How to Catch a Kids Show at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center

The Tulsa Performing Arts Center (TPAC) is one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the heart of Oklahoma, offering a rich calendar of performances that span classical music, theater, dance, andmost importantly for familiesexceptional childrens programming. Catching a kids show at TPAC isnt just about attending a performance; its about sparking imagination, nurturing a lifelong love for the arts, and creating unforgettable family memories. Whether your child is three or thirteen, TPACs curated youth productions are designed to engage young minds with storytelling, music, and visual wonder that resonate far beyond the stage.

But for first-time visitorsor even seasoned attendeesnavigating the process of securing tickets, selecting the right show, preparing your child, and maximizing the experience can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to successfully catch a kids show at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, from planning months in advance to enjoying the final curtain call. With clear steps, insider tips, real examples, and essential resources, youll walk away confident, prepared, and ready to make the most of this enriching cultural outing.

Step-by-Step Guide

Catching a kids show at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center is a straightforward process when approached systematically. Follow these seven detailed steps to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for your family.

Step 1: Research the Seasons Youth Programming

The first and most critical step is understanding what shows are available. TPACs youth programming is not constantit rotates seasonally, typically aligning with the academic calendar. The center releases its annual performance schedule in late spring or early summer for the upcoming season, which runs from September through May.

Visit the official TPAC website (tulsapac.com) and navigate to the Events or Youth & Families section. Filter by Kids & Family or Youth Series to see all upcoming performances tailored for children. Look for keywords like family-friendly, recommended for ages 4+, or interactive storytelling. Shows often include adaptations of classic tales (like The Very Hungry Caterpillar or The Snowy Day), original puppet theater, musicals based on childrens literature, and STEM-themed performances that blend science with song.

Bookmark the page and check back monthly. New shows are sometimes added mid-season due to popular demand or special collaborations with local schools and arts organizations.

Step 2: Note Performance Dates and Times

Kids shows at TPAC are typically scheduled on weekendsSaturday and Sunday afternoonsto accommodate school schedules. Matinees usually begin between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, with some special weekday performances offered for school groups. Avoid evening shows unless your child is exceptionally mature; most youth productions are designed with shorter run times (4575 minutes) and gentle pacing suited to younger attention spans.

Pay close attention to the recommended age range listed for each show. A production labeled Ages 38 may include loud sounds or abstract themes that could overwhelm a toddler, while a show marked Ages 612 might move too quickly for preschoolers. Use these guidelines as your primary filter.

Also note if a performance includes sign language interpretation, audio description, or sensory-friendly accommodations. TPAC regularly offers these inclusive optionsespecially for its most popular family showsand theyre clearly marked on the event page.

Step 3: Set a Reminder and Secure Tickets Early

Kids shows at TPAC are in high demand. Popular productionsespecially those tied to beloved books or touring companies like the Oklahoma City Ballets Peter and the Wolf or the National Theatre of Great Britains The Snowmansell out weeks in advance. Do not wait until the day before to purchase tickets.

Set a calendar reminder for the day the seasons schedule is released. On that day, create a free account on the TPAC website if you havent already. Having an account allows you to save your preferences, receive email alerts for new shows, and streamline the checkout process.

When tickets go on sale, have your payment method ready and be prepared to act quickly. Select your desired date and time, then choose seats carefully. For children, aisle seats or seats near the center of the row are idealthey allow for easier exits if your child needs a break and provide better sightlines. Avoid the very back rows, where sound may be muffled and visuals less clear.

TPAC offers discounted family packages for groups of three or more. Look for Family 4-Pack or Kids Series Pass options, which can save up to 25% on multiple shows.

Step 4: Prepare Your Child for the Experience

Going to a live performance is a new and sometimes intimidating experience for young children. Preparation is key to ensuring they enjoy the show and behave respectfully in the theater.

Start by reading the book or watching the video version of the show if its based on a story. For example, if youre attending The Gruffalo, read the book together a few days before. Discuss the characters, the setting, and what might happen. This builds anticipation and helps your child recognize scenes during the performance.

Explain theater etiquette in simple terms: We sit quietly so everyone can hear, We clap at the end, We dont shout or run on stage. Use role-play at home: pretend youre in a theater, take turns being the audience and the performer. Reward good behavior with stickers or a small treat afterward.

