The Best Kids Shows in Melbourne: Theatre for Kids

Melbourne has always held a special place in my heart for live performance. Some of my fondest childhood memories are of watching The Wind in the Willows at Fitzroy Gardens (or was it the Botanic Gardens?), a picnic basket at my side and grape juice in hand. One of my favourite books was brought to life before my eyes. It was pure magic. Soon after, I discovered the mesmerizing power of a symphony through Peter and the Wolf, an experience that left me spellbound.

These early encounters with theatre and music shaped the way I wanted to introduce the arts to my own children. From a young age, we sought out performances that would spark their imagination and broaden their horizons. One of our most unforgettable family experiences was watching the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Princess Theatre, a mind-blowing adventure that we’ll treasure forever.

To help you create your own magical memories, we’ve rounded up the current and upcoming theatre productions in Melbourne, perfect for families and lovers of live performance alike.

Melbourne’s Best Theatre Shows for Kids

Athenaeum Theatre

Established in 1839, the Athenaeum Theatre is one of Victoria’s oldest and most treasured cultural landmarks. This heritage-listed venue in Melbourne’s city centre continues to entertain audiences with a lively program of comedy, music, and theatre, blending historic charm with a vibrant contemporary arts scene.

The Gruffalo

After sell-out seasons in London’s West End and on Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to Australia in a magical, musical stage adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Join Mouse on a brave journey through the deep, dark wood, meeting Fox, Owl and Snake along the way in a fun-filled adventure perfect for families.

When: 16 – 19 April 2026
Where: Athenaeum Theatre 1 | 188 Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000.
Duration: Approximately 55 min
Tickets: from $35.00

Arts Centre Melbourne

With its striking spire lighting up the city skyline, Arts Centre Melbourne is both a cultural and architectural landmark. Home to world-class music, theatre, and dance performances, it serves as the heart of Victoria’s performing arts scene, celebrating creativity and connection on its many stages.

The Bookbinder

The Bookbinder is a captivating one-man theatre experience from Trick of the Light Theatre, where storytelling spills off the page into a richly imagined workshop world. Blending puppetry, shadow play and intricate paper art, this award-winning production is a dark fairytale adventure for readers and dreamers of all ages.

The Bookbinder is a dark fairy-tale brought to life through inventive puppetry, paper art, shadow play and atmospheric storytelling, echoing the imaginative worlds of Coraline and The Labyrinth.

When: 23 April – 1 May, 2026
Where: The Show Room | Arts Centre Melbourne
Ages: 8+
Duration: 55 minutes
Tickets: from $39.00

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in Concert

Cars fly, trees fight back, and monsters are on the loose in Harry’s second year at Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!

This concert features the film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in high-definition, on a giant screen, while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ unforgettable score.

Relive every magical moment as the music brings life to a story that has enchanted the world.

When: 10 – 13 June 2026
Where: Hamer Hall | Arts Centre Melbourne
Rating: PG (Frightening fantasy scenes, medium level violence)
Duration: Approximately 3 hours (including interval)
Tickets: From $61.20

Andy Griffiths’ YOU & ME and The Land of Lost Things

Well… actually, lots of things. A guinea pig. A lucky rabbit’s foot. Possibly the plot! So they’re off on a wild quest through the Land of Lost Things – a world of snapping turtles, flying socks, treasure-hungry pirates, and a very anxious bull.

It’s a dangerous adventure – but with a bathtub boat, a guinea pig detector and just a little bit of luck, they might just make it home. That’s if they don’t get eaten by sharks. Or tricked by Johnny Knucklehead. Or trapped in the Lost Foot Empawrium…

When: 3 – 14 June 2026
Where: Playhouse | Arts Centre Melbourne
Ages: Recommended for ages 6-12 and their families.
Duration: 1 hour
Tickets: from $28.00

Cinderella

Cinderella is a beautifully staged classical ballet performed by the Victorian State Ballet, set to Sergei Prokofiev’s iconic score. This elegant production brings the timeless fairy tale to life through expressive choreography, stunning ensemble work and breathtaking pas de deux.

A story of kindness, hope and transformation, it offers a magical and accessible experience for both ballet lovers and first-time audiences alike.

When: Friday 3 July 2026
Where: Hamer Hall | Arts Centre Melbourne
Ages: recommendation 2+ years.
Tickets: from $69.00

New Owner

Knowing that dogs are the best medicine, Mabel adopts Bart from the animal shelter to help heal her widowed heart. But Mabel is old, and Bart is young, and not all love can last forever. Suddenly alone, Bart embarks on an urban odyssey of towering hot dog carts, menacing dog-nappers and junkyard camaraderie.

A wistful, wordless journey from a dog’s point of view, New Owner melds tender puppetry with spellbinding animation to paint a poignant portrait of friendship, loss and new beginnings.

When: 17 – 18 July, 2026
Where: The Show Room | Arts Centre Melbourne
Ages: Recommended for children ages 8+
Duration: 50 minutes
Tickets: from $35.00

How to Train Your Dragon 2 in Concert

When Hiccup and Toothless discover a secret ice cave with wild dragons and a mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves in an epic battle to save the future of man and dragons!

