Family Friendly Theater - Winter 22-23
In the fall of 2020, Traverse City was named the tenth "Most Arts Vibrant Middle Size Community" in the U.S. by SMU DataArts, a national center for arts research at Southern Methodist University. Here at UpNorth Kids, we’re thrilled that much of the arts scene in Traverse City is family friendly. Mark your calendar for these four kid focused productions this winter season!
The Nutcracker
Thursday, December 8th-Sunday, December 11th, 2022
Corson Auditorium - Interlochen Center for the Arts, Interlochen, MI
Experience the magic of a holiday classic as the Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division stages Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet, The Nutcracker. The timeless story of Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker comes to life through exceptional dancing, breathtaking costumes, dazzling scenic design, and original choreography by Director of Dance Joseph Morrissey. The Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra provides live accompaniment under the baton of guest conductor Gavriel Heine.
More information & Tickets
The SpongeBob Musical
November 25th - Saturday December 10th, 2022
Old Town Playhouse, Traverse City
SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the total annihilation of their undersea world. Chaos erupts. Lives hang in the balance. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage. The power of optimism really can save the world! This musical is based on the beloved animated series with songs provided by a host of popular music luminaries.
Holiday Cabaret
January 20th - 22nd
Old Town Playhouse, Traverse City
Holiday Cabaret is part of OTP Young Company with actors between the ages of 9 to 18
This yuletide take on our popular Broadway Showstoppers will feature songs from the season in a fun, dance-filled, musical revue. Featuring our advanced students, Holiday Cabaret will be sure to fill you with the joys of the season.
Clue: On Stage
January 20th - 22nd
Old Town Playhouse, Traverse City
Clue: on Stage is part of OTP Young Company with actors between the ages of 9 to 18
At a remote mansion, six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party where murder and blackmail are on the menu. Wadsworth the butler, Miss Scarlett, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard race to find their host’s killer as the body count stacks up. A Young Company production based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery.
Paddington Gets in a Jam
Sunday, January 29th, 2023
City Opera House, Traverse City
In this original slapstick comedy, Paddington goes next door to borrow a cup of sugar from his neighbor Mr. Curry, who is in a panic because he’s expecting a visit from his Great Aunt Matilda. And so, Paddington volunteers to help Mr. Curry with his to-do list before her imminent arrival.
Throughout the afternoon Paddington attempts items on the list - repair the pipes in the bathroom, vacuum the floors, install new wallpaper, bake a cake…But, in typical Paddington fashion, nothing goes to plan. The pipes burst and flood the bathroom. The vacuum cleaner misbehaves and leaves dust everywhere. Paddington adds too much self-rising flour to the cake, and his efforts at wallpapering turn into catastrophic (and sticky) chaos!
Cinderella
Friday, February 10th - Sunday, February 12th 2023
Corson Auditorium - Interlochen Center for the Arts, Interlochen, MI
Witness an enchanting adaptation of a timeless fairy tale as Interlochen Arts Academy dance students perform Cinderella. When Cinderella’s cruel stepsisters bar her from attending the prince’s ball, a mysterious fairy godmother appears to transform her from pauper to princess. But there’s a catch: the spell will expire when the clock strikes midnight. Featuring lush scenic design, exquisite costumes, exceptional dancing, and Sergei Prokofiev’s beloved score, Cinderella will leave you breathless—and make you believe in magic.
Check back often for more kids activities and things to do in Traverse City and the rest of Northern Michigan!