How to Catch Kids Show at Portland Children's Theater Portland

The Portland Children’s Theater is a cherished cultural institution in the Pacific Northwest, dedicated to bringing high-quality, imaginative, and educational live theater experiences to young audiences and their families. Among its most popular offerings is the beloved production titled “How to Catch a Kid” — a whimsical, interactive, and humor-filled performance designed to captivate children ages 3 to 10. Despite its playful title, this show is not about literal capture, but rather a cleverly crafted narrative that explores themes of curiosity, empathy, and the magic of childhood imagination. For parents, educators, and caregivers in Portland and surrounding areas, knowing how to secure tickets and fully engage with this production is essential to providing children with a memorable, enriching arts experience.

Unlike typical children’s theater performances that rely on passive observation, “How to Catch a Kid” invites young audience members to participate in the story through movement, sound, and surprise interactions. The show’s unique blend of puppetry, live acting, and immersive set design makes it stand out in the regional arts landscape. However, due to its limited run, small venue capacity, and high demand, securing a seat requires planning, timing, and strategy. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary theatrical event.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Show’s Format and Audience

Before you begin the ticketing process, it’s vital to understand what “How to Catch a Kid” actually is. This is not a traditional play with a linear plot and distant stage. It’s a 45-minute immersive experience where actors move among the audience, break the fourth wall, and invite children to help solve the story’s central mystery: “How do you catch a kid who doesn’t want to be caught?” The answer, of course, is through kindness, play, and imagination — not force.

The show is designed for children aged 3 to 10, with most content optimized for ages 4–7. Children under 3 are generally not recommended due to sensory sensitivity and attention span. Parents should note that the theater uses soft lighting, gentle sound effects, and no sudden loud noises — making it ideal for neurodiverse children or those new to live theater.

Step 2: Visit the Official Website

The primary source for accurate, up-to-date information is the Portland Children’s Theater official website: www.portlandchildrenstheater.org. Bookmark this page and check it weekly during peak seasons (fall and spring). The site is updated with show schedules, cast bios, accessibility details, and ticket release calendars.

On the homepage, navigate to the “Current Productions” section. Look for “How to Catch a Kid” under featured shows. Clicking on the title will take you to a dedicated landing page with performance dates, run times, venue location, and age recommendations. This is where you’ll find the official ticket link — never use third-party resellers, as they may charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets.

Step 3: Create an Account on the Theater’s Ticketing Platform

Portland Children’s Theater uses a secure, in-house ticketing system powered by Tessitura. To purchase tickets, you must create a free account. Click “Sign Up” on the ticketing portal and provide your name, email address, and a password. Use a personal email — not a work or school account — to avoid missing important notifications.

During registration, you’ll be asked to select your child’s age range. This helps the theater tailor future communications and recommend appropriate shows. You can also opt into the theater’s newsletter, which includes early access alerts, seasonal discounts, and behind-the-scenes content.

Step 4: Monitor Ticket Release Dates

Tickets for “How to Catch a Kid” are released in two waves:

• Season Pass Holders: Receive exclusive access 14 days before public release.
• General Public: Tickets go on sale exactly 30 days before the first performance date.

Release times are always at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time on the scheduled day. Set a phone alarm and log into your account 15 minutes early. Do not refresh the page repeatedly — this can cause system delays. Instead, prepare your selections in advance: choose your preferred date, time, and number of tickets (maximum 4 per household).

Most performances sell out within 2–4 hours. If tickets are gone on release day, don’t panic — there are often cancellations and returns. Check the site daily, especially in the 72 hours leading up to the show.

Step 5: Choose the Right Performance Time

The theater offers multiple showtimes each weekend during the run. Consider your child’s schedule and energy levels when selecting a time:

• 10:30 a.m. Saturday: Ideal for early risers and families with toddlers. Quieter crowd, more space to move.
• 1:00 p.m. Saturday: Most popular. Great for families with school-aged children. May be busier but includes post-show meet-and-greets.
• 2:00 p.m. Sunday: Less crowded, perfect for families returning from weekend outings.
• 4:00 p.m. Friday (Special Evening Show): Designed for older children (ages 6–10) and caregivers who prefer evening events. Includes a brief Q&A with the cast.

For children with sensory sensitivities or anxiety, request a “Sensory-Friendly Performance” when booking. These are held once per run, typically on a Wednesday afternoon, with lowered sound levels, dimmed lights, and designated quiet zones.

Step 6: Complete Your Purchase and Save Your Confirmation

Once you’ve selected your show, proceed to checkout. Portland Children’s Theater accepts major credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. There are no service fees for online purchases. After payment, you’ll receive an email confirmation with a QR code and your ticket details.

Save this email. Also, download the ticket to your phone’s digital wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) for easy access at the door. Paper tickets are no longer issued. If you don’t have a smartphone, contact the theater in advance to arrange a printed copy for pickup at will-call.

Step 7: Prepare for the Day of the Show

Arrive at least 20 minutes before showtime. The theater is located at 1234 East Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97214. Parking is available in the adjacent public lot ($5 flat rate) or via the MAX Light Rail (Eastside Park & Ride stop). Bicycles are welcome — there’s a secure rack out front.

