The following guide was prepared by the League of American Theatres and Producers Inc. It is divided into sections. The top of the guide offers advice about current Broadway shows and how appropriate they are (or are not) for various age groups. Musicals and plays are listed separately. Next comes a guide to Broadway theatres that offer special discounts for families. Last is a guide to restaurants in the Broadway theatre district that offer discounts and/or special presentations for children and families.
MUSICALS:
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice
Palace Theatre (Broadway at 47th St.)
212-307-4100 / 800-755-4000
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial French town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an evil enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. Time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. (2 hr 30 min)
AGES 5+ With a score to sing with, costumes to dazzle and musical numbers to bring down the house, there''s something to entertain kids of all ages.
CATS
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Based on "Old Possum''s Book of Practical Cats" by T.S. Eliot Winter Garden Theatre (Broadway and 50th Street)
212-239-6200 / 800-432-7250
Andrew Lloyd Webber''s long-running family spectacular is based on a collection of fanciful poems by T.S. Eliot. With its fantasy setting, the show introduces children to the larger-than-life magic of theatrical imagination. Beyond its visual and musical appeal, it also offers a subtle lesson of tolerance, as an outcast feline is ultimately given a chance for a new beginning. (2 hr 40 min)
AGES 4-9 Children are transfixed by the human-size felines that interact with the audience throughout the show.
AGES 10+ Energetic choreography, imaginative costumes, the unique cat make-up and an amazing set that takes up thå entire theatre help create a visually and musically spectacular experience for all ages.
GREASE!
The Tommy Tune Production Book, Music and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Eugene O Neill Theatre (230 W. 49th St.)
-239 -6200 / 800-432-7250
A fun time is guaranteed for all in this 1950''s inspired revival. The Pinks Gang of bad girls who are not so bad with their hearts of gold, teach the new girl in school how to be less like the unreal movie star Sandra Dee. The boys act tough, but actually just suffer from a case of overactive hormones. With 50''s Rock ''n Roll, Barbie Doll costumes and audience participation (get there early for your kids to dance on stage with the DJ) children love it! (2 hr 45 min)
AGES 5-9 They''ll thoroughly enjoy the experience and will miss most of the funny teenage sexual innuendos.
AGES 10+ The teenage sexual innuendos will be funny.
HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING
Music and Lyrics by Frank Loesser
Richard Rogers Theatre (226 W. 46th St.)
212-307 -4100 / 800-755-4000
A very clever, young window washer, J. Pierrepont Finch, rises up the corporate ladder using flattery, being in the right place at the right time, telling white lies and deliberately "setting the stage" to win over others. All these anti-work ethic traits are carried out in a charming, compelling way. The music, dancing and video projections create a sleek, modern business world. (2 hr 45 min)
AGES 5-9 This age group will understand that being clever can win (Of course, discipline and hard work can t hurt.), and they will enjoy the larger than life characters, colorful sets and exciting music.
AGES 10+ This age group will find Finch''s slick maneuvering entertaining and enjoy recognizing some of his tricks just before they happen.
LES MISERABLES
A musical by Alain Boubil and Claude-Michel Schonberg Lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer
Imperial Theatre (249 W. 45thSt.)
12-239 -6200 / 800-432-7250
Based on the classic Victor Hugo novel, LES MISERABLES is the story of an innocent man, the fugitive Jean Valjean, in a life-long attempt to evade capture by his pursuer, Inspector Javert. The show spans several decades with spectacular scenery and lighting and beautiful music. Ultimately, LES MISERABLES is a story about the triumph of the human spirit. (3 hr 10 min)
AGES 6-9 Although the show is over three hours long, children in this age group who have seen it enjoyed the spectacle. They are particularly interested in the character of the little orphan girl, Cosette.
AGES 10+ Excellent choice. The musical is thought-provoking and moving and brings out social rights and morality issues.
