The Hobbit

Bilbo Baggins is an icon for anyone whose favorite plan is to “stay home.” The Hobbit is what happens when that plan collapses — cheerfully, catastrophically — into a world filled with dwarves, riddles, trolls, goblins, and one extremely persuasive wizard. Children’s Theater of Madison’s stage version of Greg Banks' adaptation of the fantasy classic keeps the story moving (90 minutes) and leans into the best Tolkien truth: courage isn’t always indicated by wielding swords and shields. Performances at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 1 and 6 p.m. Sunday, plus 7 p.m. on Feb. 20.

media release: When homebody Bilbo Baggins is whisked away by a band of dwarves and a very mysterious wizard, he finds himself facing trolls, goblins and a fire-breathing dragon—with only his courage and a bit of luck to guide him! J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved tale comes to life in this adventurous stage adaptation filled with heart, humor and heroism.

Based on the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. Licensed by Middle-Earth Enterprises. Adapted for the stage by Greg Banks. With Music by Tom Johnson.

Originally commissioned and produced by Children’s Theatre Company.

Produced by special arrangement with Plays for New Audiences.

more news from CTM:

 Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM), one of Wisconsin’s premier nonprofit theaters for young people and families, is excited to announce its newest audience-focused initiative: “Play. A Play. And a Stay.” This promotion was created specifically for families inside and outside of Dane County to experience  Madison in February and March 2026.  

This limited-time promotion invites families, visitors and theater-lovers to pair a CTM performance (“A Play”) with a day spent at Madison Children’s Museum (“Play”) and, to round it all out, an overnight stay (“A Stay”) in downtown Madison — or a Westside or Middleton Hotel — creating an unforgettable arts-centered getaway.

The initiative strengthens CTM’s mission to make high-quality theater more accessible and engaging, while also building partnerships with the local hospitality community. The promotional package includes:

• 25% Off tickets to a CTM mainstage performance of The Hobbit or Tiara’s Hat Parade
• A partnered hotel stay at a preferred rate with select hotels in Madison and Middleton
• 50% Off a day pass at Madison Children’s Museum

“CTM is always exploring new ways to deepen our connection with families in and around the Madison community,” said CTM Director of Marketing and Communications Marc Glazer. “’Play. A Play. And a Stay.’ allows audiences from all over Wisconsin and beyond to celebrate the magic of theater and time well spent with family during winter. Madison can be warm, vibrant and ever-welcoming all year round.”

The promotion is part of CTM’s broader commitment to audience development. In recent years, CTM has expanded its education programs, launched more sensory-friendly and access-oriented performances and increased collaborations with Madison-area organizations. “Play. A Play. And a Stay.” adds a new dimension: a tourism-friendly offering that supports both the arts and local businesses.

“Families are always looking for meaningful experiences they can share together,” added Maureen Martin, executive VP of business development and operations. “This initiative creates new access points — especially for visitors and regional travelers who may want to turn a visit to Madison into a full weekend adventure.”

“CTM is a wonderful partner and local treasure”, said Kia Karlen, Co-CEO of Madison Children’s Museum. “We are delighted to collaborate with CTM to welcome families to our community to enjoy active, creative museum explorations and the magic of live theater”.    

This promotion was granted a JEM Grant from Travel Wisconsin for its innovative combination of audience experience to drive traffic from outside inside and outside Dane County to Madison. The promotion is valid for select performances and usage from February through March 2026, but available for booking now at: https://ctmtheater.org/pps.