Kidsburgh readers get first dibs on tickets for EQT Children’s Theater Festival lineup — but hurry!

Kidsburgh is excited to be the first to announce the lineup for the 2018 EQT Children’s Theater Festival. And we have an exclusive offer for Kidsburgh readers.

Now in its 32^nd year, the Children’s Festival returns to the Cultural District this spring with a globally inspired lineup and 35 activities, including hands-on projects, street performers, public art and music throughout the Cultural District.

The festival is free, but the six featured theatrical performances require tickets starting at $9. Tickets go on sale to the public on Feb. 15, but Kidsburgh readers can get first dibs. To access a special pre-sale beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 9, use the code KIDSBURGH.

Ticketed performances include:

The baby-friendly “Poggle,” by Barrowland Ballet of Scotland, is about a little boy who befriends a magical woodland creature. Recommended for ages 6 months to 4 years.

“Panda’s Home,” from Compagnia TPO of Italy, follows a panda’s footsteps on an interactive journey to China. For ages 4 and older.

“The Young King,” by Slingsby Theatre Company of Australia, asks what kind of king would you be? A naïve boy raised in the countryside is discovered to be heir to the kingdom.  As treasures and privileges are laid at his feet, he must consider the cost to others. For ages 7 and older.

“Sunjata Kamalenya,” an immersive interpretation of a 13^th-century epic West African legend takes place in a magical world filled with sorcery and enchantment. For all ages.

And Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience, a two-time Grammy winner, whose infectious tunes are instantly recognizable to kids who love Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog.” For all ages.

“The Rainbow Fish,” by Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia, Canada, is based on the award-winning book. In addition to other performances, a sensory-friendly show is planned on May 19. For ages 3-8.

“I am excited about the diverse array of interactive programming on this year’s lineup. There is something engaging and delightful for all ages,” says Pamela Komar, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s director of theater, music and youth programming.

From May 17-20, the festival — one of only four festivals nationwide created specifically for young audiences — will feature shows by award-winning theater companies from Italy, Scotland, the United States, Australia and Canada. The festival aims to provide a gateway for kids to experience professional performing arts programming and inspire an understanding of diverse cultures through entertainment.

“The experience of spending a day in the theaters of the Cultural District will be treasured and remembered for years to come,” says Komar. “Best of all, the entire line-up of ticketed performances is interactive. Audiences will be delighted to have opportunities to participate during the shows like never before.”