Family Fun Concert: Carnival of the Animals

The North Carolina Symphony brings Carnival of the Animals to the Meymandi Concert Hall at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, May 8, 2027. It's a Young People's Concert, aimed at kids ages 4 to 12 and their families, and it pairs the orchestra with the Raleigh Dance Theatre to bring a parade of playful animals to life through music and movement. The performance runs about an hour.

On the podium is conductor Sophie Mok, and the dance side is led by Raleigh Dance Theatre's artistic director, Megan Marvel. The two groups work together to match the music with choreography, so the animals aren't just something you hear—you see them moving across the stage. It's designed as an introduction to live orchestral music, and the animal theme gives the whole thing a clear, playful thread that keeps kids engaged.

If you're planning to go, get there early. The lobby fills with free kid-friendly activities an hour before each show, including crafts with Marbles Kids Museum, performances by student musicians, and costume contests. There's also the Symphony's Instrument Zoo, where young audiences can actually try out real instruments instead of just watching from the seats. It's a good way to let the kids burn off some energy before the concert starts.

Carnival of the Animals is part of the Symphony's 2026/27 Young People's Season, which pairs music with imagination and storytelling through dance and theatre. Two other shows are on the bill this season: Halloween at Hogwarts and Epic Adventures from Narnia & More.

There are two showtimes on Saturday, May 8: 1 PM and 4 PM. Tickets start at $40, all-in pricing. The Meymandi Concert Hall is at 2 E. South St. in downtown Raleigh.