Also, prepare for sensory needs. Bring a small comfort itema favorite stuffed animal, a quiet fidget toy, or a lightweight blanketif your child finds new environments overwhelming. TPAC allows these items as long as they dont block other patrons views.

Step 5: Plan Your Arrival and Transportation

TPAC is located in downtown Tulsa, near the Arkansas River and the Tulsa Zoo. Parking can be tricky on weekends, so plan ahead. The center has its own parking garage (TPAC Garage) located at 110 E 2nd St, which is secure and conveniently connected to the building via a climate-controlled walkway. Rates are $10 per vehicle, but you can often find discounted rates through the TPAC app or by arriving before 12:30 PM.

Alternatively, consider rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Drop-off and pick-up zones are clearly marked on 2nd Street, and traffic is usually light during matinee hours. If youre using public transit, the Tulsa Transit bus route 10 stops within a 5-minute walk of the center.

Arrive at least 45 minutes before showtime. This gives you time to park, find your seats, visit the restroom, and let your child explore the lobby. TPACs lobby often features interactive exhibits related to the showsuch as puppet displays, costume touch tables, or coloring stationsmaking the wait part of the fun.

Step 6: Navigate the Venue and Enjoy the Show

Upon entering TPAC, look for the Family Services desk near the main concourse. Staff there can answer questions, provide large-print programs, or help you locate accessible seating. Dont hesitate to ask for assistanceeveryone on staff is trained to support families with young children.

Once seated, turn off all phone notifications and put devices on silent. If your child becomes restless, its perfectly acceptable to step into the lobby for a quick walk. TPACs ushers are understanding and will guide you to the nearest exit and re-entry point without disruption.

Encourage your child to engage with the performance. Ask them afterward: What was your favorite part? or Which character did you like the most? This reinforces listening skills and emotional connection. Avoid asking Was it boring?frame the experience positively.

Step 7: Extend the Experience After the Show

Many kids shows at TPAC include post-show activities. Look for Meet the Cast sessions, where children can take photos with actors in costume, or Create Your Own Puppet workshops in the education wing. These are often free with your ticket and last 3045 minutes.

Consider visiting one of the nearby family-friendly attractions afterward: the Tulsa Zoo (just a 10-minute drive), the Gilcrease Museum (with its Native American art and outdoor play areas), or the Gathering Place (a world-class park with water features and climbing structures). Make the day a mini cultural adventure.

Take a photo with your child outside the theater and share it on social media using

TPACKids. You might even be featured on TPACs official page!

Best Practices

Following best practices ensures that your visit is not only enjoyable but also respectful of the performers, staff, and other audience members. These guidelines are based on years of feedback from TPAC educators and family attendees.

Choose the Right Show for Your Childs Developmental Stage

Not all kids shows are created equal. A 2-year-old will thrive with a 20-minute puppet show featuring bright colors and repetitive songs, while a 10-year-old may prefer a 70-minute musical adaptation of Alice in Wonderland with complex choreography and layered humor. Always match the shows recommended age range with your childs cognitive and emotional maturity.

Look for productions labeled Early Childhood (ages 04), Young Learners (ages 58), or Tween & Teens (ages 9+). TPAC clearly categorizes these, and their education team can offer personalized suggestions if you email them in advance.

Bring Only Essentials

Large bags, strollers, and bulky coats are not permitted in the auditorium. TPAC provides complimentary coat check and stroller storage near the main entrance. Bring only what you need: tickets, a small snack (if your child requires one), a water bottle (empty until inside), and a quiet comfort item.

Avoid toys that make noise or lights. Even quiet electronic toys can distract nearby patrons. A coloring book and crayons are acceptable if kept in a small pouch and used only during intermissionor not at all, if your child is focused on the stage.

Use the Try Before You Buy Program

TPAC offers a unique Preview Night for families: a free, 15-minute sample performance of a current kids show, held the week before the official run. These are open to the public and give you a chance to see if the production is a good fit for your child before purchasing full-price tickets.

Check the Family Events calendar for Preview Night listings. These are often held in the smaller, more intimate Liddy Doenges Theatre and include a Q&A with the director afterward.

Teach Your Child to Appreciate Live Performance

Unlike movies or TV, live theater is ephemeraleach performance is unique. Explain to your child that the actors are real people who work hard to entertain them. Encourage applause, even if your child doesnt understand every word. Clapping is a way to say thank you, and it builds confidence in young audience members.

