While there are blockbuster Broadway shows in Philly (Hamilton, anyone?), for little ones starting out their theater-going careers, a more understated experience might be just what you’re looking for. Luckily, the Main Line is bursting with small theaters putting on family-friendly performances this fall. Here are our top picks.

‘Matilda: The Musical’

October 2–27

The Media Theatre, 104 E. State Street, Media

 

Inspired by the genius of Roald Dahl, this Tony Award-winning musical is the captivating masterpiece that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life–and is packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs! Tickets available online.

Junie B. Jones the Musical

October 5—13 (weekends)

The Players Club of Swarthmore, 614 Fairview Road, Swarthmore

 

A delightful adaptation of four of Barbara Park’s best-selling books brought to life in a lively and funny musical! Tickets available online.

Cirque Italia Water Circus

October 10—20

King of Prussia Mall, 160 N. Gulph Rd., King of Prussia

 

Cirque Italia presents “Aquatic Spectacular,” featuring a custom-designed water stage that performers dazzle over while thrilling the audience with aerial acts, hand balancing, and more.

Mamma Mia!

October 11—27

SALT Performing Arts, 1645 Art School Road, Chester Springs

 

This fun musical set to the songs of ABBA hits the stage!

‘Les Miserables’ at Friends’ Central Upper School

October 25—26, 7 pm

1101 City Avenue, Wynnewood

 

The Upper School presents the classic musical of love, war, loss, and redemption in the wake of the French Revolution.

Billy Elliot

November 1—16

Narberth Community Theatre, 6376 City Avenue (corner of City Ave. and Lancaster Ave.), Philadelphia

 

Based on the hit film, and featuring a score by the legendary Elton John, Billy Elliot follows the journey of a young boy in a small British mining town who discovers his passion for dance!

Disney’s Frozen Jr.

November 7—10

1701 S. Sproul Road, Springfield

 

Catholic Community Choir presents the hit Disney musical, just in time to refresh your memory before Frozen II hits movie theaters!

Peter Pan

November 8, 7 pm

Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill

 

This enchanting production of a classic tale celebrates childhood and captures the magic of the imagination as the Darling children escape to Neverland!

‘Our Town’

November 10–12

Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, 272 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr

 

This classic play tells the story of the fictional small American town of Grover’s Corners between 1901 and 1913 through the everyday lives of its citizens. Tickets available online.

Little Red Robin Hood: A Musical Panto

November 13—January 5

People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern

 

Fairytales collide in this brand new panto — Robin Hood is dead, his merry men are in hiding, and Nottinghamshire is taken over by a greedy villainess. Can a new hero (or heroine) emerge from Sherwood Forest and save the day? This musical mashup is sure to delight all ages this fall, through the holidays.

Elf: The Musical

November 13—January 12

The Media Theatre, 104 E. State Street, Media

 

Call us cotton-headed ninny muggins, but it’s never too early to get into the spirit with this hilarious musical adaptation of the classic Will Ferrell film. After all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!

James and the Giant Peach

November 14—16

Haverford High School, 200 Mill Rd., Havertown

 

Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach is a brand-new take on this “masterpeach” of a tale. Featuring a wickedly tuneful score and a witty and charming book, this is an adventurous musical about courage and self-discovery.

UMLY presents ‘Matilda: The Musical’

November 14–16

Tredyffrin Easttown Middle School, 801 Conestoga Road, Berwyn

 

The Upper Main Line YMCA Community Theater presents ‘Matilda,’ the musical adaptation of the beloved Roald Dahl classic. Tickets available online.

Garnet Valley Performing Arts Association presents ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’

November 21—23

552 Smithbridge Rd., Glen Mills

 

This year’s high school musical is the Disney adaptation of the Victor Hugo saga.

Annie

November 22—December 7

The Players Club of Swarthmore, 614 Fairview Road, Swarthmore

 

This family musical reminds you that “you’re never fully dressed without a smile,” and that the sun will always come out tomorrow! What else is there to say, it’s a stone-cold classic.

 

Looking for more? Here’s what’s playing in Philly!