Photo: Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center
Photo: acchronicles
Photo: Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center
Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center
★4.7(212 reviews)$$Theater
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours depending on the performance, including intermission👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger elementary-aged children (5-10) particularly enjoy the children's theater productions and interactive performances, while tweens and teens appreciate concerts and more sophisticated shows. Toddlers under 4 may struggle with sitting through full performances, though some shorter children's productions can work.🧡 Saved by 11 families
About
The Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center brings the magic of live theater and entertainment to suburban Memphis families. This modern community venue hosts a rotating calendar of family-friendly shows including children's theater productions, concerts, dance performances, and cultural events that introduce kids to the performing arts in an intimate, welcoming setting.
Highlights
- ✓High-quality community theater productions with professional-level staging
- ✓Variety of programming from children's theater to concerts and cultural performances
- ✓Modern, comfortable venue with excellent acoustics and sightlines
- ✓Intimate atmosphere where kids feel connected to the performance
- ✓Educational opportunities to experience live performing arts
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their website or call ahead to see the full performance schedule,shows vary throughout the year and some are specifically designed for young audiences
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find parking, pick up tickets at will-call, and let kids use the restroom before the show starts
- 3.Office hours are limited (weekday mornings only), so purchase tickets online in advance rather than trying to buy in person
- 4.Seats in the center sections offer the best sightlines for shorter kids,consider bringing a booster cushion for very small children
- 5.Pack quiet snacks in your bag for younger children, but check the venue's food policy before the performance
Best Time to Visit
Weekends and evening performances are most common for family shows. Matinee performances (typically Saturday or Sunday afternoons) are ideal for younger children who may get tired during evening shows. Holiday seasons often feature special programming perfect for families.
What to Know
The venue offers ample free parking and modern, accessible facilities. Ticket prices vary by performance (typically $10-25 for most family shows). The box office has limited hours (weekday mornings 10am-2pm), so online ticket purchases are recommended.
Seasonal Notes
The performance calendar varies throughout the year with heavier programming during the school year (September-May). Holiday performances around Christmas are particularly popular for families. Summer may have reduced scheduling, so check ahead. Special children's theater series often runs during spring break and holiday weeks.
Nearby Eats
Stage Road Deli (less than a mile away) offers kid-friendly sandwiches and casual dining perfect for pre-show meals. For post-performance treats, grab ice cream at Handel's Homemade Ice Cream on Stage Road, about 2 miles from the venue.
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