Broadway Archives - Globetrotting Mommy

Great Gifts for Travelers

December 16, 2019 By admin

If you’re looking for gift ideas for the globetrotter in your life, you’ll love this post. My holiday gift guide is full of great gifts for travelers to enjoy at home and away…

TRAVEL MUST-HAVES:

Digital Luggage Scale – My number one travel accessory is this easy-to-use luggage scale. Stop guessing if your bag is under 50 pounds and say goodbye to extra baggage charges.

Packing Cubes – I am a huge fan of packing cubes, especially for families since each person can choose their color. Just group items or outfits in cubes and packing will be a breeze.

Hanging Toiletry Bag – I keep my toiletry bag packed so I can just grab and go. Zippered compartments are perfect for travel accessories and the hanging design keeps bathroom clutter to a minimum.

Travel Jewelry Organizer – Keep your jewels safe and never lose an earring again with these colorful jewelry boxes. The small size and compartments make this a great option for quick trips. And remember, never ever check your jewels in luggage!

Reusable Shopping Bags – These are so useful for shopping at home and away. They also double as road-trip snack bags, beach totes and laundry bags. Choose from solids, prints and metallic options – an easy gift for travelers.

Travel Adaptor – A must for every globetrotter. Keep your favorite electronics charged wherever you go. Pick a different color for everyone in your family.

Travel Sized Laundry Bag – For the traveler who has everything, this world map laundry bag is a fun gift. I love that it folds into a tiny travel pouch with a carabineer.

TRAVEL INSPIRED GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS:

Gifts for Travelers - Travel Inspired Gifts

Show Tickets and Personalized Shirt – For the Broadway fan on your list, a pair of tickets to an upcoming show and a personalized shirt to wear make a great gift. I used my Cricut Explore Air™ 2 machine to personalize a “So Fetch” shirt for a Mean Girls lover in sparkly pink.

Scratch Your Travels USA Map – Travelers will love highlighting their US adventures as they scratch off each state they visit. Add a frame and you’ve got a great family gift.

Travel Scarf – A travel scarf is always a good idea and this infinity version with a secret hidden zipper pocket is a great gift for travelers all ages. Choose from solids and patterns.

50 States, 5,000 Ideas – This comprehensive National Geographic book is full of sightseeing ideas in every state. A great gift option for families.

FOR TRAVEL LOVING FOODIES:

Bokksu – For the adventurous eater on your list, a Bokksu box filled with Japanese snacks and teas is sure to please. A great option for travel-loving families who like to try new foods. Choose from monthly subscriptions in two different sizes.

Custom Etched Map Glassware – For the coffee or hot cocoa drinker, wine aficionado and spirits lover on your list, I love Well Told Designs glassware etched with a favorite city, college town, airport, island, marathon route and more. Choose from pints, rocks, wine, mugs, mason jars, champagne flutes, etc. and you’ve got a great gift for everyone on your list.

Sitka Salmon Shares – For seafood lovers, gift a box of seasonal wild-caught seafood – straight from Southeast Alaska and the North Pacific! Sitka Salmon Shares, a community-supported fishery, supports sustainable fisheries and delivers the freshest catches from boat to doorstep. Use code SITKA25 to receive $25 off any 2020 Premium Sitka Seafood Share.

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Passport – Every holiday season Trader Joe’s brings out their cult favorites and their Chocolate Passport is a great option for every traveler on your list. Perfect for stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, etc.

BEST FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR TRAVELING:

Tenzi – I’m a huge fan of easy-to-pack family games and Tenzi is one of my favorites. This multi-dice game is easy to learn and fast to play. There are several variations which help keep boredom at bay. Add in the 77 Ways to Play The Add-on Card Set and you’re guaranteed hours of good fun.

Playing Cards – An oldie but goodie, playing cards are easy to bring along on any trip making them great gifts for travelers. From Go Fish and War to Canasta and Rummy, everyone on the trip will find something to play. Other options include Solitare and building card houses.

Match-O-Rama – From the makers of Telestrations, Match-O-Rama is a great game choice for multi-generational family trips. The better you know the players, the easier you can predict how others will answer. Or maybe not? Easy to learn, fast to play and sure to keep the whole family entertained.

