Pittsburgh’s Cultural District
May 14 – 17
Various times
Cutting-edge theater and art are not just for adults anymore. For four fun-filled days, Pittsburgh’s Cultural District will host one of the leading children’s events in the region, and you don’t want to miss it. Running May 14 – 17, the 29th annual EQT Children’s Theater Festival features national and international performances, interactive art installations, 30-plus hands-on activities and performances, a pop-up park and much more.
Marking its 29th year in Pittsburgh, the festival invites children of all ages to experience world-renowned art and theater, explore the environs of downtown and enjoy cultural activities together as a family. New this year are on-site Festival Guides stationed throughout the Cultural District during festival hours, ready to assist on your art adventures.
This year’s festival features premiere performances by artistic companies hailing from Australia, Denmark, Mexico, Scotland and the Netherlands. Must-see headlining performances include Theater Terra’s Spot, Teatro Al Vacio’s Umbo, Gruppe 38’s Hansel and Gretel, Visible Fictions’ The Adventures of Robin Hood and Theatergroep Kwatta’s Manxmouse. Theater venues include the Byham Theater, Cabaret at Theater Square and the Trust Arts Education Center.
Also not-to-miss is Polyglot Theatre’s interactive outdoor installation, Tangle. Create a tangled multi-colored landscape by weaving colorful balls of elastic through tall golden poles. Play in and explore this unforgettable art installation that even boasts live music.
Head to the bustling festival grounds to enjoy visual art projects at local galleries, hands-on activities, roving performances and stage entertainment. Fuel up at local food trucks and shop for handmade goods at the festival’s vendor area.
Need a quick reboot? Relax, unwind and enjoy quality time together in LilyPad Park, the festival’s centrally located pop-up green space. Bigger than ever, the special oasis features turf lily pads and furniture, flower planters, a sandbox and more.
One of only four international children’s festivals in the country, the EQT Children’s Theater Festival opens the door for children to experience professional performing arts, introduces children to the arts early on in life and sparks a lifelong interest in culture among young audiences.
View a complete festival schedule and a map, plan your visit and purchase tickets.
