Theatre Games You Can Use at Your Next Kids’ Birthday Party
- centrestagekids
- Nov 22
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Guaranteed giggles, imagination, and unforgettable birthday magic.
Has your child ever said, “Can we have my party at home this year?” and your brain immediately whispered: “Okay… but what am I going to DO with all these kids?”
You’re not alone! Luckily, I’ve got an entire treasure chest of theatre games that make parties easy, fun, and full of energy.
In case you didn’t know, I spent years doing kids’ birthday parties professionally. I’d show up dressed as a princess, crown shining, ready to lead games, sing songs, and tell stories. Truly one of the best jobs ever. As a mom of three boys, our home parties became legendary because “Mom always plays the BEST games.”
So today, I’m sharing some of my all-time favourite theatre games you can use at your next kids’ birthday bash.
1. Zip, Zap, Zop — Birthday Edition
A theatre classic that kids LOVE. Stand in a circle and pass energy using the words. One person sends "Zip," the next person looks at someone and sends "Zap," and then that person looks at someone and sends "Zop."
BUT — here’s where the party magic happens: you can change the words to the theme of your party!
Princess: Bippity, Boppity, BOO!
Superhero: Zap, Pow, Kaboom!
Dinosaur: Roar, Stomp, Crash!
Mermaid: Splash, Swish, Bubble!
Space: Zoom, Zap, Stardust!
Kids get SO excited when you let them help pick the words.
2. Magic Door Adventure
Have all of the kids pretend there is an imaginary door. One at a time, they open the imaginary door and lead the kids into any magical world.
They can pretend they are in:
Under the sea
Dinosaur land
Candy Kingdom
Superhero City
Kids act it out with you: swimming, sneaking, tiptoeing, flying, jumping over “hot lava,” or floating in zero gravity.
Once you have explored one magical land, have another kiddo open the door to a new land! It’s pure imaginative gold.
3. Party Murder (aka Murder Wink — renamed for parents!)
A wildly theatrical mystery game.
How to Play:
Kids sit in a circle.
One child is sent away as the “Detective.”
Another becomes the “Party Sneak.”
When the detective returns, the Sneak “eliminates” players with a quick wink.
If you get winked at, you perform the most dramatic, over-the-top collapse ever. This is where kids shine. The Detective gets three guesses to find the Sneak. They ALWAYS want to play again.
If you want the kids up and moving, you can have one person be the "sneak." When I did Diva parties, we called them the movie star. Everyone pretends to be at a party and shakes hands with everyone. The "movie star" tickles the palm of the hands when they shake hands, and the other person does a dramatic faint because they saw a "movie star." It's the same concept that the detective needs to guess who the movie star is.
4. Dance Like This
This was ALWAYS a fan favourite at my kids’ parties. Kids spread out, and the music goes on. You call out fun prompts like:
“Dance like… a robot!”
“Dance like… your shoes are stuck in the mud!”
“Dance like… a sneaky squirrel!”
“Dance like… you’re underwater!”
“Dance like… you just ate the world’s sourest candy!”
“Dance like… a superhero landing in slow-motion!”
Kids LOVE acting out the silly scenarios, and they get to burn tons of energy in the best way.
Pro tip: Let the birthday child and other party guests pick a few prompts!
5. What’s in the Magic Suitcase?
Fill a bag with random objects — scarves, spoons, stuffed animals, hats, socks, anything. Each child pulls out one and has 10 seconds to act out a character or action using that item.
A scarf becomes a rainbow.
A spoon becomes a microphone.
A sock becomes a puppet.
A hat becomes a pirate treasure map.
Unlimited creativity! You may need to start first to show them you aren't afraid to be silly. :)
6. The Importance of Imagination
Imagination is key in childhood development. It helps children express themselves and develop social skills. Engaging in theatre games fosters creativity and allows kids to explore different roles.
When children play, they learn to cooperate, share, and communicate. These skills are essential as they grow. Theatre games provide a safe space for kids to express their feelings and thoughts.
Encouraging imaginative play can lead to lifelong benefits. It can enhance problem-solving skills and boost confidence.
7. Tips for a Successful Party
To ensure your party is a hit, consider these tips:
Plan Ahead: Create a schedule for games and activities. This keeps the party flowing smoothly.
Set Up a Space: Designate areas for different activities. This helps manage chaos.
Involve the Kids: Let them help with game selection. This increases their excitement and engagement.
Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt if something isn’t working. Kids have their own ideas!
Have Fun!
Theatre games make birthday parties magical because they get kids imagining, acting, laughing, and connecting. No pressure, no fancy supplies — just pure creativity and fun.
Whether you’re in a princess dress, a superhero cape, or running the show in your best “mom hosting a birthday” outfit, these games guarantee a day your child will remember.
If you try any of these, I’d love to hear which one becomes the crowd favourite!
Ready to bring the fun to your next party? Let’s PLAY.
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