If you caught my recent interview with Bay Area Children’s Theatre founder and CEO, Nina Meehan, you know how passionate I feel about exposing children to live theatre. Sadly, in the last two years, taking our kids to live performances has been challenging. Even now, with theatre back on the menu, taking kids to indoor venues can feel risky for parents.
Disclosure: I was given a complimentary tickets for the show in exchange for a review. As always, my opinions are my own. Read my full disclosure here.
That is why I was extra excited to take my kids to this summer’s Llama Llama Red Pajama LIVE! Llama Llama is the first show of Bay Area Children’s Theatre’s Season of Fun and Friendship. From July 2nd – August 21st the show is performing OUTDOORS at the California Shakespeare Theatre in Orinda. Right now, use code SFMAMA5 for 5% off tickets!
USE CODE SFMAMA5 for 5% OFF TICKETS
Show Details
The show is based on the popular children’s book Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. Audiences follow along with Baby Llama as he struggles with bedtime. Imaginative and fun, Llama’s bedroom toys come to life and try to “help” him go to sleep.
Leah Sanginiti has the title role and does not disappoint as the precocious and sweet Baby Llama. Leah sings, dances and moves with such a childlike authenticity (including a cartwheel and a full body tantrum)! Children automatically identify with Baby Llama.
Mama Llama (played by the fantastic Iyana Colby) is a relatable Mom. She has an entire song called “Mama’s on the Phone.” It’s a montage of Mama doing the dishes while being called by multiple people and juggling responsibilities.
Baby Llama’s three favorite toys are a stuffed llama named Fuzzy (Ali Travis), a Robot (Randy Lee) and a Dino (Bri Reads.) As supporting characters, they move the show along masterfully, being colorful representations of Baby Llama’s imagination.
USE CODE SFMAMA5 for 5% OFF TICKETS
What to Expect
The atmosphere in the Bruns Amphitheater is friendly and family-focused. Bay Area Children’s Theatre understands that kids will not sit in their chair the entire time, and they encourage dancing and moving during the show. This is a show especially for them! Baby Llama even breaks the fourth wall and talks to the kids in the audience from time to time.
Outside food and drink is allowed, so feel free to bring in a snack for your little one.
The theatre is completely outside, so dress accordingly. On July 2nd, when we attended, it was lightly raining the entire show! Check the weather before you leave. Blankets were available to rent for $2.
Parking is located down the hill from the theatre, and a little walk uphill is required. There is a golf cart shuttle available for those who need it. Plan on arriving at least 15 minutes early to get to your seats on time.
Masks are not required, but adults must show proof of vaccine or a negative covid test. For more details, check BACT’s website.
The show runs 55 minutes without an intermission. After the show, a meet and greet is available in the entranceway.
Brunch Box
Because the show takes place at 10am, and Bay Area Children’s Theatre knows it can be stressful to get out of the door in time for the show, they are offering Brunch Boxes for purchase! These boxes are full of bagels, cream cheese, oranges, packaged pastries, water and other snacks. They are ideal for a group of four.
Brunch Boxes are $30 and can be added to your order.
Buy Tickets
For tickets, follow this link. Use discount code SFMAMA5 for 5% OFF TICKETS! Lap Children under 2 do not need a ticket.
This show will sell out, so grab your tickets now!
This show is delightful and fun. Because it’s outside, it’s a safe and low-stakes way to enjoy quality theatre. For more information, visit bactheatre.org.
When: Show Runs on Saturdays and Sundays now through August 21st.
Where: 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way Orinda, CA 94563
Follow Bay Area Children’s Theatre: @bactheatre
