Children’s Shows at Place des Arts: Seven Wonderful Opportunity to Build Memories

More than ever in 2026, Place des Arts is your go-to family destination. With a rich and varied program for young audiences, it offers families much more than just entertainment… Get ready for a truly cultural, engaging, and formative experience!

According to professor and researcher Marie-Christine Beaudry, who specializes in cultural activities in the school context, live performances play an essential role in a child’s development. They stimulate the imagination, nurture curiosity, and expose children to cultural diversity, allowing them to learn something about themselves and others.

The Benefits of the Performing Arts for Children

“Seeing a play means experiencing emotions, analyzing, and asking questions,” says Beaudry. Even if children don’t like everything, they learn to better understand their tastes, their emotions, what resonates with them and what doesn’t. Research also shows that going to the theatre strengthens empathy, tolerance, and the ability to put oneself in another’s shoes—all of which are essential skills for a child’s overall development.

For parents and grandparents browsing the program for 2026, there are several shows to point out. To awaken your toddlers’ imagination, Babouche (February 1, 2026) offers an inviting visual world. If you’re looking to revisit a classic, Pinocchio (March 5-7, 2026) invites audiences to explore identity, transformation, and courage.

In Mwana et le secret de la tortue (March 22, 2026), families will discover a vibrant African tale that celebrates wisdom and cultural diversity. Looking for a good laugh? La redoutable symphonie d’El Kapoutchi (February 15, 2026), in which the famous anti-hero created by Alexandre Courteau takes to the stage for the first time, promises a hilarious show that weaves together music and comedy. Another must-see suggestion: Raffi, singer, songwriter, producer, author, speaker, and lifelong champion of children, an iconic figure in children’s entertainment, known worldwide for his gold- and platinum-certified songs, including the unforgettable Baby Beluga.

For those who appreciate a more contemplative atmosphere, the Orchestre Métropolitain’s The Feather and The Turtle (February 22, 2026) offers a sensitive exploration of slowing down and staying calm. Curious young minds will be delighted by the film-concert Ratatouille (April 12, 2026), which celebrates creativity and discovery. Even 25 years after the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the popularity of the beloved fantasy series continues to grow. Its music, now considered legendary, will be celebrated in a special concert presented by the OSM on March 3 and 4. And finally, Sesame Street | Elmo’s Got the Moves! (May 24, 2026) brings the whole family together around iconic characters to focus on strong values, like inclusion and mutual support.

A 2026 Program to Fuel the Family’s Imagination

But beyond the shows, the whole family experience plays a central role. “Going out as a family means building shared memories, an emotional point of reference you can talk about later,” emphasizes Marie-Christine Beaudry. Post-show discussions can be simple and enriching: “What did you like?” and “What surprised you?” are enough to nurture the imagination and strengthen the parent-child relationship.

For Beaudry, giving a child a chance to attend a live performance is like “opening a door to the world, to possibilities.”

In 2026, Place des Arts is offering families invaluable cultural experiences that awaken curiosity, forge memories, and strengthen lasting bonds. Discover the full programming!