How To Train Your Dragon 2 In Concert features this spectacular sequel presented in HD with composer John Powell’s thrilling score performed live to picture by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in an awe-inspiring experience for the whole family.

Where is the Green Sheep?

Where is the Green Sheep? is an immersive visual theatre experience based on the beloved children’s book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek. We meet Blue Sheep who loves blue flowers and Red Sheep who loves to cartwheel in the fields, Bath Sheep who loves bubbles and Bed Sheep who loves to bounce… But where IS that Green Sheep?

Blending puppetry and animation, this beautiful production invites young audiences to join our three farmers on their quest to find the elusive green sheep. Co-created with students from Bankstown West Public School, this production integrates their voices as narrators, ensuring the work resonates deeply with young audiences.

When: 22 – 26 September
Where: Playhouse | Arts Centre Melbourne
Ages: Recommended for children ages 1-6 and their families. All children aged 12 months and above require their own ticket.
Duration: 45 minutes (no interval)
Tickets: from $35.00

Edward Scissorhands in Concert

Edward Scissorhands tells the moving story of an unfinished creation who longs for belonging after being welcomed into a pastel suburban community, where his uniqueness is both celebrated and feared. This poignant tale of love, acceptance and misunderstanding is enhanced by a live performance of Danny Elfman’s haunting score, performed by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, bringing the film’s emotional world vividly to life on stage.

When: 30 & 31 October, 2026
Where: Hamer Hall | Arts Centre Melbourne
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Tickets: from $66.30

The Capitol

Originally built in 1924 and beautifully restored in 2019, The Capitol stands as a Melbourne icon. Renowned for its striking architecture and rich cinematic history, this stunning venue continues to host film festivals, live performances, and cultural events, celebrating the intersection of heritage and creativity.

Ballet of Lights: Cinderella in a Sparkling Show

After delighting audiences around the world, Ballet of Lights: Cinderella arrives with a dazzling twist on the classic fairy tale. This reimagined ballet blends traditional storytelling with modern spectacle, as dancers perform in glow-in-the-dark costumes that light up the stage and transform each scene into a visual feast.

From the comic chaos of the wicked stepsisters to the glamour of the Royal Ball and Cinderella’s timeless love story, every moment is brought to life through expressive movement, colour and light. Enchanting and visually striking, this sparkling production offers a fresh way for families and ballet lovers alike to experience a much-loved story.

When: 23 Jan 2026 – 16 May 2026
Where: The Capitol | 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne
Ages: 5+
Tickets: from $50.00. Book here.
Duration: approx. 60 minutes (doors open 30 mins prior to the start time), there is no interval.

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in a Sparkling Show

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty brings a radiant new take on the timeless fairy tale to Melbourne. This elegant production combines classical ballet with striking glow-in-the-dark costumes, creating a world where movement and light are seamlessly intertwined.

As the story unfolds, dancers sweep across the stage in a shimmering display of colour, transforming each leap and turn into something truly magical. With beautiful choreography and an immersive visual style, this enchanting performance offers audiences a fresh and unforgettable way to experience Sleeping Beauty.

When: 23 Jan 2026 – 16 May 2026
Where: The Capitol | 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne
Ages: 5+
Tickets: from $49.00. Book here
Duration: approx. 60 minutes (doors open 30 mins prior to the start time), there is no interval.

Rippon Lea Estate

Rippon Lea Estate is a historic mansion and gardens in Melbourne, offering a glimpse into 19th-century grandeur. While not a traditional theatre, the estate hosts cultural events, outdoor performances, and community gatherings, set amidst beautifully preserved architecture and lush gardens, making it a unique arts and heritage destination.

Jack and the Beanstalk

A joyful, interactive outdoor pantomime-style picnic theatre experience that invites audiences to bring a rug and become part of the action. This lively retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk features sing-alongs, playful characters and plenty of audience participation—from chasing golden eggs to helping Jack outwit the Giant. Perfect for families and first-time theatre-goers, it’s a fun-filled celebration of classic storytelling under the open sky.

When: Until 19 April 2026
Where: Rippon Lea House and Gardens
Ages: Best for 3 and up!
Duration: 80 mins
Tickets: from $25.00

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne offers a beautiful natural setting for family-friendly theatre, where live performances unfold beneath towering trees and open skies. Throughout the year, the gardens host outdoor shows designed especially for children and families, blending storytelling, music and imagination with the magic of nature. It is a relaxed and memorable way to introduce kids to theatre, combining culture, fresh air and some of Melbourne’s most stunning scenery.No shows at the moment

Comedy Theatre

A Melbourne favourite since 1928, the historic Comedy Theatre delights audiences with an ever-changing program of musicals, dramas, and, of course, comedies. With its charming Spanish-inspired façade and intimate atmosphere, it’s a beloved venue that continues to showcase world-class performances in the heart of the city.

Bluey’s Big Play the Stage Show

Bluey’s Big Play, For Real Life brings everyone’s favourite family to the stage in a delightful live adventure. After captivating audiences from New York’s Madison Square Garden to London’s Royal Festival Hall, Bluey and Bingo are back in Australia, ready to turn an ordinary afternoon into a hilarious and heartwarming escapade.

