2019 | The Year in Review
December 30, 2019 • life
As I scrolled through Google photos scouting for potential holiday card photos, I couldn't believe all of the memories made this year. So many times I had to stop and say "wow, that was this year!?" or share with my friends, saying "remember when...?"
January
- I started Arbonne's 30 days to wellness program, losing a total of 25 lbs. I've kept them off all year!
- I saw my first two musicals of the year: The Little Mermaid (yay!) and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (nay!)
February
- Sean & I celebrated 14 years together
- I visited Atlanta for the weekend to see one of my Broadway faves, Sierra Boggess, in a regional production of Ever After.
- 5 more shows: Monty Python's Spamalot, Rock of Ages, Once, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time, and The King & I.
March
- My friend Katherine tied the knot!
- Two musicals: Gypsy and The Hunchback of Notre Dame
- My neighborhood was out and about enjoying occasions together including Greek Independence Day and St. Patrick's Day
April
- Two of my favorite shows (and Sean joined me for both!): The Book of Mormon and Come From Away
- Attended a live taping of American Ninja Warrior
- After successful avoidance for 30+ years, attended my first 80s party - with the neighbors, of course!
May
- Speaking of decades, went to 90's trivia and won the costume contest - as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
- Celebrated my sister-in-law's college graduation
- No theatre this month. Womp womp.
June
- Celebrated 9 years of marriage to Sean.
- On our anniversary, Trump announced that cruises to Cuba were no longer permitted - we had a booking only 10 days away! Womp womp. We instead cruised to the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
- Two shows, and Sean attended both: The Play That Goes Wrong and Hamilton.
July
- Celebrated Sean's birthday and then did nothing in recovery of the first half of the year and anticipation of the second.
August
- SIX shows, including five on Broadway: Cabaret, Moulin Rouge, To Kill a Mockingbird, Mean Girls, Oklahoma!, and Frozen
- 3 of those shows were because of a trip I won to NYC, so I enjoyed playing tourist in the city for a few days.
September
- Labor Day getaway: despite living less than two hours away, I'd never been to Philly. I enjoyed exploring the city for a few days.
- 1 show: Mike Birbiglia's The New One
October
- Joined a new social choir in Baltimore and performed at my first concert in....forever
- Participated in my fifth Miles for Mothers
- Two shows: Escape to Margaritaville and Phantom of the Opera
November
- Another Caribbean cruise: since our ship was no longer sailing to Cuba, prices were slashed for the rest of 2019 and we figured...why not!? We even tried parasailing for the first time!
- Our neighborhood's third annual "stoopsgiving"
- Another quick getaway to Philly, this time with Sean
- Three shows: Rent, Aladdin, and Singin' in the Rain
December
- An extra festive neighborhood: from local lighting ceremonies to giving back in the community, we got together frequently in the holiday spirit!
- Final four shows: Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays, Once On This Island, Jersey Boys, and Jesus Christ Superstar (If you're counting, yes, I saw 30 shows this year!)
Baltimore, MD, USA
Once On This Island National Tour | Hershey, PA
December 27, 2019 • theatre
Who: My neighbors & I
What: Once on This Island, the touring production of the 2018 revival
When: December 2019
Where: Hershey Theatre, Hershey, PA
Why: Sand and stage? Sign me up!
Thoughts: If I'm counting right, I saw 30 shows in 2019. I can say with absolute certainty that Once on This Island was the most magical theatre experience of the year. I had never heard of it prior to the revival but a little bit of research and I knew I had to see it.
While not staged in the round like on Broadway, the tour provides it's own immersion most notably through onstage seating. For ~$20, I figured the view would be bad but took the gamble due to the uniqueness of the experience.
Guys.
It was the coolest thing ever! Actors arrive on stage shortly after the doors open for a pre-show experience only those sitting on stage can truly appreciate. The set is a beach littered heavily after a storm, and characters interact with each other, discussing the damage and cleaning up until it's truly time for the show to begin. The view was always phenomenal and it often felt like the performers connected with the audience.
The show itself is short and sweet (90 minutes, no intermission). That doesn't allow it to dig as deep as other shows, but it's really more about the experience. Visually, I couldn't stop noticing and admiring all the design elements of both the set and costumes - it was so creative and relevant!
