Sunset Circus is back by popular demand with new, never-before-seen Juggling and Aerial Acts! A circus for audiences of all ages, Sunset Circus is a family you’ve just met but you’ve known forever. Featuring circus artists from Cirque du Soleil, Big Apple Circus, and beyond, SUNSET CIRCUS features a sensational cast of seven circus artists, including aerialists, jugglers, acrobats, and comedians who will bring audiences laughter, awe, and perhaps a tear. This unique theatrical circus experience presents innovative circus acts interwoven with characters who would be at home in your own backyard, entertaining everyone from kids to parents and grandparents.

The performance is one-hour long and is appropriate for all ages.

When: March 22 and May 3, 2026 at 11 am and 2 pm

Where: Marlene Meyerson JCC
334 Amsterdam Ave., at 76th Street, NYC

Price: $40 and up

To purchase tickets click here.

Photos by Maike Schultz

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a PR consultant and freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for over twenty-five years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a mom to three kids, ages 19, 16 and 13.

• Take Gorgeous Photos with the Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 Camera
• The Big Apple Circus is Coming to Town (+ Coupon and Giveaway) – Ends 10/2
• Giveaway: Big Apple Circus Tickets – Ends 5/15
• Big Apple Circus Luminocity Review
• Don’t Miss Big Apple Circus’ The Grand Tour

The post Don’t Miss: Sunset Circus by Parallel Exit appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Fidelis Care offers mobile StreetSide vehicles, local community offices, and community events to bring care closer to home. They also partner with local gardens (like the Bed-Stuy Farm through GrowNYC), nonprofits, schools, and community organizations to promote health and wellness across New York State, focusing on improving maternal health, behavioral health, as well as urban and rural health.

I remember talking to parents of my students’ who didn’t go for routine screenings for their kids or for themselves because they didn’t know that they should. Many of them didn’t have access to regular medical care, they would just go to the Emergency Room when they absolutely needed to (either with an accident or a severe illness). As a mom to a kid with Type 1 Diabetes, my kid goes to his endocrinologist every 3 months to make sure things are okay. I don’t know what we would have done if we didn’t have health insurance to cover the visits and all the medical supplies (including insulin, CGM monitor, and insulin pumps).

Fidelis Care New York is the only statewide health plan, accessible to all, regardless of income, background, or zip code.
Learn more at: https://www.fideliscare.org/

This is a sponsored post. As always, all opinions are completely my own.

The post Fidelis Care Launches “Here for Your Health” to Support the Well-Being of New Yorkers appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

An eternal love that defies all expectations. Reimagined by an international team of creative minds together with Hong Kong Ballet’s Choreographer-in-Residence HU Song Wei Ricky and MAI Jingwen, “The Butterfly Lovers” is a legendary Chinese folktale about humble scholar Liang Shanbo and aristocratic heiress Zhu Yingtai, who disguises herself as a boy in order to study at a prestigious academy. From innocently meeting as students and forging a strong, immediate bond to dangerously rebelling against centuries-old forces that threaten to keep them apart, the lovers face unexpected challenges at every turn, as secrets are revealed and a shocking family betrayal ultimately seals their fate.

This multi-award-winning production includes stunning sets and costumes and a sweeping original score that bring to life a world with traditional and modern elements.

When: Friday 8/22/25 at 7:30pm
Saturday 8/23/25 2pm & 7:30pm
Sunday 8/24/25 at 2pm

Where: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, NYC

To purchase tickets here or at the box office. Prices start at $39

Photos courtesy of Hong Kong Ballet

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a PR consultant and freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for over twenty -five years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a mom to three kids, ages 18, 16 and 12.

• King Kong on Broadway: It’s Not a Show, It’s an Experience! (+ Discount Code)
• What’s New For Netflix in 2016 & My Trip to LA
• Family Jazz Party With WeBop! of “Jazz at Lincoln Center”
• A Visit to the Columns, The Museum of the Pike County Historical Society
• Upcoming Show: 2014 Spring Performance at Ballet Academy East

The post Don’t Miss: Hong Kong Ballet at Lincoln Center appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

I recently saw this abridged performance and loved being able to understand the libretto. The jaw-dropping set design and dazzling performances were, of course, outstanding, but the costumes and puppets stole the show, and for a very good reason. The opera’s costume designer is Julie Taymor, who co-designed the puppets with Michael Curry. If the name Julie Taymor, who is also the opera’s director, sounds familiar, it’s probably because she has won Tony Awards (and many other awards) for the direction and costume design of the Broadway musical The Lion King.

Indeed, the one-of-a-kind look of the costumes and the unique puppets is something you have to see in person to appreciate. With dazzling colors and elaborate details, the performance was nothing short of breathtaking, with each scene bringing new stunning visuals on stage.

Together with the music (the Queen of the Night’s Aria is a showstopper) by the splendid performers and chorus, this opera is a must-see this holiday season.

The Magic Flute is playing until January 4th, 2025 in the following performances:

Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 7:30pm
Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 7:30pm
Friday, Dec. 20 at 8:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 21 at 1:00pm
Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 12:00pm
Thursday, Dec. 26 at 7:30pm
Friday, Dec. 27 at 7:30pm
Saturday, Dec. 28 at 12:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 28 at 6:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 29 at 2:00pm
Thursday, Jan. 2 at 7:00pm
Friday, Jan. 3 at 7:30pm
Saturday, Jan. 4 at 12:00pm
The Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center is located between 62nd and 65th Streets and Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues.

Price is $35 and up. To purchase tickets click here.

Photos by Richard Termine

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a PR consultant and freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for over twenty years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a mom to three kids, ages 17, 15 and 12.

The post Don’t Miss: A Kid-Friendly Version of The Magic Flute at The Metropolitan Opera appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

The Details

There are 190 miniature twinkling, plant-based replicas of famous NYC landmarks. Remember that unless there is a sign saying it’s okay, don’t touch the trains. Unfortunately kids keep doing that and it derails the trains – however, the employees keep an eye on this and we saw them fixing multiple trains. There are several trains that kids can touch – most are located outside before you go into the main area.

Check out our video!

There is Stroller Parking

There is stroller parking, as no strollers are allowed inside. If you have a tiny one, either carry them or take a fabric baby carrier with you. The Holiday Train show is too crowded and the pathways are much too narrow to let a stroller through. Your stroller is also a great place to stash your jackets, as the Haupt Conservatory is very warm for the plants that are inside.

Your railroad obsessed kids will be thrilled, plus there are lots of places to run around outside. Hit the nearby snack bar for some sweet treats and hot cocoa after you go! The snack bar is to the right of the NYBG Shop, which is filled with souvenirs, toys and even Santa from on Tuesdays & Thursdays, November 21–December 31, 2024.

Make sure to bundle up and bring your family to the Holiday Train Show! Now through January 20st. Plan your visit at NYBG.org and make sure to get your tickets in advance on their website as the Holiday Train Show sells out. We recommend taking public transportation as parking may be tough at times. 

