A source of entertainment, children’s shows are also a powerful tool for personal and social development in young people. Attending a play, for example, encourages children to develop empathy, creativity, and communication skills. And in the Lake Geneva region, the French-speaking offerings are both vast and diverse.
From classic stories adapted for young audiences to original plays that tackle contemporary themes in a playful way, children’s theater offers something to suit all tastes. Many of these productions are staged in historic theaters, giving children the chance to experience the magic of theater in places rich with history. Théâtre Am Stram Gram (Geneva), Théâtre des Marionnettes de Genève, Théâtre de Marionnettes de Lausanne, Petit Théâtre (Lausanne), Cinéma-Théâtre des Mutins (Lausanne), and Usine à Gaz (Nyon) are just a few of the venues where a rich program of children’s theater can be found. These theaters not only present shows, but often also offer workshops and interactive activities to allow children to dive even deeper into the world of theater.
So, during these autumn months of November and December, when indoor activities are undoubtedly the best choice, take your children to see a show and watch as they marvel at the stories, characters, and the magic that only theater can offer. And don’t forget, children’s theater isn’t just for kids—it’s an experience the whole family can enjoy together!
Sur les dents
Eating, always eating! To escape the endless feasts her parents insist on, Lou dashes into the forest. Of course, the wolf doesn’t take long to show up… but this predator is in quite a sorry state! Toothless, he’s been stripped of all his former ferocity. Feeling sorry for the poor creature, Lou has a brilliant idea: what if Grandma’s dentures could do the trick? No sooner said than done, the two new friends rush to Grandma’s house. But will their friendship survive once the wolf’s teeth are back? A show for children ages 5 and up, from November 2 to 17, 2024, at the Théâtre des Marionnettes de Genève.
Flic Flac
Flic Flac? It’s object theatre that brings the circus to life. Imagine a circus that fits inside a trunk. Or rather, a magical trunk that turns into a book and then into a circus ring. Now, imagine Flouc, a dreamy boy. For him, the circus is like Obelix with the magic potion: he fell into it when he was little. His parents are the trapeze artists, and his grandfather is the clown. There’s also Quick, the human cannonball, and Grosso Modo, the elephant… Ready for the next act? For children 12 months and older, on November 13, 2024, at the Forum Meyrin Library.
On décongèle Papy – Musical
The TJP company presents “On décongèle Papy,” a new, zany, and refreshing comedy. Chilling news straight from the Arctic: a man has been found frozen in ice for a century—frozen, but alive! Once awakened, this grandpa, unlike any other, becomes the star of a frantic world dominated by social media and the press. Scientists and producers are fighting over him… Prada is planning a special collection called A Century Under Ice, while Netflix and Disney+ battle for the adaptation of this extraordinary story! What if this frozen man were a great-grandfather? A great-grandfather as young as his great-great-grandson? How will they handle this “thawed” grandpa waking up from a 100-year polar nap under the TV spotlights? “On décongèle Papy” humorously explores today’s world through the lens of the Roaring Twenties. Music! Romance! Laughter! For children 7 and up, on November 15, 2024, at Théâtre de Marens (Nyon).
L’arrière-pays
Through a magical ritual, four adults in search of the perfect age embark on an expedition to the lands of childhood. But, as often happens, this adventure proves to be treacherous! The past has become a foreign land where they’ve gradually forgotten the language and customs, and the inhabitants have such different ways… Luckily, as soon as they arrive, some strange guides help them navigate this world they no longer recognize. Will they survive the giant bears that rule the game’s rules? Will they find the fountains of youth, pick the fruits and experience the intensities of this lost paradise? Are they truly ready to start all over again? A show for children aged 6 and up, on November 23 and 24, 2024, at Usine à Gaz (Nyon).
Lala et le cirque du vent
It hasn’t rained in a long time in Saint-Ziquet-sur-Gadouille! The frogs have left, and the townsfolk are watching for the storm. Among them is Cholaho, who chats with the clouds, and Flonflon, the wandering postwoman. Suddenly, the Wind Circus arrives with Lala, a girl-bird who speaks with her feet to the rhythm of her heart. There’s also Toumiel, her stuffed bear who grew up with her, Aïmondo, her adoptive father who is also the director of the circus, Bonzaï, a little jack-of-all-trades acrobat who dreams of becoming a baobab, and maestro Lagratte, who conducts the Wind Circus orchestra. Who from this little world will bring the rain back to Saint-Ziquet-sur-Gadouille? Anne-Cécile Moser and the wonderful team she has assembled will bring this musical tale, penned with the delicate touch of Anne Sylvestre, to life. A show for children aged 6 and up, from December 4 to 31, 2024, at the Petit Théâtre de Lausanne.