I'm hoping the tour comes to Baltimore or DC next season so I can see it again. If it's coming to your town, don't miss it! The onstage seats are a steal and will be one of your coolest theatre experiences!
While not staged in the round like on Broadway, the tour provides it's own immersion most notably through onstage seating. For ~$20, I figured the view would be bad but took the gamble due to the uniqueness of the experience.
Guys.
It was the coolest thing ever! Actors arrive on stage shortly after the doors open for a pre-show experience only those sitting on stage can truly appreciate. The set is a beach littered heavily after a storm, and characters interact with each other, discussing the damage and cleaning up until it's truly time for the show to begin. The view was always phenomenal and it often felt like the performers connected with the audience.
The show itself is short and sweet (90 minutes, no intermission). That doesn't allow it to dig as deep as other shows, but it's really more about the experience. Visually, I couldn't stop noticing and admiring all the design elements of both the set and costumes - it was so creative and relevant!
I'm hoping the tour comes to Baltimore or DC next season so I can see it again. If it's coming to your town, don't miss it! The onstage seats are a steal and will be one of your coolest theatre experiences!
Hershey, PA, USA
Happy Holidays!
December 25, 2019 • holiday, life
This is the third year we took advantage of the Groupon deal for Staples - 100 cards for $25 - and they are ready within 24 hours!
I'm usually enthusiastically ready to get our cards together the first week of December, but this year was a near fail. That quick turnaround was more valuable than ever. We didn't even have a photo until a colleague snapped one at our 12/20 work party! Thankfully, cards were ready and mailed barely before Christmas.
For those of you who received one on time, yay! For those of you who will randomly receive them by NYE...womp womp. Sorry. I'll do better next year.
For those of you whose address I don't have, think of this card as yours. It means a lot to me that you're here reading along with me. Happy Holidays!
Baltimore, MD, USA
Jersey Boys | For Everyone!
December 19, 2019 • theatre
Before I saw Jersey Boys for the first time, I would have told you that the Four Seasons was a hotel.
When the tour came to Baltimore a few years ago, I went out of curiosity. It was a Tony award winner (and Grammy, and Olivier winner), so it had to be good, right?
I went with my mother in law, fully expecting she'd appreciate a show about a band who rose to fame in the 60's more than I could. I was pleasantly surprised as I realized I was familiar with a fair amount of the catalog.
There was Bye Bye Baby, which I'd heard Liam Neeson attribute to the Bay City Rollers in Love Actually.
There was Can't Take My Eyes off You, the song that made me swoon when Patrick serenaded Kat in the teen flick 10 Things I Hate About You.
There was December, 1963, the song you hear...everywhere.
Sure, the songs were from the 60's, but they were classics so strong that they'd found new life in my generation. I had a blast that night and was thrilled for a second dose of Frankie, Tommy, Nick, and Bob when I heard the production was nearby at DC's National Theatre.
I attended opening week, Xennial friend in tow, and was pleased to see an age-diverse crowd (I frequently lament that I'm the youngest audience member when I attend theatre productions). In fact, the teenagers a few row in front of me were dancing in their seats when the opening number began. A woman to our right squealed every time a number she knew played. Three different Boomers in front of us whipped out their phones to try and record Big Girls Don't Cry (while I appreciate the enthusiasm, a friendly reminder that recording performances is a no-no).
I had a pretty sheltered upbringing, similar to my guest. When I asked if she was familiar with any of the songs post-show, she said:
"Personally I heard many of those songs but didn’t know it was The Four Seasons or even the same band until I saw the movie. They’re just popular songs I guess. For even a sheltered girl like me."
Whether born in 63, 83, or 2003, Jersey Boys is a fun crowd-pleaser that generations can enjoy together, but keep in mind that it is recommended for ages 12+ due to language and mature content.
If you're looking for some quality time with family over this holiday break, the show will be in town through Sunday, January 5. Grab your tickets and enjoy! Or, take your chances with the ticket lottery: Two hours prior to all Jersey Boys show times, individuals may submit their names in person to be drawn to purchase up to two tickets at $25 per ticket. Twenty lottery seats will be available for purchase for each of the performances. Names will be announced 30 minutes after the entry period begins (90 minutes prior to the show time). Individuals must be present, with cash, to redeem the offer.
Washington, DC, USA
GIVEAWAY | Jersey Boys at National Theatre DC
December 9, 2019 • giveaway, theatre
National Theatre DC is keeping the theatre magic alive all month long!
