Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Broadway: Rock of Ages

Baby, it's cold outside! We had frigid temps in the 20s today, not to mention the crazy wind. What's a girl to do when she doesn't want to go outside?

How about we make plans to spend time indoors, eh?

Last week I saw Rock of Ages, for the second time. Broadway shows involve a quick trip across the river (or under if you're taking the Lincoln) and it's rare that I will see a show more than once, but the deal was too good to be true. An hour or two before the show, Rock of Ages holds a lottery right outside of the theatre. Names of interested parties are thrown into a bucket and 10 lucky winners have a chance to purchase tickets for $26!. The only drawback being that you'll have partial view seats that are on the end of an isle which cuts off some of the stage.

Rock of Ages is one of the best plays I have seen on Broadway in quite a while. A departure from the classic storylines of traditional plays, Rock of Ages is comprised of hit songs from the 80s. Audience members treat the show like a rock concert and wave lighters - Rock of Ages branded flashlight lighters - during favorite performances. With a cast lead by Constantine Maroulis of American Idol fame, this hot show is fun fun fun!

Active NJ recommendations:
1. As we always say, take mass transit when traveling to NYC
2. Make plans to go to Rock of Ages about two hours prior to the show so you can enter the lottery for discounted tickets

Broadway: Bye Bye Birdie

The holiday season is almost over, and we all have a little extra time for entertainment and travel. Having the funds for such activities might be another question.

Last week, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to see John Stamos in the Bye Bye Birdie musical on Broadway for a mere $18 (including tax and fees). You may have to do some hunting online to find such discount codes, but they do exist.

As for Bye Bye Birdie, it isn't the best play I have ever seen. Yet, it is fun and entertaining, and John Stamos is fun to watch on the stage. The play also features Gina Gershon and a variety of young and experienced actors.

Active NJ's recommendations:
1. Try a Google search for discount codes before buying Broadway tickets. It might take a few minutes to dig through forums and posts, but the deals are out there and are well worth it in the end.
2. If you are commuting from NJ to NYC, take mass transportation. There's no need to fight through the mean streets of NYC when you can take the train or bus.
3. Go see Bye Bye Birdie soon. The play has a limited run that ends on January 24, 2010, and John Stamos is fun to watch on stage.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Christmas in New York City

It isn't in New Jersey, but it sure is close! Don't forget to visit New York City during the holiday season to see the sites and enjoy the festive holiday season.

All of the major department stores are decorated for the holidays from Macy's with interactive displays (you can write a letter to Santa by touching a screen on the window!) to the nightly light show on Saks Fifth Ave, you are sure to feel like a kid again!

That's not enough? How about the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center or The Pond in Bryant Park (which is also surrounded by the shops at Bryant Park).