Archives for January 2016

GIVEAWAY: Two Tickets to Broadway Playhouse Musical Theater!

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!

20160110_104436

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.

broadway-playhouse-nyc

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!

broadway-playhouse-backstage-access

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.

broadway-playhouse-nyc

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.

3 Inspiring Reads to Get You Through the Year

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!

shonda-rhimes-year-of-yes

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-book-where-they-belong-today-150714_8695a2e1936bf017fac7ae6e928b3804.today-inline-large

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

Screen Shot 2015-12-06 at 9.48.57 PM

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?