MISS SAIGON
A musical by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg; Music by Claude-Michel Schonberg; Lyrics by Richard Maltby, Jr. & Alain Boublil
Broadway Theatre (53rd and Broadway)
212-239 -6200 / 800-432-7250
Set against the backdrop of the final days of the Vietnam War, MISS SAIGON is a love story focusing on the relationship between an American G.I., Chris, and a young Vietnamese girl, Kim, struggling to survive. The show depicts the effects of war and the plight of innocent victims. MISS SAIGON features a melodic score and spectacular scenic design complete with special effects. (2 hr 45 min)
Mature teens are age-appropriate for adult themes.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by Charles Hart; Additional Lyrics by Richard Stilgoe
Majestic Theatre (247 W. 44th St.)
212-239 -6200 / 800-432-7250
Take an unforgettaâle trip to the Paris Opera House, circa 1881. Based on the classic novel, the musical tells the story of the hideously deformed Phantom who lurks beneath the stage. With the compelling music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, the Phantom will lure you to his secret world. Magnificent stage sets, costumes and a romantic story will keep you spellbound. (2 hr 35 min)
AGES 5-9 The Phantom may frighten 5-6 year-olds, but by 7, your child will find him no scarier than Rita Repulsive from the Power Rangers.
AGES 10-13 They will love it! The music and magic will make them want to see it again and again.
SHOW BOAT
Music by Jerome Kern; Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II
Gershwin Theatre (222 W. 5lst St.)
212-307 -4100 / 800-755-4000
Based on Edna Ferber''s novel, this landmark musical spans forty years of American history as seen through the Hawks family. The family runs a show boat that travels the mighty Mississippi stopping at different ports to perform. The Hawks must deal with issues such as slavery, separation and keeping up with the changing times. SHOW BOAT encompasses a wide range of musical styles, featuring such songs as Can t Help Lovin'' Dat Man and Ol'' Man River. (3 hr)
AGES 7+ SHOW BOAT is three hours long, but with a quick moving book and cast of 75, there is plenty to both entertain and educate older children. (The cast includes 5 children)
SMOKEY JOE''S CAFE - THE SONGS OF LEIBER AND STOLLER
Words and Music by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller
Virginia Theatre (245 W. 52nd St.)
12-239 -6200 / 800-432-7250
SMOKEY JOE''S CAFE celebrates 40 of the greatest rock ''n'' roll songs of the 1950''s and 1960''s. "Hound Dog ," "Jailhouse Rock , " "Love Potion #9," "On Broadway," "Yakety Yak" and "Stand By Me" are just a few of the classics performed by the powerhouse cast of 9. (2 hr 15 min)
AGES 5+ People of all ages will enjoy the fast pace, high energy and classic music.
SUNSET BOULEVARD
Music By Andrew Lloyd Webber. Book & Lyrics by Don Black & Christopher Hampton.
Minskoff Theatre (200 W. 45th St.)
212-307 -4007 / 800-212-307 -4007
Norma Desmond, an aging silent film star in the age of "talkies", lives a reclusive life in her dark, opulent mansion. Her former grandeur is reflected in an entire make-believe world. Even the butler helps to create a safe haven for her by keeping the past alive, until a younger man disrupts the fantasy. The set is magnificent, the costumes glamorous and the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber dramatic. (2 hr 40 min)
AGES 5-9 Not appropriate for this age group due to a violent scene and mature subject matter.
AGES 10+ They will find the set and costumes spectacular and the character of Norma Desmond outrageous.
VICTOR / VICTORIA
Music By Henry Mancini, Lyrics by Leslie Bricusse
Marquis Theatre (Broadway and 46th St.)
212-307 -4100 / 800-755-4000
This stage version of the highly successful movie features lavish production numbers and breathtaking costumes. Set in Paris during the 1930s, VICTOR / VICTORIA tells the story of Victoria Grant, a down-on-her-luck singer who is persuaded by a kind but struggling cabaret emcee to present herself as a man performing as a woman. She/he falls in love with a Chicago club owner, to the dismay of his girlfriend, and the antics ensue. Seeing the legendary Julie Andrews is reason enough to get tickets; seeing her bend the genders is twice the fun. (2 hr 45 min)
Adult situations suggest that this musical is more suitable for mature teens.
