Jeepers! Scooby Doo Is Coming to a Town Near You!

by Jennifer SwartvagherFebruary 18, 2020

Jinkies! Were your Saturday mornings filled with the antics of Scooby, Shaggy and the rest of the Mystery, Inc. gang? A new live-action show, Scooby-Doo and the Lost City of Gold, will be touring the US in 2020.

The show, will feature a brand-new Scooby-inspired story, combining “cutting edge technology with exceptional music, puppetry, magic, singing, dance,” and more.

According to a press release from Warner Bros., “In “Scooby-Doo! and The Lost City of Gold,” fans of music, discovery, and gh-gh-ghosts! won’t need a passport to travel with Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Daphne, Fred, and Velma to Alta Luz, a fictitious South American town where ghostly sightings of La Dama de Oro (The Lady In Gold) threaten to scare attendees away from the annual music festival and Incan sun god celebration.”

Check out the list of tour dates below to find out when Scooby-Doo and the Lost City of Gold is coming to a city near you.

March 19, 2020 – Scotiabank Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
March 21, 2020 – Avenir Centre, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada,
March 24, 2020 – Harbour StationSaint John, New Brunswick, Canada
March 29, 2020 – Place Bell, Laval, QC, Canada
April 2, 2020 – Capitol Theater, Madison, WI
April 5, 2020 – Rosemont Theatre, Rosemont, IL
April 10 – 11, 2020 – PAC, Englewood, NJ, Bergen
April 18, 2020 – Tower Theater, Upper Darby, PA
April 19, 2020 – American Music Theatre, Lancaster, PA
April 21, 2020 – Palace Theatre, Albany, NY
April 22, 2020 – Red Bank, NJ, Count Basie Theatre
April 23 – 24, 2020 – Foxwoods Casino – The Fox Theater, Mashantucket, CT
April 25, 2020 – Westchester County Center, White Plains, NY
April 26, 2020 – Kings Theatre, Brooklyn, NY
April 30, 2020 – Kodak Center, Rochester, NY
May 2, 2020 – Warner Theatre, Washington, DC
May 5, 2020 – Dow Event Center, Saginaw, MI
May 6, 2020 – H.W. Stambaugh Auditorium, Youngstown, OH
May 9 – 10, 2020 – Indianapolis, IN Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
May 12, 2020 – Adler Theatre, Davenport, IA
May 13, 2020 – Riverside Theater, Milwaukee, WI
May 17, 2020 – Fargo Civic Auditorium, Fargo, ND
May 19, 2020 – Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD
May 21, 2020 – Paramount Theatre, Denver, CO
May 23, 2020 – Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, CO
May 24, 2020 – The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins, CO
May 27, 2020 – Plaza Theatre, El Paso, TX
May 28, 2020 – Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center, Midland, TX
May 30 – 31, 2020 – Dell Hall, Austin, TX
June 2, 2020 – Majestic Theatre, San Antonio, TX
June 4, 2020 – Majestic Theater, Dallas, TX
June 5, 2020 – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land, Sugar Land, TX
June 6, 2020 – Mahalia Jackson Theater, New Orleans, LA
June 7, 2020 – Saenger Theatre, Mobile, AL
June 9, 2020 – Alabama Theatre, Birmingham, AL
June 10, 2020 – The Louisville Palace, Louisville, KY
June 11, 2020 – Grand Ole Opry House, Nashville, TN
June 12, 2020 – Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham, NC
June 13, 2020 – N. Charleston Performing Arts Center, N. Charleston, SC
June 14, 2020 – Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA
June 16 – 17 , 2020 – Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL
June 20 – 21, 2020 – Broward Center For The Perf. Arts, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
June 24 – 25, 2020 – Dr. Phillips Center for the Perf. Arts, Orlando, FL
June 27 – 28, 2020 – Times Union Center for the Perf. Arts, Jacksonville, FL

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Warner Bros.

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This First Look at Netflix’s New “The Dark Crystal” Is Pure Magic

by Shahrzad WarkentinMay 27, 2019

It’s been over 30 years since muppet master Jim Henson introduced the groundbreaking film The Dark Crystal. Now those who grew up in the ‘80s will he able to share this magical tale with their own kids thanks to a brand new Netflix series The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance.