It's not too late to see Fiddler on the Roof this week (through 12/15), but I'm here with Allied Media to hook someone up for another favorite of mine next week: Jersey Boys!
I still remember the awe I felt the first time I saw this show and I'm so excited to revisit it. The performances are amazing!
Here's the rundown:
They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story -- a story that has made them an international sensation all over again.
Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony and Grammy Award®-winning true-life musical phenomenon, JERSEY BOYS. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s just too good to be true.
FEATURING THE LEGENDARY TOP TEN HITS:
“Sherry” • “Big Girls Don’t Cry” • “Walk Like A Man” • “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” • “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night)”
Contains authentic, profane Jersey language.
Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Run time: Approximately 2 hours, 40 minutes, including one intermission
To win a pair of tickets to the opening night performance (Tuesday, December 17), Leave a comment on this post sharing your favorite Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons tune! An email address MUST be included in the body of the comment so you can be contacted if your name is drawn.
Winner will be selected Friday. December 13. Good luck!
Washington, DC, USA
December Magic at National Theatre DC + GIVEAWAY!
December 4, 2019 • theatre
Guys, this is a jam packed month for awesome entertainment and I don't want you to miss a second of it - I have a discount for everyone for this week and a chance at free tickets for later in the month. Good luck!
This week: Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays (BOGO 12/4!)
I was fortunate enough to see this opening night and WOW! It made me so happy to see all ages in the audience. The kids were screaming in shock and awe while the adults were laughing at the sly humor. I loved the diversity of tricks performed - this is a true crowd pleaser!
The Illusionists are in town until December 8, but if you can get there tonight (12/4), it's family night which means BOGO tickets with code FAMBOGO! You're welcome.
The Illusionists are in town until December 8, but if you can get there tonight (12/4), it's family night which means BOGO tickets with code FAMBOGO! You're welcome.
Tuesday, Dec. 10 - Sunday, Dec. 15: Fiddler on the Roof (+GIVEAWAY!)
Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher and the team behind South Pacific, The King and I, and 2017 Tony-winning Best Play Oslo, bring a fresh and authentic vision to beloved theatrical masterpiece FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, from Tony winner Joseph Stein and Pulitzer winners Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick. The original production won ten Tony Awards, including a special Tony for becoming the longest-running Broadway musical of all time. You’ll be there when the sun rises on this new production, with stunning movement and dance from acclaimed Israeli choreographer Hofesh Shechter, based on the original staging by Jerome Robbins. A wonderful cast and lavish orchestra tell this heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and the timeless traditions that define faith and family. Featuring the Broadway classics “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “To Life,” FIDDLER ON THE ROOF will introduce a new generation to this uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy! To love! To life!
ENTER TO WIN: Comment your favorite song from Fiddler on the Roof below! Your comment must include an e-mail address in the body of the comment in order to be contacted if your name is drawn!
Winner will receive 2 hard tickets to opening night tickets for Tuesday, December 10th at 7:30 pm. Recommended for ages 8+. Winner will be drawn Saturday 12/7.
Dec. 17, 2019 - Jan. 5, 2020: Jersey Boys
Washington, USA
Five on Friday
November 22, 2019 • life, theatre
Happy Friday!
The days have been racing by as they always seem to from Labor Day until Christmas. It's been hectic, but fun!
1. Aladdin
The national tour of Aladdin made it's way through Baltimore. This was my third time seeing it (previously on Broadway and in Chicago) and this time, I brought my mom and siblings along as a birthday/Christmas gift to them. It was such a fun night out!
2. Stoopsgiving
For the third year in a row, our group of neighbors turned close friends got together for our version of friendsgiving. It's amazing to see how our group has grown.
3. Daily ritual
I might be late to the party on this, but how did I not know Amazon has their own clothing brand now?! A lot of my basic T's were getting to the worn, pilling stage and I knew it was time to replace them. Amazon has the basics in multiple weights, styles, and all the essential neutral colors in the softest fabrics — and with reasonable prices! My personal favorites so far are this Jersey Elbow-Sleeve Boat Neck Shirt and the Supersoft Terry Short-Sleeve Shirt. I've got a handful more on my wish list.
