The Broadway League announced that Broadway performances in New York City will be suspended through the remainder of 2020 due to COVID-19. They released updated information regarding performance cancellations and ticketing. Broadway theaters are now offering refunds and exchanges for tickets purchased for all performances through Jan. 3, 2021.

Broadway

While continuing to work with city and state officials along with leaders in science, technology and medicine The Broadway league is trying to formulate the best plan to restart the industry. Some of the logistics being reviewed include screening and testing, cleaning and sanitizing, wayfinding in theaters, backstage protocol and much more. 

Returning productions are currently projected to resume performances over a series of rolling dates in early 2021. Tickets for performances for next winter and spring are expected to go on sale in the coming weeks. For regular updates on ticket sales, individual show announcements, performance dates, and more, please check Broadway.org for information as it becomes available.

“The Broadway experience can be deeply personal but it is also, crucially, communal,” said Chairman of the Board of The Broadway League Thomas Schumacher.  “The alchemy of 1000 strangers bonding into a single audience fueling each performer on stage and behind the scenes will be possible again when Broadway theatres can safely host full houses.  Every single member of our community is eager to get back to work sharing stories that inspire our audience through the transformative power of a shared live experience.  The safety of our cast, crew, orchestra and audience is our highest priority and we look forward to returning to our stages only when it’s safe to do so. One thing is for sure, when we return we will be stronger and more needed than ever.”

“Our membership is working closely with the theatrical unions and in concert with key experts and some of the greatest minds inside and outside of the industry to explore protocols for all aspects of reopening. We are focused on identifying and implementing necessary measures that will enable us to resume performances safely for Broadway audiences and employees,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of the Broadway League. “We are determined to bring back the people who rely on this industry for their livelihood, and to welcome back all those who love this vital part of New York City, as soon as it is safe to do so.  As so many of us in the Broadway community have been saying during this time – We’ll be back, and we have so many more stories to tell.”

Those holding tickets for performances through Jan. 3, 2021 will receive an e-mail from their point of purchase with detailed information regarding refund and exchange options. Any customers holding tickets through Jan. 3, 2021 that have not received an e-mail by Jul. 13 are advised to contact their point of purchase for assistance after this date.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Sudan Ouyang on Unsplash

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The origin of International Women’s Day dates back to a women’s celebration organized by the Socialist Party of America in response to a march in Denmark in 1910. Women in Europe protested by marching on March 19th, 1911, to demand the right to vote and hold public office. In 1975, the United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day as March 8th.

Did you know that the day is an official holiday in countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, and Zambia? No matter how the day is celebrated, the idea behind the day is to celebrate women’s rights, equality, and progress. Here are five women who broke through barriers in 2020 and did something that was once considered impossible for women!

1. Heaven Fitch: First Female Wrestling Champ (United States) Teenager Heaven Fitch was the first female wrestling champ in the state of North Carolina. She beat her opponent, a teen boy, in a match that she won 11-3. Asked about her interest in wrestling, Fitch said she was always interested in wrestling because her brothers competed and she was their sparring partner. “(My parents) didn’t want me to wrestle,” she said. “I’m pretty sure it was because they didn’t want me to get hurt. But I would just be like, ‘Well, if they can do it, then I should be able to do it.’”

2. Reema Juffali: First Female Race Car Driver (Saudi Arabia) Women were banned from driving cars in Saudi Arabia until 2018. But Reema Juffali, the country’s first race car driver, was excited about cars and racing long before 2017. She attended a course in car racing in 2014 in the United States and it launched a passion for her. She is expected to compete in the 2020 Formula 4 racing championship in United Arab Emirates. Asked about her path-breaking interest, she says, “Many of [my friends and family] know little about racing. But they all know how much it means to me and are very supportive and proud. That’s more than I can ask for.”

3. Captain Rosie Wild: First Female Office To Pass A Brutal Test (United Kingdom) Even though women were allowed to take All Arms Pre-Parachute selection course, a brutal entry test to an elite regiment of the British Army for more than a decade, Captain Rosie Wild is the first woman to actually complete this rigorous test course. The test included marching ten miles in one hour while carrying a thirty-five-pound backpack, and an endurance test of marching twenty miles with a backpack and a rifle in four and a half hours. Rosie will join the Royal Horse Artillery to serve the British Army.

