Mar 20, 2026 By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger 4 min read

Exposing children to the arts at an early age may seem daunting for some parents, but “Peppa Pig: My First Concert” embraces the philosophy of “meeting the children where they are.”

What results is a lively, family-friendly introduction to classical music designed especially for preschoolers.

“Peppa Pig,” the beloved British preschool animated television series that has been airing for more than 20 seasons, is a favorite among young viewers. Now the popular characters are stepping off the screen and onto the stage in a fun and interactive orchestral experience. The production, featuring a live orchestra, is coming to Heinz Hall on Sunday at 1 p.m.

A “jewel” of a role

Evie James, who plays Lucy the narrator, has been with the production since the very beginning when the interactive orchestral show debuted in the United Kingdom in 2022 before launching an international tour.

James describes it as a “jewel of a role,” especially when she invites the children to dance and sing.

“There’s an educational aspect to it as well. Families will see Peppa Pig, along with Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, George and baby sister Evie, as they learn all about the different sounds that instruments make together,” she explained.

While the production is designed for the younger set, James said it’s clever enough to entertain the older kids and parents too-with many comical moments that will elicit laughs from everyone.

“It’s especially funny when Daddy Pig gets to play the glockenspiel, or when he tries to conduct the orchestra and it goes all wrong,” she said.

James also pointed out that the show’s 12-piece orchestra sounds much bigger than it actually is.

From animation to live theater

Transitioning from animation to live theater might sound like a challenge, but in the end, the kids’ reactions prove they love it. “When the characters arrive on stage and they get to see them in 3-D, they always squeal with excitement,” James said.

And witnessing the children’s excitement is one of the things James enjoys the most. “When we perform the last number in the show, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” it’s particularly moving. The children recognize it and you hear all their sweet little innocent voices singing along,” James said.

For many young audience members, the production is their first experience hearing classical music performed live. “It’s so good for young children-it’s so layered-and studies show that it can help spark creativity,” she said.

A fan’s perspective

Bella Love of Mechanicsburg grew up watching “Peppa Pig.” Now 16, she remembers discovering the show as a toddler.

“I started liking Peppa Pig when I was about 2 years old, and that interest lasted until I was about 5 or 6,” she said.

Love said the humor and positive messages kept her engaged and that Daddy Pig was her favorite character. “He was a loving father who cared about others and helped teach the younger generation about the importance of family,” Love said.

Looking back, Love believes the show’s lessons have staying power. “It teaches kids how to treat others and grow into responsible adults and the short episodes are perfect for younger kids. The topics are always funny and interesting,” she said.

Inspiring the next generation

Parents who see the show for the first time are impressed by the quality of the production.

“It’s very professionally done and is entertaining for all ages really,” said James.

Ultimately James hopes the experience sparks curiosity and creativity in young audiences.

“I hope children leave thinking they just had the best hour of their lives. I also hope it inspires them to listen to more music and become involved in theater and performing,” James said, adding that they ultimately hope that children will leave realizing it was an amazing way to spend their time and that they had a super fun day.

For information, call 412-392-4900 or go online to pittsburghsymphony.org.