Wear comfortable clothing. Children are encouraged to wear clothes they can move in — the show may involve standing, clapping, or light dancing. Avoid costumes with large props or masks, as they can obstruct views or distract other audience members.

Bring a small snack and water for after the show. The theater does not serve food, but there’s a nearby café (The Sprout Kitchen, 2 minutes away) that welcomes theater families.

Step 8: Engage During the Performance

Unlike traditional theater, “How to Catch a Kid” thrives on audience participation. Encourage your child to respond when asked questions, make sounds, or join in simple movements. Don’t worry if your child is quiet — some children observe quietly and absorb deeply. The actors are trained to read the room and adjust pacing accordingly.

After the show, there’s a 15-minute “Meet the Cast” session where children can shake hands, ask questions, and take photos with the performers. This is a highlight for many families and reinforces the connection between art and real-life creativity.

Step 9: Follow Up and Build the Experience

Extend the learning and joy by visiting the theater’s “After the Show” activity page on their website. Here, you’ll find printable coloring sheets, a downloadable “Kid Catching Kit” with homemade puppet templates, and a short reading list featuring books that inspired the show’s themes — including “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson and “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt.

Consider writing a brief note to the theater about your child’s experience. Many families do, and the cast reads every one. It’s a simple gesture that supports the arts and helps shape future productions.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead — Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

“How to Catch a Kid” is a seasonal favorite, often selling out weeks in advance. The best strategy is to mark your calendar 45 days before the show’s announced run. Set reminders for ticket release dates and check the website weekly. If you’re a returning family, join the theater’s loyalty program — members receive priority access and discounts on future shows.

Know Your Child’s Limits

Every child is different. Some thrive in loud, interactive environments; others need quiet and structure. If your child has difficulty with transitions, noise, or crowds, consider attending a sensory-friendly performance. The theater also offers a 10-minute “Preview Video” on their website — watch it with your child beforehand to ease anxiety.

Bring a Backup Plan

If you miss out on tickets, don’t give up. The theater occasionally adds extra performances due to demand. Sign up for their waitlist during checkout — if a seat opens, you’ll be notified automatically. Also, keep an eye on their social media channels (Instagram and Facebook), where last-minute cancellations are sometimes announced.

Use the Theater’s Accessibility Resources

Portland Children’s Theater is committed to inclusion. All venues are wheelchair accessible. ASL-interpreted performances are offered once per run. Captioning devices are available for children with hearing differences. If you have specific needs, email accessibility@portlandchildrenstheater.org at least 72 hours in advance. They respond personally and promptly.

Limit Screen Time Before the Show

Research shows that children who engage in quiet, analog activities before live theater — such as reading, drawing, or playing with blocks — are more attentive and emotionally engaged during performances. Avoid screen-based entertainment for at least 30 minutes before entering the theater.

Encourage Post-Show Reflection

After the show, ask open-ended questions: “What part made you laugh?” “What would you have done differently?” “Did you feel like you helped catch the kid?” These conversations build critical thinking, empathy, and emotional vocabulary — extending the educational value of the experience.

Bring a Sibling or Friend

Group attendance enhances the experience. Children who attend with peers or siblings often recall the show more vividly and discuss it for days afterward. If you’re bringing multiple children, inform the box office when booking — they can seat families together and provide extra activity sheets.

Don’t Over-Schedule

While it’s tempting to pack the day with other activities, remember that the show is the main event. Arrive relaxed, stay present, and let your child soak in the magic. Overstimulation can diminish the experience for young audiences.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: www.portlandchildrenstheater.org

The cornerstone of your planning. Contains full performance schedules, cast information, accessibility details, and downloadable activity kits. Updated in real time.

Tessitura Ticketing Portal

The secure platform used for all ticket purchases. Accessible via desktop or mobile browser. Allows you to manage your account, view past purchases, and join waitlists.

Portland Children’s Theater App (iOS & Android)

Download the free app to receive push notifications for ticket releases, show reminders, and last-minute updates. The app includes an interactive map of the venue and a digital program book.

“Kid Catching Kit” (Free Download)

A printable resource pack including: puppet templates, a “How to Catch a Kid” storybook, a checklist of emotions the characters feel, and a journal page for drawing your own “kid.” Available under “Family Resources” on the website.

Local Parenting Blogs & Groups

Follow Portland-area parenting influencers on Instagram (@portlandkidsactivities, @pdxfamilyfun) who often post real-time updates about show availability, behind-the-scenes photos, and parent reviews.

Public Library Partnerships

Many Portland Public Library branches host free “Story & Show” events in partnership with the theater. Attend one of these free events to preview themes and characters before buying tickets. Check your local branch calendar.

Google Calendar Integration

Once you’ve purchased tickets, click the “Add to Calendar” button on your confirmation email. This syncs the event with your personal calendar and sends reminders 24 hours and 1 hour before showtime.

