Catching a show at one of Melbourne’s iconic locations is the perfect way to immerse your kids in all-things dramatic, and as the temperatures start to fall, you might be on the hunt for indoor activities to entertain the kids during autumn.

We’ve rounded up the best shows for kids in Melbourne this autumn—from the big to the small—and we don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Billionaire Boy

David Walliams’ best-selling book, Billionaire Boy, leaps off the page and on to the stage for a strictly limited season this April—perfect for school holiday viewing!

Joe has everything a boy could ever want, but when he arrives at his new school, life really gets tough. Facing the school bully, his Dad’s new girlfriend and the world’s worst school canteen, Joe is about to learn that money simply can’t buy you everything, and it teaches the audience some serious lessons about life. 

Don’t miss this original Australian stage adaptation that’s bursting at the seams with songs, laughs and extreme silliness. Perfect for ages 6 and up, and their grown-ups. Get your tickets here!

When:    6-14 April 2019 
Where:   Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne,100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne
Cost:      $27 - $39 per ticket

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, the much-anticipated Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a based on the eighth story in the Harry Potter series and is the first official Harry Potter story to be presented on stage.

The play focuses on adult Harry: an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband and father of three school-age children but nowhere near living the quiet life.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is one play presented in two Parts, which are intended to be seen in order on the same day (matinee and evening) or on two consecutive evenings at the much-loved Melbourne icon, the Princess Theatre.

Where: Princess Theatre in Spring Street
When: From January 18, 2019
Cost: From $65 to $175 per part

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Jams For Juniors

Make some serious noise, Melbourne! Children aged 0-5 and their adults can explore, play and join in with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in these Jams For Juniors musical workshops, which are the perfect introduction to classical music.

There are 7 more shows in the series for 2019, including Mother Goose and Romeo & Juliet on this autumn!

Where:     Iwaki Auditorium, ABC Southbank Centre
When:      Saturday 13 April 2019; 10am, 11am, 12pm & 1pm
Cost:        $15 per ticket

Jane Goodall: Rewind The Future

Think Inc. and the Jane Goodall Institute Australia are bringing Jane Goodall: Rewind The Future to the Melbourne stage in May 2019. Perfect for older kids who are fascinated by all things wildlife and science, this event comprises both a lecture by Dr Goodall, followed by a conversation between her and the event host.

When:   Saturday 11th May, 6pm
Where:  Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre 
Cost:     From $104.24 to $156.44 per ticket

Little Feet Music Concert

You’ve heard them on the ABC Kids Listen App, now come and see the real deal! Singing lots of songs about germs, jumping, animals and poop—children (and adults too!) will love this funny and wild performance by The Little Feet Music Band, joined on stage by Bingle, the crazy dancing bear.

When: 10 am Wednesday, April 10
Where: Gasworks Theatre, 21 Graham Street, Albert Park 
Cost: Adults $15, Children $15, and babies under 1 (if sitting on a lap and not requiring a seat) are permitted without a ticket

Wonderland Theatre presents Aladdin

Join the adventurous hero Aladdin on his quest to find fortune and outwit the wicked wizard.

Featuring a magic cave of spectacular surprises and a lamp-full of laughter, this genie-ous production is the perfect treat and a wish come true for the whole family. Aladdin will need all the help he can get from the children to rescue the beautiful princess but will that be enough to win her heart? Bookings are essential, phone 0428 397 767 or book online

When: Tuesday 9th April — Sunday 14th April 2019. Two shows a day at 10:30am and 1:30pm.
Where: Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glen Huntly Road, Elwood, 3184
Cost: $20 for all tickets.

More Autumn Things To Do For Kids:

• Where To Find The Cheapest Movie Tickets In Melbourne
• Bumper Cars on Ice Are Coming To Sydney and Melbourne
• Six of the Best Water Splash Parks in Melbourne

Hero image: Atlanta Ballet

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