Prices for the Holiday Train Show with Grounds Access
Adults are $39
Seniors are $35
Students are $35 (School ID necessary)
Kids (2-12) are $27
Kids under 2 are free.

If you don’t want to go to the Holiday Train Show, prices are much less for NYC residents (but they will check at the Haupt Conservatory to make sure you have tickets for the Holiday Train Show.

Membership

If you want to get into the Holiday Train show for free, we recommend becoming a member. Family memberships are $155 and if you are a family of 5 like we are, you will spend more than that anyway. Memberships pay for themselves usually pay for themselves even if you visit 2x a year.

Santa and Elf Photos

If you are looking to take Santa photos, head over to the NYBG Shop on Tuesdays & Thursdays, November 21–December 31, 2024.
https://www.nybg.org/event/holiday-train-show-2024/photos-with-santa-at-nybg-shop/

Adults Only

After dark, the roving Train Conductors welcome you to Holiday Train Nights, and set you on your journey through the warm glow of the Holiday Train Show. You’ll enjoy the colorful lighting, have a sweet or savory treat, along with a cocktail and sing along to holiday classics and Christmas pop favorites sung by performers in our Locomotive Lounge.

Holiday Train Show

November 16, 2024–January 20, 2025 from 10AM to 6PM at the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

Holiday Train Nights
Adults 21+: November 23, 29, 30; December 7, 13, 14; January 4, 11, & 18
All Ages: December 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, & 28
More info: https://www.nybg.org/event/holiday-train-show-2024/holiday-train-nights/

Get more information: https://www.nybg.org/event/holiday-train-show-2024/plan-your-visit/

Essential Info:
Strollers. Strollers are allowed throughout the Garden grounds with the exception of the Haupt Conservatory, where the Holiday Train Show takes place. Stroller parking is available.
Accessibility. Most key areas of the Garden are wheelchair accessible, including all of the Holiday Train Show. Wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center and Mosholu Entrance. An ID must be left with a Visitor Experience representative. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own mobility devices for Garden navigation. Accessible lifts are located in the Haupt Conservatory and at the entrance to the Mertz Library Building. Use our online accessibility guide to plan your visit or pick up an accessibility guide at an entry gate.
Travel light. NYBG does not offer bag or coat-check facilities.
Photography. You are welcome to take personal, non-flash photography. Tripods, monopods, easels, selfie sticks, and lighting equipment are not permitted in the Haupt Conservatory. Check their Visitor Guidelines for more information about photography at the Garden.

Make sure to discover the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden! It’s definitely a Mama Maven Must!

All photos and videos were taken by Nancy Horn for The Mama Maven Blog© and are copyrighted. Please ask for permission before using or linking to this post.

The post Visiting the Holiday Train Show at the NY Botanical Garden appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

The holidays are around the corner and before you head to the airport to visit relatives or drive upstate to go skiing be sure to add a new tradition: the gorgeous and hysterical ballet of Peter and the Wolf. Why hysterical? Because fashion designer and TV personality Isaac Mizrahi will narrate the famous Prokofiev story – to which he has written a libretto. I have seen this production over the past several years and it just gets more and more clever each time.

Show Dates and Times

Friday, December 6, 2024 6:30 pm
Saturday, December 7, 2024 11:00 am
Saturday, December 7, 2024 1:00 pm
Saturday, December 7, 2024 2:30 pm
Sunday, December 8, 2024 1:00 pm
Sunday, December 8, 2024 2:30 pm
Sunday, December 8, 2024 4:00 pm

Where: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Peter B. Lewis Theater
1071 Fifth Avenue (at 89th Street)
New York, NY 10128
Enter via ramp at 5th Ave and 88th St.

Price: $20 per person and up; Everyone needs a ticket regardless of age.

Click here to purchase tickets or call the box office (212) 423-3575

Photos by Robert Altman

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

——————————————————————————————————–

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a PR consultant and freelance writer and has written for several blogs. She has been living in the New York City area for over twenty years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a mom to three kids, ages 17, 15 and 12.

The post Don’t Miss: Peter & The Wolf with Narration by Isaac Mizrahi appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

At the beginning of the exhibit, there are multiple slides with information about Monet’s life and art. I thought it was really interesting to read how he came up with some of his most famous paintings.

Once you enter the large room, you begin the immersive experience: walls covered with giant slides displaying artwork that keeps rotating, music is played in the background, and sound effects are played: the sounds of waves splashing during the slides of the paintings of the sea; the sounds of birds chirping during the slides of the paintings of gardens. It seemed so real, I almost felt as if I was part of the paintings.

The slides play in a loop in no particular order, so you can enter the main exhibit room at any time, but it just felt to me that the paintings kept getting more and more impressive and each painting was more beautiful than the one before. Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise” (1872) gave the Impressionist movement its name and is considered a pivotal work in the development of modern art. Monet’s “Water Lilies” series, which comprises approximately 250 paintings, is a prime example of his dedication to exploring the harmony of color and nature. His series paintings often depicted the same subject under different conditions, providing a unique insight into his exploration of light and color. His art had a profound influence on the development of modern art, and his legacy continues to be celebrated worldwide.

Claude Monet’s innovative approach to painting and his dedication to capturing the essence of light and nature had a lasting impact on the art world.

The exhibit, which takes about an hour to go through, is located inside the Samanea Mall, at 1500 Old Country Road, Westbury, NY.

Open through January 7.

Sunday: 11am – 6pm (last entry 5pm)
Monday & Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday & Thursday: 11am – 7pm (last entry 6 pm)
Friday & Saturday: 11am – 9pm (last entry 8pm)

Price is $35.99 adult off-peak; $25.99 child (ages 5-15) off-peak. Peak hours is an additional $5 per ticket. Kids 4 and under are free. Click here to purchase tickets.

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a PR consultant and freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for over twenty years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a mom to three kids, ages 16, 14 and 11.

The post Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Live music fans rejoice! From May 10-15 you can pick up $25 Tickets to more than 3,800 shows across North America this year. Concert Week is a great deal and you can’t beat $25 tickets to see some of your favorite artists like 5 Seconds of Summer, Beck & Phoenix, Bebe Rexha, Fall Out Boy, Janet Jackson, Maroon 5, Shania Twain, Bryan Adams, P!nk, and many more. If you’ve seen the prices of concerts lately, this is an amazing deal. Set your smart phone alarms to purchase tickets at Ticketmaster! Don’t wait to get $25 All-In Tickets During Concert Week!

Live Nation today announced the return of Concert Week, offering fans an unbeatable deal: $25 all-in tickets to more than 3,800 shows across North America this year. The annual week-long program kicks off ahead of a robust 2023 summer concert season, getting fans ready to fill their summer months and the rest of their calendar for the year with epic shows and live music from their favorite artists.

The limited-time ticket offer includes over 300 of today’s biggest acts across a wide variety of genres, including: Hip-Hop, Country, Latin, R&B, Metal, Pop, Rock, K-POP, Electronic, Comedy and more.