4. Eímear Noone: First Female Conductor At The Oscars (Ireland) Eímear Noone, a music composer who has worked on video games like Overwatch and World of Warcraft, was the first woman to conduct the orchestra. The forty-two-piece orchestra has historically been conducted by men, even though women play a significant role in playing the instruments. Her message to young music conductors? “Keep on keeping on. Know thyself. And failure is part of it. It’s not the fun part, but it’s definitely part of it.”

5. Katie Sowers: First Female To Coach At The Super Bowl (United States) Female coaching assistants are still a rarity in the NFL; however, women have broken through the bias barrier in the past few years. In February, Katie Sowers became the first female to coach in the Super Bowl when her team, the San Francisco 49ers, played against the Kansas City Chiefs.

 

This post originally appeared on Xyza: News for Kids.
Joann Suen & Sapna Satagopan
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

We're two perfectly imperfect moms who have five very different kids between the two of us. We believe that topics in news are a fantastic way to spark conversations in families. That's why we started the Dinner Table Conversation series here at Xyza: News for Kids. Won't you join us in the conversation? 

Your kids have always danced to the beat of their own drum, so strike a chord by taking them to be inspired by music.

The whole family will love the San Francisco Symphony’s showstoppers, from Coco Live with Orchestra and Día de los Muertos to holiday concerts including Deck the Hall and Music for Families: Holidays Around the World.

This multi-generational experience will delight both young and old—and the price will be music to your ears, too, because you can score half-off kids’ tickets.

Toot your own horn for arranging this family outing that’ll have you all singing the same tune.

Kids’ tickets are half-off!

Pixar’s Coco is coming to Los Angeles—for a live Dia De Los Muerto concert celebration!

The film’s stars, Benjamin Pratt, Jamie Camil and Alanna Ubach, along with Eva Longoria, Natalia Jimenez, Miguel, Lele Pons, Anthony Gonzalez, Rudy Mancuso and other celebs, will perform on Nov. 8 and 9 at the Hollywood Bowl.

The live performance will also include a full orchestra, led by conductor Sarah Hicks and songs from the original film score by composer Michael Giacchino.

Coco Live performer Conzalez said in a statement, “Coco is my heart, it means everything to me. It’s ancestors, family, music, love, culture, traditions, dreams, and passion. Coco is everything that inspires, connects, and makes the world a better place. It’s a unique film.”

Tickets for the event will go on sale Sep. 13 on Ticketmaster.com.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Disney Music via Instagram 

 

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We’ve got the scoop on LA’s best-kept secret: free summer rehearsals at the Hollywood Bowl. Whether you’ve got a tween in middle school band or a toddler obsessed with instruments, you can take them to hear a bona fide orchestra at the city’s most iconic music venue. (And did we mention it’s free?) Plus, with little to no crowds, open seating and easy parking, it’s way less stressful than attending your typical Bowl concert. Read on for everything you need to know about summer rehearsals at the Hollywood Bowl.

Call Ahead

Matthew Field via Creative Commons

This season, Hollywood Bowl rehearsals are open to the public on Tues. and Thurs., beginning the week of Jul. 9 through mid-Sept., when you can catch the LA Philharmonic at practice from 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Don't fret about arriving on time or making it through the full three hours (as if your kids would sit still for that long!). You're free to come and go throughout the session. Also, remember that rehearsal schedules are subject to change (and additional rehearsals may even be added), so call on Mon. to confirm days and times. 

Park Wherever

Loads of free parking is another major incentive for visiting the Hollywood Bowl during rehearsal mornings. No stack parking to contend with or pricey pay lots requiring you to take a second mortgage on your house. Simply pull up and park directly behind the amphitheater and go in via the artist's entrance. Helpful Hollywood Bowl staffers are on hand to help steer you in the right direction.

Pack a Picnic

Margaret Napier via flickr

To really give kids an authentic Bowl experience, you can bring a meal and dine during the show in the box seats. As for strollers, they can be parked off to the side, but with loads of stairs, you might want to leave them at home. It's easier to carry tots with tired little legs or bring a sling for baby.

Bring Sun Protection

John M. via Yelp

Because this is LA in Jul. through Sep., you can pretty much expect the sun to be shining every day, and with little to no shade at the Bowl, you'll want to bring sunscreen, hats, plenty of water and maybe even an umbrella or two. 

Use "Inside" Voices

Margaret Napier via flickr

While the LA Philharmonic happily welcomes tykes to their rehearsals, out of respect to the musicians, they ask that parents remind children to use low "inside" voices while artists are on stage (even though you are outdoors). If kiddos become disruptive, they may be asked to leave, so be sure to have this important conversation with talkative tots ahead of time.