Kodak Premium Puzzles – Puzzles are a great activity to bring along on a vacation. Choose from easy to hard (depending on the ages and patience levels) and the whole family can enjoy. Kodak has a lot of travel-themed options (Boston, Italy, Greece, US National Parks and more) perfect for travel-loving families.

Need more gifts for travelers and everyone else on your list? Check out my 2020 Tween and Teen Gift Guide and Great Gifts for Teens and Tweens from 2019 .

I received some of these items for review purposes but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Pip’s Island – A …

March 27, 2019 By admin

New York City has no shortage of opportunities for young theatergoers with Broadway and off-Broadway shows, musical performances, circus acts, puppet theater and more. The Big Apple’s newest show for kids, Pip’s Island, gives kids the chance to take in a show by being part of the cast in a whirlwind interactive performance in Times Square.

Pip’s Island – A Perfect Escape for Young Theater Goers

We checked out the immersive performance in previews and it was just as fun as I remembered their 2016 pop-up show. The new space is permanent so little New Yorkers and tourists will have plenty of time to check out this fun interactive show.

All dressed up and ready to head out to Pip’s Island.

As kids arrive, they are outfitted with “costumes” consisting of explorer vests and legendarium wristbands. The immersive performance starts right away as the park ranger teaches some important dance moves and explains how they are collecting badges or “sparks” to save the island and defeat Joules Volter (aka – the bad guy).

Young explorers (and their assistant explorer adults) are then scooted off on adventure after adventure for the next hour. I don’t want to give too much away but as the cast is introduced as various characters in their unique settings (the sets are outrageous in a good way), the storyline progresses room by room with plenty of special effects and fun. Along the way, kids are participating in various team activities and problem-solving together to save the island. There may have been some bubbles, dancing and conga lines along the way or maybe that was just my imagination. Cameras are not allowed which ensures all attendees are giving the show their full attention.

The recommended age range is 4-10 and there are some dark scenes which may scare younger kids. The staff is wonderful at interacting with the kids and the parents are always within sight while the children participate in group activities.

Get your tickets at PipsIsland.com and get 10% off with code Pip10.

Times Square has a slew of family-friendly attractions and if you want to combine a show with a nearby attraction, Gulliver’s Gate is a great choice.

Awesome Gift Guide For Tweens …

December 13, 2018 By admin

If you’ve got a tween on your holiday gift list, you probably need some help. These not-little but not-big kids can be tricky but lucky for you, I’m sharing a Gift Guide for Tweens.

Awesome Gift Guide For Tweens

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 – Tweens love instant film cameras and the newest Fuji Instax prints out larger square photos that are perfect for sharing with friends at sleepovers or capturing travel memories. The chic design and unisex pearly color options are great for guys and girls.

Fuzzy Slippers – Being cozy at home and away is a win for tweens so you can’t go wrong with these cute bunny slippers for the girls or navy Ugg Slippers for the boys. Pair them with a unicorn onesie and you’re all set.

Shockatato Party Game – Remember playing Hot Potato as a kid? This modern version has three shocking settings with and without music. Great for parties or family vacations.

Scratch Off World Map Poster – Globetrotting tweens can track their travels and plot their future vacations with this scratch-off world map.

Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel – This bestseller will be a hit with older tweens who have seen the Broadway show or who are hoping to see it.

Not Parent Approved – One of the most wished for card games on Amazon, this family friendly game was inspired by Cards Against Humanity. Perfect for travel or at home, this fun card game makes a great stocking stuffer for girls and boys.

Erin Condren Travel Petite Planner – For globetrotting tweens who love to organize and record details of their vacations, this travel journal will be a hit. There is plenty of room for packing lists, daily adventures and more plus colorful stickers.

Watermelon Ball – Tweens will love playing with this water-filled ball at home or on vacation. It looks and feels like a watermelon, doesn’t sink or float and can be used underwater and in a variety of pool games.

Reading Pillow With Arms – My daughter just got one of these husband pillows and she’s obsessed. Its a perfect cozy setting for books, iPads and movie watching.

Wreck This Journal – Tweens will love following the quirky destructive instructions in this fun-filled journal. Perfect for kids who like to draw outside the lines and think outside the box.

