Picks of the Week: February 24-March 2

New York Theater Ballet's Cinderella photo by Richard Termine via Flickr
New York Theater Ballet’s Cinderella photo by Richard Termine via Flickr

This week is a great opportunity for little performance fans–there are discounted Broadway plays, Shakespeare, and ballet. For those less inclined toward shows, food and culture festivals might be just the thing to beat the winter doldrums.

Monday, February 24-Sunday, March 2

Kid’s Night on Broadway
Various locations
Various times
Don’t miss the chance to show little ones the wonder of Broadway for a discounted price! This special Kid’s Night on Broadway event allows every child age 6-18 (accompanied by a full-paying adult) to see shows for free, including favorites like “Wicked,” “The Lion King,” and “Newsies.” Restaurants will also offer special deals, discounts, and free meals for kids during the week, with participating eateries such as Blue Fin, Gossip Bar and Restaurant, and Ruby Foo’s. For more information, click hereVarious ticket prices for adults.

Starting Friday, February 28

Measure for Measure
The New Victory Theater
Various times
For some Shakespearean family fun, Fiasco Theater is putting on a rendition of “Measure by Measure” with live music. Originally a dark comedy following the disguised Duke of Vienna and his downward spiraling city, the play takes a creative turn to shed light on the complex, morality-driven plot. Tickets start at $14.

Saturday, March 1-Sunday, March 2

New York Theater Ballet’s Cinderella
Florence Gould Hall
11 am, 1 pm, 3:30 pm (Cinderella’s Ball at 4:30 pm)
Both young and old will fall in love with a mesmerizing performance of “Cinderella” by New York Theater Ballet. Featuring fantastical costumes, stunning choreography, and talented dancers, this show is a must-see for fairy tale fans. After the 3:30 pm performance on Sunday, don’t miss the Cinderella’s Ball, a special event which includes photo ops with the princess and her Prince Charming, ballroom dancing lessons, crown decorations, raffles, and more! For Cinderella’s Ball, be sure to make reservations. Tickets are $39 for the show and $50 for Cinderella’s Ball.

Kid’s Food Fest
Bank of American Winter Village at Bryant Park
Various times
If your wee ones (or you) want to learn more about nutrition, how to make healthier food choices, and have some culinary fun, then the Kid’s Food Fest is the perfect place to do it! This educational event is all about providing youngsters with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their eating habits. Children will learn through activities like a Balanced Plate Scavenger Hunt, cooking demos and classes, lunchbox ideas, and more! Various prices.

Irish Festival
Children’s Museum of the Arts
10 am-5 pm
Celebrate everything Irish with this special event showcasing musicians, storytelling, painting, and crafts. As part of CMA’s Multicultural Festivals, this two-day adventure will use engaging activities to teach kids about the cultural significance of Ireland. Some highlights include musical brothers Owen and Moley, and a paper boats workshop by Collette Murphy. If you can’t make this weekend’s events, have no fear! The Irish Festival (part two) will occur again in the last weekend in March, but with slightly different activities. Free with general admission.