Families don’t need big budgets to enjoy live music, dance or theater performances together. It’s all about knowing where to look and doing a bit of planning. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Use social media. Follow your favorite venues and performers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram so you’re the first to hear of special deals, discounts or free family days.
2. Share tickets with friends. Split the cost of season tickets with another family, then take turns going to see the shows. Or, buy tickets with several other families to get group discounts.
3. Grab a Culture Pass. Ask your local library about Culture Passes, which are part of a program that grants free admission to select arts venues and culture experiences. Find details at act1az.org/culture-pass.
4. Attend local festivals. Watch for local festivals presented by Valley cities, performing-arts venues and multicultural centers.
5. Think outside the box. Check calendars for places you don’t initially think of for performing arts, including libraries, parks, colleges, cultural centers and museums. Of course, check out Raising Arizona Kids magazine’s comprehensive day-by-day online calendar, too.
6. Connect with nonprofits. Sign up for email newsletters from nonprofits that engage youth in performing arts, such as Rosie’s House and Rising Youth Theatre, so you’ll know when they’re scheduling free community performances.
7. Attend youth performances. Youth theater, music and dance groups in the Valley offers some high-caliber performances at affordable prices.
8. Involve your child’s school. Suggest field trips to concerts, plays and dance performances. Schools get special discounts. Offer to help plan or chaperone so you can enjoy the performance, too.