Using the same classic puppetry combined with cutting edge technology, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance brings to life the world of Thra once again. The story takes place several years before the events of the film.

According to a release from Netflix, the series follows the journey of three Gelflings who “discover the horrifying secret behind the Skeksis’ power and set out on an epic journey to ignite the fires of rebellion and save their world.”

The ten-episode series features characters voiced by several stars you’re sure to recognize, including Helena Bonham Carter, Andy Samberg, Harvey Fierstein and Mark Hamill among others.

The Dark Crystal: Age of the Resistance premieres on Netflix Aug. 30, 2019.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of Netflix

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Best Theater Shows for Kids This Winter in NYC

by Mimi O'ConnorFebruary 20, 2019

Baby it’s cold (or slushy, or wintry mix-y) outside! One solution for winter weekend woes is to head to a show. New York City is a theater town, and there are lots of theaters here that cater just to kids. Plus, you’ve got Sesame Street Live rolling in to town for a giant run. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite shows for kids this winter, including big musical productions, more than a little bit of magic, puppetry, and more. Snap up some tickets today for a guaranteed weekend plan!

For an Immersive Adventure: Pip's Island

Pip's Island

Pip's Island, the interactive and immersive show that premiered back in 2016, has returned to New York City! The fantastical production, designed for kids ages 4 -10, begins previews March 11, and opens March 21. Audience members move through imaginative environments, help characters along the way, and play a part in helping save the day. (Lots of positive messaging is throughout the show as well.) Pip's Island is in a new home on 42nd Street, and while it maintains much of the original story, sets, and characters, it’s been updated and improved. Take the kids on a special date, or book the best birthday ever for up to 50 kids! Tickets are $49 online, and $59 at the box office. Read our full review from its first NYC run here!

Starting March 11
Tickets: $49 in advance; $59 at box office
400 W. 42nd St.
Midtown West
212-609-1372
Online: pipsisland.com

For Artful Puppetry with a Green Message: Ajijaak on Turtle Island

Richard Termine

In this show from New York City company IBEX Puppetry, kites morph into soaring birds and branches transform into a gentle deer. Puppetry artist Heather Henson and Grammy Award-winner Ty Defoe bring together an ensemble of North American First Nations Peoples to tell the tale of Ajijaak, a young whooping crane who must face her first migration south. Indigenous songs performed live, languages and dance weave together in a spectacle of artistry to create an affecting fable about the dangerous effects of climate change on animals and Mother Earth. Recommended for ages seven and up.

March 1-10
Tickets: $17 and up
New Victory Theater
209 W. 42ndSt.
Times Square
646-223-3010
Online: newvictory.org

For a Tale As Old As Time: Beauty and the Beast

Symphony Space

This classic tale is performed by one of the oldest, continually-running marionette theater companies in the country. The National Marionette Theatre presents the story of The Beast and Fiona with meticulously-crafted marionettes. Recommended for kids ages four and up, the show is 60 minutes long.

March 9, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Tickets: $17/non-members; $14/members
Peter Jay Sharpe Theater
2537 Broadway at 95th St.
UpperWestSide
212-864-5400
Online: symphonyspace.org

To See Kids' Words Come Alive (Hilariously): The Story Pirates

Story Pirates Facebook page

As Lin-Manuel Miranda (allegedly, and probably) likes to say, "Have you not seen Story Pirates yet? Get on that." This troupe of comedians, performers and teaching artists takes kids' ideas, stories, and words, and acts them out to pretty much everyone's delight. These shows, which do sell out, support their work of Story Pirates Changemakers, which brings life-changing literacy programs to kids in low income schools, homeless shelters, and the foster care system. PS: Have you heard? The Story Pirates have a new book out, Digging Up Danger!

Sat., Feb. 16, Noon-1 p.m.
Tickets: $35
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
555 W. 42nd St.
Midtown
Online: eventbrite.com

For Little Laurie Berkner Fans: Pillowland

New York City Children's Theater Facebook page

For the youngest of theatergoers (ages 2 to 5), Pillowland, produced by New York City Children's Theater, is inspired by kindie rocker Laurie Berkner's song of the same name. Kids are encouraged to wear their pajamas to this 30-minute interactive show that takes them on a trip to the titular destination. Kids get a primo spot in the small performance area, and parents can join them or hang back and sit in chairs. Note: shoes off before entering the theater. Hang out after the show for photos with the cast!

