Weekender: Kid Favorite Junie B. Jones Takes the Stage in Ridgewood

The TIC TOC Theater & Art organization kicks off its kids' theater series this weekend with a production of "Junie B. Jones" on Nov. 20 at 2 p.m.

Performed by members of TheatreWorks USA, the production is a perfect chance for young fans of Barbara Park’s Junie B. Jones book series to see their favorite characters come to life, singing and dancing.

“Due to the popularity of the book series [we hope] to give a first taste of the performing arts to many young Junie B. Jones fans,” TIC TOC vice president Sue Vadeika said. “Exposure to art and theater early on helps to nurture an appreciation and understanding that will stay with children as they mature; it has been proven that art and music also help in other areas of learning."

"Junie B. Jones," like most of TIC TOC’s productions, will be held at Benjamin Franklin Middle School in Ridgewood.

With an affordable ticket price of $14 and a venue practically around the corner for many families, it’s a more convienent and affordable alternative to taking in a show in New York City.

An added bonus, TIC TOC’s productions are chosen in part by parent representatives, ensuring that each show is appropriate for the whole family.

“There is nothing like a live show — it is completely different from seeing a movie, watching TV or even reading a book,” Vadeika said.

“Theater offers a chance to be out together, with no phones or electronic devices for distractions,” Vadeika said. “Sharing a laugh, joining together in audience participation, meeting theater performers together, are all great opportunities to develop better understanding and empathy between a parent and child. Throw in a pre-show bagel, or post-show ice cream, and a special whole day outing can be had very inexpensively.”

If your child is already a theater buff, TIC TOC also offers season passes for $36 per person, which includes admission to all three productions of the season: "Junie B. Jones," "The Gizmo Guys" on January 29 and "Jack and the Beanstalk" on March 18.

Other events sure to knock your socks off this weekend include:

Kidz Cabaret: The Magic of Bill Blagg Live

When: Saturday, 1 p.m
Where: Bergen PAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood
Why Go: Parents and kids alike are bound to be wowed by illusionist Bill Blagg.
Cost: $17

When: Sunday, 2 p.m.
Where: Ramapo High School, 331 George St, Franklin Lakes 
Why Go: Raise money for various needs at Valley Hospital and enjoy kid entertainer Suzi Shelton.
Cost: $25

Kids’ Day at Blockbuster

When: Sunday at noon
Where: Blockbuster, 19 Wanaque Ave., Pompton Lakes
Why go: Parents can browse the store’s holiday specials while kids are occupied making their own ornaments.
Cost: Free

A Royal Event at the N.J. Children’s Museum

When: Friday, 5:30-9 p.m.
Where: New Jersey Children's Museum, 599 Valley Health Plaza, Paramus
Why Go: Children can dine and dance with their favorite Disney princesses.
Cost: $19

Greek Mythology Olympiaganza

When: Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m.
Where: River Dell High School, 55 Pyle St., Oradell  
Why Go: Pick up some knowledge about greek mythology in a most unusual — and fun — way.
Cost: $10