The Tilles Center is the only theater on Long Island that hosts nationally touring Broadway productions. In addition, they also host a wide variety of world-renowned artists in music. Furthermore and even better – parking is free and my High School graduation was there!
Family Theater
Moreover, from my perspective, the BEST part of their 2018-2019 Season is their fantastic calendar of family programs including Family Fun! Performances and Family Workshops.

Rosie Revere, Engineer
Firstly, kicking off their family programming season (September 15th) is Rosie Revere, Engineer (recommended for ages 5-10). This is a fun new musical spotlighting STEM curriculum and based on the books Rosie Revere, Engineer, Iggy Peck, Architect and Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty.
The Rainbow Fish
Secondly on the calendar (October 27th) is the stage adaptation of the beloved book The Rainbow Fish (recommended for ages 3-7). This play pairs innovative puppetry and striking scenic effects. Paired with evocative original music, the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia perfectly evolves the book into live theater.
*The Tilles Center invites families to explore the story through craft-making at a sensory friendly family workshop.*
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Thirdly, and continuing into the new year (January 12th), the The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other E. Carle Favorites takes the stage (recommended for ages 3-7). Using black light and fanciful puppets, the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia weaves the stories of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Little Cloud, and The Mixed Up Chameleon together to create a magical presentation on stage.
*The Tilles Center invites families to explore the story through puppet-making at a sensory friendly family workshop.*
Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure
Finally, March 2nd is Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure (recommended for ages 5+). This show’s immersive experience invites you to jump in and explore unknown ocean depths where prehistoric marine reptiles lived eons ago. I have to admit – this show looks AMAZING. Erth uses actors, technology, puppets, science and imagination to create an amazing visual experience connecting young audiences to the real science of paleontology. I cannot wait for this show!
*The Tilles Center invites families to learn about Comb Jellies, Angler Fish, Kronosaurus and more in an interactive, fascinating family workshop. Families can also try out Bunraku puppetry the 400-year old Japanese art form used in the show!
Additional Family Fun! Performances
But that’s not all! For a full schedule of the 2018-2019 Season of Family Fun! Performances visit the Tilles Center’s website. Of course, I don’t want to spoil all the fun but there are some BIG names I left out on purpose – because I love cliff-hangers!
Most importantly, to purchase tickets for Tilles Center performances, please visit here.
Family Workshops
Check out their great pre-show Family Workshops ($5 per person) by calling 516.299.3100. To sum up, Family Workshops provide unique opportunities for families to play and explore the arts together. Furthermore, these activities include storytelling, puppet-making, music and role-playing depending on the type of show being performed that day.
You must log in to post a comment.