Children's Theatre Company

A truly magical experience! The Minneapolis Children’s Theatre Company is an absolute treasure. Every performance is filled with incredible talent, creativity, and heart. It’s a place where imagination comes alive—for kids and adults alike! The quality of the productions is outstanding, and the atmosphere makes it easy to create lasting core memories with family and friends. Truly one of the best ways to experience the arts in Minnesota.

People that work here are awesome. Shows are good. But the signage to find the theater even from the $20 parking garage is horrible! No less than 5 ppl were wandering around trying to find the entrance. Please put signage in the garage and around the building!

Took my grandchildren to see The Enormous Crocodile. What an incredible experience. I think I enjoyed it as much as my grandkids. The scenery, acting and singing was all incredible. Can't wait to go to another play there.

My boys and I had the best time and it was such a great show! Most definitely recommended seeing the Grinch. For all ages!

The performance so impressive. The ground crew, orchestra, the actors all so good! The seats are really uncomfortable. It would be cool if the would put up a Birds Eye view of your view from each seating section. For those of use that don’t often make it to these venues it would be helpful.

Our family has been going to plays at the Children's Theatre Co. for many years. Every play is really well done and our kids love every experience, as well as us as parents. They performances are as good as, if not better than, any other play you can see in the Twin Cities!

The CTC puts together the most magical shows!

Fun to watch the How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Loved the interaction of the crowd and the cast. The scavenger hunt before in the lobby was fun and interactive

The best kept secret for children all the way to adult's entertainment!!!!! There is not a bad seat in the house! This place is Amazing! From walking in right to when the show starts all the way to the show ends, they create excitement! Every performance I have seen here the actors truly want to be there and they love what they do ! Nobody takes a day off even if you go on a Thursday show they're gonna give it their all! I really do appreciate the performers because doing the same thing day and a day out and get tiring, but they truly love what they do! The band in the pit is amazing and you can tell how creative they are ! Also, the lighting and the props are very intricate and they do a great job complementing the flow of the show! It's a must stop. It's easy parking and you walk right in and you sit down. It's just makes sense.

I absolutely want to be a WHO! Magical show-well done! Please don't hesitate to bring the entire family.

Lights, Action...And on with the show! This is one of my favorite places in Minneapolis to enjoy an evening with the family. We saw Zip Zap Circus Moya this evening. Not sure how we scored 2 seats in the front row when we booked online but they were priced competitively and we were all so excited. I have been lucky enough to see other performances including A Year with Frog and Toad, The Grinch, Alice in Wonderland - just to name a few. This performance was only 60 minutes which was perfect for my 6 year old. No intermission. The 10 performers are absolutely amazing and mesmerizing. Loved how each song and performance were so different and such talented wonderful performers. Love the energy they brought. The team at the theater are so inclusive that tonight's performance was specifically for those who have sensory issues. What an incredible time we have and it's nice to know they go out of the way for those that have different needs when it comes to the theater. They also have lots of fun activities for kiddos in the lobby before the show starts like a Photo Booth, balancing apparatus', and a scavenger hunt.

We have been here 5 times for different shows and I highly recommend it. Everyone who puts on the performance is amazing! So far Alice in wonderland and frog and toad have been our favorite shows

It had been years since I attended something at the Children's Theater. On a whim, a friend and I decided to go see A Year with Frog & Toad. What a fun and engaging experience designed to spark an interest in theater for kids. From interactive experiences in the lobby, plenty of space between rows for restless kids to get up and dance, to a Q&A in the program to talk about the play on the way home, everything had 'the short ones' in mind. I would def recommend to any parents, uncles, aunts, or guncles that want to take their 6-11 year old kid to a fun evening. Well done CTC!

Alice in Wonderland! Another amazing stage play by the folks at the Children's Theatre. Yelp made it possible to get some amazing seats for an amazing show. As usual parking was difficult. The CTC/MIA parking was full. We parked two blocks away. We were 10 minutes late but as usual the staff at the CTC are so organized and helpful getting us our tickets and to our seats swiftly and without too much disruption to others. The play was good - thoughtful, funny at times, adventurous, and just what you'd expect from Alice in Wonderland. It's fun to watch how the stage can be used so simply yet show so much. The costumes are beautifully colorful. Our favorite character the Cheshire Cat was so much fun! As always a show that was truly enjoyed and looking forward to what the CTC plays bring out next!

What a fun experience!!! Its been years since we've been back and i loved it just as much now as I did then! Alice in Wonderland is my allll time favorite book and movie and the cast did a wonderful job recreating the magic!! Even my mini me taller than me loved it!!

