Pasadena Playhouse Unveils Largest-Ever Expansion with Launch of New Youth and Family Season

The Pasadena Playhouse revealed an ambitious new season of youth and family programming on Saturday, marking its most significant expansion to date. The announcement came during a lively Family Fun Day event held in front of the theater on El Molino Avenue, filled with arts, crafts, and families reveling in the festivities.

The new family-oriented season will kick off on February 3 with the world premiere of “Grumpy Monkey, the Musical,” a Playhouse-commissioned work based on the beloved book by Suzanne and Max Lang. The musical aims to capture young hearts and minds from its premiere through March 3, followed by the engaging “Wheels on the Bus” production from April 27 to June 2. 

Both shows will be staged at the local Porticos Art Space at 2033 East Washington Blvd.

“This major expansion is rooted in our extraordinary history as one of the leading theater schools in America,” said Danny Feldman, Producing Artistic Director of The Pasadena Playhouse, stressing the importance of making live theater accessible to everyone, especially the young.

“By opening our doors wider to include thousands of young people and their families every year, our impact on our community will expand greatly, and will resonate for years to come,” he added. 

Additional exciting ventures include a kid-friendly dance party called “Baby Rave” which opens on November 4, and Holiday Groove: a Family Dance Workshop on December 16, led by notable choreographer Sam Pinkleton.

Pasadena Playhouse Board of Trustees Chairperson Erin Baker echoed Feldman’s sentiments. 

“By returning to our roots and increasing access to the theater for children and their families, we are growing the future of our creators and attendees, ensuring that theater everywhere can once again flourish,” Baker said.

In statements the Playhouse said the new season reaffirms the Playhouse’s enduring commitment to community-based work, education, and world-class productions, fostering an inclusive environment for budding artists and audiences alike. 

With a rich lineup of professional productions, classes, camps, and more, the Playhouse intends to provide a vibrant cultural hub for Pasadena’s families, nurturing the next generation of theater enthusiasts and practitioners.

The Pasadena Playhouse is at 39 South El Molino Avenue in Pasadena. Visit the website at https://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/.