After the show, talk about what you saw. Did you notice how the actor changed their voice when they became the wolf? or I loved how the lights turned blue when it was nighttime. These conversations develop critical thinking and emotional intelligence.

Be Mindful of Other Families

TPACs kids shows attract diverse familiessome with neurodiverse children, others with multiple kids, and many with limited resources. Avoid loud conversations in the lobby, dont take photos during the performance (even with flash off), and keep your voice low when asking questions.

If your child cries or becomes upset, remain calm. Ushers are trained to help. No one will judge you for stepping out. In fact, TPAC encourages families to prioritize comfort over perfection.

Consider a Season Pass for Frequent Attendees

If your family plans to attend more than two kids shows in a season, purchase the Family Arts Pass. This annual membership ($75) includes:

• 20% off all youth show tickets
• Free admission to all family preview nights
• Exclusive access to post-show artist talks
• Priority seating for popular shows
• A seasonal newsletter with activity guides and book lists

Its a cost-effective way to deepen your familys engagement with the arts throughout the year.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your experience at TPAC requires more than just ticketsit requires the right tools and trusted resources. Below is a curated list of digital and physical resources that families find invaluable.

Official TPAC Website and Mobile App

The tulsapac.com website is your primary source for schedules, ticket purchases, and venue maps. The TPAC mobile app (available for iOS and Android) adds features like push notifications for show reminders, digital ticket scanning, and real-time parking availability.

Download the app and enable notifications for Family Shows. Youll get alerts when new shows are announced or when tickets go on sale.

TPAC Education Department Email Contact

For personalized recommendations, email education@tulsapac.com. The education team responds within 2448 hours and can suggest shows based on your childs interests (e.g., animals, space, music, fairy tales) or special needs (sensory sensitivity, mobility concerns).

They also provide downloadable Show Guides for each productionprintable activity sheets, vocabulary lists, and discussion questions to use before and after the performance.

Local Library Partnerships

Many Tulsa Public Library branches partner with TPAC to offer free childrens show tickets to cardholders. Check your local branchs events calendar or ask at the youth services desk. Some branches even host Storytime Before the Show, where librarians read the book the performance is based on.

Parenting Blogs and Community Forums

Follow local parenting influencers on Instagram who regularly post about TPAC kids shows. Accounts like @TulsaMomLife and @OKCFamilyAdventures often share photos, tips, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Join the Facebook group Tulsa Families Who Love the Arts. Its an active community where parents exchange tickets, share reviews, and organize carpool groups for performances.

Free Activity Kits from TPAC

TPAC offers free Create & Play kits at the information desk on show days. These include:

• Coloring pages of characters from the show
• Paper puppets to assemble
• A My First Theater Experience sticker book
• A postcard to mail to the performers (optional)

These kits are designed for children ages 28 and are a wonderful keepsake.

Transportation and Parking Tools

Use Google Maps to plan your route to TPAC and check real-time traffic. For parking, try the ParkMobile app, which lets you pay for TPAC Garage spots remotely and extend your time without returning to your car.

For families without cars, the Tulsa Transit app provides bus schedules and live tracking. Route 10 runs every 20 minutes from downtown to the Performing Arts Center.

Accessibility Resources

TPAC is committed to inclusion. Visit their Accessibility page for detailed information on:

• Wheelchair-accessible seating
• Assistive listening devices
• Sensory-friendly performances (lowered lights, reduced sound, relaxed rules)
• Service animal accommodations

Sensory-friendly shows are labeled All-Audience and occur once per season for each major kids production. These are ideal for children with autism, ADHD, or anxiety.

Real Examples

Real experiences from families whove attended kids shows at TPAC illustrate how the process works in practiceand why its so rewarding.

Example 1: The Wheels on the Bus Puppet Show

Sarah, a single mom from Broken Arrow, brought her 3-year-old daughter, Maya, to TPACs Wheels on the Bus puppet show. She learned about the performance through her local librarys newsletter.

Sarah booked tickets two weeks in advance using the Family 4-Pack discount. She read the book version with Maya every night for a week. On the day of the show, they arrived early, picked up a free puppet kit, and colored while waiting.

During the performance, Maya laughed so hard she fell off her seat. Afterward, she met the puppeteer and got to hold a tiny bus puppet. She hasnt stopped talking about it, Sarah says. She even made her own bus out of cardboard last week.

Sarah now has the Family Arts Pass and plans to attend every youth show this season.