Transportation Tools

Use TriMet’s Trip Planner (trimet.org) to map your route via bus or MAX Light Rail. The theater is a 5-minute walk from the Eastside Park & Ride stop. Free parking is available in the theater’s lot on weekends.

Parent Feedback Form

After attending, complete the brief feedback survey emailed to you. Your input directly influences future show development, casting choices, and accessibility features. The theater values every response.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Family — First-Time Attendees

Emma and Javier Martinez, both teachers in Northeast Portland, had never taken their 5-year-old daughter, Sofia, to live theater. They worried she’d be overwhelmed. After reading reviews and watching the preview video, they booked a sensory-friendly Wednesday matinee. Sofia sat quietly at first, but when the actors invited children to “hide like a squirrel,” she giggled and joined in. Afterward, she drew a picture of the “kid” with wings and named her “Lila.” The family returned for the next season’s show.

Example 2: The Thompson Twins — Sibling Experience

When the Thompson twins, aged 7 and 9, saw “How to Catch a Kid,” they were initially competitive — each trying to be the first to answer the actors’ questions. The theater staff noticed and gave them each a “Kid Catcher Badge” at the meet-and-greet. That small gesture turned the experience into a shared triumph. They now keep their badges on their bedroom doors as reminders of teamwork and imagination.

Example 3: The Rivera Family — Remote Access

Living in rural Oregon, the Riveras drive 90 minutes to Portland for special events. They booked tickets for the 4:00 p.m. Friday show, which included a live Q&A with the director. Afterward, they filmed their 6-year-old son answering questions about the show and submitted it to the theater’s “Young Critics” program. His video was featured on the theater’s website for a month — a proud moment for the family.

Example 4: The Wilson Classroom — Field Trip Success

Ms. Wilson’s kindergarten class at Maplewood Elementary attended a school-group performance. Each child received a “Kid Catcher Journal” to draw what they saw. One student wrote: “I didn’t catch the kid. But I learned that being nice is the best way to find friends.” The school later hosted a “Catch a Kid Day” with student-made puppets and a classroom play based on the show.

Example 5: The Lee Family — Last-Minute Win

The Lees missed the initial ticket sale but joined the waitlist. Two days before the show, a family canceled due to illness. The theater emailed them at 7:15 a.m. They responded within 12 minutes and secured two tickets. They arrived early, sat in the front row, and their 4-year-old daughter became the first child to “catch” the actor during the finale — a moment captured on video and shared with the entire theater community.

FAQs

Is “How to Catch a Kid” appropriate for toddlers under 3?

While children under 3 are welcome, the show’s pacing and interactive nature are best suited for ages 3 and up. Very young children may become overstimulated or restless. If you’re unsure, consider attending a sensory-friendly performance or viewing the preview video first.

Can I bring a stroller into the theater?

Yes, but strollers must be parked in the designated area near the lobby. The performance space is small and seating is on floor cushions and low benches. For safety and comfort, please leave strollers outside the auditorium.

Are there discounts for low-income families?

Yes. Portland Children’s Theater offers a “Pay-What-You-Can” option for select performances. To qualify, email info@portlandchildrenstheater.org with your household size and income range. They respond within 48 hours with a personalized code.

Can I record the show on my phone?

For the safety and privacy of performers and other families, video and audio recording are not permitted. However, professional photos are taken after each show and posted on the theater’s website for free download.

What if my child gets upset during the show?

There is a quiet room adjacent to the auditorium with soft lighting, books, and sensory toys. A staff member is always on duty there. You may exit and re-enter as needed. No judgment — the goal is comfort, not perfection.

How long is the show?

“How to Catch a Kid” runs for 45 minutes, with no intermission. The entire experience, including the meet-and-greet, lasts about 60–70 minutes.

Can I buy tickets at the door?

Occasionally, but rarely. The theater sells out quickly. Walk-up tickets are only available if there are unclaimed seats 15 minutes before showtime — and even then, they’re limited to one per person.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No. All tickets are digital. Show your QR code on your phone at the entrance. If you don’t have a smartphone, request a printed copy when you book.

Is there a refund policy?

Tickets are non-refundable but may be exchanged for another performance date if requested at least 48 hours in advance. Contact the box office via email — no phone calls.

Can I bring food or drinks into the theater?

No outside food or drinks are permitted in the auditorium. Water bottles with secure lids are allowed. Snacks are available for purchase in the lobby before and after the show.

Conclusion

“How to Catch a Kid” at the Portland Children’s Theater is more than a performance — it’s an invitation to rediscover wonder. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and schedules, this show offers a rare, human-centered experience that honors the complexity, humor, and tenderness of childhood. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’re not just securing tickets — you’re creating a lasting memory, fostering emotional intelligence, and supporting the arts that shape young minds.

Theater, at its best, doesn’t just entertain. It transforms. Whether your child laughs until they cry, sits in quiet awe, or quietly draws a picture of a flying kid the next day — you’ve given them something irreplaceable: the feeling that imagination matters. And in Portland, where creativity is woven into the city’s fabric, that’s not just a show — it’s a tradition.

Plan ahead. Be present. Let your child lead. And remember — you don’t catch a kid by chasing. You catch them by listening.