The Sound of Music Is Playing Now At The Boch Center Wang Theatre!! #SoundOfMusic

I love, love, love the Sound of Music.  I have all of the songs on my phone, and have seen the movie 100's of times.  I secretly have a crush on Christopher Plummer too!!  It is such a magical movie, and when I was invited to see it on stage with my family, we couldn't pass it up!!

My boys love to go to stage shows, and have seen a couple plays now.  This by far was their favorite!!  When we got home, Doug spent time looking up all of the lyrics to My Favorite Things, so he could go to school the next day and sing it to his teacher!!

The actors were amazing, and the singing spectacular!!  The lady who plays the Mother Abbess, Lauren Kidwell, was our all time favorite.  She has a voice that brings out all manner of emotions, and made me cry (in a good way of course!!)  Even the children were amazing!!

The costumes stayed true to form for the era, and the set design made you feel like you really were at the Van Trapp estate and the abbey.

If you love raindrops on roses, and whiskers on kittens, you must see The Sound of Music at the Wang Theatre!!  It is playing now until May 13th, and would make a terrific Mothers Day Gift!!

THE SOUND OF MUSIC

BOCH CENTER WANG THEATRE

LIMITED TWO WEEK ENGAGEMENT

MAY 1-13, 2018

**TICKETS ON SALE NOW**

BOSTON, MA (September 7, 2017) — The Boch Center and The Madison Square Garden Company announced that a brand new production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC will take the Boch Center Wang Theatre stage for a limited two week engagement from May 1-13, 2018. 

THE SOUND OF MUSIC features music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, suggested by The Trapp Family Singers by Maria Augusta Trapp. The beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony®, Grammy® and Academy Award®–winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss” and the title song.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC enjoyed extraordinary success as a live television production when “The Sound of Music Live!” aired on NBC in December, 2013 and was seen by over 44 million people. 2015 marked the 50th anniversary of the film version, which continues to be the most successful movie musical in history.

In the words of Ted Chapin, President of Rodgers & Hammerstein, “I waited for a moment when we could rediscover THE SOUND OF MUSIC as it was originally created. Because of the enormous success of the film, few were aware that it started life as a hit Broadway show—and a very big hit at that! The artists behind this production embraced what the authors wrote, looked at it all through modern eyes and, in so doing, found depth and resonance that has been recognized by critics and audiences across the country. It's like visiting an old friend but finding yourself surprised as well. It's also a reminder of why this show is such an evergreen."

The creative team for this new production includes direction by Matt Lenz, based on the national tour’s original direction by three-time Tony Award® winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray, The Full Monty, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Coast of Utopia). Original choreography by Danny Mefford (Dear Evan Hansen, Fun Home, The Bridges of Madison County, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson) has been recreated by Jonathan Warren, with music supervision by Andy Einhorn (Hello, Dolly!, Bullets Over Broadway, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, The Light in the Piazza). The design and production team is comprised of Tony Award® nominee Douglas W. Schmidt, set design (The Front Page,42^nd Street, Into the Woods); Tony Award® winner Jane Greenwood, costume design (The Little Foxes, 2014 Special Tony Award® for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre), six-time Tony Award® winner Natasha Katz, lighting design (Long Day’s Journey Into Night, An American in Paris, Once, Aida, The Coast of Utopia, The Glass Menagerie) and Shannon Slaton, sound design (Present Laughter, The Humans). Casting is by Stewart/Whitley.

Tickets for THE SOUND OF MUSIC go on sale to the general public on Sunday, September 10 at 9:00AM and are available at the Boch Center Box Office, Bochcenter.org, by calling (800) 982-ARTS (2787), and via Ticketmaster. Groups of 10 or more may reserve tickets now by contacting Boch Center Group Sales at (617) 532-1116 or groups@bochcenter.org. 

WHAT:                                   The Sound of Music

WHEN:                                   Tuesday, May 1 – Sunday, May 13, 2018

                                               

WHERE:                                 Boch Center Wang Theatre

TICKETS ON SALE:              Sunday, September 10, 2017 at 9:00AM

TICKETS:                               Tickets start at $35.00

*Ticket prices inclusive of $3.75 facility fee

Tickets are available at the Boch Center Box Office, Bochcenter.org, by phone at 800.982.ARTS and via Ticketmaster.

