts.
Highlights
- ✓Intimate theater setting where kids feel connected to the performers
- ✓Family-friendly productions including classic children's stories and musicals
- ✓Youth theater programs and workshops for aspiring young performers
- ✓Affordable ticket prices that make live theater accessible for families
- ✓Friendly, welcoming atmosphere perfect for first-time theater-goers
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their calendar ahead of time for special family matinees, which are specifically designed with younger audiences in mind and have shorter run times
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to get good seats,this is a community theater with open seating, and center seats fill up quickly for popular shows
- 3.Ask about their youth theater programs if your child shows interest in performing; they offer classes and workshops throughout the year
- 4.Pack a small snack for younger kids to enjoy before the show, as concessions may be limited
- 5.Consider making it a special occasion by dressing up a bit,it adds to the theater-going experience and helps kids feel the magic
Best Time to Visit
Weekend matinee performances are ideal for families with young children, typically offering afternoon showtimes that work well with nap schedules and school nights. Special holiday productions in November and December are particularly enchanting but book early as they sell out quickly.
What to Know
Ticket prices are typically very affordable compared to larger theaters, usually ranging $15-25 per person. Street parking is available along High Street, and the venue is accessible with accommodations available upon request.
Seasonal Notes
The theater runs on a seasonal schedule with productions typically from fall through spring. Holiday shows (Thanksgiving through New Year's) are particularly popular and family-oriented. Summer may offer youth camps and special programming,check their website for the current season's lineup.
Nearby Eats
Legacy Place shopping center is just a few minutes away and offers family-friendly options like Shake Shack and Bertucci's. For a quick pre-show bite, stop by Dedham Square for casual pizza or sandwiches within walking distance.
More Activities Near Dedham
Park
Oakdale Avenue
Free❤️12
Oakdale Avenue is a classic neighborhood park in Dedham that offers something for every member of the family. With well-maintained playgrounds for the little ones, open baseball fields and basketball courts for active kids, and shaded picnic areas perfect for family lunches, it's an ideal spot for a low-key afternoon outdoors without the crowds of larger regional parks.
Playground
Greenlodge Elementary School
Free
Greenlodge Elementary School in Dedham opens its modern playground to the community, offering families a well-maintained space with updated play equipment and plenty of room for active play. The combination of age-appropriate structures, open grassy areas for games, and shaded picnic spots makes it a convenient neighborhood destination for parents seeking a reliable outdoor play option.
Activity
Legacy Place
Free
Legacy Place in Dedham is a family-friendly open-air shopping destination that goes beyond typical mall experiences. With its movie theater, diverse family restaurants, and regular seasonal events like summer concerts and holiday celebrations, it's perfect for combining shopping with entertainment that keeps kids engaged throughout your visit.
Sports
Gonzalez Field
★4.9Free❤️145
Gonzalez Field is Dedham's premier community baseball complex where young athletes develop their skills and families come together for America's favorite pastime. With its well-maintained fields and active youth league programs, it's the perfect spot for kids to learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and a love of the game in a supportive, family-friendly environment.