How Concert Week Works: 

From May 10-16, fans can visit LiveNation.com/ConcertWeek to see the full list of participating events. Once they’ve selected a show, they should look for the ticket type labeled “Concert Week Promotion,” add the ticket(s) to their cart and proceed to checkout.

Performer List List

How to Find Participating Shows

Fans can filter their search on LiveNation.com/ConcertWeek by participating events, venues, or artists. While on the website, fans can also set the location to the closest city and the site will refresh to only include participating shows nearby.

How to Buy Tickets

The general sale for Concert Week will begin Wednesday, May 10th at 10 AM ET through Thursday, May 16th at 11:59 PM, or while supplies last at LiveNation.com/ConcertWeek.

Personally, if I’m able, I plan to try to see Bryan Adams, Boy George & Culture Club with Howard Jones and Berlin, Foreigner, Def Leppard & Mötley Crüe. Bret Michaels and more – I’m a total 80’s kid. And with the pandemmy almost over, I just wanna rock.

The Fine Print:

• Concert Week all-in tickets include all fees upfront in the $25 cost.
• Any taxes will be added at checkout as applicable to each city, state and venue.
• Concert Week all-in tickets are available for select Live Nation events, while inventory lasts.

Go to LiveNation.com/ConcertWeek for more information. Don’t wait to get $25 All-In Tickets During Concert Week!

The post Get $25 Tickets During Concert Week appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Led by Ringmaster Memo Vazquez, Circus Vazquez presents an awe-inspiring, death-defying, hilarious and affordable circus experience for New Jersey and New York area audiences. See the bravado and daring speed of Columbia’s X-Metal Riders inside the Globe of Death while Duo Vanegas defy gravity on the Wheel of Wonder. Be amazed by the acrobatic display of America’s own Super Tumblers and the mastery of Mexico’s Jan & Carolina on the Rolla Bolla balance board. The Medini Xtreme Skaters, a brother & sister act from Italy, will mesmerize with their incredible roller skating maneuvers as Ukraine’s Bingo Group, whose members escaped the war in their home country to join the show, will make you want to move with their energetic and inspired aerial, hand balancing and dance performances. Italy’s famed clown, Fumagalli,weaves his unique side-splitting comedy throughout the show. Laying down the beat behind each act are the talented musicians of the live Circus Vazquez Band.

Dates & Locations:

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; 12 p.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m. on Saturdays; 12 p.m., 3 p.m., 6 p.m. on Sundays.

GARDEN STATE PLAZA MALL : September 9 – 26
One Garden State Plaza, Paramus NJ 07652

WOODBRIDGE MALL : September 30 – October 10
250 Woodbridge Center Drive, Woodbridge Township NJ 07095

WALT WHITMAN MALL : October 14 – 24
160 Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington Station, NY 11746

BRONX TERMINAL MARKET : October 28 – November 14
610 Exterior Street, Bronx NY 10451

CITI FIELD : November 18 – December 12
41 Seaver Way, Queens NY 11368

Price: Tickets start at $25 per person

To purchase tickets please visit https://www.circusvazquez.com/

Photos courtesy of Circus Vazquez

I was not compensated for this post. I received complimentary tickets. All opinion is my own.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a PR consultant and freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for over twenty years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a mom to three kids, ages 15, 13 and 9.

The post Don’t Miss: Circus Vazquez is Coming to the Tri-State Area appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

The show is comprised of six performers, all who have different styles and skills that they showcase. The one thing they do have in common is that all six are absolutely incredible to watch.

The performers:

Dom Chambers – “The Showman” – Dom hails from Australia and has some crazy tricks that just left me speechless: for example, he kept pulling glasses full of beer out of thin air (even out of a shoe!)

Eric Chien – “The Manipulator” – Eric is the winner of “Asia’s Got Talent” and you can easily see why: his sleight-of-hand abilities are something you just can’t see anywhere else and I simply could not figure out how in the world his tricks worked.

Chris Cox – “The Mentalist” – Chris has a really quirky personality and just blew me away with his ability to mind-read random people from the audience.

Paul Dabek – “The Trickster” – Paul was the host of the show and was one of the funniest magicians/trickiest comedians) I’ve ever seen. He just oozed charisma and was an absolute delight to watch. He was very funny from the very beginning of the show but his jokes kept getting funnier and funnier. His tricks were pretty awesome, too.

Kevin James – “The Inventor” – Kevin is a seasoned magician but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t know how to mesmerize an audience with new and innovative tricks no one has seen before.

Enzo Weyne – “The Unforgettable” – Enzo is a charismatic French magician who is quick on his feet and dazzles with his unique and clever tricks.

The first half of the show was amazing but the second half is when things started to get even crazier and the magicians kicked it up a notch. So if you’re not blown away by the first half (and trust me, you will be) the second half is guaranteed to make you doubt everything you know about physics and human ability. In the end the cast got a well-deserved standing ovation.

The show is two hours long (some weekend 11 am matinees are 90 minutes long). I recommend it for kids ages 5 and up. There are several jokes that are really inappropriate but your kids won’t get them. (My ten-year-old definitely didn’t get the adult-oriented humor, thankfully).

Show Details

When: Through January 5th, 2020

Where: Neil Simon Theatre
250 West 52nd St. (between 7 and 8 Ave)

Ticket Price and Purchase Info

Price: $49 and up

To purchase tickets, go through our partner, Today Tix

Photos by Joan Marcus

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for nineteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids, ages 12, 10 and 7.

The post The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays – The perfect Mix of Magic and Comedy appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

I’m lucky enough to live in New York City. The best thing about the city that never sleeps? It’s ALWAYS open! You can always find things to do, even in cold weather. Snow everywhere? Things are still happening. Sleeting rain? Put on a heavy raincoat and boots and catch a subway into Manhattan!

From flurries to scheduling, nothing should stop you from exploring with your family this winter. I don’t even let bladder leaks get in my way. I always chart out restrooms before any city adventure, but I also use Depend® FIT-FLEX® underwear to keep my confidence up. The fabric is ultra-soft and comfortable, and keeps me protected all-day long, so I can focus on taking the city by storm with my family.

If you’re not letting anything stop you from family fun this winter, this guide is for you! Here’s my list of fun things to do with your family in New York city (plus a few things to do just for you, sans kids!):

We’re updating this to add an 11th pick — The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights are back! Open until Jan 5 (Check select dates). Get tickets here: https://fxo.co/DCCA

MoMath

This super-fun, interactive museum will get your kids hooked on math. Conveniently located in Midtown, you can spend hours there and you won’t hear any complaints of boredom. Adults will enjoy themselves too! Restrooms are located on both floors of the museum and have really cool geometric-shaped sinks, in line with the math theme.