We saw the Grinch and brought our 2 year old to his first play. He absolutely loved it! It is meant for children but still very entertaining for adults. There was an intermission in between with crafts, photo ops, kid friendly drinks and snacks. The Grich actor was so entertaining and hilarious. The audience gets involved at times as well. The only tricky part was parking. There is no valet, only street parking so it was a walk. Something to plan for so you are not late! We sat in a balcony with no obstructions. Loved it!

The shows here are fun and whimsical. If you have kids, I totally recommend taking them here. The shows are fun, light and silly.

It pays to do reviews. I really appreciate Yelp for choosing me as their winner to attend the " A Year with Frog and Toad". Our yearly tradition has been the Grinch but we missed it this year. This show surely made up with it with captivating characters! (5 people replaying more than 1 character). The songs were so catchy. We heard both adults and children laughing. And so many heartfelt moments that would teach anyone at any age to be a good friend. Disclaimer: some light strobing and loud sounds to duplicate lightning and thunder. I can't wait for more events like this!!!

The best children's plays in the Minneapolis area. Pretty affordable and always such amazing performances. We have seen the Grinch twice, Annie, a circus, frog and toad and others!

Great time with my wife and two younger kids at the play "How The Grinch Stole Christmas"Thanks Yelp for the tickets! This was a well done performance by professionals.I was amazed by the talent of the actors and actresses.The humor and timing of every joke was on point! The singing,the vivid colors made quite an experience for the kids!We will definitely be taking the kids back to a couple shows.Great job by The Grinch on executing"the gritty" The seating was comfortable.It not as tight as it can be at some Theaters.We parked in the parking ramp right next to the Institute which made getting to our seat after parking seamless.They even had hot cocoa on sale which made the experience all the more comfy.I think my heart grew three sizes this experience

My wife and I had a great time visiting the Children's Theatre Company. It's located in the heart of the twin cities and the staff gives great service and they are passionate and welcoming. This was my first time trying out valet parking, it's a game changer! Those guys took care of like we were family. I love that they have a snack and drink bar before you go into the show, and the theater itself is stunning and very spacious with comfy seating. I didn't feel like I was fighting over the arm rest with anyone on either side. I definitely recommend this theater for a night out with family or a hot date night.

We went to see Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas! through tickets that I won through Yelp. Thank you, Yelp! for another great experience. This was the second performance we'd come here to see recently, and enjoy the venue. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the production staff do amazing work to bring you into the performance. The set for The Grinch was amazing and it felt like we were a part of the story. I understand that it may seem weird to not like that there are so many children at a children's theater, yet it's why we don't come here more often. We always wish that there were child-free performances that we could attend. Yes, we go to child-free theater at other venues, too. Another advantage to CTC is being connected to the Minneapolis Art Institute. We've perused collections here while waiting to get into a performance. CTC is a great place to see Broadway-worthy performances.

This theater is amazing. Right in the heart of the city, next to the Minneapolis Inistitute of Art (which is also free and fabulous!) is this lovely Children's Theater. There are two stages, and the actors and actresses are EXPERT. I saw Alice in Wonderland last night (Thank you Yelp Elite for the tickets!) and it was wonderful. The kids in the audience LOVED how they interacted with them and how they entertained them the whole time!! The costumes, the SET DESIGN, the whole experience was just lovely! We are so lucky to have this theater in the Twin Cities!

Amazing theatre and experience with your kids. They do an over the top amazing job of keeping kids interested in the play you are seeing. Kid friendly snacks and hands on activities in the lobby. They have kids acting in the plays and themes that fit younger children. I really love going to children's theatre with my kids and they always have a blast. I will be back again! ... Free parking on the street or you can pay $10 for secure covered parking on site.

We just saw The Grinch and it was absolutely amazing! I could listen to "Old" Max all day long. Grinch, Cindy Loo and young Max were spectacular as were the supporting actors. Put a smile on your face and go see this play! But parents if your children cannot walk through the doors by their self, PLEASE leave them with a sitter.

I went for Alice in the wonderland show and was absolutely blown away by the performance... each and everyone did a brilliant job... especially the lead character did such a wonderful job... I would never forget this one experience... it was my first time visiting the children's theatre company and I was really surprised by how attentive the managing staff there were.. we went late by 5 mins and the show has started by then already, so the staff took great care and lead us to our seats, so that we won't be disturbing other audiences.. I was very much impressed by that gesture! The theatre was huge and well maintained!

It's the best time of year for performances. I love plays and the CTC does a wonderful job. The actors are very professional and the timing of all their lines are on point. The seating is very comfortable and made for a relaxing experience throughout the performance. It was my youngest sons first experience with a play and he loved it. So a big thank you to the Yelp community:). I will definitely check out some other plays in the near future.

