Arts and Entertainment

GIVEAWAY: Two Tickets to Broadway Playhouse Musical Theater!

January 26, 2016

If you and your children enjoy musical theater, keep reading!

Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending Broadway Playhouse’s: Richard Alder & Jerry Ross performance in Merkin Concert Hall at the Kaufman Music Center here in New York City. Unlike the countless stage plays and musical productions we’ve seen throughout the years, this was an experience that definitely stands out!

Based on several musicals by the Tony award-winning duo, our show was filled with awesome sing-a-long songs, creative interactive kicks and a ton of funny moments. My 6-year-old daughter, Ava, clad in her favorite “Frozen” pajamas (they were strongly suggested for the “Pajama Game” portion of the show) deemed the play “amazing,” and I wholeheartedly agree. The actors were incredibly talented and extremely entertaining. To hold the attention of typically squirmy kids with the attention span of a gnat, you have to have some pretty good skills.

And if there was another reason to love our outing — prior to the show, we (invited members of the press) had the opportunity to get an exclusive sneak peek at the behind-the-scenes backstage action! The look on Ava’s face as she walked behind the curtain will stay with me. She was beyond thrilled to see the costumes and props.

Ava singing shyly during the meet-and-great session.

The kids also had the chance to speak with the cast to learn more about what they do and how they get prepared for the show. Ava and another child even snagged an up-close-and-personal look at the sound board!

Ava getting a quick lesson in sound mixing.

Broadway Playhouse is a brilliant way to introduce children to classic musicals that will be fun and relevant for their little minds.

Ava catching a glance of her reflection in the dressing room.

Again, it was one of our best theatrical performances that I’m hoping Ava will remember and cherish for years to come!

For more information about Broadway Playhouse, please click here.

**GIVEAWAY**If you and your family would like to experience one of the upcoming shows in February or March, you’re in luck! I’m giving away a pair of tickets to the show of your choice. Simply leave a comment below or tweet me (@Browngirlgumbo) your favorite musical. The winner will be randomly selected and notified via email or direct message on February 2nd. This giveaway is only open to NYC residents or if you’ll be in the NYC area on February 7th or March 6th.

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Giveaway, Giveaways | Leave a Comment

3 Inspiring Reads to Get You Through the Year

January 11, 2016

It’s a new year, which means it’s time for new beginnings!

Whether you’re searching for clarity, on the brink of a breakthrough or just need a bit of inspiration, I’ve rounded up a few good reads that will help get you through the year ahead.

From motivational tales to empowering tidbits, the following books will give you the boost you need to create and live your best year yet!

Being the driving force behind hit TV shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “How to Get Away with Murder,” it seems everything that Shonda Rhimes touches turns to gold. Her debut book, “Year of Yes” proves to be no exception. This memoir is a treasure trove of hilarious, anecdotal advice about how saying “yes” changed the course of her life and how the same positive approach can change yours too. Available here, $15

Hoda Kotb, the witty author and Today show co-anchor is back with a new inspiring read: “Where They Belong.” The breast cancer survivor shares stories of self-reflection from individuals who ditched doubt and dared to live the life of their dreams. Available here, $15

Auntie Oprah always knows best! “O’s Little Guide to Finding Your True Purpose” will get you pumped up and on the path toward fulfilling your destiny. This trusty compilation guide is packed with inspiration and advice. It’s the perfect book to kick-off the new year! Available here, $15

Are you a fan of motivational self-help books? What do you hope to accomplish or achieve this year?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Book, Book Reviews, Books | Leave a Comment

Big Fun at Big Apple Circus

December 28, 2015

If you’re looking for an afternoon or evening of family fun, look no further than the Big Apple Circus!

The can’t-miss show has been entertaining circus-goers for decades and this year is no different. I recently schlepped my two little ones to the Lincoln Center for a day under the big top. At first I was nervous that my temperamental two-year-old son wouldn’t sit through the hour and a half show, but I couldn’t have been more wrong—he had the time of his life! In fact, they were both completely captivated from the beginning to the end.

Ava and MJ enjoying the Big Apple Circus. For date and ticket information, click here!

Jam-packed with crowd-pleasing clowns and amazing acrobatic acts, it’s no surprise the show commanded their full attention. While they enjoyed the entire circus, they especially liked the galloping horses portion of the show. Plus, the audience participation made the experience even better. And to top things off, there’s even a pony-riding opportunity for the children during the intermission and after the show!

If you’re in the New York City area between now and January 10th, round up your family and head to the Big Apple Circus. Trust me, it will be a treat for the entire family!

Do you and your family go to the circus annually?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Must-See: New York Botanical Garden’s 2015 Holiday Train Show

December 17, 2015

If you’re in the New York City area and looking for a festive outing for the family, keep reading.

Last week, I took my son to New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show and it was simply mesmerizing. Located in the Bronx, the annual event is a treat for toddlers, tykes and adults alike!

The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show runs now through January 18, 2016. Click here for more information.