Spyscape

A unique interactive experience, Spyscape lets you be a secret agent for a day as you go through various challenges to test out your skills and talent. At the end, you get to find out what type of spy you will be. Restrooms are located on the main exhibit floor, which is accessible via elevator. There are tons of quick serve restaurants nearby where you can grab a delicious lunch!

https://spyscape.com/

Children’s Museum of the Arts

This museum is geared towards slightly younger kids and allows them to engage in various forms of art, from painting to play dough and everything in-between. Two restrooms are located on opposite sides of this museum.

Tenement Museum

Although this museum can only be accessed via a tour, it’s well worth it and most tours are appropriate for kids ages 6 and up. The tours are often given by a costumed actor and enable you to see what life was like for the immigrants in NY in the beginning of the 20th century. During the tour there is no access to the restroom, but they are located in the adjacent building and you can always leave mid-tour if necessary.

New York Public Library

Don’t miss this incredible library. Be sure to stop by the kids’ room to view real artifacts from A.A. Milne’s personal collection of toys that inspired him to write Winnie the Pooh (including Pooh himself). Older kids will enjoy the free library tour. Restrooms are located near the kids’ room, as well as other areas. Also check out the prettiest public restrooms in NYC right in Bryant Park, where you’ll enjoy fresh flower displays and classic music.

https://www.nypl.org/

Broadway Shows

There are a lot of family-friendly Broadway shows going on right now. For tweens and teens, Mean Girls is a good option as it is both fun and with a strong anti-bullying message. Restrooms are located in the theater and are easily accessible.

If you need Broadway (off Broadway Tickets), we are a TodayTix affiliate and we highly recommend them! Go here to get tickets for such shows like The Rockettes and a Christmas Carol – plus you can get HAMILTON!! Makes such a great gift! We’re a TodayTix affiliate, purchase through our link! TodayTix.com.

Cooking Classes

Who doesn’t love home-made, fresh-out-of-the-oven pizza? Your kids will love the pizza-making class at Rossopomodoro. Call to find out when the next class will take place. Restroom is one flight down.

Go on an Interactive Tour 

Check out Fable and Lark – a company that provides interactive tours. The Harry Potter-themed tour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is especially popular and really fun. There are several restrooms throughout the Met Museum.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not

This fascinating museum, located in Times Square, holds a vast collection of the world’s most bizarre artifacts. In accordance with the theme, the restroom has lots of fun tidbits, as well as fart noises, to the delight of kids (and kids at heart).

Museum of Natural History

Lovers of all things nature can spend all day at this museum and still not see everything. If your kids are fans of dinosaurs, be sure to check out the new T-Rex exhibit. Don’t like dinosaurs or other animals? There’s plenty of other exhibits, such as exhibits about people from different cultures, about space and also about the environment. Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the museum.

As I’ve shared, I, along with nearly 65 million Americans, experience bladder leakage. But I definitely don’t let it get in the way of how I want to live my life or my winter adventures. That’s exactly what I would tell a friend – don’t let bladder leakage stop you from living your best life. If you or someone you know is looking for advice and resource on bladder leaks, join The Incontinence Community, a private Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/InconCommunity. Ten Fun Family Activities to do in NYC During Cold Weather

New York City Photo Credit: Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

The post Ten Fun Family Activities to do in NYC During Cold Weather appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

We got a chance to see The Play That Goes Wrong in NYC recently and it was a total blast! This show is perfect for families and will have all members of the family – from 8 to 80 in total hysterics. Review: The Play That Goes Wrong – Hysterically Funny and Perfect for Families

This Olivier Award-winning comedy was so funny — think Monty Python + Sherlock Holmes. This is a show about a play within a play. A college’s theatre troop is having the opening night of their show, The Murder at Haversham Manor. Things start going from bad to worse. There’s an unconscious leading lady, a stand-in leading lady that won’t literally leave the stage, a corpse that won’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines).

As things get crazier and crazier, you will laugh more and more. My eight year old can do the exact name of the show in deadpan, “The Murder at Haversham Manor”. He couldn’t believe how nuts the show got and by the time the set starting falling down he was on the floor of the theatre giggling. We walked out of the show laughing and would definitely see it again. So, if you like to laugh, this is definitely the show for you!

For more info about the show, go to: https://www.broadwaygoeswrong.com/

The post Review: The Play That Goes Wrong – Hysterically Funny and Perfect for Families appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

New York City in the summer is a treat. The whirling bustle of the city actually slows down to a dull roar and people stop their frenetic place. Catching a drink or a meal al fresco is a must, and everyone just seems to be more relax. New Yorkers relaxed? Yes, it actually happens! We let the kids stay up late and we all sleep in a little. Summer in the city can be so much fun too! But there’s one thing that doesn’t exactly take time off — my bladder leakage issue. So, while I’m enjoying myself this summer, I always make sure that I am protected with Depend and that I’ve scoped out the bathroom facilities ahead of time.
Here’s my list of fun summertime NYC activities you can do either with your friends or your family, all while keeping yourself ahead of any bladder leakage issues. Where To Find a Bathroom While You’re Exploring New York CityMy Favorite NYC Summer Activities & Tips on Easily Finding a Restroom Around NYC Where To Find a Bathroom While You’re Exploring NYC

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

Broadway Shows

I love seeing Broadway musical any time of the year, but in the summer, when things are more relaxed, I try to see more shows. And yes, the cheaper seats are just as good! As long as I get to see a show, I’m happy! When I walk into the theatre, I immediately ask where the closest bathroom to my seat is and I go before the show and right after the show (everyone is using the restroom during the intermission and I hate to wait on long lines). Also, if you have to use the bathroom as you are on the way to your show, find a nice restaurant and then walk in confidently and scoot right into the restroom — I’ve done this many times. Check out my BEETLEJUICE review, The Play That Goes Wrong review (totally great for kids), BEAUTIFUL The Carole King Musical, and Pretty Woman the Musical Review. BEETLEJUICE and Pretty Woman are not skewed for kids, just keep that in mind. For BEETLEJUICE, if you are on the Orchestra level, there’s a handicapped bathroom right near the drinks cart on the back left. Pretty Woman, which is unfortunately closing in August won’t let you in early to use the bathroom, there’s a cute restaurant right to the left of the theatre that you can sneak into. If it’s possible, I try to grab dinner in the Theatre District first. Try to eat around 2 – 2 ½ hours before your show starts, you may have to wait for your table! There are so many great places to eat! Favorites in the area are Nizza, Trattoria Daniela, and John’s Pizza. Bring your appetite!

Central Park

I love Central Park! I try to go in by either by the Plaza or by Columbus Circle. I always stop near one of the fast-casual restaurants near either the Plaza or the Time Warner Center to use the facilities and then I’ll hit the park for an hour. If I’m with my family, then we’ll let the kids run around on the grass or if I’m with a friend, we’ll stroll and people watch. There are bathrooms around the park, but I usually prefer to go before I get to the park and then when I leave.

Street Fairs

Street Fairs are so much fun! There are street fairs in NYC just around every weekend. I love strolling along and looking at all the fun things for sale. There’s always a restaurant or a coffee shop that I can use the restrooms at. I’ll try to time my visits with getting a snack or an iced beverage.