4. Singin' in the Rain
One of my favorite local theatres, Olney Theatre Center, is currently performing Singin' in the Rain. I haven't seen the film since I was a kid and wasn't sure what to expect, but it was such a strong performance (just like every Olney show I've ever seen), and I was stunned when it actually rained on stage for the titular song! If you're nearby, the show runs until January 5. Some performances have discounted tickets available on Goldstar.
5. Booties
I struggle every year to find good boots and generally order multiple pairs before I find something that works for me. I ordered these toffee leather Lucky brand booties on sale and loved them so much, I ordered them in black as well! My office mate was curious so she ordered a pair and also ended up ordering a second! They're so comfortable and go with everything.
Baltimore, MD, USA
RENT 20th Anniversary Tour at National Theatre DC
November 13, 2019 • theatre
Who: My neighbor & I
What: the 20th anniversary tour of RENT
When: November 2019
Where: National Theatre, Washington DC
Why: No day but today!
Thoughts: My first viewing of RENT was the 2005 film. My second was a community theatre production nearly ten years later. I was thrilled to finally see a full, professional production and it did not disappoint! It's now been over 20 years since RENT's Broadway debut but the story holds up as well as ever—it's easy to see how it is still relevant today. At the same time, there's a huge nostalgia factor for me personally as a 90's kids. The costumes always make me grin, especially the ensemble member wearing JNCOs!
The show just opened, so you have all week to grab tickets and enjoy the show at the National Theatre—it's here through Sunday, 11/17!
Washington, DC, USA
GIVEAWAY | Latin History for Morons at National Theatre DC
November 8, 2019 • giveaway, theatre
Guys!
I have heard such amazing things about this show and I am so jealous of whomever wins the chance to attend:
Fresh off its Tony-nominated hit Broadway run, Tony Award winner John Leguizamo’s one-man play LATIN HISTORY FOR MORONS is inspired by the near total absence of Latinos from his son’s American history books. Known as modern theatre’s most prolific Latino playwright, Leguizamo embarks on an outrageously funny, frenzied search to find a Latin hero for his son’s school history project. From a mad recap of the Aztec empire to stories of unknown Latin patriots of the Revolutionary War and beyond, Leguizamo breaks down the 3,000 years between the Mayans and Pitbull into 110 irreverent and uncensored minutes above and beyond his unique style.
Don’t miss the show The New York Times calls “a surprisingly poignant one-man play that slyly poses sharp and timely questions of what culturally defines American identity and who, in the nationalistic age of Trump, has ‘the right’ to be here.”
Allied Media has graciously allowed me to give one reader two tickets to the opening performance on Thursday, November 21.
To enter, simply leave a comment sharing why you'd like to see the show!
You MUST include an e-mail address IN THE COMMENT in order for me to reach you if your name is drawn.
You MUST include an e-mail address IN THE COMMENT in order for me to reach you if your name is drawn.
Winner contacted Friday, November 15. Good luck!
Washington, DC, USA
GIVEAWAY | RENT at National Theatre DC
October 26, 2019 • theatre
A classic favorite is returning to the National Theatre in just a few weeks and it is one not to be missed!
In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway… and forever changed the landscape of American theatre. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s RENT continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. Now, this Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning masterpiece returns to the stage in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. A reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, RENT follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters — love.
Thanks to Allied Media, I have a pair of tickets for the opening performance on Tuesday, November 12th at 7:30 PM.
To enter, leave a comment on this post with your favorite song from RENT! Be sure to include an email address to be contacted if you are chosen Winner will be contacted November 6.
Good luck!
Washington, DC, USA
Escape to Margaritaville National Tour at National Theatre DC
October 10, 2019 • theatre
Who: Amy & I
What: Escape to Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffett's Broadway jukebox musical
When: October 2019
Where: National Theatre, Washington, DC
Why: I'm not ready for summer to end!
Thoughts:
I may or may not have rolled my eyes when I first heard this show would be on Broadway. I'm not that familiar with Jimmy Buffett and didn't have high overall expectations of the show...at least not enough to give it a try on the Big White Way.
I figured the touring version was worth giving a try and am happy to say it exceeded my (admittedly low) expectations! Simply put, it's a fun, happy ... "escape" show! There's lots of funny one liners, easy to follow storylines, and audience participation is encouraged (AKA it's totally fine to sing along)! They also managed to sneak in one of my favorite things...a tap number!
