Local theaters set $20 to $30 price tags for winter family shows

Theatre Three, the John W. Engeman Theater, and the Smithtown Performing Arts Center have published ticket prices ranging from $20 to $30 for their upcoming holiday productions. The three venues in Suffolk County are scheduling shows that will run concurrently from late November through late December, giving local families multiple options for theatrical entertainment during the winter break.

Theatre Three will host "Barnaby Saves Christmas" from November 21 through December 27. Tickets for the production cost $20. The company has scheduled a sensory-friendly performance for November 22. The story follows an elf named Barnaby and his reindeer friend Franklynne as they attempt to save the holiday season. Orders can be placed by calling 631-928-9100 or visiting theatrethree.com.

The John W. Engeman Theater in Northport will present a musical adaptation of "Frosty" during the same November 21 to December 27 window. All seats are priced at $30. The plot involves characters named Jenny and Frosty trying to save the town of Chillsville from an antagonist named Pierpot and a machine designed to melt snow. Patrons can reserve seats at 631-261-2900 or through engemantheater.com.

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center will stage "Frozen Jr." from November 21 through December 30. Tickets for this production are $26.50. A sensory performance is scheduled for December 4. The show focuses on the relationship between two sisters and includes magic and adventure. Orders are available at smithtownpac.org.

In addition to live theater, local venues are offering free or low-cost activities for younger children in the coming days. The Emma Clark Library in Setauket will host a leaf wreath workshop on November 7 from 11 a.m. to noon for children ages 3 to 11. The event requires no registration. The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery will offer craft sessions on November 7 at 11 a.m. and noon. Children ages 4 to 12 can build wooden bird feeders for $11, or $5 for members, with preregistration required.

Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington will screen "Fantastic Mr. Fox" on November 8 at noon as part of its Cinema for Kids series. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $5 for children. The Port Jefferson/Terryville Chamber of Commerce will host "Polar Express" screenings from November 12 through December 20 at the Chamber Train Car. Tickets for that event cost $25 per person and include popcorn, water, hot chocolate, and a cookie.

The "Barnaby Saves Christmas" and "Frosty" productions will open on November 21. "Frozen Jr." will conclude its run on December 30. The "Polar Express" experience will end on December 20. Registration for the "First Steps Into Nature" program at Sweetbriar Nature Center is open for classes scheduled on November 6, November 13, and November 20. Each class costs $20 per child.