Cruises to Nowhere

Sometimes it’s just fun to get on a boat and ride around The Big Apple.We love the Hornblower Dinner Cruises because they are just one big party! The food is always delicious and the dancing is a blast!. Plus, there are easily accessible and spotless restrooms! Read our review here and here.

Bronx Zoo

I’ve been a fan of the Bronx Zoo since I was a kid and my grandfather used to take me there. Now, I love to take my family or a friend and spend the day. There are TONS of clean bathrooms, so I keep a map on me and note where the bathrooms are as we stroll. I make it a point not to have a set itinerary at the Bronx Zoo – we simple pick a few animals, pull out the map and just start walking. Read my Family Guide to the Bronx Zoo.

THE RIDE Interactive NYC Experience

Riding a Tourist Bus in NYC is a real treat, but The Ride takes it to the next level with it’s interactive experience. However, it’s only around an hour and leaves from Times Square. There’s no bathroom on board, but there’s a Starbucks and a bunch of restaurants right near where it leaves from. Duck in one of those places to use the restroom! Check out my review with video!

I hope you get to check out some of the fun NYC activities on my list! Nearly 65 million Americans experience bladder leakage in one form or another, but bladder leakage doesn’t have to get in the way of living a confident, uninterrupted life.

If you experience incontinence, join The Incontinence Community on Facebook to connect with others, get advice and even share your own tips: http://bit.ly/InconCommunity.

Photo credit for NYC Photo Where To Find a Bathroom While You’re Exploring New York City

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

More New York City Content

King Kong on Broadway: It’s Not a Show, It’s an Experience! (+ Discount Code)

The Downtown Experience: An Unforgettable Multi-Media Experience of Lower Manhattan

Gulliver’s Gate: A Magical Land of Miniatures in Times Square

https://www.themamamaven.com/the-tour/

The post Where To Find a Bathroom While You’re Exploring New York City appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

New Shanghai Circus features astonishing athletes while executing breathtaking feats as they stretch the limits of human ability in this spellbinding show that draws upon 2,000 years of Chinese circus traditions. If it’s humanly possible – and even if it seems as if it’s not – these acrobats, jugglers and contortionists do it with spectacular flair. 

New Shanghai Circus is considered to be China’s most celebrated acrobatic company; the performers for the New Shanghai Circus have stunned and amazed audiences all over the world. Each year the troupe adds new performers creating a revolving line-up of award winning favorites the Human Strength and Beauty, Plates Spinning, Jar Jugglers, Diabolo, Magic Clock, Butterfly Lovers, and more. Over 40 Acrobats of China showcase dramatic interpretation of classic Chinese dance and physical performance art with extraordinary and inventive feats of strength and skill, control and balance, grace and charisma.

When: 2/24/2019 at 4 pm

Where: Schimmel Center at Pace University
3 Spruce St., NYC (between Park Row and Gold St.)

Price: $29 and up. $20 for kids under 12, when accompanied by an adult.

To purchase tickets click here or call the box office (212) 346-1715. Box office hours are Tue-Sat 12-5 and three hours prior to performance time until intermission.

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show. Upcoming Show: New Shanghai Circus at Pace University

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for eighteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 12, 9 and 6) and loves finding great products for her family. Upcoming Show: New Shanghai Circus at Pace University

The post Upcoming Show: New Shanghai Circus at Pace University appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Go Home Tiny Monster, from Bonnie Duncan and The Gottabees (January 19th at 11 am & 2 pm)

One day, Sylvie and her family of handmade creatures suddenly find themselves in need of a new home. Luckily, they have an audience full of people who can help them out. Go Home Tiny Monster features The Gottabees’ trademark mix of puppetry, joyously absurd silliness, physical theater, live music, and surprising poignancy.

The Doubtful Sprout, from Liz Joyce and a Couple of Puppets (February 9th at 11 am & 2 pm)

Get ready to explore the world under your feet in this underground puppet adventure. Tunnel down with Worm and Sprout as they discover the mysterious life found in soil. Along the way, kids help figure out the secrets that help Sprout grow. Acclaimed master Puppeteer Liz Joyce, brings this ecological wonderland to life with several styles of puppets, projections and song.

The Amazing Story Machine, from Doppelskope (February 23rd at 11 am & 2 pm)

The Grimm family is on the verge of presenting their amazing new Story Machine, which runs on steam and dreams and promises to revolutionize how stories are told and how people connect. When their fabulous contraption malfunctions, they have to invent a new way of storytelling on the spot, using puppets and help from the audience. The Grimms explore some of their favorite fairy tales, including The Hare and the Hedgehog, Hansel and Gretel, and The Brave Little Tailor. The show features multiple styles of puppetry, including tabletop puppetry, object theatre, and shadow puppetry, as well as live music, projections, and physical comedy.

Beauty and the Beast, from the National Marionette Theatre (March 9 at 11 am & 2 pm)

This classic tale of the ferocious looking Beast with a kind heart is a perennial favorite with audiences worldwide, and is brought to vivid life through stunning marionettes. Join Beauty, our brave heroine, as she discovers there are many ways that one can be beautiful in this world, and how one looks on the outside can be very different than how one is on the inside.

All performances take place at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, (at 95th St.) The shows are appropriate for kids ages 2 and up and are $17 per person. Click here to purchase tickets.Click here to purchase tickets. Puppet Shows Galore at Symphony Space

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for eighteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 11, 9 and 6) and loves finding great products for her family.

The post Don’t Miss: Puppet Shows Galore at Symphony Space appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Halloween is quickly approaching! I love a tea in the city! The Plaza is posh & iconic, so when I learned I would be able to cover the annual Trick or Treat Tea at The  Plaza Hotel for The Mama Maven, I got spooker boo-per  excited! Don’t Miss: Kid-Approved Trick-or-Treat Tea at the Plaza in NYC

Spooky and kid-approved tea offerings like Tombstone Cucumber Sandwiches and Deviled Egg Salad will be served. And, the Trick or Treat Candy Cart, which I hear will be loaded with extravagant chocolate and candy will be making the rounds. With the guarantee of so many treats and so much fabulousness, it’s going to be an amazing time for adults & kids to enjoy together.

My son and I will be going in costume and I cannot wait to tell you all about it!

You can go too!

Location: The Palm Court at The Plaza
Dates: Saturday Oct 28^th – Tuesday Oct 31^st  (12pm – 5pm, last seating at 4:45pm)
Cost: $70 per person
Call: 212-546-5300 to make a reservation

The post Don’t Miss: Kid-Approved Trick-or-Treat Tea at the Plaza in NYC appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

The show is based on four books by Eric Carle: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Lonely Firefly and Brown Bear, Brown Bear (which was written by Bill Martin Jr. and illustrated by Eric Carle and is celebrating its 50th anniversary!)

In the show, the books come to life with 75 colorful puppets. This creates another dimension of the stories; rather than have the kids look at the pictures listen to you reading the books, they can watch them happen before their eyes.