It's not too late to grab your flip flops and enjoy your own Escape to Margaritaville...it's still in DC at the National Theatre through October 13!
I may or may not have rolled my eyes when I first heard this show would be on Broadway. I'm not that familiar with Jimmy Buffett and didn't have high overall expectations of the show...at least not enough to give it a try on the Big White Way.
I figured the touring version was worth giving a try and am happy to say it exceeded my (admittedly low) expectations! Simply put, it's a fun, happy ... "escape" show! There's lots of funny one liners, easy to follow storylines, and audience participation is encouraged (AKA it's totally fine to sing along)! They also managed to sneak in one of my favorite things...a tap number!
It's not too late to grab your flip flops and enjoy your own Escape to Margaritaville...it's still in DC at the National Theatre through October 13!
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| Congrats to our ticket winners! |
Washington, DC, USA
I tried FabFitFun's Style Box
October 8, 2019 • brands. review
Between blogs and opportunistic Facebook ads, I thought I'd heard of every styling service out there. When the e-mail invitation came to try a style box from FabFitFun, I was surprised. I had no clue this was a thing! Since they waived the styling fee for the first box and ebates Rakuten was offering cash back, I figured it was worth a try to see how they'd style me and how the overall goods and experience compares to other style boxes, notably Stitch Fix which has become my personal favorite.
Pros:
- 6 items in box
- Quick, easy style survey
- Wide range of price points.
- Good grasp of style on first try
Cons:
- No "exchange" option at checkout, only buy/return
- Hard to reach customer service quickly
- Website can be confusing as the regular and style boxes are accessed from the same site.
Here's what they sent me:
Gina Ruffle Sleeve Top - $42
This is cute and something I definitely would have tried on had I seen it in a store. The brand is Skies are Blue which I have also received from Stitch Fix boxes. It fit fine but ultimately I didn't feel like it was flattering on me, so I returned.
Taylah Side Tie Tank - $19
It's green! And so cheap! I was in love with this right away. According to the stylist's note, each box has a "bonus" item at a lower price point, and this was the one. Kept.
Waffle Knit Button Long Sleeve Top - $46
This was super comfy but not my style at all. I avoid tie front tops, and honestly, this shirt felt pretty flimsy for $46, more like something you'd grab from Walmart. Returned.
Mia High Waist Skinny - $89
These are Kut From the Kloth, another brand I've received from Stitch Fix, and they fit like a dream. Their denim is pricier than I'm used to, but so amazingly comfortable. I would have kept these, but I realized during try on that the pair was damaged. Since I can't request an exchange at checkout, I'm currently waiting on a reply from customer service to find out how to proceed.
Drape Front Open Knit Cardigan - $42
This was so thick, soft, and comfortable! I'd happily sleep in it. Returned only because I don't need another black cardigan right now.
Nora Small Hoop Earring - $30
I polled all these pieces on Instagram and these earrings got a unanimous yes from everybody! Funny, because I knew right away that these weren't my style and I wouldn't be keeping them. It was fun to see what you guys thought, though!
The Verdict
As far as first boxes go, this one is the best I've received. 4 of the 6 items were ones I'd have at least tried on in a store, and nothing had me thinking "why on earth would they even send me that?". Everything fit and I feel like they understood my personal style. I appreciated the range of brands and price points. While the process is not as robust as Stitch Fix, I think it's worth a second try. What do you think - should I go for it?
Baltimore, MD, USA
GIVEAWAY | Escape to Margaritaville
September 26, 2019 • giveaway, theatre
If you're hoping to hang on to summer just a little longer, I've got just the thing for you!
Jimmy Buffett's Broadway musical Escape to Margaritaville is bringing the party to Washington, DC at the National Theatre and I have a free pair of tickets for opening night on October 9!
To win, simply leave a comment on this post: what is your favorite Jimmy Buffet tune? Be sure to leave an e-mail so you can be contacted if you win!
Welcome to Margaritaville, where people come to get away from it all — and stay to find something they never expected. With a book by Emmy Award winner Greg Garcia (“My Name is Earl,” “Raising Hope”) and Emmy Award nominee Mike O’Malley (“Survivors Remorse,” “Shameless”) ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE is the musical comedy featuring both original songs and your most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics, including “Fins,” “Volcano,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and many more. USA Today calls it “A little slice of paradise!” and Entertainment Weekly raves, “It will knock your flip-flops off!” So don’t let the party start without you.
