Bogar Theatre
About
Bogar Theatre brings the magic of live performance to families in Marshall, offering a rotating calendar of community theater productions, children's shows, and family-friendly performances throughout the year. With its intimate setting and commitment to accessible entertainment, this historic theater provides a wonderful introduction to the performing arts for kids of all ages in a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.
Highlights
- βIntimate community theater setting where kids can see performers up close and feel connected to the action
- βDedicated children's productions designed specifically for young audiences
- βFamily-friendly adaptations of classic stories and musicals throughout the year
- βAffordable ticket prices that make live theater accessible for the whole family
- βHistoric downtown Marshall location perfect for combining with a family outing
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the theater's schedule online in advance as children's shows often sell out quickly, especially during holiday seasons and school breaks.
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time for parking, bathroom breaks, and choosing seats in the general admission seating areas.
- 3.Bring a booster seat or cushion for smaller children who may have trouble seeing over the seats in front of them.
- 4.Consider attending a matinee performance for younger children, as evening shows may run past typical bedtimes.
- 5.Stop by the concession stand before the show starts, as they offer reasonably priced snacks and drinks that keep kids happy during the performance.
Best Time to Visit
Matinee performances on weekends are ideal for families with young children, offering earlier showtimes that work better with nap schedules and bedtimes. Weekday evening performances during the school year tend to be less crowded than weekend shows.
What to Know
Tickets are affordably priced in the moderate range, making live theater accessible for families on a budget. Street parking is available along East Michigan Avenue and nearby side streets, all within easy walking distance of the theater entrance.
Seasonal Notes
Holiday productions in November and December are especially popular with families and book up quickly. Summer often features lighter, family-oriented shows perfect for vacation entertainment. The theater may have limited performances during parts of August and January between production runs.
Nearby Eats
Schuler's Restaurant & Pub (a few blocks away) offers a kid-friendly menu in a historic setting, perfect for pre-show dinner. For quicker bites, head to Louie's Bakery on Michigan Avenue for fresh sandwiches and sweet treats that kids love.
More Activities Near Marshall
U.s. Postal Museum
The U.S. Postal Museum in Marshall offers an unexpectedly engaging experience for families, celebrating Michigan's rich industrial past through hands-on exhibits that bring history to life. With interactive displays designed to captivate curious minds, this hidden gem transforms what could be a dry topic into an exciting educational adventure that even young children will enjoy.
Marshall District Library
Marshall District Library is a welcoming community hub that makes reading and learning fun for the whole family. With dedicated children's sections filled with books for all ages, plus regular story time sessions and interactive programs, this highly-rated library offers a wonderful (and free!) way to spend quality time with your kids while fostering a love of reading.
Fort Custer Recreation Area
Fort Custer Recreation Area spans over 3,000 acres of diverse terrain perfect for families who love the outdoors. With over 25 miles of trails for hiking and biking, three lakes for swimming and fishing, and wide-open spaces for picnicking, this state park offers endless opportunities for active kids to explore nature. The variety of activities means families can customize their visit whether they want a relaxing afternoon by the water or an adventurous day on the trails.
Marshall Area Farmer's Market
The Marshall Area Farmer's Market offers a delightful Saturday morning outing where kids can explore local farm stands, sample fresh treats, and enjoy live entertainment in a welcoming outdoor setting. With interactive vendor experiences and a relaxed atmosphere, children learn about where food comes from while parents stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.