Inspired by the Emmy® award-winning series, this theatrical adaptation features an original story by creator Joe Brumm and new music by composer Joff Bush. With clever puppetry, interactive fun, and all the charm of the Heelers, Bluey’s Big Play offers a magical chance to see Bluey and her world brought to life like never before.

When: from July 2026
Where: The Comedy Theatre
Ages: Bluey’s Big Play is suitable for the whole family to enjoy together.
Tickets: from $54.90
Duration: 50 minutes with no interval.

Six the Musical

SIX the Musical returns to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre in July 2026, bringing its high-energy pop spectacle back to the stage. Follow the six Tudor queens—Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr—as they remix 500 years of history into an electrifying 80-minute concert bursting with music, attitude, and fun.

A global phenomenon from West End to Broadway, SIX the Musical has captured hearts worldwide, earning 38 major international awards, including two Tony Awards® and a Grammy nomination, making it a must-see show for pop and theatre fans alike.

When: From 24 July 2026
Where: The Comedy Theatre
Ages: Recommended for ages 10 and older.
Tickets: from $79.50
Duration: 80 minutes with no interval.

Her Majesty’s Theatre

Entertaining Melbourne audiences since 1886, Her Majesty’s Theatre is a grand heritage-listed venue celebrated for its rich history and world-class productions. From blockbuster musicals to ballet and opera, this iconic theatre continues to shine as a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant performing arts scene.

Waitress

WAITRESS is the Broadway smash-hit musical making its Australian debut, inspired by the film by Adrienne Shelly. Featuring an uplifting original score by Grammy winner Sara Bareilles, with a book by Jessie Nelson and direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus, this heartwarming story celebrates resilience, friendship and hope as one woman finds strength and a fresh start through unexpected change.

When: from May 2026
Where: Her Majesty’s Theatre
Ages: a great choice for older teens and adults
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (including interval)
Tickets: from $59.90

National Theatre

Located in the heart of St Kilda, The National Theatre has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s arts scene for decades. Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s cinema, it hosts a diverse program of live performances and serves as a training ground for emerging talent in theatre, dance, and music.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

The bells are ringing in Notre Dame. Quasimodo is out of the shadows and is taking centre stage!

Set in the heart of Paris, this powerful musical follows Quasimodo as he observes a world shaped by power, passion and prejudice from high above the city streets. A moving story of identity and humanity, it explores the question of what truly defines a monster—and what defines a man.

When: 15 – 30 May, 2026
Where: The National Theatre | 20 Carlisle St, St. Kilda, VIC 3182
Ages: Hunchback of Notre Dame also include mature themes, simulated fight scenes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences.
Tickets: from $46.00

Princess Theatre

Widely regarded as Melbourne’s most spectacular theatre, the Princess Theatre is an architectural gem and cultural icon. With its grand façade and opulent interiors, this historic venue has hosted some of the world’s biggest stage productions, delighting audiences and adding timeless glamour to Melbourne’s theatre district.

Mrs Doubtfire

Helloooo, poppets! MRS. DOUBTFIRE, the feel-good comedy musical based on the beloved film, arrives at the Princess Theatre this November.

MRS. DOUBTFIRE is a hilarious and heartfelt musical based on the beloved film Mrs. Doubtfire. It follows Daniel Hillard, a devoted father who creates the disguise of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire to stay close to his children after a difficult divorce, with his alter ego quickly taking on a life of its own.

Full of comedy, iconic moments and energetic new songs, it’s a feel-good story about family, love and connection.

When: from November
Where: Princess Theatre
Ages: recommended for ages 6+
Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including interval.
Tickets: Join the waitlist now for exclusive early access to tickets when they go on sale later this year.

Regent Theatre

A true Melbourne landmark, the Regent Theatre is one of the city’s premier venues for live performance. Lovingly restored to its 1920s grandeur, it dazzles audiences with its opulent architecture and hosts major musicals and world-class productions in an unforgettable setting.

Currently no family shows

Southbank Theatre

Home to the Melbourne Theatre Company, Southbank Theatre is a contemporary performance space celebrated for its striking design and dynamic programming. Located in Melbourne’s vibrant arts precinct, it offers audiences an engaging mix of classic and contemporary theatre in an intimate, architecturally stunning setting.

Currently no family shows

St Kilda Botanical Gardens

Nestled in the heart of St Kilda, the St Kilda Botanical Gardens offer a serene setting for outdoor performances and community events. With beautifully landscaped grounds, heritage-listed features, and lush greenery, this peaceful oasis provides a charming backdrop for theatre, music, and cultural gatherings.

La Mama Courthouse

Renowned as one of Melbourne’s leading independent theatres, La Mama Courthouse champions diversity and inclusivity in the performing arts. This vibrant venue supports emerging artists and experimental works, offering audiences bold, thought-provoking performances in an intimate and welcoming setting.

In 2025, La Mama is temporarily pausing their regular programming to concentrate on strengthening their operations.