Kidsfest 2026 -The Gruffalo's Child

Back at Kidsfest this year watching yet another wonderful production by ABA Productions - The Gruffalo's Child. By now, this is a much anticipated yearly affair by the family. Tip for families, although there are re-runs, most are new. We usually avoid re-runs. Our first choice is always stories that the children are familiar with as it brings these stories we read daily alive. Otherwise, we will pick a production, find the book and read it through with the children before the actual day. 

As re-runs don't always happen, go for the production when you see it. Don't wait for next year because once you miss it, you might really miss it forever. For children theatre production, ABA Productions is my favourite because they tend not to incorporate singlish to it and there is more budget allocated to wardrobe and props.

For us and the children, this is a yearly highlight. The children always leave with fond memories. For those who know, the 2 of them have been growing up, watching theatre productions since they were 2 years old. So, it is true that appreciation for art forms can start young. :P They are pretty much seasoned theatre goers by now and can sit through the production with little fear of the dark. 

Only from 30 January to 22 February 2026, be sure to book your tickets here! 

Kidsfest 2025: The Lion Inside

We are back again for Kidsfest and I have to say that the line-up was awesome (as always). There was a rerun of The Very Hungry Caterpillar (Read our review here) which had started out our #2 successfully on her theatre appreciation journey when she was 15MO. This time round, we decided to watch "The Lion Inside" which explored the concept of courage and loneliness. I loved how wholesome and interactive it was. 

We were a lot closer to the stage and the dark savannah backdrop initially scared our #2. She was hiding in my chest. But once she heard the chirpy and familiar intro, we observed her slowly turn her head to embrace the stage. It was wonderful to see her clapping along, engaged with the crew. 

Some parents/readers have asked me if theatre for children generates returns given that the price to go as a family is "not cheap". For me, I think it would be great for a child go at least once in a lifetime, if the family can afford it. Going for every production would numb the wow factor and cost a huge hole in the pocket. One Kidsfest production yearly sounds about reasonable. So choose a good production and save it for a special occasion (birthday celebration)/ reward. Also, always keep a lookout for discount codes or go during the weekdays to get better value!

From my experience of my children with the productions, the first show is always uneventful. The child will tend to be fussy and you seem to be spending more time pacifying the child than really bonding and enjoying the production. It is 2nd one onwards which you can see the glow and fascination in the face. Watching how the backdrops/ props transform from one scene to another does also encourage the mind to be more innovative and resourceful. Even as an adult, sometimes I am impressed how a story is brought to life on stage either through the use of deliberate music, lighting projection or smart use of props.