The Met’s English-language, abridged, family-friendly adaptation of Mozart’s sublime and mystical journey returns in Julie Taymor’s fanciful production featuring giant bear puppets, boys flying on dragons and stunning scenery. Plus grand spiral staircases, gorgeous art and shiny chandeliers (don’t miss them retracting to the ceiling as the lights dim).

Entertaining for all but the vibe is formal and there is a lot of operatic singing in the 1 hour & 45 minutes, so best for older kids who can sit still.

Learn about the making of the opera during a special pre-show Holiday Open House before the December 10 matinee. See the amazing puppets up close, try on costumes, play with a light board and more hands-on musical explorations and experience behind-the-scenes demonstrations by members of the Met’s backstage and artistic staff, including musicians, actors, dancers, and members of the Wig and Costume Shop.

* $25 rush tickets sometimes available online four hours before curtain.

⏱ 1 hour 50 minutes with no intermission

📚 Get this gorgeous picture book or listen to this musical audio book to get familiar with the music and characters.