PLAYS:
MOON OVER BUFFALO
By Ken Ludwig
Martin Beck Theatre (302 W. 45th St.)
12-239 -6200 / 800-432-7250
A riotously hilarious farce about a family of thespians who are performing repertory theatre in Buffalo, New York in 1953. Carol Burnett and Philip Bosco, as Charlotte and George Hay, are dealing with the reality that, after moderately successful lives as stage actors, their careers may be coming to an end. Will a comeback be in store for them in the movies as Frank Capra comes to Buffalo to see their performance after Ronald Coleman, the lead in Capra''s latest film, literally breaks his legs? The shenanigans compound as the Hays'' dramatic lives and dramatic careers intertwine. (1 hr 40 min)
AGES 10+ Although the slapstick humor will be enjoyed by children, adult situations are more appropriate for young teens and up.
FAMILY PLANS
THE ROUNDABOUT THEATRE COMPANY
A nonprofit theatre committed to producing revivals of classic plays and musicals The Roundabout Theatre Company offers the NYNEX Family Series which encourages family members to spend time together while experiencing an exciting Broadway play. Young subscribers aged 13-18 receive a 50% discount when they subscribe with an adult who pays full price. Each season includes six plays. Recent productions include THE PLAY''S THE THING, a light-hearted comedy, and COMPANY with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. For additional information about the NYNEX Family Series call (212) 719-9393.
CIRCLE IN THE SQUARE THEATRE
Bring your children to Broadway for only $10! Get up to two student tickets for each full priced adult ticket at Circle In The Square''s Saturday Matinees. In addition, subscriptions for THE SUITCASE THEATRE, three shows for young audiences 5 - 12, are only $15. And for families with students 11 - 14, Circle In The Square presents THE SPIRIT OF LIFE, a beautiful and haunting play about the indomitable faith of the Jewish People in the face of The Holocaust. For more information call Circle''s Education Department at (212) 212-307 -2700.
For show schedules and ticket prices call the Broadway Line at 212-563-2929. Outside of the NY Metro Area, call 800-525-2929.
EATING OUT WITH THE CHILDREN
Now that you have decided to attend a Broadway show with your children, go out to lunch or dinner in the district as a family. Make the most of a remarkable experience.
The area is abundant with restaurant possibilities, although not all are children-friendly. Several restaurants will serve half-portions at half-price for children under 12, or will recommend sharing entrees at no extra charge. These accommodations are typically not mentioned on the menu.
Highlighted here are restaurants which offer children''s menus and special services for a family.
THE ATRIUM
Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway at 45th Street 212-398-1900
A New York-style deli open for lunch on matinee days (Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays). Children''s menu includes chicken fingers, pasta, hamburger for $1.99-3.99. Placemat to color and crayons to keep. AE,DC,MC,V.
BALCONY CAFE
Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza,1605 Broadway at 49th Street
212-315-6054
American/Continental buffet lunch for children, $7.85. AE,MC,V.
BISTRO 790
790 7th Avenue at 51st Street
212-621-8537
Elegant yet fun atmosphere with American food served in a cardboard boat or car. Selections include grilled cheese, hot dog, hamburger for $7, complete with french fries, beverage and dessert. Dinosaur- or car-shaped placemat to color, with crayons as gift. AE,DC,MC,V.
CAFE NICOLE
Novotel, 226 Wesô 52nd Street
212-315-0100
Glass-walled dining room offering European cuisine half-portions at half-price, $5-6. Children receive a gift bag of assorted Dolfi toys.
CARMINE''S
200 West 44th Street
-221-38
Lively old world charm and tablecloths for generous platters of southern Italian food to be shared by the whole family, $8-20 per platter. AE.