Stay Cool

DWP

Need a break from the sun? Stop by the Hollywood Bowl Museum during your visit (another free activity). Little ones will love seeing photos, videos and more of famous performers from over the years. It takes about 20 minutes to go through the museum but you may want to stay longer to enjoy the air conditioning.

The Hollywood Bowl
2301 N. Highland Ave.
Hollywood
323-850-2000
Online: hollywoodbowl.com

–Christina Montoya Fiedler & Jennifer O’Brien

featured photo: Margaret Napier via flickr

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Planning a trip to Disneyland this summer? Then you are in for a treat because Pixar Fest has officially launched and we have the inside scoop on all the entertainment, food and drinks you should keep a Mike Wazowski-sized eye out for! Scroll for all the fun additions that are taking place across both Disneyland and California Adventure and get ready to celebrate friendship all summer long.

Pixarmonic Orchestra

Richard Takenaga via Facebook

Tripledent Gum originally appeared in the Pixar favorite "Inside Out" as a commercial that gets stuck in Riley's head but it has been re-imagined as Tripledent Gum presents the Pixarmonic Orchestra. The wacky and zany band performs Pixar songs using whatever instruments they can find so don't be surprised if you see them tapping out tunes on spoons, cowbells, slide whistles and more.

According to Chris Utley, Show Director of Disney Parks Live Entertainment, "The inspiration came from a lifelong appreciation and love of the music of Spike Jones and His City Slickers. The presents an array of musical styles ina fun and upbeat fashion that fits the Pixar tunes perfectly. The arrangements, dialogue, and energy of this unique group will appeal to the whole family. And their costumes even have some fun Pixar 'Easter Eggs!'" When you are ready to take a break from the rides, head over to the bandstand, grab a seat and enjoy the show.

Where: Paradise Gardens Bandstand in California Adventure
When: 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:15 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 5:15 p.m.

Pixar Play Parade

Andie Huber

The much-loved parade down Disneyland's Main St. has been reimagined to include new Pixar friends like the hopping Pixar Lamp and Ball from Pixar’s "Luxo Jr." short who lead the way. They are followed by Joy, Sadness and Bing Bong in Riley’s Rocket Wagon from "Inside Out." The "Up" float makes a debut while Carl, Russell, Dug, Kevin the bird and her brood of baby birds all dance down the parade route.

And lest you think that's all the surprises, be prepared to get wet on warm days as squiring baby turtles, an android and flowers make their way down the street. 

The parade runs daily in Disneyland.

Incredible Friends

Disneyland Theme Park

The best places to meet and greet your favorite Pixar pals? Hang around Paradise Gardens (where the Pixarmonic Orchestra plays) for those photo ops.

Beginning Jun. 8, make sure to check out the Pixar Pals Dance Party at the Tomorrowland Terrace in Disneyland and look for the Incredibles cast at the parks who joins the fun starting Jun. 15.

Desserts Galore

Disneyland Theme Park

Disneyland does desserts right and Pixar Fest is no exception. New churro flavors are available like the Coco-Churro inspired by the movie "Coco" at the Frontierland churro cart in California Adventure, and a multi-colored fruity churro with lemon sugar inspired by "Up" is available on Main St. in Disneyland. 

If cake is more your speed, look for the celebration ball-inspired cake—almost too pretty to eat! 

Fancy an alien-inspired macaron? The team at Disney outdid themselves and will turn you and your kids into green eating alien machines. 

And as if that's not enough, there are purple slushies, "Nemo"-inspired apples, and berry funnel cakes so your sweet tooth will surely be satisfied. 

Paint the Night Parade

Disneyland Theme Park

The magical night celebration is back and this time with more than 1 million lights that shine along the parade route in California Adventure. This high-energy parade will get even the most tired of toddlers up to dance as each float that glides by features another Pixar pal plus some old favorite standbys. Get ready to be amazed by "Cars" Lightning McQueen's Mac truck, "Finding Nemo" and his swirling jellyfish and the swirly glittery orb that magician Mickey rides as part of the finale. Good luck trying to go to sleep after this energetic night display!

Pixar-Themed Eats

Disneyland Theme Park

There are tons of surprise eats all over both parks but definitely grab a slice at Alien Pizza Planet (formally Redd Rockett's Pizza Port in Disneyland) and live out all of your "Toy Story" fantasies.

