Theatre and Performing Arts for Kids in Montreal

The Stage Is Waiting for Your Child

Performing arts build confidence, empathy, creativity, and public speaking skills that benefit kids for life. Montreal's performing arts scene is world-class, and there are outstanding programs for children at every level — from the shy beginner to the future Broadway star.

Theatre Programs

Geordie Theatre is Montreal's leading English-language theatre for young audiences, based in NDG. Beyond producing professional shows for kids, they run exceptional drama classes and summer camps. Their youth program covers improvisation, scene study, playwriting, and culminates in a public performance.

Classes run weekly during the school year (September-June) and cost around $300-400 per session. Ages 6-17. What sets Geordie apart is the professional quality of instruction — classes are taught by working actors and directors. Many Geordie alumni have gone on to study theatre at university.

Montreal Improv offers drop-in and structured improv classes for teens (13+). Improv is particularly great for kids who are naturally funny and quick-thinking. The skills transfer to school presentations and social situations. Classes run about $200 for an 8-week session.

Dance

Danse 1..2..3 in Griffintown offers dance classes for kids aged 3-17 in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and tap. Their approach emphasizes joy and self-expression over competition. Recitals are held twice a year at professional venues, giving kids a real stage experience. Monthly fees range from $60-90 depending on the number of weekly classes.

For more serious young dancers, Les Grands Ballets runs a pre-professional training program starting at age 8 with admission by audition.

Theatre Shows to See with Kids

Beyond classes, take your kids to see live performances:

• La Tulipe in the Plateau hosts family-friendly shows and concerts, including performances during school breaks and weekends
• Maison Théâtre in the Quartier des Spectacles is dedicated to theatre for young audiences (ages 2-17) with a season of 15+ shows annually
• Place des Arts programs their "Petits bonheurs" series for ages 0-6 and "Jeux d'enfants" series for ages 6-12
• Centaur Theatre in Old Montreal produces English-language plays and occasionally features family-appropriate matinees

Benefits of Performing Arts for Kids

Research consistently shows that children involved in performing arts:

• Score higher in reading comprehension and math
• Have stronger emotional intelligence and empathy
• Are more comfortable with public speaking
• Show greater creativity and problem-solving skills
• Build lasting friendships and a sense of belonging

Getting Started

If your child is hesitant, start with a low-pressure option:

1. See a show first — let them experience the magic from the audience
2. Try a drop-in workshop — many schools offer free trial classes
3. Start with improv — it's playful and has no wrong answers
4. Consider backstage roles — some kids prefer set design, lighting, or stage management

Explore arts programs in Montreal on FamiliQC.