Top Summer Shows For Kids In South Florida

Bring a little culture and a whole lot of fun to your kids' vacation by taking them to a live theater performance this summer. No need to worry about whether they'll be bored or how much they'll wiggle in their seats as these performances are designed for the younger crowd. With dancing, singing and music they'll love, your children will be entertained from the moment the curtain goes up until the final bow. Plus, tickets are affordable and the venues are spectacular. And, who knows, you might just spark a fire inside your child that will burn forever.

"The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful (and her dog!)"
Adrienne Arsht Center
1300 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 949-6722
www.arshtcenter.org

Date: Through July 2, 2014

"The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful (and her dog!)" is a family musical where science is out of this world. Ages six and up will love this cosmic story about a flight through space with a brainiac girl who goes by the name of Dr. Wonderful, her dog Newton and Ben, a human friend. Their mission is to save a super star from disappearing and in the process, they uncover lots of space puzzles that everyone will love. Show dates are June 18 through July 2, 2014.

"Pinocchio"
Actors' Playhouse
280 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 444-9293
www.actorsplayhouse.org/a>

Date: Through Aug. 2, 2014

"Pinocchio" is a timeless tale that kids and parents love and it will be performed all summer long. This musical will show you the misadventures of Pinocchio, an "almost real boy," who was created by his father, Geppetto the Puppet Maker. What does it take to become a real boy? Is Pinocchio willing to make the sacrifices? Find out in this classic story suitable for all ages. Show dates are June 26 through August 2, 2014. There will be an "All Kids Included" Sensory-Friendly Saturday Performance on July 26th at 11 a.m. that is adapted to entertain people with sensory processing or Autism Spectrum Disorders.

"Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy"
Broward Center Of The Performing Arts
201 S.W. 5th Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 462-0222
www.browardcenter.org

Date: July 22-27, 2014

This show is a hit on Broadway and now you can see it in your own backyard. It's "Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy" and it could be the most incredible show you will ever see. Nature comes to life with high-flying aerial feats, jugglers and contortionists whose spectacular costumes will leave you in awe. The entire setting is a colorful explosion of creativity with magical trees and flowers, and the special effects are astounding. You and your family will talk for years about the Butterfly Ballet and the Flipping Monkeys. Show dates are July 22-27, 2014.

Related: Top Playgrounds In South Florida

"Shrek the Musical"
Galleria Mall
2542B E. Sunrise Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
(954) 763-6882
www.flct.org

Date: July 18-20, 2014

"Shrek the Musical" takes the stage from July 18-20, 2014, and it's sure to leave those who don't see it green with envy. No matter how many times you've seen the movie(s), seeing it performed live, with music and live performers is such a treat. All your favorite Shrek characters will be there like Gingy, Lord Farquad, Fiona, and a whole cast of forest critters and fairy tale castoffs. It's the feel-good event of the summer so don't miss it. The finale, "I Believe," will have you dancing in the aisles, and smiling the entire ride home.

Related: Top Cheap Activities To Do With Kids In South Florida

Jill Martin is a family travel expert, appearing on numerous television and radio shows. She spent five years as the VISIT FLORIDA Family Insider, has penned children's books, and is the creator of Sunshine Brain Games – trivia cards about Florida. A Miami native, Jill resides in Redland. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.