Best Broadway Shows for Kids & Families (2026)
Broadway in August 2026 offers families an impressive array of theatrical experiences, with several productions earning strong critical acclaim for their ability to captivate audiences of all ages. The current landscape features shows that balance spectacular stagecraft with storytelling that resonates across generations, achieving an average critic score of 74 out of 100.
Leading the pack is "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," which critics consistently praise for its astonishing magical effects and visual innovation. The production's technical wizardry has made it a standout among family-friendly offerings, earning the highest critical marks on Broadway. Close behind is "The Lion King," Julie Taymor's enduring theatrical marvel that continues to mesmerize audiences with its groundbreaking puppetry and visual imagination more than two decades into its run.
The family theater landscape also includes energetic crowd-pleasers like "& Juliet," which transforms Max Martin's pop catalog into an exuberant musical experience, and "Aladdin," Disney's visually spectacular adaptation that delivers reliable entertainment through familiar storytelling. For families with older children, "MJ The Musical" offers electrifying choreography that showcases Michael Jackson's iconic dance legacy, while "Wicked" remains a lavish spectacle that has introduced countless young theatergoers to Broadway.
Critics note that today's top-rated family shows prioritize technical excellence and visual spectacle, with productions investing heavily in puppetry, magical effects, and choreography that create memorable theatrical moments. The range of options means families can choose between literary adaptations, Disney classics, jukebox musicals, and original stories depending on their children's ages and interests. When planning your Broadway visit this month, consider your family's preferences for spectacle versus story, and check age recommendations to ensure the best possible experience.
6 shows | Last updated: September 2026
How We Rank
Rankings are based on CriticScore, an aggregate of professional reviews from 400+ outlets including The New York Times, Vulture, and Variety. Top-tier outlets carry the most weight in the composite score. Each show needs a minimum number of reviews to qualify. Scores are recalculated weekly. Learn more about our methodology.
Critics praise the spectacular stagecraft and astonishing magical effects, calling it a visual marvel that brings wizardry thrillingly to life. However, some find the story feels like expensive fan fiction, with mixed views on whether it truly honors the beloved franchise.
Critics hail Julie Taymor's staging as a theatrical marvel, with visionary puppetry and stunning visual spectacle that transcends its animated source. While some find it less engaging emotionally, most agree it's an astonishing achievement.
Critics find this Max Martin jukebox musical a guilty pleasure—exuberant and fun despite its fluff, with infectious pop hits and girl-power themes winning over most skeptics, though some dismiss it as overly broad and lightweight Shakespeare.
Critics find Aladdin a visually spectacular but formulaic Disney adaptation that delivers solid family entertainment without breaking new ground. James Monroe Iglehart's exuberant Genie performance and the magic carpet scene earn widespread praise.
Dazzling choreography and electrifying performances thrill, but this estate-approved musical sidesteps controversy, delivering a slick, superficial celebration that prioritizes spectacle over substance in exploring Jackson's complex legacy.
Critics are mixed on this lavish spectacle, with Kristin Chenoweth's star turn widely praised but the book criticized for lacking emotional depth. The $14 million production dazzles visually, though some find it overlong and dramatically uneven.