Toddlers will absolutely delight in seeing the puppets and school-aged children will appreciate seeing their beloved classic books through a new medium. My kids especially loved the puppets and the noises that they were “making”. The beautiful music is the perfect accompaniment to the show and the performers are full of positive energy and perform with contagious smiles on their faces.

The show’s creator, Jonathan Rockefeller, wrote a book inspired by Eric Carle when he was four-years-old. About seven years ago he was unpacking some boxes and came across the book, which he now published. It’s available for purchase ($10) exclusively at the Hungry Caterpillar pop-up store at the show. The book is really cute with adorable drawings and a cheeky message. Hard to believe it was written by a four-year-old but when you see Rockefeller’s inventiveness throughout the show you can understand this creativity was nurtured long ago.

The show is 55 minutes long with no intermission. It is designed to be autism-friendly. The theater is small so you can see really well even from the back.

Tip: I recommend getting the four books before the show, either from a store or the library, if you don’t already own them.

When: Through February 4th, 2018

Where: DR2 Theatre
103 East 15th St. (near Union Square Park)

Price: $49.50 per person; $69.50 (premium seats); $89.50 (VIP experience)

To purchase tickets click here or call (800) 982-2787. You can also purchase directly from the box office (hours: Tue-Sat 1-6).

Photos by Russ Rowland

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for seventeen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 10, 8 and 5) and loves finding great products for her family. 

The post Show Review: Jonathan Rockefeller’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Some kids like trains and action figures, some like dolls and Legos. But I don’t think I have ever met a kid who doesn’t like bubbles. There’s something about bubbles that just makes kids smile. I’m not exactly sure why, but when I attended the Gazillion Bubble Show last week in New York I saw lots and lots of smiles on kids’ faces. There were plenty of smiles on their parents’ faces as well. We’ve got a special discount on tickets at the end of this post and a 4 pack of tickets giveaway, read on! A Gazillion Bubble Tricks at The Gazillion Bubble Show! Including Show Discount and Ticket Giveaway)

For those who have never heard of the Gazillion Bubble Show, it’s show dedicated to…yep, you guessed it: bubbles! Bubbles of all sizes, types and sometimes even shapes. The performer creates bubbles and then creates bubbles within those bubbles. There are lots of different tricks, such as placing a small bubble within a larger bubble, and then taking it out while keeping the larger bubble intact. Set to fun, upbeat music, and coupled with bright colorful lights, the show is a celebration of bubbles and what can be done with them, which, apparently, is a lot!

The performer showcased her bubble-making talents and was clearly having the time of her life stunning the audience again and again with the cool bubble tricks. The finale – bubbles in the entire theater – was especially cool to watch!

The show is slightly over an hour and is appropriate for all ages. Before and after the show you can have your picture taken inside a large bubble for a fee of $20.

Where: New World Stages
340 West 50th Street (btwn 8 & 9 Ave)

When: Fridays at 7pm; Saturdays at 11am, 2pm & 4:30pm; Sundays at 12pm & 3pm.

Price: Tickets as Low as $45* (Reg. $75) Special rate for lap infants under two: $20 to purchase at box office.

3 WAYS TO BUY YOUR TICKETS:
1. ONLINE: Click Here or Visit TelechargeOffers.com & enter code: GBPOP101
2. BY PHONE: Call 212-947-8844 & mention code: GBPOP101
3. IN PERSON: Print this offer & bring to New World Stages Box Office- 340 West 50th St Btw 8th & 9th Ave.

For Birthday Parties and groups or 12 and more call 1-866-6-GAZTIX or visit the website: GazillionBubbleShow.com

*Restrictions: Tickets regularly $75. Offer valid on select performances through 2/25/18. $45 For All Regular Performances. Blackout dates may apply. All prices include a $2 facility fee. All sales are final – no refunds or exchanges. Offer subject to availability and prior sale. Not valid in combination with any other offers. Normal service charges apply to phone and internet orders. Performance schedule subject to change. Offer may be revoked or modified at any time without notice. 10 ticket limit per order.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 10, 8 and 4) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier. 

The post A Gazillion Bubble Tricks at The Gazillion Bubble Show! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

After a twelve-year hiatus from New York City, “Opus Cactus” returns with an abundance of fresh energy. Celebrating the wonders and beauty of the American southwest, Pendleton’s “Opus Cactus” is a gorgeously colored, richly inventive work of dance fantasy. Graceful and athletic, the dancers dazzle with their technique, versatility, and artistry, as they morph effortlessly into luminous, exotic, many-limbed creatures of the desert — soaring outlandish birds, and skittering insect collectives. Audiences will witness giant saguaros, tumbleweeds, fire dancers, cactus wrens, and a slithering Gila monster emerge from an ingenious use of costumes, lighting, and the human body as the superbly physical MOMIX dancers extend the reach of the imagination – and dance – into worlds strange and new. With music from the Swingle Sisters to Brian Eno as a backdrop, this kaleidoscopic, illusory world beckons you to suspend your disbelief and embrace the wonder that is uniquely MOMIX.

When: June 27th – July 16, daily evening performances, with several weekend matinee performances as well.

Where: The Joyce Theater
                175 8th Ave. (corner of 19th St.)

Price: $10-$66

To purchase tickets click here or call (212) 242-0800. The show is recommended for kids ages 7 and up.

Photos by Charles Azzopardi

I was not compensated for this post. I received complimentary tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 10, 8 and 4) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier. S

The post Don’t Miss: Opus Cactus by MOMIX – Watch the Desert Come to Life! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Potions & Planting invites boys and girls, ages 5-10, as well as their favorite stuffed animal or teddy bear, and their parents of course, to a traditional British high tea party on the gorgeous rooftop Gallow Green. Guests are encouraged to bring a recyclable bottle to make their own potions that they will be able to bring home; and the garden’s residents will provide lessons in planting as well as offering take-home mini flower press, plant soil, and seeds so that the children can teach others how to plant and seed. While all adults and young guests must have a paid reservation, dolls and teddy bears may enter free of charge and will get their own miniature seat and personalized bib.

Admission includes a traditional British high tea platter, refreshing pink lemonade, and hands-on lessons in potions and plantings. For adults, Gallow Green’s extensive cocktail and punch menu is available for purchased. Tickets are $25.00/person for this magical family experience.

For more information please visit http://events.mckittrickhotel.com/childrenspotionsandplanting/ 

The McKittrick Hotel Hosts Annua

l Children’s Potions and Planting on the Rooftop of Gallow Green May 20, June 3, July 33 & Aug 12 The McKittrick Hotel Hosts Annual Children’s Potions and Planting Events for 4 Saturdays This Summer on the Rooftop of Gallow Green

The post The McKittrick Hotel Hosts Annual Children’s Potions and Planting Events for 4 Saturdays This Summer on the Rooftop of Gallow Green appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

In this New York premiere performance, the Just Kidding audience will witness a crazy adventure through the world of the circus, where comedy, acrobatics, balancing, cycling and juggling mingle with the festive rhythms of horn-driven live music. Over the 70 minute performance these crazy characters will take the audience through a rock and roll atmosphere. As general manager and founder (and bicycle acrobat) Sylvain Dubois notes, “the show features funky, horn-driven live music and constant motion. Exuding energy from start to finish, our performers love to showcase their physical and musical prowess. The audience is usually howling with pleasure and admiration.” This seven-member, Montreal based cast has performed all over the world, including Brazil, Malta and Mexico, as well as at Disney’s Epcot Center in Florida.