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About The Madison Square Garden Company – The Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) is a world leader in live sports and entertainment experiences.  The company presents or hosts a broad array of premier events in its diverse collection of iconic venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; the Forum in Inglewood, CA; The Chicago Theatre; and the Wang Theatre in Boston.  Other MSG properties include legendary sports franchises: the New York Knicks (NBA), the New York Rangers (NHL) and the New York Liberty (WNBA), along with two development league teams -- the Westchester Knicks (NBADL) and the Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL).  In addition, the Company features popular original entertainment productions -- the Christmas Spectacular and New York Spectacular – both starring the Radio City Rockettes, and through Boston Calling Events, produces outdoor festivals, including New England’s preeminent Boston Calling Music Festival.   Also under the MSG umbrella is TAO Group, a world-class hospitality group with globally-recognized entertainment dining and nightlife brands: Tao, Marquee, Lavo, Avenue, The Stanton Social, Beauty & Essex and Vandal.  More information is available at www.themadisonsquaregardencompany.com    

About the Boch Center – The Boch Center is one of the nation’s leading nonprofit performing arts institutions and a guardian of the historic Wang and Shubert Theatres. As New England’s largest cultural venue, the Boch Center is home to theater, classical and popular music, dance, comedy, opera, Broadway musicals, family entertainment, and more. Located in Boston’s historic Theater District, the Boch Center also offers a diverse mix of educational and community outreach initiatives, including the City Spotlights Leadership Program and ArtWeek; collaborates with artists and local nonprofit arts organizations; preserves historic venues; and acts as a champion for Greater Boston’s arts and cultural community. Learn more at bochcenter.org.

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Pumpkin Picking At Devon Point Farms Is A Treat For All!! #Pumpkins #NewEngland

**All opinions expressed are 100% my own.  I was not compensated for this post.  I was given items for review purposes.**

About Devon Point Farm-

Devon Point Farm in Woodstock Connecticut specializes in Grassfed Beef, Vegetable & Flower CSA Farm Shares, and Farm Camp and now APPLE CIDER and pick-your-own pumpkins in the Fall! The farm specializes in sustainable food production through holistic management techniques and serves as a training and proving grounds for new farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs and future policy makers with it's apprentice program.

Erick and Patty Taylor are the owners of one of America’s most quintessential farms, Devon Point Farm. The Taylors bring a unique combination of skills to farming that have resulted in the construction of 3 different farms, as the demand for their farm products grew. Starting with a small farm in Rhode Island first, then growing to a larger farm in Vermont, and then returning "home' to Connecticut to their current and best farm yet.

A New England tradition in the fall is to pick apples, pick pumpkins, and drink tons of apple cider!!! Every year we spend at least one weekend doing those activities and we have a blast!!

This year we visited Devon Point Farm in Woodstock, CT to get our pumpkins!! 

Driving up the long driveway, we got to see some pretty gorgeous things.  The Taylor's house for one is spectacular, and then you see the flowers!!

After you are amazed by the sheer beauty of the flowers (which are available for picking and for special events like weddings,) then you see the pumpkins and the barn!!

Inside are a ton of fun goodies!!  You get to see the actual press that they use to make their raw apple cider.  A press that Mr. Taylor re-built himself.  The cider is absolutely delicious.  I also highly recommend their mini cider donuts.  I would have taken a picture of those, but they barely made it out of the driveway before they were all eaten!!

After we enjoyed our tour inside the barn, we went outside to get our pumpkins.  You can either grab a pumpkin that is already picked and near the barn, or you can head out and get your own.  We did both!!

On our way out, Mrs. Taylor let us know about a surprise gem on the property that you just have to see.  They took a hollowed out tree, and turned it into a Winnie the Pooh house!!  We had a lot of fun playing in it!!

Over all we had a great time at Devon Point Farm, and we will be heading back!!  

You can learn more about Devon Point Farm's by checking out their website, and Facebook page!! 

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Summer Is Not Over Yet At Mystic Aquarium!! #SummerFun

There is still some summer left in New England, and Mystic Aquarium is a great place to enjoy some Monday night fun!!

Today and next Monday (the 31st) are the last two days to enjoy Mystic at night with out the heat, sun, humidity, or large crowds!!

We got to explore the Aquarium at night and loved it!!  Almost all of the attractions were open (the penguins were not sadly) and we got to explore without the heat!!

Check out some of the fun we had, and things we got to see.

Mystic Aquarium Introduces Summer Nights Every Monday in August

Mystic, CT -- Mystic Aquarium launched Summer Nights this past Monday for guests to enjoy some of the more popular exhibits as dusk settles on the day. Every Monday during the month of August, visit Mystic Aquarium from 6pm – 9pm and experience the allure of summer nights at the Aquarium.

