Do you have the mid-winter blues? A winter theatrical performance is the perfect way to escape the doldrums of winter and spend some quality time with your little ones. Fortunately, Lake County is home to several wonderful theatres that offer year-round performances for children – all within a short drive! Here are some winter highlights.

Children’s Theatre in Lake County

Remember to click through for ticket purchases, Little Lake County is not responsible for sold out shows.

Stellaluna
Dates: Every Saturday January 20 – February 24; performances for families by professional actors
Times: 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $12 Buy tickets here
Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences
33323 Walters Ave., Northbrook
847-291-2367 or www.northbrooktheatre.org
Stellaluna tells the tale of a baby bat. Stellaluna’s life is flitting along right on schedule – until an owl attacks her mother one night, knocking the bewildered batlet out of her mother’s loving grasp. The tiny bat is lucky enough to land in a nest of baby birds, but her whole world has just turned upside down. Literally. Stellaluna’s adoptive bird mom accepts her into her nest, but only on the condition that Stellaluna will act like a bird, not a bat. Anyone who has ever been asked to be someone they’re not will understand the conflicts – and possibilities – Stellaluna faces. This production features puppetry and live piano. (Synopsis from http://www.nbparks.org)

The Emperor’s New Clothes
Dates: February 24 – May 12, 2018
Times: 10:00 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $18.23 Buy tickets here – Please note: all patrons, regardless of age, need a ticket.
Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire

The incomparably imaginative creators of Seussical, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, bring one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved tales to life in The Emperor’s New Clothes. Fourteen-year-old Emperor Marcus the Third is nervous to take the throne. Deciding that he can only gain confidence by dressing in the finest attire, Marcus commands his Royal Clothesmaker to fashion him in the most royal wardrobe. Taking advantage of Marcus’ uncertainty and immaturity, a Swindler promises to make magic clothes that are “invisible to fools, liars, and anyone you should ignore,” for a large and hefty price. Only Arno, the simple-hearted mop boy, can help Marcus out of this royal mess and teach him an important lesson about outward appearance. A special one-hour presentation for kids (and parents) of all ages. All performances followed by a question and answer session with the cast. (Synopsis from http://www.marriotttheatre.com)

Yo, Vikings!
Dates: March 10, performance for families by actors in grades 6-9
Times: 12:30 and 4 p.m.
Cost: $12 Buy tickets here
Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences
33323 Walters Ave, Northbrook
847-29102367 or www.northbrooktheatre.org

Adapted from Judith Byron Schachner’s acclaimed book of the same name, Yo, Vikings! is the mini-saga of 10-year-old Emma Katz, the fiercest Viking in Swarthmore, PA, and her quest for real adventure. Yo, Vikings! combines sweeping melodies, thrilling Viking chants, and funky rock ‘n roll with a beautiful, heart-warming story to engage and excite every member of the family. (Synopsis from http://www.nbparks.org)

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Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad
Dates/Times: March 14
Times: 9:30 and 11:15 a.m.
Cost: General Admission $10; School Groups of 10 or more (in advance) $5. Buy tickets here.
James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts at the College of Lake County
19351 West Washington St., Grayslake | (847) 543-2300

This stirring drama with music is a classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of her people from the bonds of slavery. As Harriet and her friend Sarah Bradford narrate her adventurous life, we share in the joys, sorrows and challenges faced by this brave woman who changed the world through her courage. Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad is inspiring, heartwarming, comical and full of determination, giving students a new appreciation for Harriet Tubman and a deeper understanding of her times. (Synopsis from http://jlcenter.clcillinois.edu.) Suitable for grades 1-8. Get study guide here.

PASTA Presents Charlotte’s Web
Dates/Times: March 17
Times: 1:00 p.m.
Cost: General Admission $5
Gorton Community Center
400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest

Enjoy PASTA’s performance of E.B. White’s classic novel. This book comes to life on the stage with the story of Wilbur, a little pig who becomes famous with the help of his clever friend Charlotte, a gray spider.  When young Fern Arable learns that her father intends to make Wilbur bacon on a plate, she moves the little pig to Zuckerman’s farm.  It is there that Wilbur meets Charlotte who spins a “terrific” plan to save Wilbur from the dinner table.  With the help of a rat named Templeton, Wilbur learns lessons of friendship.

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Which Lake County theatre productions are on your list this winter? Leave us your recommendations in the comments section below.