While this Sunday’s Superbowl may be the Ball most are looking forward to, we know it doesn’t hold a candle to Cinderella’s Ball (just ask your little kids).

The “Enchanted Edition” of Cinderella opens at the JCC MetroWest Saturday, February 6th and closes Monday, February 15th.  Parents and kids alike will enjoy Rodgers & Hammerstein classic fairy tale filled with magic, music, laughs and a slipper that fits (oooh, I hope I didn’t just ruin the ending for you).

The show is 2 hours and 15 minutes, with one intermission (Halftime).

For tickets and more info click:  If the shoe fits….

Do these song titles ring a bell?

Roundabout, Owner of a Lonely Heart, Close to the Edge

If the answer is YES, you need to head to the Wellmont Theater next weekend to see the band, YES perform all your favorites.  The show is February 10th at 8:00 P.M.

For more info and to order tickets head to:  YES, I want tickets!

How about a  music performance that will have kids AND parents excited and dancing in the aisles!

The name Brady Rymer may not roll off your tongue yet, but  being hailed by the New York Times, as having music with a rock ‘n’ roll heart,  you won’t want to miss his performance.  He and his  band will perform their newest hits, “Here Comes Brady Rymer “and “Little Band That Could,” among many other favorites at SOPAC on Sunday, January 31st at 11 A.M. and  2 P.M.

Bob Dylan or David Crosby fans will enjoy knowing Rymer got his start as a teenager playing with them. Combined with those roots and his experience becoming a dad, he’s been inspired to write family-friendly songs with that rock ‘n’ roll beat.

Click on the following links for ticket info or to hear selections:

Brady Rymer at SOPAC

Sample the Music

Shlemiel Shlemazel!

No, Lavern and Shirley are not coming to town (for those of you in your late 30’s+).  However, Shlemiel the First is.  This month Peak Performance @ Montclair State University presents the hilarious story of a Shlemiel who travels from his town of Chelm to spread the town’s wisdom (albeit questionable wisdom), only to come full circle thinking he has found another town exactly like his hometown of Chelm.  Pair that journey with a klezmer score and what a great evening.  Oy vey!

You can enjoy this nationally aclaimed performance Friday January 21, Saturday the 22nd or Sunday the 23rd.  For more ticket and time info click: My Journey to Chelm.

Are you searching for knowledge?

Bring the kids on a quest for the source of all knowledge right in your backyard.  The Tucker Tales Puppet Theater at the Baird Community Center (5 Mead Street, South Orange) is performing The Bookaneers Saturday, January 23 at 2 P.M.

Come see what happens when a crew of pirates set off to conquer the world on board the good ship Dictionary.  Captain Dewey and First Mate Decimal promise to provide laughs as they attempt to find the treasures of Wisdom and Facts.

The kids’ theatre website is currently under construction, so for now call 973-378-7754 for information or ticket sales.  Tickets are $9.00 - what a bargain for a treasure of Wisdom and Facts!

Do you have a young aspiring actor in your family?

The Summit Playhouse is holding auditions for Annie Jr., part of the Broadway Junior Collection.  Start practicing all those Annie favorites and reserve a time for either Monday, January 25^th or Wednesday, January 27^th. 

For more information and to make an appointment click:  I’m going to be a star!

When was the last time you listened to Los Lobos?  While watching La Bamba, maybe?

David Hidalgo and Louie Perez, the principal songwriters for this legendary band will be presenting a special night of intimate acoustic music at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC). Following they will return to the stage for a discussion with the audience.   Tickets are still available!

For more information and to reserve tickets head to SOPAC.

Ahhh, a light dusting of snow and a chill in the air:  Perfect weather for a hike or stroll through South Mountain Reservation.  Enjoy this web page with information about trails and a bit of history.

Visiting South Mountain Reservation

How are those New Year’s Resolutions going?

For those of you resolving to eat healthier in the new year, and thinking vegetarian is the way to go, head to Montclair this weekend for free info and a bite to eat.

Go Lightly, a local “Green” store at 4 S. Fullerton Ave., just off off Church Street, is hosting a talk about a plant-based diet followed by a tasting.  It’s Sunday January 10th at 2 P.M.  The event  promises to be fun and informative.  Space is limited, so they ask that you register in advance by calling 973-744-7889 or email hi@golightlystore.com.

Here’s to a healthy New Year!

Bring in the new year New Jersey style!  This state is know for its “First Night” celebrations, so check out the details for the one closest to you and have an exciting, safe, kid-friendly celebration.

First Night in the Maplewood, Milburn, South Orange area:

You may not want your kids to run away with the circus, but here’s an opportunity to let them get their feet wet.  Lisa Lou of the Big Apple Circus is leading a circus workshop for children.

There will also be a performance of “The Little Mermaid” by Ballet Long Island.  For those of you who would rather dance than watch, check out Crazy Rhythms/Fancy Feet salsa and samba music.  Dancing is encouraged.  Combine all of that with food and fireworks and you’re set for a great party.

For all the details click:

I’m going to First Night Maplewood/South Orange

First Night Montclair:

Only in Montclair can you hear Grammy-award nominated singer-songwriter Phoebe Snow and then see ice acrobatics from Fantasy on Ice.   Wow!  Celebrations start at 5 P.M. and also feature mime art by Yass Hakoshima and a performance by comedian Ray Pennetti — just to name a few.

For all the details click:

I’m going to First Night Montclair