Exposure to the performing arts helps kids in immeasurable ways. See what local companies and venues have in store this spring.
Portland’s array of fantastic performing arts organizations depend on local families to keep churning out hit seasons. That’s why being a season subscriber makes a big difference. But if you are itching to buy tickets right now, here’s what’s on stage!
April
Pete the Cat
When: Saturdays and Sundays at 11 am and 2 pm through April 13
Where: Northwest Children’s Theater’s The Judy
Pete the Cat and company rock out in this fast-paced, globe-trotting musical adventure based on the smash hit book series. Read our review of Pete the Cat here!
Spring Chamber Music Concert
Portland Youth Philharmonic
When: Sunday, April 13, 4:30 pm
Where: Rise Church, 10445 SW Canterbury Lane, Tigard, OR
This free concert features several small PYP ensembles.
The Sleeping Beauty
Oregon Ballet Theatre
When: Saturday and Sunday, April 26-27, 1 pm
Where: The Newmark Theatre
This time-honored fairytale favorite will be performed during the Oregon Ballet Theatre’s annual school performance.
May
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
Northwest Children’s Theater
When: May 3-18, Saturdays at 12:30 pm and 3 pm; and Sundays at 10 am and 12:30 pm
Where: Northwest Children’s Theater’s The Judy
Travel through the looking glass to enjoy an interactive extravaganza filled with music, magic, and just a touch of madness. Enjoy tea and treats as the Hatter takes you through interactive stories, songs, and a magic show!
Young Professionals Company Readers Series
Oregon Children’s Theatre
When: Thursday to Sunday, May 15-18
Where: Shaking Tree Theatre, 823 SE Grant St.
The Young Professionals Company takes you behind-the-scenes for a unique perspective on three different scripts: A youthful musical, a classic Greek tragedy, and a contemporary drama!
Note: Why We Have Winter involves mature themes, and is best suited for ages 14 and up.
Back to the Future in Concert
Oregon Symphony
When: Saturday, May 24, 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 25, 2 pm
Where: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
June
Courtesy of Oregon Symphony
Family Series: Peter & the Wolf
Oregon Symphony
When: Sunday, June 1, 2 pm
Where: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Discover the instruments of the symphony through Prokofiev’s beloved children’s work Peter and the Wolf — the tale of a young boy who confronts a menacing wolf with the help of his animal friends!
MYS’ 50th Anniversary Season finale featuring Esperanza Spalding
Metropolitan Youth Symphony
When: Tuesday, June 17, 7:30 pm
Where: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
MYS’ 50th Anniversary Season finale features five-time Grammy winner, Portland native, and barrier breaker Esperanza Spalding in performance with MYS’ Symphony Orchestra and Jazz All-Stars.
Can’t get enough live theater? See our Performing Arts Guide for a comprehensive look at venues across the Portland metro area.