From Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic and the enchantment of The Nutcracker to the fun-filled musical Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are in a Play,” the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents an exciting 2025/2026 season of the Nicklaus Children’s Smart Matinee Series at the Broward Center and The Parker.

The Smart Stage Matinee Series of school-day performances begins in October with shows that are ideal for charter, private, public and parochial school students and home-school networks. These educational performances are curriculum-driven and align with Florida’s B.E.S.T. Standards. Free study guides called “Curriculum Connections” are available to download on the Broward Center’s website. Families with young children looking for a daytime activity are also encouraged to attend.

Many productions offer an optional added Smart Stage Plus interactive learning experience for groups of 20-90 students. These are 30-minute workshops featuring a Broward Center teaching artist that deepen the connection to the content of the show.

“Nicklaus Children’s is thrilled to sponsor the Smart Stage Matinee Series’ upcoming season,” said DeAnn Hazey, CFRE of Government Relations & Community Affairs at Nicklaus Children’s Health System. “We strongly believe that supporting curriculum-connected performances is vital to inspiring creativity, deepening classroom learning, and giving students meaningful access to the arts. It plays a powerful role in promoting children’s health, wellness, and emotional wellbeing – fostering confidence, reducing stress and helping build importing skills that last a lifetime.”

The 2025/2026 Nicklaus Children’s Smart Stage Matinee Series at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Parker features the following shows. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.

Pinkalicious: The Musical

Oct. 15 & 16

Join the whimsical adventure of Pinkalicious, a young girl who can’t get enough of the color pink when Pinkalicious: The Musical comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday, October 15 and Thursday, October 16 at 10 a.m. in a school-day performance. Pinkalicious embarks on a wonderful journey of self-discovery after she eats too many pink cupcakes and turns completely pink! This delightful, family-friendly musical has an important lesson about self-acceptance and the acceptance of others. Perfect for audiences of all ages, Pinkalicious is a sweet treat that will have everyone singing and smiling. Recommended for grades K-3.

Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic

Oct. 20

Renowned magician Bill Blagg takes audiences on a thrilling journey where physics and magic collide, using cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring tricks to defy the laws of nature in an electrifying stage show that blends mind-blowing illusions with the principles of science when Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic comes to The Parker for two shows on Tuesday, October 20 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. in a school-day performance. Designed to excite, educate, intrigue and promote students to think “outside the box” and spawn their curiosity about how science and the Scientific Method are used by magicians to create the impossible, Blagg takes audiences on a thrilling journey where physics and magic collide, using cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring tricks to defy the laws of nature. With captivating storytelling, humor and jaw-dropping feats, Blagg demonstrates how science plays a crucial role in the art of magic, leaving viewers in disbelief and wonder. Recommended for grades 3-7.

Seussical

Dec. 5

The fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza, Seussical, presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Performance Project comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, December 5 at 10 a.m. in a school-day performance. Tony winners and legendary writers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, from the likes of “Lucky Stiff,” “My Favorite Year,” “Once on This Island” and “Ragtime,” have lovingly brought to life the most recognizable Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination – Jojo. The colorful characters transport audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. In this exciting tale, The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust containing Whos, including Jojo, a Who child sent off to military school for thinking too many “thinks.” Horton faces a double challenge – not only must he protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left to his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphantly. Attendees can also join the cast for a post-show meet and greet. Recommended for grades K-5.

Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida: The Nutcracker

Dec. 18

The magic of Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday classic comes to life in this enchanting version of The Nutcracker that follows young Clara as she embarks on a fantastical journey to the Land of Sweets, where she encounters a host of whimsical characters, from the brave Nutcracker Prince to the Sugar Plum Fairy. Filled with stunning dance, vibrant costumes and unforgettable music, this 90-minute rendition captures the heart of the original story on stage in a school-day performance at The Parker on Thursday, December 18 at 10:30 a.m. This performance is recommended for grades 4-12.

The Pout Pout Fish

Feb. 1

Turn the poutiest of frowns upside down in this musical underwater adventure featuring whimsical puppets and live performers in a sweeping oceanic adventure. When Mr. Fish sets out on a quest to find Miss Clam’s missing pearl, he discovers there is more to him than his permanently plastered pout. This vibrant, toe-tapping musical follows Mr. Fish, a pouty fish who believes he’s destined to spread gloom and doom. However, with the help of his ocean friends, Mr. Fish discovers that spreading joy and kindness is a much better way to live. Don’t miss this school-day performance of The Pout Pout Fish on Wednesday, February 4 at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Recommended for grade levels Pre-K-1.