What a great theatre and show! We ventured here to see Locomotion. So much talent!!! I loved it. I haven't been here since I was a little kid, but I will be back. We were able to find a parking spot on the side of the building to avoid paying for parking. This is unheard of to get free parking!! There is a drop off area in the front of the building in case you want to drop off your crew and park the car too. The setup of the stage and bleacher setup was nice. The bench style seating made it easier for families to snuggle together in their assigned seats. They weren't the most comfortable for over an hour, but we survived. Hahaha. The crew at the will call were friendly and there was a small concessions table too. They had playbills, but you could also scan the QR code to view instead of taking their paper one. Overall, I'm so happy I got reintroduced to this theatre and I will be back!

This was my first time here and I loved it . If you have little ones this is perfect for you and them. The show was just wonderful, soo cute for the babies I must add that the staff are lovely.

Beautiful performance. Kept me fully entertained the whole time. We took advantage of their summer special for the Grinch. I had received a 50% off code if I ordered my tickets close to 6 months in advance. It's an amazing deal. I am not quite sure how you get on the list but it was through email where I got the code. The cast was spectacular, full of life and an enormous amount of energy. Fantastic for kids who may have shorter attention spans. I actually was quite surprised on how well an auditorium more than half filled with kids did. They kept them engaged for sure. The auditorium itself was comfortable and the accustics were great. I could hear every word. The set was excellent! Very authentic looks to be right out of the original Dr. Suess cartoon. There were definite elements of the Jimmy Carey version but stayed true to the original with their own creative embellishments. Fair warning the Grinch comes into the audience and engages slightly with some people. I have been told he aims close to row G. If your children would not do well in that scenario you can call the ticket booth ask exactly where he will go so you can choose your seats wisely or they can even leave a note for that specific date of performance for him to not go to a certain point. Its pretty easy to avoid though.

Jump, hop, or leap on over to the Children's Theater to see A Year With Frog and Toad, on stage now until June 16! My family and I first saw it 20 years ago, and it's just as delightful and memorable as before.

I absolutely love the show that we went to. I remember so many of the songs from when I was a kid. The children from the play were absolutely talented. I loved the costumes and the stage decorations. They did a very good job!!

Children's theatre is an amazing experience. Great theatre and terrific classes and always done with class and substance. We've been here for years as season ticket holders and it is affordable compared to a lot of theatre in town. Amazing and professional.

Came here as a chaperone with my kids 4th grade class. Don't love the snack bar is closed and it's still mask mandated for the show. I understand protecting the cast but how can I go to a nfl or nba game and have different here. Diary of a wimpy kids was pretty good. A little too theatrical and a lot of satirical add ins that weren't in the books but a solid cast and story with only minor oddities in the show. If you do get hungry or thirsty the art gallery is free and has a snack area cafe with nicer restrooms than the theatre.

I used to have season tickets to the performances here when my kids were little. I haven't been back since probably High School Musical. I recently watched Annie and it was fabulous. The sets were innovative. I could not take my eyes off the costumes. The actors combined singing and dancing to everyone's delight. What a fabulous show. It was fun to see actors, like Autumn Ness, that I remembered from past shows. Such talent. I swear she could read an atlas and I'd probably laugh my ass off. Fantastic way to add a little sunshine to my week. Love the Children's Theatre. You don't have to be a kid to have a blast.

Over the years I've been here a handful of times. As a child and teenager I've been here for field trips, but last week I came out as a parent with my kids and cousins. The experience was wonderful! We saw the production of "An American Tale" and it was so fun! The parts with the cats were a bit frightening to my children but otherwise we all enjoyed the show very much! The box office was a little bit confusing.. we were a couple minutes late because of traffic and when we walked in, on the main floor the ticket booth was closed so we thought we would not be able to make the show at all, until we were informed that we actually had to go up to the second floor. That part was a little confusing, as there were no signs anywhere directing us to the second floor. There were wonderful craft tables for children to make themselves ears like the characters in the show which was such a wonderful touch from the theater company. It was a great way to spend intermission with my kids. We enjoyed the experience very much and my kids can't wait to come back for another show!

Went here because I won some yelp elite tickets and the experience was good. The place was kinda hard to find and got lost looking for the entrance but other than that the tgeatre was clean and didn't smell old and moldy. The play performance was great as well as the set. The set was well planned out and beatyful making changes very easy for the cast. This was a great experience and thank you for making this a great night out.