Through April 14
Tickets: $27
Peter Theater at the Flea Theater
20 Thomas St.
Tribeca
212-226-0051
Online: nycchildrenstheater.org

Become a Jedi Master (and Laugh While Doing It): Jedi Academy

Symphony Space/Just Kidding

Calling all Star Wars fanatics who like to laugh! Young intergalactic adventurers are invited to learn the ways of the Jedi with Panniken Moonjumper, a true Master of intergalactic fun and adventure. During this comedy variety show, little Jedi Warriors, Princesses and Darth Vaders will feel empowered to discover the great Force within their hearts. The all-ages show, from the brain of kids' entertainer David Engel, involves comic antics, exciting physical challenges, magical mayhem, lightsaber lessons and a visit from our space hero’s furry alien sidekick. Bonus: audience members are invited to come in costume!

March 16, 11 a.m.
Tickets: $17/non-members; $14/members
Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre
2537 Broadway at 95th St.
Upper West Side
Online: symphonyspace.org

—Mimi O’Connor

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Give Them a Hand: NYC’s Best Puppet Shows

by Rachel SokolSeptember 25, 2017

If you haven’t noticed, puppets are kind of a big deal right now. From a permanent exhibit celebrating one of the masters of the form, to tons of new productions, and perennial favorites, NYC is a real puppet town this season. No matter your child’s age or puppet preferences — colorful and fuzzy, classic marionettes, funky and fun — there’s a place to catch a high quality show. Click through to see some of NYC’s top spots for puppets!

For Feel-Good Fun with a Retro Twist: The Joshua Show Episode 2

If you're feeling glum, Joshua Holden just might be the guy to turn that frown upside down. The whimsical puppeteer is closing out a run of The Joshua Show: Episode 2 at HERE on September 30, but he's been knows to pop-up around town at venues like Symphony Space and Lincoln Center. With his main man, the grumpy Mr. Nicolas and a cast of other puppetry wonders, Holden brings joy with a retro a flair to the art. (Meet Joshua and Mr. Nicolas here!)

Sept. 30, 2 p.m.
Tickets: $20
HERE
145 6th Ave.
SoHo
Online: here.org/shows

photo: The Joshua Show/Jennifer Grob

Have a favorite puppet show we missed? Let us know in the comments!

— Rachel Sokol

The New Show That Will Blow Your Kid’s Mind

by Mimi O'ConnorNovember 23, 2016

As we’ve noted before, immersive, interactive theater experiences are no longer just for grown-ups, and a new show for the younger set is taking things up a notch with a very fun, fantastical multimedia production in Chelsea. Here for a limited eight-week run, Pip’s Island will take you and the kids on musical, magical adventure that also happens to encourage creativity, problem-solving and teamwork.

photo: Pip’s Island

Welcome to Pip’s Island!
Three years in the making, the production is the creation brother and sister team Rania and Rami Ajami, with Creative Director Walter Krudop, and from the get-go, the kid audience members are the “stars” of the show. Before embarking on the the adventure, kids suit up in explorer vests, which are not only temporary costumes, but are also custom-made garments that are integral to the show. Adults, good-naturedly referred to as the Explorers’ assistants, are instructed to hang back, to let the kids do the work and take center stage.

photo: Pip’s Island

The adventure begins at an outpost where where audience members meet fellow Explorers and learn that Amperes Wattson is being held captive on a magical island by his evil brother Joules Volter. The crew is charged with rescuing him and ensuring the survival of the mystical place. If they do, they will join the ranks of the “Exceptional Explorer’s Society.”

With that charge and the guidance of a pair of friendly fellow explorers (i.e. two actors), the kids navigate a series of “ranges”, connected environments that incorporate beautiful set pieces and lighting, projection screens, special effects such as fog, bubbles and confetti — and even a slide.

photo: Pip’s Island

Not the Same Old Song and Dance
As audience members navigate this magical world, they meet inhabitants of the island, Pebble, Finn and Pip, who join in the effort to save Ampers and the island. At each stop on the journey kids are enlisted to help solve a problem and work together as a team. (Yes, these actors have a script, and the narrative is set, but they’re also adept improvisors, as, you know, kids say the darndest things.)