Hope you enjoyed this gift guide for tweens. Check out my 2020 Tween and Teen Gift Guide and Holiday Gift Guide for Kids Who Love Traveling for more ideas.

Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen …

October 24, 2018 By admin

Since my Tips for Seeing Frozen on Ice were such a hit, I’m back to share some tips for seeing Frozen on Broadway, one of the most popular shows in town. Read on for your chance to win two tickets!

Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen on Broadway and Ticket Giveaway

For the first time in forever, Anna and Elsa are starring in a full-length theatrical Broadway production. This version of the popular movie about sisterly love wows crowds with a few new songs, awesome special effects, loveable characters and phenomenal singing. The St. James Theater has truly been transformed into a winter wonderland with falling snow, stunning sets and everyone from Arendelle including the adorable Olaf.

Photo Credit: Disney Theatrical Productions

Although little princesses will want to see this one, I think it is best for kids 6 and up. For younger kids, I recommend sticking with Disney on Ice productions, Walt Disney World and Disney Land Shows and the awesome productions aboard Disney Cruises.

Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen on Broadway

1) Take kids to a few live shows (think Pinkalicous, Annie Jr. Gazillion Bubbles) before seeing a Broadway production. Once you’re convinced they can sit and focus for extended periods of time while staying quiet you’ll all be ready for Broadway. Here are some of my favorite theatrical productions for kids.

2) Arrive early. New York traffic and Times Square streets can get very hectic so be sure to arrive extra early. You’ll want some extra time to grab booster seats and check out the souvenirs.

3) Make a pit stop before the show starts no matter what! The show is 2.5 hours which is a long time for little bladders. There is one intermission but bathroom lines are crazy long and you will be stressed about getting back to your seats in time.

4) Discuss Broadway etiquette in advance. Be sure to reinforce the rules about staying quiet and not singing during the show. Show your kids some YouTube videos from the show so they will know what to expect the characters to look like on stage. Not all characters look like their movie counterparts which may raise some questions.

5) Prepare for everything. Bring non-messy snacks and beverages as well as wipes, ziplocs and a few small non-electronic toys. If kids need to take a break from the performance, there are live feed monitors located in each level’s lobby so you won’t miss any of the show.

Prize Giveaway Time!

Photo Credit: Disney Theatrical Productions

Ready to win two complimentary tickets to Frozen on Broadway? Here are the official contest details:

Prize:

Courtesy of Disney Theatrical, prize includes two (2) complimentary tickets to select performances in early December (seat location and performance dates are at the sole discretion of Disney Theatrical Group). Prize tickets are only available for the following performances:

Thursday 12/6 – 7PM
Tuesday 12/11 – 7PM
Wednesday 12/12 – 7PM

Requirements:

Contest entrants need to follow @petiteseat and @globetrottingmommy on Instagram and leave a comment on this Instagram photo. Note, Disney Theatrical Group and Petite Seat are not responsible for the promotion rules or for any other administration of the promotion. Prize does not include travel to or accommodations in NYC.

Contest Deadline:

Contest closes on November 8 at midnight EST and winner will be selected on November 9th.

Be sure to check out Petite Seat, a parent’s guide to theatre and live entertainment in the New York City area. Their website and Instagram provide listings of all the offerings in the area, along with information to help parents find the best shows for their families including age recommendations, potential plot sensitivities, experience tips, theatre logistics, etc.

Have you taken your kids to a Broadway show? Tell me about it in the comments below.

If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Awesome Broadway Shows for …

July 26, 2018 By admin

Taking kids to New York City means checking out the latest Broadway shows for kids. The Big Apple has a wide variety of theater performances to fit every age and price range so you can bring along the whole family. From toddlers to teens, kids will enjoy these on and off-Broadway favorites.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Best New York City Shows For Little Kids (Preschool to early elementary)

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater in Central Park

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater – Nestled away in Central Park, this gem of a Marionette Theater is the perfect place for small kids to see a short performance usually based on a classic children’s tale. We’ve seen favorites such as Jack and The Beanstalk and holiday shows here and our latest trip was to see Neverland: Peter Pan Returns. Kids sit in the front rows with parents on the sides and back so everyone is guaranteed a good seat and after the show, performers demonstrate the Marionettes which is always a hit. Most performances are good for toddlers and up but for Neverland, I would say the sweet spot is four and older.