Surrounded by breathtakingly gorgeous botanicals, dozens of sprawling tracks run throughout the main atrium. The entire event buzzes with the attendees’ excitement of spotting a model train and watching it zip by. From trolleys to Thomas the Tank Engine, there’s variety of trains that will satisfy any transit enthusiast. If railways and locomotives aren’t your thing, don’t worry—the utter beauty of the plants and foliage is enough to keep you intrigued.

Plus, throughout the 3,000 sq-foot space there are impeccably designed miniature retro replicas of the city’s most notable infrastructures and landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, New York Public Library and even the Apollo Theater in Harlem. One of my favorite attractions at the show was the Brooklyn Bridge replica that stretches over one of the exhibit’s walkways.

It was a fun afternoon that my son thoroughly enjoyed. In fact, a week later and he’s still stumbling around shouting, “choo-choo!” I think we’ve discovered our new holiday season tradition.

Tips if you the New York Botanical Holiday Train Show:

*Go early and make reservations if possible.

*If you live in Manhattan or Brooklyn, take the Metro-North train at Grand Central Station and get off at Botanical Gardens (it lets you out right across the street) to avoid the 20-minute walk from the MTA trains.

*Don’t make a wish and toss coins into the small ponds on site.

*Take tons of pictures!

Have you ever attended the New York Botanical Holiday Train Show? Do you have any holiday activity traditions?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

SeaGlass Carousel at the Battery: A Fun Experience for the Whole Family

December 3, 2015

The holidays are upon us!

If you’re in the New York City area and looking for a fun, family-friendly outing, look no further than the SeaGlass Carousel at The Battery Conservancy.

I had the pleasure of attending a family media night there several weeks ago and my 5-year-old daughter has been begging to go back ever since. Although I’m about 30 years past 5, it was one of the most memorable and magical evenings I’ve ever experienced.

seaglass-carousel

Photo by @SamGarber via Instagram

Ten years in the making, the permanent, awe-inspiring carousel has been open to the public since August, but I’m sure the crowds will continue throughout the holiday season.

The cultural attraction consists of a grand nautilus shell with 30 beautiful, luminescent fish as large as 9 ½ feet wide and 13 ½ feet tall! Designed by the acclaimed George Tsypin Opera, the ride is even more unforgettable thanks to the enchanting, thematic music.

ava-carousel

Ava enjoying her 7th ride on the carousel!

Trust me, for only $5 per ride your entire family will enjoy this “underwater” experience right in the heart of the Big Apple.

Have you visited the SeaGlass Carousel?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

GIVEAWAY: Tickets to ‘ANNIE’ at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn!

December 1, 2015

One of the most beloved characters and timeless stories is coming to Kings Theatre in Brooklyn this month—”Annie the Musical!”

The classic tale of the curly-haired orphan is making its debut at the beautiful, newly restored theatre on December 15th. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charmin and choreographed by Liza Gennaro, the Tony award-winning production will have a fresh new feel. But, don’t worry—original songs like “Hard Knock Life” and “Tomorrow” still remain as the soundtrack to this sentimental rags-to-riches story.

“Annie” runs through December, 27th. Click here for ticket information and show times.

If you’re in the New York City area this holiday season, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Adults and children alike will enjoy watching this musical live on stage. My daughter is already excited about seeing it. I’m just shocked that she’s already familiar with some of the songs!

**I’m giving away 4 tickets to the opening show on Tuesday, December 15th at 7:30pm. One winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on December 10th. Simply leave a comment below or tweet me telling me what’s your favorite stage play and/or musical. This contest is only open to U.S residents.

What’s your favorite stage play and/or musical?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 7 Comments

STEM-centric ‘Molecules to the MAX!’ DVD Giveaway

November 17, 2015

Like most moms, I want my 5-year-old daughter to grow up knowing that she can be absolutely anything that she wants to be in this world.

That’s why I’m so happy that young children today, especially girls are being exposed to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) based programs, activities, toys and movies at a far more than the generations before them.

So when I received information about, Giant Screen Film Molecules to the MAX!, a new animated film about science I was excited! The super cute 40-minute movie teaches children about the basic atomic makeup of ordinary items such as snowflakes, pennies and chewing gum. The adorable colorful characters coupled with the brilliant computer animation had my kids glued to their DVD player. It’s so well-written that it holds their attention while educating them at the same time.

The award-winning movie transported me back to middle school when I was fascinated by molecules and all the science-y stuff that little girls oftentimes aren’t encouraged to be interested in.

If you’re looking for ways to get your kids off of their tablets to watch something of substance, this is an excellent choice!

Molecules to the Max! is available here, $20

For those in the Eastern New York and Western New England area, you can catch the movie airing on PBS affiliate WMHT on the following dates/times:

Monday, 11/30 at 7am

Tuesday, 12/1 at 6am

Wednesday, 12/2 at 4pm

Thursday, 12/3 at 11am

Friday, 12/4 8am

**One lucky winner will win a copy of the DVD. Simply leave a comment or tweet me (@browngirlgumbo) telling me what your favorite subject in school was when you were a kid. A winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on 12/1/15. This contest is only open to U.S residents.

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Giveaway, Giveaways, Gumbo Mix, Misc. | 1 Comment