5 Tips for Your Child's First Broadway Experience by a Westchester Mom

"Tomorrow! Tomorrow ! I love ya Tomorrow!" These lyrics have been belted out by my children and their 5-year-old friends for the past year or so. When I heard "Annie" was coming to Broadway, I knew it was the perfect first Broadway show for my 5-year-old girls.

Are you considering attending a show on Broadway with your child? Consider these five tips for your first theater visit the kids in tow.  

1. Introduce your child to the story of the show in advance.

We viewed the original movie about 100 times, listened often to the original Broadway album, saw a kids theater performance of "Annie" and even attended an Annie-themed birthday party. They were very familiar with the show! Tip:Remember, the show may be different than the story or movie. Prepare your child for this possibility so they aren't confused if a scene from the movie is not part of the show. And please make sure the show is age-appropriate!  

2. Share the rules of attending a Broadway show.

We've attended many local theater productions, but it's always good to remind kids that there is a certain behavior expected, including no talking, no singing (even if they know every single word), staying in seats, not kicking the seats in front, and waiting until intermission to use the bathroom. Tip:If the show offers boosters, take them before the show. While my kids weren't sure at first whether they'd sit on them, as soon as the show started, they immediately wanted them so they could see better. A friend suggested to set rules about what, if any, merchandise you'll purchase.