We've been going to children's theatre co for years, making a point to include seeing a production whenever we're in town. Located in the same building as the art institute (a two pack of greatness), you enter and head through the lobby and then either hit the stairs or take an elevator. The space is gorgeous and welcoming, a clean, visual delight. The actors are excellent. Truly, this is a gem of the Twin Cities. I love seeing them morph into someone new for each new production. The stage, costumes, and lighting are all on point. Creativity reigns here. The space is, of course, very welcoming to children. I especially love hearing the occasional tiny whispered comment, which both delights me and enhances the production. There's nothing like seeing the world through a child's eyes. Comfy seating, clever productions, stellar talent: this is a world-class theatre company. Whether you're with kids or not, be sure to head here when you're in Mpls. You'll thank me.

Great outing with my two granddaughters to see "Spamtown," the story of the P9 Union strike against Hormel back in 1983-85 in Austin Minnesota. Told through the eyes and ears of the children, this was a very accurate portrayal of those sad times. Raised my family in Austin and I can still hear those bullhorns on the picket line from our deck. Excellent play - kudos to the Children's Theater Company!

Highly recommend taking your children or family whoever all ages to the Childrens theatre, we have not been disappointed. I went once a month as a kid and some of the same actors are still there and they are still as fabulous as they were then. We have seen several plaYs there and always have an amazing time. This last play, Cinderella, was maybe our favorite or tied with Matilda! It was interactive, they involved the audience and made current references, a lot of funny jokes and amazing costumes. The best part was after the play the actors and actresses had a dance party in the lobby, my kids loved it. Amazing memories to be made at CTC with your family.

Good to know: The women's bathroom here has long waiting lines, so to avoid accidents remind little ones to go before you leave for the theater. Gender-neutral bathrooms are available on the museum side. We've been to several performances here, and they really cater to the kids. I've never seen any unruly kids here. The theater and cast really know their business and keep everyone entertained. The performances here are excellent, and they do a good job online of including the appropriate ages for each upcoming performance. You should pay attention to that, it's really true with the age information. The lobby has souvenirs and snacks, including adult beverages.

First show of this type for myself, being a 48 yo, small town, man, I wasn't sure about a Christmas show at a children's theater..... However, I was just unbelievably impressed and entertained!!! It was GREAT!! I totally recommend this place.

I had a very enjoyable time here at my first show. My mom and I saw the final show of The Wizard of Oz. I adored the first act and had so much fun seeing their take on the classic movie. I think all of the actors had just as much fun performing for the kids as the audience did watching. I also had a lot of fun seeing photos of the past productions they had as well as old costumes that were displayed. Truly a magical place and I can't wait to see what else they do. (Then maybe they can get that 5 from me). By no means was the production perfect but I don't want to ruin the magic by picking out what went wrong so I'm going to leave my review with 4 stars. I don't have the heart to give 5 when I'm not confident they deserve it.

This was my first time going to the Childrens theater. I went to go see Cinderella, with my daughter. I must say, I think that I was having more fun watching the play then she did. It was one of the best plays that I have seen all year. The actors were so comical that my eyes were all watery for laughing. They also had allot of funny adult humor that vary classy. The two men that played the evil stepsisters total made the play. I wish that I could afford to go back just to watch it again... If you are able to go see this play you will not be disappointed.

We had reserved some tickets through our neighborhood organization, but I didn't pick them on time and had to go to the theater without the actual tickets, and the theatre still let us into the show even without the tickets! We have seen many, many shows here, and had some really good times. My kids particularly liked Shrek. I can't tell you how lucky we are to have this near our home, particularly with discounted and rush tickets available. One of my kids even did a summer theater camp, and had a great time.

I really can't get enough of the Children's Theatre Company. We saw the Jungle Book here about 2 years ago and thought it was great. It was in one of their smaller theatres so when we recently saw How The Grinch Stole Christmas I was BLOWN away! It is in one of their full size theatres with live orchestra and it was simply amazing. The man who played the Grinch couldn't have been better. He never broke character once, even when going out into the audience. He was just as rude as the real Grinch! The way they told the story through the eyes of Old Max was great. The scenery was amazing and perfectly on point. My only complaint is that we were sitting in the balcony and the metal bar (which is there for safety so I completely understand why it is necessary) is right at eye level and makes for an awkward "do I look above or below the bar?" stance throughout the play. A clear plexiglass safety barrier would be amazing. Also, their snacks at intermission are pretty over priced. $2 for a small bag of chips and $4 for a basic chocolate chip cookie is pretty disappointing. But I will be glad to come back here anytime to check out another play. My 6 year old daughter and her cousins love it!