Here’s a video from the performance:

When: January 7th, 2017 at 11am & 2pm

Where: Symphony space
2537 Broadway (at 95th St.) NYC

Price: $17 per person

To purchase tickets click here or call the box office (212) 864-5400 (Tue-Sun 1pm-6pm)

More fun at Symphony Space in January:

• 1/8 at 11 am and 2 pm: Playing by Air – juggling and musical acrobatics
• 8/8 at 3 pm: Stam-Pede – a percussive dance showcase featuring several top companies.
• 1/14 at 11 am – Michael and the Rockness Monsters in concert
• 1/21 at 11 am and 2 pm – Punschi: German-style puppetry with lots of audience participation
• 1/28 at 11 am – Alex and the Kaleidoscope Band in concert

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show. Don’t Miss: Les Parfaits Inconnus – An Unconventional Circus at Symphony Space

—————————————————————————————————————————————————–

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 9, 7 and 4) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post Don’t Miss: Les Parfaits Inconnus – An Unconventional Circus at Symphony Space appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

In what has become an annual holiday tradition, Works & Process at the Guggenheim presents ten performances of Sergei Prokofiev’s charming children’s classic, Peter & the Wolf. Reviving the sold-out 2015 production, for the tenth year, renowned fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi will narrate the production. Brad Lubman will conduct Ensemble Signal. Mizrahi will narrate, direct, design the set and costumes, and his special cast will perform choreography by John Heginbotham, in which the familiar characters come to life in the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Peter B. Lewis Theater at the Guggenheim. The story brings 30 minutes of suspense, including a happy ending, and allows the young and young-at-heart to hear and learn the various instruments in the orchestra. The performance is recommended for children ages 5. 

When: December 3, 4, 10, 11 at 2:30 & 4pm
               December 9 at 5pm and 6:30pm.

Where: The Guggenheim Museum
                Peter B. Lewis Theater
                1071 Fifth Avenue, NYC
(Enter theater at ramp at 5th Ave. @ 88th St.)

Price: $40 per person

To purchase tickets click here or call (212) 423-3575

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

———————————————————————————————————

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 9, 7 and 4) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post Upcoming Show: Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim Narrated by Isaac Mizrahi appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Photo: Martin Girard / shootstudio.ca

And what a show it is! Forget what you’ve seen in a circus before – Kurios is on a level of its own. Imagination knows no boundaries here; this is an Alice-in-Wonderland-type of world where nothing makes sense and you find yourself sitting in your seat asking yourself over and over “can they do that???” Indeed, if I had to describe the show in one word it would be: unpredictable. To help you understand better, here are my favorite acts: a man who thinks he is a cat (I was almost convinced he was), a puppet-less puppet show that displays nothing but hands and a dinner table hanging upside-down from the ceiling. Does any of that make sense? it’s not supposed to.

Photo: Martin Girard / shootstudio.ca

Interwoven between these bizarre acts are even more bizarre acts that are very much circus-like in their appearance but that take circus performance to a whole other level, such as a giant trampoline-like net in which acrobats bounce so high you think they might make a hole in the tent’s ceiling. Aside from the obvious impressive feats, Cirque du Soleil spared no expense in this lavish production with elaborate set design, stunning detailed costumes and distinctive music featuring a live vocalist that perfectly matches the atmosphere.

Photo: Martin Girard / shootstudio.ca

The circus tent is relatively small – there’s no bad seat in the house. We sat ten rows from the back and saw very well. Written and directed by Michel Laprise, the performance is 2 hours and 1o minutes long (including a 25 minute intermission) and is family-friendly. There’s no age recommendation on the website but I think it would be appropriate for school-aged kids 5 and up (assuming they’d be able to sit still for the duration of the show).

Here’s a video from the show:

Where: Randall’s Island, NYC. Here’s a link for transportation tips. I took the M35 bus from 125th and Lexington. I don’t recommend walking.

When: Until November 27th, 2016

Price: $54 – $175

To purchase tickets click here or call 1-877-924-7783

Photo: Martin Girard / shootstudio.ca

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show.

———————————————————————————————————

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 9, 7 and 4) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post Don’t Miss: Cirque du Soleil’s Kurios – Cabinet of Curiosities appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Cirque-tacular Entertainment is a premiere New York City based acrobatic and specialty entertainment company. Through thousands of performances in the last ten years, their work has been enjoyed in over 70 countries, by millions live, in conjunction with the most recognized brands, venues, and arts organizations of our age.

Here’s a sneak peek:

The regular performances are 100 minutes long (+intermission) and recommended for kids ages 10 and older. On September 11, 2016 at 11am, a Special Children’s Performance runs 70 minutes with no intermission; perfect for younger art lovers!

When: September 6th-11th at various times. Click here to see full schedule.

Where: The Theater at the 14th street Y
344 East 14th Street, NYC

Price: $39.50-$75; $25 for the special children’s performance.

To purchase tickets click here.

Future children’s performances at the 14th Street Y include Hanna and the Moonlit Dress and another Cirque-tacular performance: Snokus Pucus: Enchant the Spring

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show. Don’t Miss: Cirque-tacular: The Art of Circus at the 14th Street Y

———————————————————————————————————

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is the owner of Mama’s Bites and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 9, 7 and 3) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post Don’t Miss: Cirque-tacular: The Art of Circus at the 14th Street Y appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

First and foremost, STOMP is a show where you’re constantly wondering what’s next. The idea of the show is simple: make rhythm and music from various objects. Eight performers use household items and industrial objects to create sounds in a very inventive and creative way. Each time a new object was brought on stage I constantly kept asking myself “what’s next?”. Some items were pretty obvious, such a trash bins. But when it came to a Zippo lighter, a broom and a matchbox I was simply blown away. I thought it would get repetitive but each number was totally different from the others and very unique.

The performers are so incredibly skilled they can even make sounds simply with their hands and feet, and it still sounds amazing! The fun rhythms and songs make this upbeat performance high energy and very intense, although the occasional comedy lightens up the show and adds another dimension. There are also some interactive parts, such as having the audience clap along and participate in some of the music, for an even more fun atmosphere. Even more astounding is the trust that the performers have with one another when it comes to the timing of the beat, in addition to their percussion skills.