Gazillion Bubble Show – Little kids love bubbles so its no surprise that this one-hour bubble extravaganza is a family favorite. Kids will love the gigantic soap bubbles, walls of bubbles, helium bubbles and bubbles within bubbles. Add in some special effects (like lasers and strobe lights) and bubble magic and even the grown-ups will be mesmerized. Note: Your kids will beg to have their picture taken in a giant bubble so be prepared to buy the pricey photo. Great for toddlers and up.

Best Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Frozen: The Broadway Musical – For the first time in forever, Anna and Elsa have hit the Great White Way by storm. Disney’s Broadway version of the popular movie about sisterly love has been updated with a few new songs but the main premise remains the same. The St. James Theater turns into a winter wonderland with falling snow, stunning sets and the adorable Olaf but the phenomenal singing steals the show. Although little princesses will want to see this one, it is best for kids 6 and up.

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical – Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! This surprise runaway hit is popular with kids and adults for good reason…the set, acting, choreography and music are all phenomenal. Think Squidward tap dancing with undersea friends, a very believable sponge and a colorful cast of Bikini Bottom characters running around onstage and in the aisles. If your kids haven’t seen a Broadway show yet, this colorful, confetti-filled extravaganza is a perfect first show. Great for ages 4 and up.

The Lion King – When you mention Broadway shows for kids, this one tops every list. Imagine a bigger than life puppet extravaganza full of imaginative costumes (giant Giraffes, leaping gazelles and majestic lions), amazing music, and unbelievable sets. This award-winning story of Simba, a cub destined to be king of his pride, is sure wow parents and kids at the same time. A good option for a child’s first Broadway show assuming they are familiar with the story. There are a few somewhat scary scenes so I’m recommending for ages 6 and up but younger children are welcome.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Aladdin – A classic Broadway musical is always sure to please and one of my favorite kid-friendly picks is Disney’s Aladdin at the New Amsterdam Theatre. The show features a great mix of dancing, singing, colorful costumes, spectacular sets, funny characters (OMG the Genie!) and witty repartee for the grown-ups. I love that there are no scary parts and that the storyline is easy for little kids to understand. When Jasmine and Aladdin go flying across the stage on the magic carpet, kids of all ages will be wowed. This show is two-hours and 30 minutes with one intermission so plan bathroom breaks accordingly. Tickets are pricey but all seats are good (even in the balcony) just be sure to grab boosters for small kids. If you’re looking for a theater outing with your favorite mom friends (and their kids), this is a great option. Ideal for kids 4 and up.

Best Off-Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Blue Man Group – This long-running show is perfect for kids (tots to teens) and adults too. My daughter describes this one as “kind of a circus, kind of a magic show and kind of a music show” which pretty much sums up this creative performance. The Blue Man characters, who remain silent and in-character throughout the show, do an amazing job entertaining as they toss cereal into each other’s mouths, interact with the audience, play drums, paint and perform other funny acts. My daughter was giggling throughout the entire show along with the other kids in the audience. The 90-minute show (no intermission) ends with gigantic streams of toilet paper flooding the seats from above so you warn small kids. Some scenes are loud so bring along headsets for sensitive ears. Stay and take pictures with the performers after the show but don’t expect them to chat. You can also catch Blue Man shows in Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Orlando or on their World Tour. Great for kids 5 and up.

Stomp is a favorite off-Broadway show for kids of all ages.

STOMP – I first saw this show years ago when the East Village was super grungy and I was swinging single. I saw it again with my husband and daughter and it has stood the test of time. Located in the Orpheum Theatre, the one-hour and 45-minute performance (no intermission) is a great option for musical kids. The six-person cast uses rhythm and movements as they turn objects and body parts into musical instruments. There is no complicated storyline to follow and there is plenty of humor so young kids will definitely enjoy. Some parts of the show are very loud so earphones are a good option. You can also see Stomp on tour. Best for ages 4 and up.

