Performing arts centers are happy when you expose your kids to the arts, but what to do when the kids get restless in that darkened, cramped theater? The solution: The Place To Play, a non-profit that creates family friendly venues for arts events. That is, places where families can enjoy quality events, inspire the kids, AND provide an outlet for the kids when they lose the mood for inspiration. Everybody wins!
Nonna Kuznetsova, the founder of The Place To Play, held three sold-out events in 2021 (ballet, classical music and a kids’ talent show) and has more scheduled in 2022 including a Tango Show/Ukraine fundraiser on May 28.
Nonna selects facilities such as The OASIS Senior Center, that have large, open areas for cabaret seating plus designated seating areas for kids. Here is the important part: adjoining the show floor is a separate room for the kids for when they need a break from the show. Nonna refers to it as the Kids’ Lounge. I refer to it as the Escape Valve. The Kids’ Lounge is staffed by YMCA childcare specialists. It allows kids to socialize and do kid things. This way, the parents (and kids) can take in truly beautiful events with less concern about disruption.
According to Nonna, “My undergraduate degree is in music, yet I was a restless child when I first attended concerts. Exposing children to the arts is critical and I know firsthand it is not easy. I wanted to create an easygoing, affordable environment for discerning adults with children.”
Another barrier Nonna wanted to lower for families is cost. Her current policy is free admission for kids under 12. While their admission is free, she has families RSVP per child so that she can adequately plan out the facility.
Tango Show and Ukraine Fundraiser
On May 28, The Place To Play will present a tango show at The OASIS Senior Center. The show features GD Tango, a professional tango dance ensemble, and a professional tango band Los Angeles Del Tango. Following the show is a tango mixer and social – also known as a Milonga. Tickets start at $30. All proceeds will go to Razom for Ukraine. Nonna says “I have family and friends living in Ukraine. I have volunteered on the border at the Ukrainian refugee shelters. I am trying to help however I can.”
Children’s Talent Show
On June 17, The Place To Play is hosting a Kids’ Talent Show at The Marina Park Community Center in Newport Beach. Following the show is a karaoke and dance party for kids and parents. Per Nonna “The talent show in December was a smash hit with 40+ participants. Truly, these kids work so hard and have few opportunities to shine. Events such as this are a welcoming atmosphere where kids can gain confidence and create beautiful memories.” The audition process for the talent show is simple: Fill out this online survey and email a 30 second video to info@theplacetoplay.org.
Nonna doesn’t do this all by herself. She calls upon a network of performers and talent advisors. Especially vital to her talent shows are musical director is Nadya Troffimova and dance director Dawn Castello.
No More Barriers For Families
The Place To Play removes the stress, removes the risk and lowers the cost to family arts outings. You don’t have to purchase tickets for youngsters, the quality of events is unquestionable, your kids won’t disrupt the show if they chose to burn energy in the kids lounge and the layout of the events makes it easy for everybody to move around. Parking is free, too!