My daughter is three this holiday season and I find myself wanting to introduce her to the live holiday performances I hold fond memories of from my own childhood, but we’re not quite ready for the length and etiquette of The Nutcracker.*
Enter: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer at The Judy.
Toddler-Friendly and Fun for All
It’s a perfect first show for toddlers, while still providing entertainment to family members of every age. The actors and staff at The Judy are enthusiastically welcoming of their young attendees, passing out Rudolph noses and stickers on your way into the theater.
The show is packed with classic Christmas songs you’ll find yourself singing along to, and the actors engage members of the audience throughout the show, even joining the crowd at times. I laughed out loud at the jokes, and squeezed my daughter’s hand during the memorable lines. The sets were sweet and nostalgic, and the lights and sound were engaging without being overwhelming.
Incredible Venue
Tickets are general admission, but there isn’t a bad seat in The Schnitzer Stage at The Judy, which has a cozy, intimate feel. Even the sold out performance allowed for plenty of elbow room, and there are boosters to give smaller audience members a great view, too.
The lobby of The Judy has plenty of space to get out the wiggles during the show’s 15-minute intermission, as well as a concession stand to gather up treats, which you can eat in the theater. No outside food or drink is allowed, but the concessions are well stocked and reasonably priced.
There is a parking garage attached to The Judy, as well as plenty of street parking and other nearby options.
Perfect Holiday Outing
My worry that the 75-minute performance might push our toddler’s attention span was all for naught, as she clapped and asked for more when the lights came on. The Judy is just a couple of blocks from Pioneer Courthouse Square, so we added on a quick trip to view the astonishing 75-foot Christmas Tree after the performance.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Judy is sure to bring cheer to your whole family this holiday season. Get tickets here.
*Pro tip: If your child is also too young for the full-length version of The Nutcracker, try Oregon Ballet Theatre’s NEW shorter version for families, In a Nutshell.
- Get into the Christmas Spirit with Rudolph at The Judy - November 27, 2023
- Pickathon is for the Whole Family - August 5, 2023
- 5 Days of Portland-Area Toddler Fun for $15 - August 2, 2023
