Date
Thursday
Mar
20

March 20

World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People

Get ready to ignite imagination and inspire young minds on World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People - a day dedicated to creativity, storytelling, and magic!

Yearly Date
March 20
Type
Day

Introduction

March 20 marks an exciting and creative holiday – World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People! This special day, also known as International Theatre for Children and Young People's Day, was first established in 2001 by ASSITEJ (International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People) to promote the importance of theatre in the lives of young people. It celebrates the power of imagination, storytelling, and play in shaping the minds and hearts of children all around the world. So why not take this opportunity to attend a children's theater performance or even put on a play with your own little ones? Let's celebrate this day by embracing our inner child and indulging in some theatrical fun!

World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People Timeline

1850s
Children's Theatre Emergence
The concept of theatre specifically aimed at children and young people began to gain popularity in Europe, notably in Germany and France.
1903
First Children's Theatre Company
The first professional children's theatre company was founded in Moscow, Russia, known as Moscow Children's Theatre.
1920s
Spread to Other Countries
Throughout the 1920s, the idea of children's theatre spread to other countries, including USA, UK, and Australia.
1965
Establishment of ASSITEJ
The International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People (ASSITEJ) was established to promote professional theatre for young audiences worldwide.
2001
First World Day of Theatre
World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People was first celebrated, officially recognized by ASSITEJ to highlight the importance of theatre in young lives.
2020
Theatre in the Digital Age
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many theatrical experiences shifted to digital platforms, allowing broader accessibility for children and young people around the world.

How to Celebrate World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People

1

Attend a children's theatre performance

Find a local theatre company that specializes in productions for children and young people. Buy tickets and support the arts while celebrating World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People.

2

Put on a play with friends

Gather a group of friends and put on a play or skit together. It doesn't have to be perfect, just have fun and be creative. This is a great way to celebrate the spirit of theatre and engage with others.

3

Read plays written for children

Visit your local library or bookstore and find plays written specifically for children and young people. Read them aloud with your family or friends and discuss the themes and messages within each play.

4

Create a puppet show

Gather materials and create your own puppet show! This is a fun and interactive way to celebrate World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People, and can also be a great way to involve younger children in the festivities.

5

Attend a workshop or class

Many theatres or performing arts centers offer workshops or classes specifically for children and young people. Sign up for one and learn more about the world of theatre while celebrating this special day.

Why We Love World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People

A

It promotes creativity and imagination in young people

Theater is a platform for young people to explore their creativity and imagination. It encourages them to think outside the box, develop their storytelling skills, and express themselves in new and exciting ways.

B

It brings people together

Theater is a communal experience that allows people of all ages to come together and enjoy a performance. On World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People, theaters around the world open their doors to children of all backgrounds, promoting unity and inclusivity.

C

It helps promote understanding and tolerance

Through theater, children and young people can learn about different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. This promotes understanding and tolerance among individuals and allows them to see the world through a different lens.

World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Mar 19
Sunday
2024
Mar 19
Tuesday
2025
Mar 19
Wednesday
2026
Mar 19
Thursday
2027
Mar 19
Friday