Seattle's Child

Your guide to a kid-friendly city

Erika's weekend picks: Jet City Improv, Book-It, trains at Seattle Center & more!

What's on for the weekend

Erika's Weekend Picks
 
Twisted Flicks: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians, Sat Dec 26, 8 p.m.Looking for a laugh? Check out this B movie made better by Jet City Improv's comedians as they turn off the sound and improvise it all; dialogue, sound effects and music. Great for all ages. $12-15. jetcityimprov.org
 
Seattle Center Winter Train & Entertainment, Open daily thru Dec 31. Closed Dec 25, Seattle Center Armory. FREE. After you finish ice skating at Fisher Pavilion, pop over to the Armory to see the intricate turn-of-the century winter village and train set. Kids can even 'conduct' the model train with a little help from the engineer. ($2 donation suggested for conducting).seattlecenter.com
 
Emma, Center Theatre at Seattle Center, Sat, Dec 26, 2 p.m. If you house any Jane Austen fans, this is a sure holiday hit. Book-It Repertory Theater brings this 200 year old classic to life on stage with exquisite casting and nails  Austen's tone perfectly as young Emma Woodhouse attempts to matchmake her friends and neighbors. Show runs various dates and times thru Jan 3rd. $25-50. book-it.org
 
Hansel & Gretel and the Three Bears – A British PantoSun, Dec 27, 1 p.m. Hale's Palladium. Audience participation encouraged as the young siblings ignore their family to explore The Woods. Turns out, other creatures besides the witch with her gingerbread live in the forest too. Circus fun and surprises ensue. Show runs Sat/Sun thru January 10th. $13, $7 seniors and ages 12 and younger. https://panto.brownpapertickets.com
 
Sensory Friendly FilmSat, Dec 26, 10 a.m. AMC Woodinville. In a galaxy far, far away, or about 20 minutes from downtown Seattle, you can find a fantastic movie playing for kids and families affected by autism and other disorders. "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" will have lights low and sound down. BYO snacks and feel free to move about the theater. $4-6.amctheatres.com
 
StoryTime for Kids, University Bookstore, Sat Dec 26, 11-12. Dramatic readings of the best new and classic kids books. Come watch your favorite stories leap to life, then stay for activities and entertainment. Great for kids ages 3-7. bookstore.washington.edu

About the Author

Erika Lee Bigelow