Get inspired by all the great entertainment events available for children and families across Ireland. See theatres or hear a family concert, even with your small child.
The secret garden theatre 11th September
The story of a lonely little girl that is sent to relatives in England when she is orphaned in India. Mary, the orphaned girl, is landed in with a reclusive uncle in a seemingly empty mansion with hidden secrets. She makes friends with a local boy and finds an invalid cousin. One day she finds a buried key that will change all their lives forever, the key to a secret garden. Suitable for children from seven years of age.
Time and Venue: 2pm,
Cost: €8, €30 family ticket (group of 4)
http://www.riverbank.ie/shows/the-secret-garden
Anne Frank opera 14th September to 9th Oct
An opera inspired by the 13-year-old Anne Frank's diary of her experience during World War II, from before the war through her days in hiding. Recreating Anne's world and expressing all her fears, hopes, courage and optimism, that has inspired readers across the world. Reading the book in advance could be a great introduction to this event. See our book review of Anne Frank's Diary.
Time and Venue: 8pm, across the country. See the link below for details.
Cost: €18-€30
http://www.opera.ie/
Family concert 17th September
As part of the East Cork Early Music Festival, The Flautadors concert present a concert designed specially for children and families. Mixing, presenting and experiencing a variety of styles, from jazz, folk tunes, mediaeval dances and classical. Introductions to the pieces are provided together with questions and short musical examples to guide the listener.
Time and Venue: 11am and 3.30pm, Stack Theatre CIT, Cork School of Music, Cork.
http://eastcorkearlymusic.ie
Theatre for small children 25th September
A show for the very young children, aged 2-4, simply called Dot. A story about a yellow square that goes for a walk, a little dot plays hide and seek, and a blue circle starts to sound. A highly visual theatre experience for a first time audience, and abstract play with objects, movement and voice. Aperfect introduction to the arts for you young adventurer, just 30 minutes.
Time and Venue: 1pm or 3pm,
Cost: €5
http://www.draiocht.ie/
Riverdance 15th September-3rd Oct
Last performances in Ireland before heading off into the world again. An innovative and exciting fusion of Irish and international dance, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. Including chora pieces by the choir Anuna and Irish dancers, Jean Butler, Colin Dunne and Michael Flatley.
Time and Venue: 15th -19th September, INEC, Killarney, co. Kerry.
29th September - 3rd October, Theatre Royal, Castlebar, co. Mayo.
Cost: €44 adult, €28 child, €125 family ticket (2 adults and 2 children)
http://www.inec.ie/
http://www.theroyal.ie/
Thomas the tank engine 25th September
A new 90-minute musical adventure with audience sing-a-longs, a fun filled family show telling the story Thomas the Tank Engine. Thomas makes a big mistake and all the engines on the Island of Sodorm must work together to prepare for the exciting event under the Big Top.
Time and Venue: 1pm, INEC, Killarney, co. Kerry.
Cost: €22,65 stalls, €17,15 balconies, €70 family ticket (2 adults and 2 children)
http://www.inec.ie/
Do you have any great tips to share?