This week the kids and I went to Plays and Players in Philadelphia to see an immersive family play, The Delaware Mudtub and The Mighty Wampum. We were excited because the kids have already learned about some mythical lore from the Delaware River area in school, and we were looking forward to seeing it in another format and learn some new information.
When we arrived they were smart and reminded everyone to use the bathroom before entering the theater. We were told we would need to remove our shoes since we were entering the ecosystem of the Delaware River area. Thankfully we were wearing socks!
Once inside it was cool to see the handmade DIY props and shadow puppetry – so much creativity. Let me tell you, the baby birds in this show were super cute and we all loved them. We are totally making them at home. The play itself is fun for ages 4+. I believe it is most enjoyable for ages 4-8 but younger and older ages will also enjoy it.
The play itself was cute to follow. With simple costumes, a small space, and a simple plot it was perfect to keep little ones entertained. I think it would be very entertaining for the under 4 crowd but just a warning there are some loud noises, like thunder, that can be a little startling. It was a little difficult to clearly understand what some of the characters were right away, and to follow the whole storyline but it was very entertaining and we still learned a good deal of local lore.
It was very inspiring to the kids to see all the things they could come home and try for themselves. No, there will be no swinging from cloth dangling from the ceiling. Yes, you may make shape shadows with a flashlight.
Tips for your trip
- The show is 1.5 hours long.
- Get your tickets here. Space is limited so order now!
- There is 2 hour on street parking available and the E-Z Parking lot is right around the corner on 17th and Pine.
- Wear socks. As an immersive play you are seated in the “eco-system” of the forest and you are required to remove your shoes before entering the theater.
- Seating is on the floor.
- There are a number of great kid friendly places to eat in the city – SliCE (1740 Sansom St), 500 Degrees (1504 Sansom St) are some of the “around the block” restaurants on my list.
Kids’ View
10 year old: It was a little hard to follow what myth they were acting out because they didn’t talk a lot. The characters were really interesting. The otters were my favorite part of the play.
8 year old: It was pretty good. It was hard to understand because they don’t say stuff much about what they are doing or who is who.
6 year old: My favorite was the bird. I loved all the different characters. I liked when they were throwing berries in the air and eating them.
**I received tickets in exchange for sharing my experience with the play. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**