10 Tips for Successfully Staging a Children’s Musical

Tips for Staging a Children's Musical

So, you’ve decided to stage a children’s musical….Bravo! Putting on a children’s musical can be an incredibly rewarding experience for everyone involved, but only if you’re prepared for the whirlwind of chaos that comes with it. Here are ten tips to help you create a fantastic production that will WOW your audience and build lasting memories for your young performers, all while keeping your sanity intact!

1. Choose an age-appropriate script. 

Picking a script that’s suitable for the age range of your performers is crucial. Select a script that resonates with your performers and ignites their imagination. Opt for stories that offer a good balance of dialogue, songs, and opportunities for each child to shine on stage. Research and read multiple scripts before choosing one, and consider the themes, characters, and messages that will engage and inspire the children and are appropriate for your community. A compelling script will motivate them to give their best performance. (At Beat by Beat we specialize in creating contemporary, age-appropriate children’s musicals.)

2. Assemble a dedicated team.

Gather a team of reliable, patient, and enthusiastic individuals who share your passion for the project and can contribute to its success. Seek out professionals or volunteers with experience in directing, choreographing, and music directing who can guide the children in honing their skills. Having a skilled stage manager will ensure smooth transitions and coordination. This diverse and talented team will create an environment that nurtures creativity and collaboration.

3. Plan and budget accordingly

Craft a detailed timeline and budget for your production, considering all costs, including set design, costumes, props, sound equipment, and venue rental. Allocate funds for essentials such as licensing fees, marketing materials, and insurance. Thoughtful planning will allow your cast and crew the time and resources they need to bring their best to the stage. Create contingency plans to tackle unforeseen challenges and ensure a smooth production process.

4. Keep rehearsals structured and fun

Create a positive, energetic atmosphere during rehearsals to keep the children engaged and motivated. Set clear expectations, establish a routine, and maintain a disciplined yet supportive environment. Remember to mix in fun activities and games to break up the routine and keep things fresh.

5. Encourage parental involvement

Parents can be invaluable resources in a children’s musical production. Invite them to volunteer in various roles, such as costume design, set construction, ticket sales, or backstage assistance. This will help build a strong sense of community and foster a supportive environment for the children.

6. Focus on skill development

Use the production process as an opportunity to teach children valuable skills, such as teamwork, public speaking, and self-confidence. Encourage them to step out of their comfort zones and take risks in their performances. Provide constructive feedback and praise their efforts to help them grow as performers.

7. Prioritize safety

Create a safe space for your young performers by addressing potential hazards, such as loose wires or slippery surfaces, and ensuring all safety protocols are in place. Conduct regular checks of costumes, props, and set pieces to prevent accidents. Provide training and guidelines for cast and crew members on safe practices, both on and off stage. Keep an emergency kit and first aid supplies on hand for any unexpected accidents.

8. Promote the production

Spread the word about your children’s musical through social media, school newsletters, and community bulletin boards. Create eye-catching posters and flyers, and consider hosting a preview event to generate buzz. The more people you can draw to your performances, the greater the sense of accomplishment your cast and crew will feel.

9. Capture the memories

Document the production journey through photos and videos. Assign a volunteer to take candid shots during rehearsals and performances, capturing both the hard work and the fun. Create a slideshow or video montage to share with the cast, crew, and parents as a lasting reminder of the experience.

10. Celebrate the success

After the final curtain call, celebrate the achievements of your young performers with a cast party or awards ceremony. Recognize individual and group accomplishments, and make sure to thank everyone who contributed to the production’s success. Celebrating together will help create lasting memories and foster a sense of camaraderie among the participants.

Producing a children’s musical can be a challenging yet wonderfully rewarding experience. By following these ten tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful, memorable production that will delight audiences and instill a love for the performing arts in the hearts of your young performers.

Photo Credit: Space Pirates, Children’s Musical Theatre Festival, NYC


Beat by Beat Press is the world’s fastest growing publisher of new musical plays for kids and teaching drama resources, founded by a team of award-winning playwrights in New York City and LA. Since 2011 Beat by Beat musicals have received over 6,200 productions in 75 countries around the globe.

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