Manhattan Children's Theatre454

It's a simple fact (parents and non-parents both learn quickly) - kids love it when adults act like idiots. And Manhattan Children's Theatre uses that empowering trick to terrific effect with its very family-friendly performances.

The small but professional-looking theatre gives little ones a great "first show" experience - the lights are never completely out, so darkness is not a factor; "bad guys" are usually extremely stupid or simply misunderstood, so scariness is not a factor; and the actors clearly get a kick out of the scripts and the possibility of ad-libbing when a small audience member needs extra reassurance.

In addition to public performances, MCT invites area schools to attend productions and offers complimentary tickets to other non-profit youth organizations in the community. Teachers and parents are provided with educational activity guides to enhance the overall experience and to extend the material beyond the theater walls and into the home or classroom.

MCT also offers acting classes for kids ages four to ten and Summer Stars, a day camp program for kids ages four to seven.

Various birthday party options are available at MCT or at the birthday child's venue. Prices range from $350 to $1600. Visit the website or call for further information.