Took my 4 year old daughter to go see Snow White because she's in a huge Disney phase. She was so excited, however, the show was definitely not kid friendly and it was poorly directed. 1. My daughter understood before going that the story is "scary" because we've read and watched the movie, but the way the CTC portrays the Snow White story is terrible. They changed it to show that Snow White gets "suffocated" with her apron by the huntsman instead of eating an apple. 2. They also only have 2 actors the entire production... it's on me that I didn't read the "fine print", but who really thought this was a good idea?? Two characters portraying all the characters... including the seven dwarfs. It was so hard to follow for the kids AND the adults. I'm still confused as to what the point of this was... 3. They completely changed the ending. I hate how CTC made it "political" almost and said there's no way Snow White would wake up from a princes kiss. The way the show portrays the prince is horrible. My daughter walked out and said that was so boring. My advice, don't purchase tickets for Snow White. We have tickets to see Cinderella and I'm really hoping it's a completely different experience... almost contemplating just not going at all.

Went to see the Hobbit last night. As usually, they did an excellent job! However, if you are expecting the awesome production they did approximately 30 years ago with the great costumes (i.e. Smaug and Gollum) and special effects (Smaug), you will likely be disappointed. My, now 40-year-old, sons are coming back with my grandsons to see it. I have concerns they may be disappointed after all the extra expense.

If a children's theatre company can secure a Regional Tony Award, it has to be good. And yes, it's that good. In fact, the children's shows here are so good, I doubt the kids who watch them even know how good they are. Professional actors with professional staff members to back them up. They're not just "good kid shows" either. CTC's original musical "A Year with Frog and Toad" went on to Broadway and scored a number of Tony Award nominations. I also like the fact that they show shows with more mature themes (appropriate for teens and up) on the "re-shapeable" Cargill Stage. They've even hosted big moneymakers like "High School Musical" on that stage. If you want to see a show at CTC but can't afford the price, CTC loves to have people volunteer as ushers. After a set number of times volunteering, they give you a comp ticket. Finally, the hidden gem of CTC: The Theatre is committed to training the next generation of actors, and their high school Lab Program/Senior Theatre Arts Training program regularly puts on musicals and plays that are comparable in professionalism to the collegiate level or higher. For $10-15, you can see an up-close and personal show that will blow your socks off. Seriously, I've seen shows here that were much better than professional shows at the Ordway in St. Paul. I would love to continue supporting this theatre, and I hope you get a chance to as well!

Have fond memories visiting CTC as a kid, and love binging my kids there now. Love going early and cruising the MIA for a little while before taking our seats, generally love the productions, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy. The sets are amazing. I only wish it were less expensive so we could afford to go to more shows each season, but the quality of what is done is so high I can't argue with the price. Can't wait until the next time I am there...

This is just an absolutely delightful theater tucked away in a charming lttle area in Minneapolis. The popular "eat street" is not too far so you can grab dinner and drinks before and/or after the show. I went here to see Seussical the Musical and wow what a talented bunch of people. The costumes, the set, the music, and the talent were all far more than I was expecting. The theater is a nice size not too small not too large and the prices are more reasonable than other shows at some of the bigger venues...so don't forget to check this place out if you are a fan of the THEATRE.

BRAVO!!! Our family loves everything about this company. Thank you to the entire cast, staff and crew for making this theatre company a real gem in the Twin Cities and beyond!

They really are a gem. My friend's daughter and I and I love the PAY WHAT YOU CAN nights. She has seen a ton of plays with me that I would never have been able to afford otherwise.

Absolutely amazing! I am a theatre maniac, I have attended many plays in different cuntries, but this is literally the best children's theater I have seen in my life. Costumes and decorations alone must cost a fortune. We saw Cinderella 3 times last year. I think I enjoed it more then my 5 year old! Super professional performance. Broadway quality for a better price! There is also a room for little kids with glass wall in case they get restless. Love when actors come in the hallway after the show and do little dance with guests. My daughter was mesmerized. Dear management, you needs better picture on Yelp! What is that stuff?

Productions are of the highest quality, respectful to and fun for the target audience but also enjoyable by the adult chaperones. Box office staff are friendly and accommodating. Given what it costs to attend a newly released movie at the multiplex, a CTC ticket is a bargain. Bonus: enjoy MIA (free admission) before or after the show. Fantastic.

We are so lucky in Minneapolis that our excellent theater extends all the way to the little set. From Harold and the Purple Crayon to Charlotte's Web every production is top notch. My only wish is that they would stretch a bit with some newer material and more culturally diverse source materials but overall CTC is first rate all the way.

I had a blast seeing Robin Hood with my sisters! It wasn't overcrowded or hard to find your seats. The running time was approx. 1 hr. 15 min. which is perfect for kids' attention spans. Interactive and funny :)