New York City has no shortage of opportunities for young theatergoers with Broadway and off-Broadway shows, musical performances, circus acts, puppet theater and more. The Big Apple’s newest show for kids, Pip’s Island, gives kids the chance to take in a show by being part of the cast in a whirlwind interactive performance in Times Square.

We checked out the immersive performance in previews and it was just as fun as I remembered their 2016 pop-up show. The new space is permanent so little New Yorkers and tourists will have plenty of time to check out this fun interactive show.

As kids arrive, they are outfitted with “costumes” consisting of explorer vests and legendarium wristbands. The immersive performance starts right away as the park ranger teaches some important dance moves and explains how they are collecting badges or “sparks” to save the island and defeat Joules Volter (aka – the bad guy).

Young explorers (and their assistant explorer adults) are then scooted off on adventure after adventure for the next hour. I don’t want to give too much away but as the cast is introduced as various characters in their unique settings (the sets are outrageous in a good way), the storyline progresses room by room with plenty of special effects and fun. Along the way, kids are participating in various team activities and problem-solving together to save the island. There may have been some bubbles, dancing and conga lines along the way or maybe that was just my imagination. Cameras are not allowed which ensures all attendees are giving the show their full attention.

The recommended age range is 4-10 and there are some dark scenes which may scare younger kids. The staff is wonderful at interacting with the kids and the parents are always within sight while the children participate in group activities.

Get your tickets at PipsIsland.com and get 10% off with code Pip10.

Times Square has a slew of family-friendly attractions and if you want to combine a show with a nearby attraction, Gulliver’s Gate is a great choice.