Recommended for ages 13 and up. Run time: Approximately 2 hours, 25 minutes, includes intermission.
Winner will be contacted via e-mail October 2.
Washington, DC, USA
The New One | FLASH Ticket Giveaway!
September 18, 2019 • giveaway, theatre
Some girls look forward to fall with thoughts of sweaters and pumpkin spice lattes. Me? I'm ready for theatre season to commence! There's so much great theatre in the Baltimore-DC area, and the National Theatre in Washington DC is kicking off their season this month with Mike Birbiglia's The New One.
Admittedly, this show wasn't originally on my radar, but the fact that Lin-Manuel Miranda (you know, the mastermind behind Hamilton) says that The New One is “as perfect a night as you’re gonna get” tells me that this is a show worth seeing. I'll be there on September 25 and I want you to join me! Simply leave a comment telling me which show of Warner Theatre's season you are most excited for (full season below), and you're entered to win a pair of tickets to the 9/25 performance. The winner will be contacted Thursday, September 19. Good luck!
This Season at the National Theatre:
- Sept. 24-29, 2019: Mike Birbiglia’s The New One
- Oct. 8-13, 2019: Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville
- Oct. 18-19, 2019: Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live
- Nov. 12-17, 2019: RENT – 20th Anniversary Tour
- Nov. 21-23, 2019: John Leguizamo – Latin History for Morons
- Nov. 29, 2019: Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Diaries
- Dec. 3-8, 2019: The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays
- Dec. 10-15, 2019: Fiddler on the Roof – Directed by Bartlett Sher
- Dec. 17, 2019 - Jan. 5, 2020: Jersey Boys
- Jan. 31 - Feb. 1, 2010: The Simon & Garfunkel Story
- Feb. 11-16, 2020: The King’s Speech
- Mar. 3-8, 2020: Bandstand
- Mar. 27 - Apr. 5, 2020: Sting starring in The Last Ship
- Apr. 7-26, 2020: Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
- May 8-17, 2020: Blue Man Group
- July 22 - Aug. 2, 2020: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical
Washington, DC, USA
Frozen on Broadway
September 16, 2019 • theatre, travel
Who: Amy & I
What: Disney's cash cow, Frozen, now on Broadway
When: August 2019
Where: St. James Theatre, New York
Why: Even though I think the film is overrated, it's a good one and I was excited to see Broadway's take on the story.
Thoughts:
My most common complaint about live theatre is that I am the youngest person in attendance.
Surprise! Not the case with Frozen.
Disney expected this and planned accordingly. The show is a mere 2 hours to keep young attention spans, and a pre-show announcement welcomes the kiddos, encouraging them to make Frozen their first of many Broadway shows. YES.
Brevity aside, this is exactly what you would expect from a Disney on Broadway show. You have your original story and songs with a few small tweaks and a handful of new songs. Younger audience members will be excited by the former (brace yourselves for kids trying to sing along), while the latter is what made the show memorable for me. I've had "Dangerous to Dream" from the cast recording stuck in my head for days!
The most notable difference for me was a change in Kristoff's character, which made a lot more sense to me. Combine that with some relatable new songs and a magical snowfall at the end, and you've got a signature Disney experience.
It's a fun show and it will stick around as long as there are kids begging to go and parents who can afford their admission. While it's not nearly as elaborate as neighboring Disney on Broadway hits The Lion King and Aladdin, it hits the mark in welcoming new theatre goers to Broadway and is still a charming experience. Just be prepared for an antsier audience.
New York, NY, USA
Oklahoma! on Broadway
September 10, 2019 • theatre, travel
Who: Amy & I
What: The stripped-down revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein's classic, Oklahoma!
When: August 2019
Where: Circle in the Square Theatre, New York
Why: 1. I'm obsessed with R&H. 2. I won tickets!
Thoughts:
This production first hit my radar when rave reviews started pouring in for the off-Broadway production. As a certified Rodgers & Hammerstein geek, I read everything I could about this new take on Oklahoma! and was dying to see it.
Unfortunately, it closed before I had the chance.
Fortunately, it transferred to Broadway with a limited run that has already been extended.
Fortunately, it was among the shows I won tickets to.
Unfortunately, despite all the cool things I'd read about this revival, it just didn't work for me.