Best New York City Shows For Tweens and Teens

Hamilton is the most popular pick among tweens, teens and adults and you cannot go wrong with this show. Getting tickets is tough and pricey and the language is complex so kids need to pay attention. The talented crew wows with their dance moves, rapping, wit and songs. Younger kids will miss the subtle sexual references but older kids will notice. It will definitely help if kids have some background on Hamilton and the American Revolution in advance so consider reading a Hamilton book or two before you go. My daughter has seen it twice and it is still her favorite show. Try to win the digital Hamilton lottery where you can get two tickets for just $20. Best for ages 8 and up as there is some strong language.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

School of Rock, The Musical features an incredibly talented cast including several spunky children who play their own instruments. Based on the movie, with music by Andrew Lloyd Weber, this Broadway hit is full of humor, positive messaging and rock and roll. Jokes are geared to adults and children with some funny moments keeping us on the edge of our seats. The positive messages for adults (listen to your children) and children (be true to yourselves) really hits home. This is a great show the whole family will enjoy. Best for ages 7 and up.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – The world of Harry Potter has finally arrived on Broadway with an epic two-part play. The shows are set two decades after the final chapters of J.K. Rowling’s famed novels and the two plays can be seen on the same day or in two separate showings. These shows are long (2+ hours with a 20-minute intermission) so decide if you will see them back-to-back or separately. This show is popular so book as far in advance as you can. Tip: Make a lunch reservation if you are seeing both shows in one day. Great for Harry Potter fans (who are familiar with the books and movies) ages 8 and up.

Extra Resources for New York City Theater Lovers

Another recommendation for family-friendly (and affordable) programming is the New Victory Theater in Times Square. The shows we’ve seen here have always been unique with some featuring talented performers from around the globe. From acrobats to dance and magic performances, performances never disappoint. In addition, the central venue is gorgeous with a slew of kid-friendly amenities and interactive kids activities. The 2018/19 schedule is here so search by suggested age-range and you’re bound to find something great.

Have questions about a show not listed above? Check out Petite Seat to keep up on the newest New York City shows for kids of all ages.

Have you seen any of these off-Broadway or Broadway Shows for Kids? Tell me below in the comments.

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How to Win Hamilton Lottery …

November 29, 2017 By admin

Do you want to know how to win Hamilton Lottery Tickets? Of course, you do!

In case you haven’t heard, Hamilton, the hottest Broadway show in New York sets aside 46 seats in the first two rows for lottery winners to purchase for just $10 (aka a Hamilton). Here’s everything you need to know to win the NYC (Chicago or LA) Hamilton Ticket Lottery and score some autographs too! And yes, I actually won two awesome center orchestra tickets last month for just $20.

How to Win Hamilton Lottery Tickets

1 – Download the free Hamilton App. In addition to the lottery feature, the app also features a Hamilton themed shop, news, stickers and HamCam filters. This app is your number one tool for how to win the Hamilton lottery tickets.

How to win the Hamilton ticket lottery. Download the app.

2 – In the lottery section of the app, be sure to click yes for the lottery reminder notifications.

3 – Create a daily “Hamiton alarm” on your phone to remind you to enter each and every lottery.

4 – Click the lottery tab and enter every available lottery in NYC (or Chicago or LA). Be sure to enter both matinee and evening lotteries when available (scroll left to see both lottery options on matinee days which are Wednesday and Saturday).

5 – Make sure to check off two tickets because all your friends will be begging to join you.

6 – Keep an eye on your phone every day around 10:30 am – 11 am. You will most likely get these annoying sorry you did not win notifications…

7 – Wait until the day you get a winning message!

8 – Scream out loud and tell everyone you just won Hamilton tickets!

9 – Buy your tickets on the app ASAP. There is just one hour to claim those coveted $10 seats so do not miss your shot! FYI, regular tickets start at $250 if you can even get them.

10 – Decide who you’ll be bringing and make sure they know where and when to meet you.

11 – Bring your email confirmation and Photo ID and go straight to the main theater doors (nope, you don’t need to wait in that long, long, long line!)

12 – You and your guest will be placed in a special waiting area and let in one group at a time to claim your tickets.

13 – Enjoy the show and your awesome seats!

14 – After the show, immediately head towards the roped off area on 46th street and have your program or other souvenir items (FYI, the Hamilton gift shop is across the street) ready to be signed.

15 – Wait for select cast members to come out and swoon as you take photos and get autographs.