CENTER STAGE CAFE
DoubleTree Guest Suites,1568 Broadway at 47th Street
212-719-
Continental and American cuisine with a children''s menu including chicken-in-a-basket and spaghetti with meatballs for $2.95-4.95. Placemat to draw on and pencil to keep. AE,MC,V.
ELLEN''S STARDUST DINER
650 Broadway at 51st Street
212-956-515
Subway car exteriot plus a mini-train going around the inside. Children are offered hot dogs, hamburgers for $6.95-8.95 with a gift of crayons and a placemat to color. AE,DC,MC,V.
ENCORE
Marriot Marquis
535 Broadway at 45th Street
212-704-8834
American cafe serving children under 6 free (from children''s menu) when accompanied by a paying adult. Ages 7-12, $2.50-4.50. They may choose from grilled cheese, hot dogs, hamburger and other kiddie fare. Placemat to color and crayons as gift. AE,DC,MC,V.
HAMBURGER HARRY''S
45 West 45th Street
212-840-2756
Children may choose from a tunaboat sandwich, pizza muffins, cheese burger all served with curly fries, $4.49-4.99. Placemat to color. AE,MC,V.
HOULIHAN''S
729 7th Avenue at 49th Street
-626-7
American menu for children including chicken fingers, hamburger, priced at $5.95 including beverage and ice cream. Placemat to color and crayons to keep. AE,DC,MC,V.
LEO LINDY''S
525 Broadway at 45th Street
-626-7306
The traditional children''s menu of hamburgers, chicken fingers for $6.95, served with french fries and a beverage. AE,DC,MC,V.
MANHATTAN CHILI CO.
500 Broadway at 43rd Street
212-730-8666
Cheerful southwestern American restaurant offering chili, hot dogs, grilled vegetables for children, at $4.50, with soda or chocolate milk. Kid-size frozen fruit drinks are $3, and a color-the-mural placemat and crayons are for keeps. AE,MC,V.
NEW WORLD GRILL
29 West 49th Street
212-957-474
Asian and southwestern American food. Children may order pasta with tomato sauce or butter and cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, from $3.50-6.50. Paper tablecloths to draw on for inside dining, and a fountain to wander around in the outside plaza. AE,DC,MC,V.
SAMPLINGS
Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza
605 Broadway at 49th Street
212-977-
Open only for dinner, this restaurant serves American food and has a dramatic view of Times Square. Children may choose from grilled cheese, chicken tenders, sirloin burger, $4.50-9.00. Home baked cookies and freshly made ice cream are each $3. AE,DC,MC,V.
STREETER''S NEW YORK CAFE
Sheraton New York
811 7th Avenue at 53rd Street
212-841-6570
A children''s menu is offered with selections of American food including burgers, hot dogs, and pasta, for $3.25-4.95. A dinosaur-shaped menu is for coloring with the gift of crayons. AE,DC,MC,V.
TEXAS GRILL
600 Broadway at 48th Street
212-956-7427
Offering a children''s menu including ribs, hamburger, chicken fingers all with french fries and a beverage for $5.00. AE,MC,V.
TGI FRIDAY''S
680 Broadway at 53rd Street
212-767-8327
American fare and a children''s menu of pizza, hot dogs, hamburger, from $1.99-2.49. Placemat to color, crayons, and balloon as gift. AE,DC,MC,V. Transmedia card accepted.
VIRGIL''S REAL BARBECUE
2 West 44th Street
212-921-9494
Southern barbecue cooking offering selections for children of grilled cheese, chicken fingers, hamburger for $4.95, and a placemat to color. AE,MC,V.
Printing of the hard-copy version of this guide is made possible by the Theatre Development Fund (TDF).
Principal Writer - Claudia Wachtel
Editor - George Wachtel
Contributing Editor - Michael Patrick Walker
Design and Layout - Grey Entertainment
The League of American Theatres and Producers, Inc.