Most of the show is really loud – there’s a lot of booming, banging noises, so if you have kids who are super-sensitive to loud noise it might not be a good idea to bring them. The show is strictly for kids over 4 for a reason so make sure your child can handle all the noise. My kids, at 9 and 7, were fine with it. The performance runs one hour and 45 minutes with no intermission.

When: Tuesdays -Fridays 8pm; Saturdays: 3pm & 8pm; Sundays: 2pm & 5:30pm.

Where: The Orpheum Theatre
126 2nd Avenue (at St. Mark’s Place)

Price: $48 -$100

To Purchase Tickets click here or call (800) 982-2787. You can also purchase tickets at the box office. Click here for hours.

Photos by Steve McNicholas

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show. STOMP at the Orpheum Theatre Never Misses a Beat!

———————————————————————————————————

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is the owner of Mama’s Bites and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 9, 7 and 3) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post STOMP at the Orpheum Theatre Never Misses a Beat! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Is there anyone who doesn’t own at least one book by Eric Carle?! We have a few that my kids have owned since infancy. The timeless, classic stories and the colorful, unforgettable pictures of Eric Carle are an inseparable part of an American childhood. This winter, come see Eric Carle’s books come to life in a performance called “The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show”.

The show is based on four books by Eric Carle: The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse, The Very Lonely Firefly and The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the show is comprised of 75 dazzling puppets, dancing and narration of the four stories. I recently saw the show with my kids and found it absolutely endearing! Everything about it is top-notch! The skilled puppeteers take turns narrating the stories and the puppets, created by The Puppet Kitchen, are beautifully done and true to the original collage illustrations in the books.

The show is recommended for kids ages 2-7 but my daughter who just turned nine absolutely loved it and said that anyone who likes Eric Carle books will love the show. This is probably the show’s charm – it appeals to lovers of Eric Carle’s books and artwork, regardless of their age.

The show is about an hour long and has an autism-friendly performance on March 12 at 4:30pm and a Spanish speaking performance on March 19th at 4:30pm.

When: Through March 27th, 2016

Where: 47th Street Theater
304 West 47th Street (btwn 8 & 9 Aves.)

Prices start at $49.50.

To purchase tickets click here.

I was not compensated for this post. I received complimentary tickets.

———————————————————————————————————

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is the owner of Mama’s Bites and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 9, 6 and 3) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post Don’t Miss: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

In the beginning part, she described how her Auntie treats her — and the way she tells her story, I couldn’t help but picture her aunt scolding her and “instructing her” on how to act around the boys. Later on, she brings the Auntie back into the story and it’s even more powerful to see where the relationship changes. It’s not always a happy story, in fact there are parts where I teared up, but I really felt Staceyann’s pain and longing — and I was rooting for her.

She portrayed her pregnancy powerfully and totally realistically. Like Staceyann, I was nauseous most of my pregnancy with B (I threw up ’til month 7), so when she talked about going everywhere with plastic bags in her purse, I laughed, because I did that also. As a mother, I could really identify with the part where she talks about being handed her child and not really being sure what to do — because kids don’t come with a manual. Even though things were very difficult for Staceyann in life, she never gave up her spirit or stopping trying for more.

We heartily recommend MotherStruck! You will tear up and you will laugh, but you’ll be in awe of Staceyann Chin’s performance.

Showtimes:

• Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30pm
• Friday at 8pm
• Saturday at 4pm and 8pm
• Sunday at 5pm

For more info: 

Go to the MotherStruck! website  – http://bit.ly/MotherStruckO2O
Discount Ticket Code http://bit.ly/MotherStruckTix  – select seats that say the “Blissful Media Group”

The post Don’t Miss: MotherStruck! (+ Discount Code) appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Giveaway is closed and a winner has been chosen. NYC’s beloved circus is back in town! Big Apple Circus will be in New York from October 21 until January 10th, 2016. Don’t miss the incredible show, featuring an especially cool theme showcasing top-notch performers from across the globe at the Big Top at Lincoln Center.

The show runs until January 10, 2016.

Tickets start at $25. Click here to purchase. Kids under 3 are free. Use promo code BIGAPPLE to save 20% off entire purchase.

Big Apple Circus is giving out a family Four-Pack to the opening night performance on Wednesday, October 21st at 6:30pm.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Photos by Maike Schultz.

I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets.

————————————————————————————————————

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is the owner of Mama’s Bites and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 8, 6 and 3) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.

The post Don’t Miss Big Apple Circus’ The Grand Tour appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Google Play introduced a multisensory experience of interactive, fun and enriching family-friendly activities with physical and digital play installations by Google Play partners, including Nickelodeon, Toca Boca, Crayola, Tynker, and Sesame Street.

Thanks to Danielle Wilson of Dellah’s Jubilation for letting me snap a pic of her sons.

The ‘Family Play Time’ event welcomed kids of all ages to explore Google Play’s latest family offerings at the Play store.

Kids discovered their musical sides by experimenting with mixing tracks and creating their own unique sounds at the Crayola DJ app station (note: This is a client of the agency I work with, but I was there as a blogger that day, not representing my agency).

Kids also learned the app to program overhead lights and fly a drone at the Tynker station – which was a big hit. 

Elmo and SpongeBob also showed up. 

Google expert and product manager for Google Play, Eunice Kim, was in attendance to showcase the latest in digital entertainment.

Eleven-year-old DJ Fulano, showcased a special mix created with Crayola using the Crayola DJ app.

Influencer guests in attendance included Drea de Matteo (Actress), Dan’ee Doty (Model), Karolina Kurkova (Model), Alexander Lundqvist (Model/Actor), Emeka Okafor (NBA player), Sheinelle Jones (Today Show), Coltrane Curtis (Social Influencer), Julia Von Boehm (Stylist), Zanna Rassi (TV Personality), Mazdack Rassi (MILK Studios), Jodie Synder (Dannijo), and Kristin McGee (Celebrity Fitness Personality), among several others. 

There are so many new family-friendly features that we are nuts about. 

Thank you to Google Play for inviting us to this fun event. We received a swag bag. As always, all opinions are our own. 

Never miss a post! Name:* Your email address:* Please enter all required fields Correct invalid entries No spam, ever. Promise. Powered by FeedBlitz

The post New Family Experience on Google Play #FamilyPlayTime appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

How Do You Make Your Garden Grow children’s garden, presented by FarmON! Foundation will be by the Mouse House exhibit and will offer tons of kid-friendly events taking place every weekend. The fun started with the grand re-opening of the Children’s Zoo on Saturday, May 30 with a visit by Peppa Pig and continues with lots of other veggie-friendly activities at the children’s zoo and in the garden this month. Don’t miss the special Father’s Day weekend celebration! Starting June 8^th, the garden will be open daily with all sorts of fun activities. Keep reading for details on what Bronx Zoo has to offer and check bronxzoo.com/events for more information.

I am a WCS Zoo Crew Ambassador and receive a complimentary family premium membership and exclusive opportunities for my participation.

The post June Events at the Bronx Zoo: Children’s Zoo Opens, Children’s Garden & Re-Usable The Musical appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.