With each challenge met, the crew unlocks one of five “sparks”, and a corresponding badge illuminates on the explorer vest.

In addition to stellar sets and fun characters, the show also includes inventive and charming puppetry, as well as musical numbers, and even a dance party.

photo: Pip’s Island

The Less You Know the Better
Do the kids solve the problem and save Ampers? You probably have a guess, but it’s best to go in knowing less than more about this show, for both kids and adults.

Things you should know: the experience is an hour-long, and is recommend for kids ages 4 to 10. Strollers are not allowed — it would be very difficult to navigate them — and while the show is not scary in any way, there is a “bad guy” at the end and it is an immersive experience, so little ones easily overwhelmed will probably want to stay close to their grown-up.

Party With Pip
Finally, you can host a Pip’s Island birthday party! Rent out the whole show, or just book at a group rate. For the deluxe experience, order the special over-the-top cake (pictured above), a creation that looks like a creation of Mr. Wonka, or some other magical persona, himself.

The lobby does have a cafe and seating area — as well as lots of Pip’s Island merch and fun toys — to accommodate your celebration.

Now through Jan. 8
Tickets: $50
Skylight Modern
537 W. 27th St.
Chelsea
866-811-4111
Online: pipsisland.com

Have you seen Pip’s Island? Give us your review in the comments below!

—Mimi O’Connor

A Dictionary for Chicago Parents (& Anyone That Wants to Understand Them!)

by Kelly AiglonAugust 29, 2015

Chicago’s unique vocabulary and insider references could fill up an entire dictionary. We figured it was time for an addendum just for you parents out there. Here’s a lesson in local lingo for Moms and Dads.

Dan Ryan
Everywhere else: Common names for dudes.
In Chicago: The clogged interstate where your little one conveniently decides to have meltdowns or diaper blowouts during rush hour.

photo: David Wilson via Flickr

Wiggleworms
Everywhere else: Kids that can’t sit still, no matter how many candy bribes their parents offer.
In Chicago: Old Town School of Folk Music’s music- and puppetry-filled classes that get babies and toddlers shaking their thang.

photo: Old Town School of Folk Music

The Jewels
Everywhere else: Precious gems.
In Chicago: Where you buy your groceries. Replace “The” with “Da” on the South Side.

photo: Jewel-Osco Facebook page

Cubs & Sox
Everywhere else: Crosstown teams that typically need minor miracles to win.
In Chicago: A fandom choice you make for your child at birth. Switching sides or choosing Wisconsin is grounds for disownment.

photo: courtesy of a Red Tricycle reader

Babies, Tots n’ More
Everywhere else: What you see at a zoo, park or Yo Gabba Gabba! concert.
In Chicago: The twice-yearly consignment sale that’s so big, Moms have gone in and come back out hours later with bouncy seats, strollers and enough clothes to dress a small village.

photo: Babies, Tots n’ More Facebook page

Prentice
Everywhere else: An archaic word for “apprentice.”
In Chicago: The hospital where many bouncing babies are born.

photo: bradleypjohnson via Flickr

The Bean
Everywhere else: What’s usually left ignored on a kid’s dinner plate.
In Chicago: The shiny silver sculpture that your child left a nose print on, just before you took a family selfie.

photo: Cody Austin via Flickr

NPN
Everywhere else: A acronym for what sounds like some big fancy corporation.
In Chicago: A warm group of parents (Neighborhood Parents Network) that plan events for learning and fun.

photo: NPN via Alexis Staryk Photography

The El:
Everywhere else: The 12th letter in the alphabet.
In Chicago: The elevated train system you take with your kids — but only while clinging to hand sanitizer like it’s the key to the universe.

photo: discosour via Flickr

Bubbles
Everywhere else: What you can blow using soapy water and a wand.
In Chicago: Lincoln Park’s magical play space and education center that delights parents through the baby and toddler years. (See also: Little Beans Cafe, Purple Monkey Playroom, Kidville, Sod Room.)

photo: Bubbles Academy

Polar Vortex
Everywhere else: Something very cold.
In Chicago: Something very, very, extremely, overwhelmingly, need-three-snowsuits-and-omg-my-eyelashes-are-frozen cold.

