The Dallas Children’s Theater (DCT) takes the art of live performance to a whole new level of excellence. Time Magazine rated it among the top five theaters in country for plays and other performances designed specifically for children. But make no mistake about it – the Children’s Theater is fully professional.
The DCT reaches out to over 250,000 youngsters and families with main stage productions, an acclaimed national touring company and more. These shows aren’t watered down or overly simplistic but designed to help children gain an early interest in quality performing arts.
The Dallas Children’s Theater has an esteemed history. Founded in 1984 by Robyn Flatt and Dennis Vincent, the DCT has gone on to become the largest professional family theater in the Southwest area. Each year, eleven productions are shown in either the DCT or El Centro College Theater.
You’ll find the shows at either theater, Dallas Children’s or El Centro College Theater, provide a unique opportunity to see works produced by local playwrights, directors, set designers, and artists. In short, you won’t see the same basic plays you’re likely to find in other states across the nation.
If you and your young guests are lucky enough to attend a live play or other performance at the Dallas Children’s Theater, there is always the possibility that your budding young performer or playwright could gain inspiration from watching the live productions. Since this is the only organization in Dallas which focuses on theater for youngsters, it holds a unique place in the hearts of parents, teachers, and others who want to help children gain an appreciation of excellence in the performing arts.
Worried about whether your young ones can sit still for an entire play? Unlike some adult productions, most plays last for no more than an hour, with maximum time limits averaging about an hour and a half. Works are carefully considered to make sure they engage young audiences. However, each show is suited for specific ages so it is best to call ahead to find out the suggested age range for each production.
By the way, it isn’t only children, parents, grandparents, and others who are welcome at DCT. Teens are also offered special shows and learning opportunities. You’ll also find that all works produced at the theater are meant to go “beyond the stage,” designed to help children better understand the world.
When you walk in the door at your theater of choicer, find your seats and watch the curtain open, take a look at the faces of the children you’ve brought along. Odds are, they will be absolutely entranced. This is the kind of powerful effect that top quality productions can create for children.
You will want to make your own arrangements for lunch or dinner before show-times at the DCT. Since performances take place either at El Centro College or the Rosewood Center for Family Arts, meal options vary by location.. At El Centro College, you can eat at several restaurants near the university. Reverchon, located at 3505 Maple Avenue, is one popular choice.
At the Rosewood Family Center, you are welcome to bring along a picnic and eat in the Wyly Family Garden. Other scenic park areas include Ridgewood Park and Lake Highlands North Park. A casual meal while overlooking the landscape in Dallas allows both adults and children to stave off hunger pangs before performances – and also allows children to run around a bit and burn off some extra energy. After that, they should be ready to sit through a live on-stage performance at either DCT or El Centro College.
Parking is free at the Rosewood Center for Family Arts. You should have no trouble finding a parking space. At El Centro College, parking is free only to subscribers. If you’re planning on attending only a single performance, your best bet is to arrive early, find a nearby parking lot and plan to spend between $5 to $8. There are plenty of lots so you shouldn’t find a shortage of available parking options.
Office hours For DCT are Monday through Friday from 9-5, offering information about performance times and more. The Box office opens an hour before showtime.
Ticket prices normally range from $12 to $24, depending on the particular day and time. If you are interested in discounts or special prices, contact the theater for updates.
The Dallas Children’s Theater is located at the Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938 Skillman. For those works performed at El Centro College, the address is 80l N. Main Street. For more information, contact the Box Office at (214) 740-0051.
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