Top five children's theaters

Children don't always take to live theatre right away, but that doesn't mean it's not good for them. Seeing drama enacted upon the boards is an important part of growing up with a creative, imaginative mind. That's why superior children's theatre can be the catalyst for further explorations in the wonderful world of theater and drama. The following venues provide a little something for every growing mind, from toddlers to teens. You'll find puppets, magic, good old-fashioned plays and more.

1. Bob Baker Marionette Theater   Downtown L.A. & adjacent

The colorful characters in the Bob Baker Marionette Theater have been singing and dancing their way into kids' hearts since 1963.

2. Falcon Theatre   Burbank

Garry Marshall and his daughter Kathleen opened this 130-seat playhouse in the Burbank media district in 1997.

3. Magicopolis   Santa Monica

Magicopolis takes the art of prestidigitation into the 21st Century with a heady mixture of comedy, magic, music, illusions, special effects and audience participation.

4. Nine O'clock Players   Hollywood

Operating for close to 80 years, Nine O’Clock Players Theatre for Children is one of the oldest and most respected of its kind in America.

5. Santa Monica Puppetry Center   Santa Monica

The Puppetry Center is a theater, museum and workshop devoted to the art of puppetry.