 

Experience underwater worlds throughout the main gallery where guests can see sharks, jelly fish, stingrays, frogs, turtles, and more. Explore exhibits like Washed Ashore and the ever-popular Arctic coast where visitors enjoy New England’s only Beluga whales. Find adventure and come face-to-face with six foot American alligators in Exploration: Wild.

 

There is no better way to unwind then with the tranquility of Mystic Aquarium after hours.

 

Guests can also take advantage of special hotel discounts Monday nights in August.  The Mystic Hilton is offering a 30% discount everyMonday with room rates ranging from $149 - $299. Residence Inn-Mystic offers 15% off on rooms booked Sunday through Thursday.  Enjoy 10% off meals every Monday at the Steak Loft and Pink Basil both located in Olde Mystick Village.

 

Beat the heat, bypass the crowds, and relish in this new summer tradition. It’s heat wave happy hour at Mystic Aquarium.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate starting at 6pm day of event. $20 adults (18+); $15 youth (13-17); $12 child (3-12); Free for Aquarium members and children 2 and younger. Guests can enjoy the Arctic coast, Exploration: Wild, and main gallery throughout the evening.

 

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www.twitter.com/mysticaquarium

www.facebook.com/mysticaquarium

www.youtube.com/mysticaquarium

 

About Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium is a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, and is counted among the nation’s leading aquariums with more than 300 species and an extensive collection of marine mammals, including New England’s only beluga whales. Mystic Aquarium has been a pioneer in offering guests a variety of up close encounters with a wide range of marine animals. The mission of Mystic Aquarium is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through conservation, education and research.  Sea Research receives major support from United Technologies Corporation, The Coca-Cola Company and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Learn more at mysticaquarium.org.

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Summer Nights Every Monday In August At Mystic Aquarium.

Mystic Aquarium Introduces Summer Nights Every Monday in August

Mystic, CT -- Mystic Aquarium launched Summer Nights this past Monday for guests to enjoy some of the more popular exhibits as dusk settles on the day. Every Monday during the month of August, visit Mystic Aquarium from 6pm – 9pm and experience the allure of summer nights at the Aquarium.

 

Experience underwater worlds throughout the main gallery where guests can see sharks, jelly fish, stingrays, frogs, turtles, and more. Explore exhibits like Washed Ashore and the ever-popular Arctic coast where visitors enjoy New England’s only Beluga whales. Find adventure and come face-to-face with six foot American alligators in Exploration: Wild.

 

There is no better way to unwind then with the tranquility of Mystic Aquarium after hours.

 

Guests can also take advantage of special hotel discounts Monday nights in August.  The Mystic Hilton is offering a 30% discount everyMonday with room rates ranging from $149 - $299. Residence Inn-Mystic offers 15% off on rooms booked Sunday through Thursday.  Enjoy 10% off meals every Monday at the Steak Loft and Pink Basil both located in Olde Mystick Village.

 

Beat the heat, bypass the crowds, and relish in this new summer tradition. It’s heat wave happy hour at Mystic Aquarium.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate starting at 6pm day of event. $20 adults (18+); $15 youth (13-17); $12 child (3-12); Free for Aquarium members and children 2 and younger. Guests can enjoy the Arctic coast, Exploration: Wild, and main gallery throughout the evening.

 

###

www.twitter.com/mysticaquarium

www.facebook.com/mysticaquarium

www.youtube.com/mysticaquarium

 

About Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium is a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, and is counted among the nation’s leading aquariums with more than 300 species and an extensive collection of marine mammals, including New England’s only beluga whales. Mystic Aquarium has been a pioneer in offering guests a variety of up close encounters with a wide range of marine animals. The mission of Mystic Aquarium is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through conservation, education and research.  Sea Research receives major support from United Technologies Corporation, The Coca-Cola Company and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Learn more at mysticaquarium.org.

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Celebrate Father's Day With A Hands-On Culinary Experience At The Saybrook Point Inn!!

Saybrook Point Inn & Spa Celebrates Fathers The American Way

Dads to enjoy hands-on culinary experience with Grilling & Chilling Food Lover’s Package

OLD SAYBROOK, Conn., (April 13, 2015) – The Saybrook Point Inn & Spa is excited to announce a new Grilling & Chilling package as a part of its Food Lover’s Weekend Getaways. The weekend of June 12-14, 2015 will be dedicated to the special men and grill masters of the outdoors. The Grilling & Chilling Food Lover’s Weekend offers a wide range of activities for fathers and families to spend quality time together during the shoreline’s greatest time of year. 

