Events: Top Kid-Friendly Activities For The Week

The Presentation House Theatre will present its production of "Where the Wild Things Are" beginning this Thursday at the NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts. Photo by Chris van der Schyf
The Presentation House Theatre will present its production of “Where the Wild Things Are” beginning this Thursday at the NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts. Photo by Chris van der Schyf.

Yay for May! Grab the fam this week and hit one of our carefully curated picks. Whatever you’re in the mood for,we have something for everyone. A unique circus, a theatrical adaptation of a classic children’s book, a famous Grimm tale come to life, a Mother’s Day celebration, and a Japan Day fest await you. Happy Mother’s Day to all the mamas out there! And for more ideas for Mother’s Day fun, check out our activity round-up here!

Beginning Tuesday, May 3

St. Ann’s Warehouse & NoFit State: “Bianco”
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Various times
The circus is coming to Brooklyn Bridge Park! St. Ann’s Warehouse is joining forces with NoFit State for “Bianco,” a one-of-a-kind circus experience. Instead of taking place in front of a static audience, the circus unfolds above, behind, and on all sides of the performance space. Head to Brooklyn Bridge Plaza to explore “the magic of human balance and counter balance” in aerial performances and more! Runs Tuesdays through Sundays through Sunday, May 29. Tickets start at $35.

Thursday, May 5-Sunday, May 8

“Where the Wild Things Are”
NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
Various times
Sail along with Max to the land of the Wild Things, where one of the most beloved modern children’s tales is brought to life! Adapted from the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak,”Where the Wild Things Are” comes to the NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts as an intimate, interactive live performance. Your kids will be enthralled as Max’s bedroom is transformed into a rolling ocean or a leafy forest, and you will have the chance to help the Wild Things bring Max safely home! Plus, the show is perfect for little ones’ attention spans at just one hour in length. Recommended for ages 3 through 7. Tickets are $25.

Beginning Friday, May 6

“The Pied Piper”
New Victory Theater
Various times
Italy’s Carlo Colla & Sons Marionette Company will perform its production of “The Pied Piper” starting this Friday at the New Victory Theater. The Brothers Grimm tale of the mysterious man with a flute will be brought to life with an astounding array of more than 120 stringed puppets and 300 rat marionettes. This 90-minute production is perfect for families with children ages 7 and up. Runs weekends through Sunday, May 15. Tickets start at $15.

Saturday, May 7-Sunday, May 8

Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party
New York Botanical Garden
10am-6pm
Celebrate Mother’s Day in a beautiful natural setting during the New York Botanical Garden’s annual Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party. Enjoy live music, games, garden tours and walks, picnicking, crafts, a delicious brunch or supper (tickets sold separately) and more. Free with an All-Garden pass.

Sunday, May 8

10th Annual Japan Day
Central Park
9:30am-4:30pm
Celebrate Japan Day in Central Park this Sunday! All are invited to spend the day exploring Japanese culture through food, arts and crafts, technology, and much more. Not-to-be-missed activities include Japanese calligraphy workshops, a Hello Kitty photo booth, Kabuki-style face painting, “yo-yo” fishing, and origami making. Admission is free.

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PaleyLand Holiday Experience

<p>Celebrate the holidays at PaleyLand at the Paley Museum, New York's must-visit destination for a holiday adventure, just steps from Rockefeller Center!</p> <p>Our five-floor immersive holiday extravaganza, includes photos with Santa and holiday characters, crafts, giveaways, screenings of classic holiday favorites, hot chocolate, a magical train display, and more.</p> <p>Escape the cold and the crowds, and enjoy our indoor wonderland where families can play, relax, and create timeless memories together in our holiday oasis in the heart of midtown Manhattan.</p> <p>General Admission to PaleyLand is free for children under 12.</p> <p>The holiday extravaganza is open from November 20 – January 5 at the Paley Museum, 25 W 52 Street, NYC. Paley Members enjoy free access. Come to PaleyLand again and again to see all your favorite characters and screenings. After just one visit, membership pays for itself!</p> <p><span style="color: #888888;"> </span></p>

Elf the Musical

<p>They'll sing loud for all to hear. You can bring the Christmas cheer.</p> <p>Start decking the halls, people – <em><strong>it's Elf The Musical</strong></em>!</p> <p>After a decade away, the beloved holiday classic is back on Broadway for a strictly limited run. Whether you’re searching for the perfect stocking stuffer or a festive outing for the whole family, this family-friendly show is packed with joy, laughter, and snow-covered magic.</p> <p>A musical comedy adaptation of the hit 2003 film, <em><strong>Elf The Musical</strong></em> follows Buddy the orphan who, after being raised by elves at the North Pole, embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and help the people he meets rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Academy Award® nominee Sean Astin ("Lord of the Rings") is Santa Claus alongside Tony Award® nominee Grey Henson as Buddy, Drama Desk Award nominee Ashley Brown as Emily, and rising star Kayla Davion as Jovie. Plus, keep an eye out for social media celebrity Kalen Allen – known for his appearances on "The Ellen Show" – as the hilarious store manager.</p> <p>Called “a slickly irresistible and fizzily enjoyable confection of a show” (<em>Time Out</em>), this holly-jolly hit is one you won't want to miss. Through January 4 only!</p>

Laurissa Jane Music

<p>Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!</p>