Almost everyone loves the performing arts. There are few things more enjoyable than taking a young child to a play, a musical performance or the ballet for the first time. The awe at the spectacle, the look of wonder on a child's face is worth much more than the price of admission. But in order for such an outing to be truly worthwhile, it's important for children to know what they can expect—and what's expected of them—when they attend a performance. With some advance instruction and a few simple guidelines, you can successfully introduce your child to the performing arts, perhaps instilling in him what will become a lifelong appreciation of cultural events and activities.
Keep It Simple
For a young child's first cultural experiences, choose outings that are almost guaranteed to be successful. It might be a trip to the public library for the weekly puppet show, or attending a short concert that is specifically geared towards young children. Outdoor concerts and plays are sure winners: it's usually OK if kids are a little bit noisy, and you can
pick up and go when you're ready. There are many theater troupes, musicians and other performing artists that do shows just for kids. You'll find offerings just right for your child's age and interests. Choosing a show appropriate for young children will give your child an opportunity to learn to pay attention, behave appropriately, and most of all, enjoy a performance.
Keep It Cheap
You don't have to spend a fortune on a Broadway show to have a hit on your hands. In fact, it's probably best to work up to such an event. Instead, choose a performance on a college campus, a local high school play or a ballet school's holiday dance performance. For a few dollars (or perhaps even for free), your child will get a taste of what's to come. If her attention span wanders after the first act, you won't have invested your whole month's entertainment budget on the price of admission. After a few successful outings, you can spring for something bigger and more expensive.
Set the Ground Rules Ahead of Time
A week or so before you go, begin talking to your child about the performance you're planning to attend. Describe what you expect to happen, and tell your child role he has to play. Say something like, "Remember when we went to Mary's dance recital? We had to be quiet and pay attention so the dancers could concentrate, and the other people there could hear. We'll have to do that at the play we're going to attend."
Set A Good Example
Have you ever sat behind someone at a play who spent the whole time alternating between "shushing" their child and explaining every scene in a stage whisper? So have I. Keep in mind that, if you expect to teach your child to be quiet and respect the performers on stage, you also have to teach him to respect the audience around him. The best way to do that is to set a good example for him. If you choose age-appropriate plays or musical performances for your child, you should be able to give a brief explanation of what to expect beforehand, then explain the nuances after the show.
Remember the Essentials
It's a certainty that, as soon as you've made your way to the center of the row of seats and the curtain is beginning to rise, your child will announce that she has to go to the bathroom. Anticipate this, and visit the restroom ahead of time. It's also a good idea to pack a small treat—perhaps a few pieces of candy, or a cookie that can be eaten quietly—in case your child needs a snack before intermission.
Make It Special
As you're planning your outing, be sure to add something to make it extra-special. You may want to link it to the performance as a reward: "If you're able to sit quietly and enjoy the show, we'll go out for ice cream afterwards." Just be sure your expectations of your child's behavior arerealistic. You don't want the occasion to become punitive; if he's tiring after two acts, and there are still two to go, the wise thing to do is leave early and still go out for dessert. One success will lead to another, and before you know it, your young child may be begging you to take him to the symphony the next time they're in town!
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