Example 2: The Snowy Day A Sensory-Friendly Performance

The Rodriguez family, whose 6-year-old son Leo has autism, attended a sensory-friendly version of The Snowy Day, a show based on the Caldecott Medal-winning book.

Beforehand, they received a visual schedule from TPACs education team showing what to expect: arrival, seating, lights dimming, music, applause, and exit. They brought noise-canceling headphones and a favorite blanket.

The lights stayed on a little brighter, and there was no sudden loud sound, says Maria Rodriguez. Leo sat through the whole thing. He didnt say much, but he smiled the whole time.

After the show, Leo drew a picture of Peter in the snow and wrote I liked it on it. The family kept the drawing on their fridge for months.

Example 3: A Grandparents Gift

James, a retired teacher from Broken Arrow, surprised his 8-year-old granddaughter, Lily, with tickets to The Tale of Peter Rabbit, a musical adaptation with live orchestration.

He bought the tickets as a birthday gift and took her to dinner at a nearby restaurant before the show. I told her we were going to see a story come alive, James says. She didnt know the book, but she remembered every characters name afterward.

They now have a tradition: every spring, James takes Lily to a TPAC kids show. Its our thing, he says. And shes already asking about next years show.

Example 4: A School Group Field Trip

Ms. Carters second-grade class from Booker T. Washington Elementary attended The Very Hungry Caterpillar as part of their science unit on metamorphosis. TPAC provided a free curriculum guide aligned with Oklahoma academic standards.

Students wrote poems about the caterpillars journey and created life cycle posters. They were more engaged than during any textbook lesson, Ms. Carter says. The show made the science real.

TPAC offers discounted group rates for schools and homeschool groups. Contact education@tulsapac.com for details.

FAQs

Can I bring snacks into the theater?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the auditorium. However, TPACs concession stands offer kid-friendly options like popcorn, juice boxes, and fruit cups. You may bring an empty water bottle to fill at the water fountains near the restrooms.

What if my child gets scared during the show?

Its completely normal. Ushers are trained to assist families discreetly. You may exit the auditorium at any time and return when your child is ready. Theres no penalty or judgment.

Are there any shows for babies under 12 months?

Yes. TPAC offers Tiny Tunes and Baby Bop performances designed for infants and toddlers. These are 2030 minutes long, feature soft lighting, gentle sounds, and interactive elements like lullabies and tactile props. Recommended for ages 018 months.

Do I need to buy a ticket for a 1-year-old?

Children under 2 do not require a ticket if they sit on a parents lap. However, if youd like a seat for your infant, you may purchase a $5 Lap Seat ticket. All children over 2 need a full-price ticket.

Is there a dress code?

No. Families are encouraged to dress comfortably. Many children wear pajamas or costumes related to the show. Avoid overly bright or noisy clothing that might distract others.

Can I record the show on my phone?

Photography and recording are strictly prohibited during performances. This protects the rights of the performers and ensures the experience remains immersive for everyone. You may take photos in the lobby before or after the show.

How far in advance should I book?

For popular shows, book 68 weeks in advance. For less popular or newer productions, 23 weeks is usually sufficient. Always check the On Sale Date listed on the event page.

Are there any free kids shows at TPAC?

Yes. TPAC hosts Free Family Sundays twice a yearusually in January and Aprilfeaturing short performances, crafts, and music. These are first-come, first-served and do not require tickets. Follow their social media for announcements.

Can I exchange my tickets if my child gets sick?

TPAC allows ticket exchanges for youth shows up to 24 hours before the performance, provided the new date has available seats. A $5 exchange fee applies. No refunds are given.

Do they offer group discounts for homeschoolers?

Yes. Homeschool groups of 10 or more receive 30% off tickets. Contact the education department at least two weeks in advance to arrange your visit.

Conclusion

Catching a kids show at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center is more than an outingits an investment in your childs emotional, cognitive, and creative development. The combination of world-class performances, thoughtful programming, and family-centered support makes TPAC one of the most welcoming arts venues in the region for young audiences.

By following this guidefrom researching shows and securing tickets early, to preparing your child and extending the experience beyond the stageyou transform a simple trip to the theater into a meaningful, lasting memory. Whether youre attending your first show or your tenth, each performance holds the power to inspire wonder, spark curiosity, and connect families through the universal language of storytelling.

Dont wait for the perfect moment. The next kids show is already on sale. Grab your tickets, bring your curiosity, and let the magic begin.