At Lucky Fortune Cookery, look for the "Monsters, Inc" themed chilled noodle salad that changes colors! And if you are looking for a finer dining experience, at Cafe Orleans, you can experience a "Ratatouille"-inspired three-course dinner. Bon appetit!

Souvenirs & More

Pixar fans will go bonkers over the swag and merchandise available. From cool clothing (don't judge me when you see me wearing that Sully-styled "Monster's Inc." sweatshirt) and jewelry to souvenir cups that light up, there is no shortage of cool gear to take home. We loved the 1000-piece puzzles, oversized coffee mugs, and charm bracelets as well as the friendship socks featuring Mater on one foot and Lighting McQueen from "Cars," on the other.

Don't forget to check out the Mickey Mouse ears re-imagined with new friends on the ears like Sully on one side and Mike on the other but our favorite? The WALL-E and Eve hats, that when put together, form a heart with their touching ears. So cute!

Fireworks Finale

Disneyland Theme Park

And last but certainly not least, make your way back to Disneyland for the ultimate "Together Forever Nighttime Spectacular" where the park takes the theme of unlikely yet enduring friendship while showcasing the beauty of Pixar.

Buzz Lightyears opens the show by flying across the castle and the family-loving stories play against the buildings on Main St. and Cinderella's castle. The fireworks play up the drama, along with the music, and when Ellie and Carl from "Up" appear, get ready to shed a tear while the balloon from the movie makes its way across the sky.  

Hint: Look out for the characters from "Coco" who pop up on the roofs over the shops on Main St. 

PS: While Pixar Fest is set to end Sept. 3, 2018, the Pixar Pier is set to open Sept. 2018 (where Paradis Pier is currently located in California Adventure) so stay tuned for more exciting updates!

Find out more at: disneyland.com/pixarfest

Are you planning a trip to Disneyland and California Adventure to check out Pixar Fest? Let us know in the comments below what is your favorite part!

—Andie Huber

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Summer and concerts are a natural pairing like wine and cheese. And now that we’ve all shaken off the winter hibernation, families can enjoy the plethora of concerts and other live shows the DMV has to offer. Put those listening ears and dancing shoes on–these performances are standing ovation-worthy.

Uke Fest
Calling all ukulele players! This interactive concert allows everyone to strum their strings along with Jeff Peterson, Del Rey, James Hill & Anne Janelle, Cathy Fink, and Marcy Marxer (aka ukulele players extraordinaire).

When: August 19;7 pm
Cost: Free
Strathmore
10701 Rockville Pike (Bethesda, Md)
Online: strathmore.org

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Adults and young dance enthusiasts will be in awe of these jazz, ballet, and modern dance performers. Water, doors, and other innovative props bring life to the stage.

When: June 24; 8:30 pm
Cost: $10-$44
Wolf Trap
1635 Trap Rd. (Vienna, Va)
Online: wolftrap.org

Curtis Blues: Delta Blues
Curtis Blues will have your family’s feet tapping as he plays his acoustic blues beats. He’s a one-man-band playing instruments mapping the history of American blues- a handmade box guitar, harmonica, one-string Diddley Bow, and a metal resonator guitar.

When: June 27; 9:30 am and 11 am
Cost: Free
The National Theatre
1321 Pennsylvania Ave., NW (Metro Center)
Online: thenationaldc.org

Taylor Swift 1989 Tour
There is a reason why this pop sensation has invaded the airwaves (and our iPods). Her catchy verses and poppy tunes get our vocal chords rattling. If you need a tween-mommy date night or ladies night out, check out this concert.

When: July 13 and July 14; 5 pm
Cost: $54.50-$134.50
Nationals Park
1500 S Capitol St., SE (Navy Yards)
Online: washington.nationals.mlb.com

Billy Joel
“Sing us a song you’re the piano man!” You don’t need to be an 80’s child to enjoy classics like these. Billy Joel’s concerts don’t disappoint, so grab a birthday girl or boy and rock out.

When: July 25; 8 pm
Cost: $49.50-$124.50
M&T Bank Stadium
1101 Russell St. (Baltimore, Md)
Online: ticketmaster.com

Disney in Concert
Thought you finally heard the last of “Let It Go”? Think again! Every little prince and princess is invited to sing-along with the Wolf Trap Orchestra. Some of Disney’s most popular songs will be played live while watching the synchronized movie on screen.

