Photo: Lane Purvis
Photo: Ryan gattis
Photo: Colin Hubbard
Center for the Arts
★4.5(27 reviews)$$Theater
🕑 2-2.5 hours including intermission for most family shows👶 Best for ages 4-12. Younger elementary-aged children particularly enjoy the children's theater productions tailored to shorter attention spans, while tweens appreciate the concerts and more sophisticated performances. Some shows are designed specifically for preschoolers, so check individual performance age recommendations when booking.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
The Center for the Arts in Towson brings professional-quality theater to families with an impressive lineup of children's productions, concerts, and family-friendly performances year-round. This university-affiliated venue offers the perfect introduction to live theater in a welcoming environment designed to captivate young audiences while maintaining the excitement of a real theater experience.
Highlights
- ✓Professional-quality children's theater productions featuring beloved storybook characters and classic tales
- ✓Interactive performances where kids can participate or meet performers after the show
- ✓Comfortable, air-conditioned theater with excellent acoustics and sightlines
- ✓Educational performances that bring learning to life through music and storytelling
- ✓Special holiday shows and seasonal performances that become annual family traditions
Pro Tips
- 1.Book seats in the center orchestra section for the best sightlines, balcony seats can be challenging for smaller children to see over railings
- 2.Arrive 20-30 minutes early to allow time for parking, bathroom breaks, and finding your seats without stress
- 3.Check their website for special 'Family Series' performances specifically designed with shorter run times and intermissions perfect for kids
- 4.The venue is located on Towson University's campus, so parking can be tricky during university events, use the York Road Garage for easiest access
- 5.Many performances offer lobby activities before showtime where kids can do crafts or meet characters
Best Time to Visit
Weekend matinee performances (typically Saturday and Sunday afternoons) are ideal for families, offering earlier showtimes that work better with children's schedules and bedtimes. Fall and spring seasons feature the most robust children's programming.
What to Know
Ticket prices vary by performance but family shows typically range from $15-30 per person. Parking is available in university garages for a small fee. The venue has accessible seating and facilities, and concessions are available during intermissions.
Seasonal Notes
The center features special holiday productions in November and December (like The Nutcracker and holiday concerts) that are extremely popular, book early. Summer programming is lighter with occasional camps and workshops. The main performance season runs September through May.
Nearby Eats
Towson Town Center mall is less than a mile away with numerous family-friendly options including The Cheesecake Factory and Panera Bread. For a quick bite, grab pizza at Joe Squared or burgers at Johnny Rockets, both within easy driving distance.
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