photo: Rob Swystun via Flickr

Cheers
Everywhere else: What you say when you raise a glass.
In Chicago: A Facebook moms group that insiders rave about.

photo: Donnie Ray Jones via Flickr

Sue
Everywhere else: What you do when you want to take somebody to court.
In Chicago: The large bony T.rex that greets you in the lobby of The Field Museum.

photo: Kelly Aiglon

Magnet
Everywhere else: A piece of iron that attracts other iron-containing objects.
In Chicago: The type of school you become obsessed with getting your kid into when he or she is still in utero.

photo: Catherine via Flickr

The Suburbs
Everywhere else: Big yards, green grass, good schools, peace and quiet.
In Chicago: All of the above. Otherwise known as “way out there” and “the country” to city parents.

photo: LancerE via Flickr

The City
Everywhere else: Awesome architecture, exciting sports, beautiful lake, amazing museums.
In Chicago: All of the above. Otherwise known as “way out there” and “date night Mecca” to suburban parents.

photo: Nicolas Henderson via Flickr

Oak Park & Evanston
Everywhere else: Suburbs on the west and north side.
In Chicago: All of the above. Otherwise known as “still the city — really, we swear” to parents that live there.

photo: Eric Fredericks via Flickr

Do you have any additions to our dictionary? Let us know in the Comments!

— Kelly Aiglon

No Place Like Home: 10 Reasons Atlanta Rocks

by Phebe WahlMarch 2, 2015

Sure, Snowmageddon shut downs and scorching summers can be sucky for Atlanta parents. But before we call the Whambulence, let’s remember why we love to call Hotlanta home. Read on for ten reasons we think bringing up babies in the big A is absolutely awesome.

1. The Georgia Aquarium
Biggest. Baddest. In the world. Wham, bam, thank you Home Depot man!

2. Center for Puppetry Arts
And… We also scored the nation’s largest organization dedicated to puppetry. Somebody pulled some strings here I think.

3. Atlanta Botanical Garden
From Scarecrows in the Garden to Imaginary Worlds, this magical Garden plants the seed for a love of nature in our saplings, and lifts our spirits in any season.

4. The Fox Theater
The Fab Fox rocks as a lovable landmark that is terrific for tots from it’s star-studded ceiling to it’s box-office busting shows.

5. Stellar Schools for the Small Set
While we might complain about the complexities of private school applications (click here for our sanity-saving guide), Atlanta boasts a bevy of prestigious preschools and award-winning private and public elementary schools. Now, if we could just sort out the hot mess of high school.

6. We Go Wild for Babies
Zoo Atlanta boasts not just very rare Giant Pandas, but baby pandas. And baby lions, baby giraffes, baby rhinos and baby warthogs. It’s just an abundance of adorableness up in here.

7. Chick-fil-A Keeps It Real
When we are on the go, we feed our families without their seemingly crack-coated, fried fabulousness. Their wholesome approach and semi-healthy options makes us feel a little less guilty as we pull through the drive-thru (for the umpteenth time).

8. It’s A Group Thing, Ya’ll
Being a mom is hard, so here in the South we take care of our own. From neighborhood playgroups to stroller-friendly workout classes—Atlanta moms take care of their own. Find your sisterhood of support here, or check out some other stuff we think every ATL mom needs to know.

9. We Take It Outside
Known as “the city in the woods,” Atlanta’s 343 parks, preservations and abundant playgrounds mean that there is always a spot for families to score some fresh air. Click here for the best of the bunch.

10. We Got Patios Aplenty
For a good part of the year, Atlanta weather is mild enough to dine outside. And for parent’s who travel with tots in tow, that is good news. Click here for some spots where you can dine without having to remind them to use their “inside voice.”

What do you love about being an Atlanta parent? Share in the comments section below!

—Phebe Wahl

Photos courtesy of Georgia Aquarium via Facebook, Center for Puppetry Arts via Facebook, Atlanta Botanical Garden via Facebook, Zoo Atlanta via Facebook, Fox Theater via Facebook, Chick-fil-A via Facebook, Fulton County Schools via Facebook, Stroller Strides via Facebook, Cowtippers via Facebook

ML Interest Tag: puppetry

Jeepers! Scooby Doo Is Coming to a Town Near You!

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