The 48th Annual Vancouver International Children’s Festival for a week of world-class theatre, music, dance, circus, puppetry and storytelling. Returning to Granville Island from May 26 – June 1, audiences will witness eleven professional performing artists and companies—from as far away as Ireland and the UK—presenting a total of 79 joyous performances celebrating the power of live performance.
“Our Festival is a beloved tradition in Metro Vancouver and we are thrilled to present our 48th Festival!” says Katharine Carol, Artistic and Executive Director. “Celebrating the joy of artistic expression, the Festival brings together diverse, multi-disciplinary shows that engage, inspire and entertain. We believe in the transformative power of the arts and are committed to making the Festival as inclusive and accessible as possible. Through the stories we share, the artists we present and the variety of shows we offer, we aim to reflect and represent the many experiences of children today.”
Highlights of this year’s Festival include:
I Wish I Was A Mountain
By Toby Thompson | The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath (UK)
May 26–June 1 | Performance Works
A poetic, jazz-infused reimagining of a Hermann Hesse tale, performed by UK Poetry Slam Champion Toby Thompson
Luminarium
By Cause & Effect Circus (Vancouver)
May 27–June 1 | Revue Stage
Premiering at this year’s festival, Luminarium is created by Vancouver’s Cause & Effect Circus.
Same Same Different
By The Myrtle Sisters (Vancouver)
May 31–June 1 | Waterfront Theatre
This vintage-style musical trio brings tight harmonies, tap dancing, and comedic charm to the stage.
Won’Ma Africa
By Cirque Kalabanté (Guinea/Quebec)
May 27–June 1 | Granville Island Stage
This high-energy performance from Cirque Kalabanté is a celebration of Guinean culture that’s as awe-inspiring as it is family-friendly.
The Libravian
By James Riordan | Brú Theatre (Ireland)
May 30–June 1 | Performance Works
A funny and heartfelt solo show celebrating storytelling, diversity, and the magic of books
Vancouver International Children’s Festival runs May 26 to June 1, 2025 at venues around Granville Island. Tickets can be purchased online at ChildrensFestival.ca, or during the Festival at the on-site box office located between Festival House and the Waterfront Theatre.