When: August 21; 8 pm
Cost:$25-$60
Wolf Trap
1635 Trap Rd. (Vienna, Va)
Online: wolftrap.org 

Labor Day Capitol Concert
Sport your best red, white, and blue for this patriotic event! Pack a blanket because food and non-alcoholic beverages are not allowed. While noshing on your favorite snacks, you can proudly sway to the National Symphony Orchestra’s performance of American classics.

When: September 6; 3 pm
Cost: Free
U.S. Capitol, West Lawn
Online: http://dc.about.com/od/concerts/a/LaborDayConcert.htm

Which concerts are you penciling into your calendar this summer? Tell us in the comments section below. 

–Danielle Larkins

Photo: welshedout via Flickr

Vista’s Moonlight Amphitheatre is the perfect setting for your outing with the kiddos or family date night. There’s no better way to appreciate summer than by spending warm evenings outdoors at the theater with your little thespian-in-training. Experience a truly unique evening where the open sky and theater come together under the stars. This summer catch Shrek, The Musical ­with everybody’s favorite ogre!

Photo credit: Moonlight Stage Productions

What's Playing This Summer

In its 35th anniversary season, Moonlight Amphitheatre presents an exceptional line-up: All Shook Up (June 10 – 27, 8 p.m.), The Music Man (July 15 – August 1, 8 p.m.), and our favorite of the lot, Shrek, The Musical (August 12 – 29, 8 p.m.). Grab your mini entertainer, and enjoy a Broadway quality performance, complete with full orchestra, at a fraction of the price and with the ambiance of the moonlight shining down.

Photo credit: Moonlight Amphitheatre Facebook page

Before the Show 

Your little drama queen and king will love picnicking on the lawn or at picnic tables with family and friends before the show. So pack a dinner and grab your lawn chairs! Gates open 1.5 hours before show time, which is plenty of time to socialize and watch the sunset. If you’re feeling really social, pack a few extra goodies to share with new friends on the lawn.

If you don’t feel like packing dinner ahead of time, there are lots of food options available at the concession stands before the show and during intermission. If you want a fancy and delicious treat, make a reservation at the Artisan Café, the Amphitheatre’s onsite restaurant (reservations are required 48 hours in advance). We recommend packing a dinner and picnicking on the grass. Lawn seating and picnic tables are first come, first served; so get there early!

Photo credit: Moonlight Amphitheatre

The Scoop on Seating

Moonlight Amphitheatre offers two types of seating: lawn and reserved. If you purchase a lawn seat, leave your seats at home. The Amphitheatre will supply you with lawn chairs upon entry. To get a good spot on the lawn, be sure to arrive early. Reserved seats are stadium style seats closest to the stage. Whether you select a reserved seat or a spot on the lawn, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. For parents who are afraid their little entertainer might steal the show, head up to the Great Lawn where kiddos have more space to get their wiggles and giggles out.


Moonlight Tips

  • Parking is free and available throughout Brengle Terrace Park. The shuttle runs starting 2.5 hours before show time, and then again at the end of the performance. Plan to arrive early and wait in line to board the shuttle.
  • Evenings can get chilly, even during the summer months. So layer clothing or bring a blanket to snuggle your little ones during the show.
  • This venue draws a large a crowd, so be prepared to wait in line to enter the Amphitheatre.
1200 Vale Terrace
Vista, Ca 92084
760-724-2110
Online: moonlightstage.com

— Elizabeth Silva

 

Dads rock, don’t they? It’s time to meet some we really cheer for — the local dads in the music industry. Click through our album and get to know 10 groovy dads, including kindie rock stars, music school owners, a Chicago Symphony Orchestra member, an ex-gangster rap producer and more. If you’re not a fan already, you will be soon!

Erik Martin – Music Producer

Performers are awesome, but what about all of the people behind-the-scenes who make performing possible? In high school Erik was known as “the guy who could record music” because he had a four-track recorder, so he naturally fell into producing. This behind-the-scenes guru actually started in gangster rap production and transitioned into working alongside his kindie rock-star wife, "Miss Jamie From the Farm." Music is all about potential for Erik who says, “My favorite part of my job is REALLY listening ... to everything! I've realized that every single one of us can do great things.” His daughter, Taylor Gibson Martin (they couldn’t resist three guitar brand names), recently turned two, and they have another baby on the way. Who knows what musical name concoction they will cook up for the new little one.

Do you know a dad that rocks? Let us know in the Comments!

— Natasha Davis