With the help of Fresh Salt’s incredible award-winning chefs, guests will learn to prepare a colorful and delicious summer menu using the season’s freshest ingredients. This fully hands-on culinary experience will allow guests to learn every cooking aspect of the grilling process, including farm-to-table. First, guests will visit local farms and markets to personally choose fresh produce and prime cuts of meat and fish. In addition, they will experience the joy and excitement of gathering fresh fish caught right off the docks of Saybrook Point Marina.

Guests will also cook alongside Fresh Salt’s chefs to prepare for a special Saturday evening Gala. They will learn the mastery behind cooking the perfect Butterflied Leg of Lamb, Rib Roast “Prime Rib,” Grilled Romaine Caesar, Grilled Hearth Bread Salad with roasted strawberries, mystic cheese, and honey grilled corn, Barbeque Baked Beans, and fresh farm stand Ratatouille.

The Grilling & Chilling Food Lover’s Weekend package also includes a class dedicated to grilling the most delectable gourmet burger, as well as a pastry class to experience the magic behind preparing America’s favorite summertime treat – Native Strawberry Shortcake with sweet cream. And during Saturday evening’s Gala dinner, guests will also relax and enjoy a special local craft beer tasting.

The Grilling & Chilling Food Lover’s Package will prove to be a great weekend of celebration and sunshine for all participants. The package includes a welcome reception, breakfast (2), lunch and full dinner with a craft beer tasting on Saturday night. The Package starts at $658, and day passes are also available at $175.95 per person. For more details or to book a reservation, please call 800-243-0212.

About Saybrook Point Inn & Spa

Situated along the picturesque coastal community of historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, in the hamlet of Saybrook Point, the Saybrook Point Inn & Spa features 82 elegantly appointed guestrooms, the rejuvenating full-service spa SANNO, and casual fine dining restaurant Fresh Salt. The property also features the historic Three Stories guesthouse, where each room conveys the story of a famed local resident, including Katharine Hepburn’s mother, who was a leading suffragette. This completely renovated Italianate home overlooking Long Island Sound was originally built in 1892 as a single-family home for the prominent engineer William Vars. Today, as an eight-room guesthouse, it features wrap-around porches, private gardens, balconies, fine linens, heated bathroom floors, extensive water views, and original artwork by local artists. The Saybrook Point Inn & Spa also shines with the historic Saybrook Point Marina, a landmark yachting dock conveniently located at the mouth of the Connecticut River with easy access to Long Island Sound. It can accommodate vessels from 12 to 200 feet and has received numerous premier Connecticut marina awards. More information is available at www.saybrook.com.

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

31st Annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

This looks like a lot of fun.  I wish I lived closer!!

31^st Annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

A Thanksgiving Tradition

NC Holiday Flotilla, photography by Joshua McClure

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC - Named one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeast Tourism Society in 2013, the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla weekend, a coastal Thanksgiving tradition, returns to Wrightsville Beach,Nov. 27-30.

Celebrating a 31-year run, the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla attracts 50,000 visitors to its culminating event, a maritime parade featuring thematically decorated power yacht and sailboat floats. The spectacle, reflected in the Banks Channel, glitters with thousands of twinkling lights.

Located directly on the parade route, sponsor and host hotel Blockade Runner Beach Resort launches the weekend with a gala, Thanksgiving Day feast for early arrivals. Soundside, Cape Fear Naturalist Captain Joe Abbate navigates local waters guiding Masonboro Island, Harbor Island and Sunset Cruises for the family.

Friday brings Santa Claus and the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall Park. Children anxiously await, list in hand, for a personal audience with St. Nick. At 7:00 p.m., The Embers - Featuring Craig Woolard, headline Atlantic Marine's festive Flotilla Launch Party, including dancing, hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar and silent auction of gifts from civic-minded supporters.

"One of the hidden gems during flotilla weekend is Saturday's Festival in the Park for the children," said Pres Davenport, Chairman of the Holiday Flotilla board.

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the park is bustling with bouncy houses, slides, climbing walls, the Arab Choo Choo, live blue-grass music, an antique auto show, and, an estimated 100 booths featuring local merchants and arts and crafts vendors. Children will have an opportunity to decorate and submit entries in the flotilla boat-coloring contest, and Home Depot will be on site with wooden boat kits, free for young carpenters. Admission is free for the entire family.

2013 Best In Show, Photography by Beth Watson-Hedgepeth

Saturday at 6:00 p.m., a short burst of aerial fireworks will light up the sky announcing the twilight parade of beautifully lit and decorated power and sailing vessels. The flotilla weaves a 4-mile route through Motts Channel, Banks Channel and the Intracoastal Waterway, passing the judges' viewing stand at Blockade Runner, all competing for $10,500 in cash prizes. A panel of judges, including John Boy, of John Boy and Billy's Big Show, carefully select the winners. Text voting continues this year, with the Crowd Favorite and People's Choice Awards determined by spectators.