Don't get me wrong, I knew what I was getting into. I knew about the stripped down orchestra and set and more modern costumes and new "tone" for the show. I was intrigued. I love different ways of looking at classic musicals. Some pieces worked for me: I loved that the actors were dancing on tables and throwing back Bud Lights. I cracked up at the cat fight happening between Laurie and Gertie as they violently snapped ears of corn during "Many a New Day". There were fun moments for sure.
Ultimately, stripped down was a little too stripped for me. Having the entire cast on stage made for an awkward lack of transitions. Oh, hey, Will Parker! Back from Kansas City just now? Even though you've literally been sitting on stage silently this whole time? Weird. There were way too many moments like that and it just felt weird. Ultimately, I would have just said the show was "meh". I didn't walk away with any new insights or feelings about the show.
Then we got to the ending. Again, I knew that I was in for something different. I love when revivals are true to the book but still make me see the story in a new light. Not the case here. The book is largely the same until the ending when they decide to spin the story in a whole new direction. No spoilers here, but...no thanks. I went from apathetic to angry (and slightly creeped out) in the final minutes of the show and ultimately walked away with one question:
Why?
I know my opinion is an unpopular one. The people I attended with felt the same way I did, but reviews remain high and the recently released cast recording is currently in the #2 spot, only behind Hamilton, so let's chat. If you love it, I'd love to hear why!
New York, NY, USA
Mean Girls on Broadway
September 3, 2019 • theatre, travel
Who: My friend Amy & I
What: Mean Girls, Broadway's musical adaptation of the popular 2004 film
When: August 2019
Where: August Wilson Theatre, New York
Why: Three free shows wasn't enough so we bought tickets to two more. This was one of them. So fetch!
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| On Broadway, we wear blue! |
Thoughts: Confession time. I've only seen the movie once. It was so hyped up that by the time I saw it, I just kinda felt "meh" about it. Still, I know and enjoy the popular lines as much as the next girl and felt that a Broadway adaptation could be fun. Oh, and we got an amazing deal on our tickets.
Guys. The show was so much better than I expected. With Tina Fey on board for the show, they included all the classic moments from the film with a fun Broadway twist. Who knew you could do dance choreography with cafeteria trays? Or have an entire number dedicated to sexy Halloween costumes? The story was told well, the talent was amazing, and the songs are still stuck in my head -one of my ultimate indicators of musical success. Really, listen to the cast recording!
Seriously, I thought this would just be a fun fluffy show to enjoy during our trip, but of all the musicals we saw on this trip, Mean Girls was my favorite! Guess it's time to give the movie a revisit.
Oh, and shout out to the theatre for fun details. Seeing this in the ladies' room made my day:
New York, NY, USA
To Kill a Mockingbird on Broadway
August 29, 2019 • theatre, travel
Who: My friend Amy and I
What: To Kill a Mockingbird, the Broadway play based on the classic novel
When: August 2019
Where: Shubert Theatre, New York
Why: We won tickets—thanks Broadway Across America!
Thoughts: Like most people, I'm guessing, I read To Kill a Mockingbird in middle school and haven't since. I remember that I liked it and I remember basic plot points, but I don't remember the entire story and I didn't re-read this book before watching the play.
That being said, I could tell that this wasn't a purist adaptation of the book and I can tell you I absolutely love how they presented the play! I will always pick a musical over the play, but of the 3 shows we won tickets to, Mockingbird was by far my favorite. It captured the spirit of the story while making connections to society today without being preachy and still managed to make us laugh.
Something unique about this show is that the child characters are played by adult actors. I thought this would be weird, but it actually worked very well as the children mostly serve as narrators sharing their memories with us. Their body language and costumes are that of children while their dialog is more mature. In fact, Celia Keenan-Bolger, who plays Scout, won a Tony this year for her role!
This was such a creative presentation/interpretation of a classic novel. I shouldn't be surprised since Bartlett Sher (who was behind two of my favorite Rodgers & Hammerstein musical revivals) worked on this. If I were to come back to New York with a friend, I wouldn't hesitate to bring them along to see this!
Something to consider if you're a purist: another person in our group mentioned she re-read the book right before coming to see the play and regretted that choice. The creative choices in this play worked for me but may not for some. Or maybe, just wait until after to read the book and compare notes. Either way, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this play!
New York, NY, USA
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