Can These Shows Make Our Kids Better People?

Like so many people, I read "A Raisin in the Sun" when I was in high school, and I was moved by Lorraine Hansberry's tale of a financially struggling African-American family in racially segregated Chicago. But as a teen growing up in a small Hudson Valley town, I knew few families that had these challenges. The play was powerful, but the ideas were abstract.
 
Then my class took a field trip to see a production of "Raisin" in Albany, N.Y., and it all made sense. Watching actors bring the story to life made me internalize and understand the characters' experiences in a way I couldn't while simply reading words on a page. I was captivated by their struggles, but even more importantly, I wanted to do something about it. Seeing the play inspired me to see people differently. It helped me begin to develop a social conscience.
 
Fast-forward a generation, and my 14 year-old daughter is about to see "Kinky Boots" for the fourth time. It's her favorite show. She loves it more than "Hamilton," which is significant for a New York City theater kid. When I asked her why "Kinky Boots" makes her cash in her birthday and Christmas money, she said: "It makes me want to be a better person."
 
To me, that's an incredible reminder that the theater is a wonderful place to engage kids in social issues and help them become responsible, compassionate citizens.
 
With that in mind, here are 11 productions that may inspire kids to change the world. Let's keep this list growing; if you see a show that fits the bill, then please mention it in the comments.
 

BROADWAY

Ages: Older teens (violence, disturbing themes, some gore)
Topics explored: the role of government; personal freedom

The Band's Visit 

Ethel Barrymore Theatre, 243 W. 47th St. between Broadway and 8th Ave
Ages: 13+ (minor profanity, topic may not be interesting to younger children)
Note: This shows a hit Off Broadway, and it will begin Broadway previews on October 7. There's a Show-Score Social on October 15.

Dear Evan Hansen

Ages: 13+ (suicide, minor profanity)
Topics explored: bullying; the power of social media
Note: There are currently nine Show-Score Socials available for this show!

Kinky Boots

Ages: 15+ (mild profanity, complex political arguments that may not interest younger children)
Topics explored: LGBT equality; general tolerance

Oslo

Ages: 10+ (minor sexual themes)
Topics explored: religious and cultural tolerance; patriotism

OFF-BROADWAY AND BEYOND

Avenue Q

Ages: 14+ (sexual and adult themes; profanity)
Topics explored: race; LGBT equality; general tolerance

Black Angels Over Tuskegee

Ages: 8+ (nothing inappropriate, but topic may not interest very young children)
Topics explored: race; patriotism

Conservation Theater: Fresh From Africa
The Flamboyan Theater, 107 Suffolk St.

Ages: 8+ (nothing inappropriate, but topic may not interest very young children)
Topics explored: wildlife conservation; environmental issues
Note: "Fresh From Africa" has limited performances, so make sure you book your tickets. You can purchase them here. 

Cost of Living

Ages: 16+ (profanity, brief nudity)
Topics explored: physical disability; race; class
Note: Closes July 16

A Raisin in the Sun

Ages: 14+ (adult themes)
Topics explored: race; class

Sistas: The Musical

Ages: 12+ (light adult themes)
Topics explored: civil rights; feminism

We're always looking for new ways to inspire kids to change the world. Are there any other shows that you would add to this list? Comment below!