Super Scientific Circus

Feb. 24

Step right up to the most fun-filled science show around with school-day performance of Super Scientific Circus on Tuesday, February 24 at 10 a.m. at The Parker. In Super Scientific Circus, students and teachers will be amazed as science comes to life through exciting experiments, daring feats and mind-blowing demonstrations. The science ringmaster uses the power of physics, chemistry and amazing circus skills involving boomerangs, bubbles, beachballs, bull whips and magic to introduce the principles of friction, inertia, centripetal force, aerodynamics, sonic booms, air pressure and ultraviolet light. Super Scientific Circus is where science meets the circus for an unforgettable experience. This production is perfect for elementary students in grades K-5.

The Emperor’s New Clothes

March 10 & 11

The Emperor’s New Clothes from Stages Productions on Tuesday, March 10 and Wednesday, March 11 at 10 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is a lively and engaging retelling of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. With vibrant costumes, catchy songs and whimsical choreography, this production brings the story of the vain emperor and his tailors to life. The play delivers a humorous and heartwarming message about the dangers of vanity and the importance of honesty, all while captivating audiences of all ages with its fun, colorful and interactive school-day performance. This show is recommended for students in grades 1-4.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical

March 23

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical comes to The Parker on Monday, March 23 at 10 a.m. This beloved children’s book springs to life on stage with vibrant songs, energetic dancing and whimsical puppets, ensuring a joyous experience for kids and adults alike. Follow the playfully adored story as the alphabet letters ambitiously climb the coconut tree, only to tumble down in a cascade of color and laughter. With plenty of audience interaction and lively performances, this school-day show is not just entertainment — it’s a fantastic way for children to explore sound, rhythm and reading in a fun, engaging spectacle. Recommended for students in grades K-5.

She Persisted: The Musical

March 26 & 27

Inspired by the bestselling book, “She Persisted” by Chelsea Clinton, She Persisted: The Musical is a trailblazing production that celebrates the strength and resilience of women who’ve shaped history. Audiences will be captivated as fourth-grader Naomi’s field trip to a Women’s History Museum transforms into a thrilling time-travel adventure, where she meets trailblazing women who broke barriers and shaped the course of U.S. history. With humor, heart and a powerful message, this show encourages kids to embrace their own inner strength and keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. She Persisted comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, March 26 and Friday, March 27 at 10 a.m. This show is recommended for students in grades 3-6.

Elephant & Piggie’s – “We are in a Play!”

April 23 & 24

Based on the beloved Elephant & Piggie books by Mo Willems, the fun-filled, school-day performance of Elephant & Piggie’s “We are in a Play” musical follows the lovable duo, Elephant Gerald and Piggie, as they embark on a hilarious adventure on stage. An elephant named Gerald, and a pig named Piggie are best, best, “bestus” friends. Gerald worries that something could go wrong that would end their friendship, but Piggie isn’t worried at all. She’s happier and more excited than usual because they’re invited to a party hosted by the Squirrelles, three singing squirrels who love to have a good time. So begins a day where anything is possible! Gerald and Piggie will solve problems, sing and dance, make each other laugh, share their favorite things, get mad and sad with each other, and even do a little goofing around the audience. Elephant & Piggie’s “We are in a Play!” comes to life on Thursday, April 23 and Friday, April 24 at 10 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Recommended for grades Pre-K–1.

The Nicklaus Children’s Smart Stage Matinee Series is not offered by subscription, and new events will be added to the series throughout the 2025/2026 season. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at each venue’s box office.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at ParkerPlayhouse.com and Ticketmaster.com; by phone at 954.462.0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 N.E. Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility.

The Broward Center 2025/2026 season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System.

About Nicklaus Children’s Health System, Where Your Child Matters Most

Nicklaus Children’s Health System (NCHS) is the parent organization of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, South Florida’s #1 nonprofit, freestanding specialty licensed hospital exclusively for children. Serving close to 70 percent of children in the Miami market, the hospital and its network of outpatient and urgent care centers offer life-saving care to children in not only Miami-Dade but also Broward, Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Nicklaus Children’s is home to centers of excellence including the Helen & Jacob Shaham Cancer & Blood Disorders Institute, the Nicklaus Children’s Orthopedics, Sports Health and Spine Institute, Nicklaus Children’s Brain Institute and Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute. Standing as a beacon of hope for 75 years, the 325-bed hospital is renowned for excellence in all aspects of pediatric medicine, with many programs routinely ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report since 2008. The health system also includes Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation, the organization’s 501c3 fundraising arm; a nonprofit physician practice subsidiary; and an ambulatory surgery center. For more information visit, https://www.nicklaushealth.org.

About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts

One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale, FL. For more information, visit BrowardCenter.org.

About The Parker

The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit ParkerPlayhouse.com.

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