Once upon a time… I took my four-year-old niece to see a Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble show in Walnut Creek, and I was really charmed by seeing how much she enjoyed her first live performance.
This post is sponsored by Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble, but I was already a customer.
Before the curtain even went up, the atmosphere felt just right for her. While the theater offered fancy red velvet chairs that she delighted in unfolding to reveal her seat, it was relaxed, playful, and full of excited kids who did not have to whisper or sit still. Some of the children even sat on a platform right in front of the stage.
On the way home, my niece said, “I want to go back there tomorrow.”
If you haven’t been, here’s why Fantasy Forum shows are such a great fit for young audiences:
Interactive Performances: Kids are encouraged to laugh, cheer, sing along, and even talk back to the characters on stage. No shushing necessary—this is theatre that truly meets kids where they are.
Short and Sweet: Each show is about 40–50 minutes long, which is exactly the right length for little attention spans (and makes a perfect first theatre experience).
Familiar Stories: The performances are inspired by classic fairy tales or original stories with funny twists and positive messages.
Meet the Characters: After the show, the cast came out into the lobby, still in costume, so kids could meet their favorite characters up close. My niece was starstruck in the best way.
Welcoming to All: Whether it’s your first time seeing a show or you’ve been coming for years, the atmosphere is warm and inclusive. No one bats an eye at wiggly toddlers or enthusiastic commentary.
Affordable and Local: Tickets are very reasonably priced for live theatre, and it’s so nice to have a cultural experience right here in the East Bay. Shows take place at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.
Upcoming Fantasy Forum Shows (2025/2026 Season):
- Mother Goose’s The Legend of Banbury Cross (October 10–12)
- The Biggest Gift (December 18–21)
- The Magic of Merlin’s The Sword in the Stone (March 5–8)
- The Emperor’s New Clothes (April 30–May 3)
See all four shows with a season subscription >
Become a Member and see all four Fantasy Forum Shows this season
You can buy individual tickets for $18 each or get a subscription to all four shows for $16 per ticket.
I honestly can’t recommend this experience enough—it was the perfect blend of live storytelling, laughter, and kid-friendly magic. If you’re looking for a low-pressure way to introduce little ones to theatre, Fantasy Forum is the place to start.
Thanks to Fantasy Forum Actor’s Ensemble for sponsoring {510} Families.