Immediately following the flotilla, a stunning 21-minute, 4,000-round fireworks display illuminates the night sky, showering the waterway with sound and color. "We have a long show by Zambelli International, one of the most reputable fireworks companies in the world," said Davenport. "We're able to put on a really impressive display that rivals or surpasses most July 4^thshows. Most shows are 15 minutes. That additional five to six minutes puts a great cap on the weekend with an impressive fireworks finale."

"Another thing we're really excited about this year is the fact that the Surfrider Foundation has volunteered to help clean up the waterway and beaches the morning after the fireworks show, to make sure the debris is gone and we are good stewards of the environment," said Davenport.

Flotilla website: www.NCHolidayFlotilla.org

Host hotel accommodations: Click here

 
This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Tips On Travel Thanks To Mrs. Potato Head

Post by Disney Movies Anywhere.

MRS. POTATO HEAD’S TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #1: MAKE A LIST!

Mr. Potato Head can be a klutz when it comes to packing, which is why Mrs. Potato Head loves to make a list of packing essentials for their vacation needs. It’s a good idea for the sweet potato to start planning her list weeks before the traveling ‘taters head off on their journey. By planning so far in advance, you are much less likely to miss off any travel necessities!

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #2: ROLL UP, ROLL UP!

Who wants to iron an outfit when you reach your destination? Mr. Potato Head doesn't, that’s for sure! Instead of folding your clothes and placing them in your suitcase, try rolling them. Tightly rolled clothes are less likely to get heavy wrinkles from fold creases and they take up less room.

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #3: PACK LIGHTLY!

Nobody wants to be weighed down with heavy baggage, especially if you’re a tourist ‘tater who wants to wander around with ease. That’s exactly why Mrs. Potato Head suggests everybody packs lightly. Pack layers of clothing that you can easily put on or take off. And think twice about adding that spare pair of shoes to your luggage. Do you really need them?

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #4: KNOW THE RULES!

Mrs. Potato Head is a stickler for the rules. Get to know them all before you travel, especially if you’re flying! If your journey involves an airplane ride, make sure you pack correctly and don’t place any large liquids (such as a regular-sized bottle of perfume or a can of hairspray) in your carry-on luggage. All liquids brought onto planes must be in 3.4-ounce bottles or smaller. And they must all be placed inside a single, clear, quart-size zip-top bag.

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #5: CARRY-ON VALUABLES…

What would Mr. Potato Head do without his trusty bowler hat and his angry eyes? Well, every now and then luggage gets delayed or lost – and that’s exactly why it’s a good idea to pack your travel essentials and valuables in your carry-on bag. Never put them in your checked luggage! Make sure your ID, passport, keys, money, credit cards, jewelry and electronics are safe and secure in your carry-on bag, as well as items like extra contact lenses and a spare pair of undies. Happy traveling!

MRS. POTATO HEAD’S PACKING ESSENTIALS

Mrs. Potato Head says: “I’m packing your extra pair of shoes!” 

Don’t be a couch potato on your summer vacation; head outside and explore. When you’re packing your bags, make sure you’ve got comfortable shoes in your luggage. Nobody wants sore tootsies!  

“And your angry eyes, just in case!”

Who wants to get angry-eyed in the blazing sunshine? Nobody! That’s why it’s important to pack your sunglasses. If your eyes need some extra help, don’t forget to take your spectacles and contact lenses, too.

“A dime!”

A few dollars will certainly help ease your summer vacation needs. It also helps to have a credit card for any unexpected incidentals, as well as the purchase of the odd souvenir or two. See if you can seek out a bargain!

“Cheese puffs!”

Don’t forget to pack some snacks for the journey. If you’re a picky eater, it might be wise to add a few of your favorite munchies to your suitcase to ensure you’ve got lots of treats to eat while you’re away, too. Mmmm!

“A spare set of lips!”

Mr. Potato Head can swap his lips with a spare set if they become chapped or sore in the sizzling sunshine. Non-spuds can’t do that, which is why it’s a good idea to pack some lip balm for your travels. Pucker up!

“A key!”

It’s always a good idea to keep all your essentials together in one place, including your keys, money, ID and passport. Be a safe spud on your travels; don’t be a loser this summer!

“Sunscreen!”

Never forget to apply sunscreen in the scorching summer sun… Or, you’ll end up baked!

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.