Theatre in the Park this Summer

There are loads of summer outdoor movies and concerts in Vancouver, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t shout out the live theatre going on around town. Here are three big kid-friendly productions (6 and up) happening in spectacular settings outside or in the big tent. Get ocean views at Rob Basford Park on Granville Island and Bard on the Beach at Vanier Park or sit amid the towering firs of Stanley Park at Malkin Bowl for a toe-tapping musical. Protip: Bring a sweater as it can get chilly as the sun sets, and know your kids, most shows run until 10 pm.
Three family friendly outdoor summer theatre productions
Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS)
July 5–August 17 2019, Stanley Park

For an iconic outdoor theatre experience, TUTS is a long-standing fave for good reason! Set in Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl against a backdrop of cedars and Douglas firs, it’s a bucket lister of a summer outing. This year’s smash Broadway hits are Disney’s Newsies and sing-along-fave Mamma Mia! Tickets start at $20, but bring a few extra bucks and take advantage of their heavenly concession. Cheeseburgers, barbecue, sushi and even wine – need we say more?
Performance Works Outdoor Stage at Ron Basford Park *Free*

July 26 – August 10 2019 Granville Island
For a taste of winter on a hot summer’s eve, head to the outdoor amphitheatre at Rob Basford Park beside the Granville Island Hotel for a Winter’s Tale, a fantastical yarn, full of love, jealousy, atonement and the usual Shakespearean hijinks that make it a sure fire hit for families. The show, set against the starry backdrop of False Creek, features pre-professional actors aged 13-18 from Carousel Theatre’s Teen Shakespeare Program. PS: There’s a festival-style village, concession, and activities for the kids before the show and during intermission.
Bard on the Beach Family Days
July 6, August 10 & August 24 2019 at Vanier Park in Vancouver

A few years ago The Bard start started family nights to get kids excited about Shakespeare. They’ve switched them to daytime, which is much friendlier for the young ones. Arrive at the Village early for family-friendly activities, the PIXSTAR photobooth, a food truck and an exclusive pre-show talk designed just for kids. Then enjoy a performance of the hilarious Wild-West love story, The Taming of the Shrew.
PS: Receive $10 off each adult ticket for each youth ticket purchased.
Harriet Fancott is the Editor and Social Media Manager for Vancouver Mom. She has over 20 years experience in the arts, tech and mom-based blogging arenas. She lives in East Vancouver with her husband and son where they enjoy exploring all that Vancouver has to offer from festivals and events to playgrounds and beaches to sushi and ice cream (although not together).