Happy Friday and cheers to the weekend. I hope this Friday finds you at peace and that the week went well for you. This has been a tiring week but thankfully my schedule is slowing up a bit except for theatre. Make sure you support the many theatre productions that are happening now. Tomorrow I will be reviewing Beauty and Beast at The Walnut Theatre. Here’s what went down this week:
Theatre Shows to Keep on your radar
One of the things that I stress is the gift of experiences. From holiday shows and theatre shows there is something for everyone. Here are some theatre shows to pay close attention to and get tickets now.
- Big Friendly Giant at Arden Theatre Co
- Fat Ham at The Wilma Theatre
- Beauty and the Beast at Walnut Theatre
- Holiday Concert at Theatre Horizon
- A Very Philly Christmas at the Kimmel Cultural Campus
- Messiah at the Kimmel Cultural Campus
Conversations with Toi: Friday Episode
I am always going to be a church baby at heart. Regardless if you are someone who dabbles in church or hold up the church doors every Sunday there is something about gospel music that is refreshing and healing. On the podcast we have Jessica Johnson (she/they) who talks about her fall from the institution of church and how performing in the Broadway show Color Purple brought her back. Now she is performing this weekend at Theatre Horizon’s Christmas concert which is a gospel concert in Norristown. Tickets are available now. Listen to the episode.
Who is Jessica Johnson?
Jessica grew up going to church every Sunday and choir rehearsal every Wednesday. One of her earliest memories of singing in front of a group of people is singing a duet with her twin sister in front of the congregation. There is something special about a group of people singing together.
She realized at a very young age that music has the power to transform us, to move us, to make us think about the world around us – together. When she came out to her family and loved ones, She questioned whether she belonged in the place where she grew up. All her life, she was taught to believe that being a queer person was wrong, should be resisted, and she could somehow change. She feared her loved ones would turn away because of who she loved and how she loved, which felt like it went against everything she had been taught.
10 Day Countdown to Christmas
That is right we are down to the last 10 days of Christmas. I am not stressed about Christmas, but I have stress around this time of the season if that makes sense. From the kids schedules about to change, getting things done, still finishing out my 2023 end of year close outs and billing it is a lot. I spoke to a young lady who lost her job this week and so her stress is in a whole different way. People are amid grief. Please extend some grace to those around you. If there are ways you can help others,please do it with a willing heart.
It could be that I remember what it was like watching my mom try to get us out of a homeless shelter as kids that makes me stay as humble as possible. I didn’t like it back then no one would. However, the level of appreciation that I have from knowing that nothing is coming to ne without working hard is true. I do not take for granted the fact that my kids don’t have that as their reality.
Migration Screening
Don’t forget those who live in the Philadelphia area that I will be doing a free screening of it before it hits theatres. Bring the whole family out to see it tomorrow at the Regal of King of Prussia. It will be an amazing time. It’s free but you must register.
Wonka Movie: Friday Movie Scene
Today Wonka is out. It steps away from the traditional stories that we are used to. The story does pull on your heart strings in the end. I loved the refresh of the story, which is from the book, Wonka. This book is out now and is by none other than Ronald Dahl. It is a great read. So, if you are looking for something low key to do this weekend go ahead and take out time to enjoy today.
Yuletide Devon
This was my first time going. I took the kids, and we had a blast. One they hosted us which I never take for granted. Keep in mind that you pay one price, and that price includes entrance and unlimited rides, and along unlimited time with Santa. There is plenty of food and drink options including adult beverages.
Yuletide features live music too. I enjoyed our time there. It wasn’t as cold, but we loved running and jumping around. There is free parking across at the Devon Train station or you can pay the $30 for preferred parking which is on the grounds. Be thoughtful of others when you are in spaces like this. There could be longer than normal lines. Make sure you tip too. Everyone is outdoors in the elements to make sure you and your family have what you need to make memories.
Stag and Doe Nights at Chestnut Hill
I went with some of my friends to the Stag and Doe event. This event is every Wednesday which means this upcoming Wednesday will be the last one. Expect to park for free by the way, enjoy your beverages as you walk the streets and show and support small businesses. There are carolers, Santa, and so many opportunities to have a great time.
Chestnut Hill is a beautiful place to shop, eat, and more. I enjoyed my time, and I am sure you will do the same. Stag and Doe is on Wednesday from 5-9pm. Get there early as parking can become a bit stressful but doable.
That is all for now. Have an amazing weekend. I am clearing the house. My husband and I have been on a declutter movement. This is a great thing as I am the one who doesn’t like it from the jump. Getting and purging is good for the soul. Apart of it has to do with the New Year and the other part is I am loving how more streamlined the house looks now too. But either way that is what I am focused on. Fill your cup with me time, selfcare, and anything else that will keep you grounded and in peace. Happy Friday to you all.
