Pretty Woman the Musical – Perfect Date Night Out

Looking for a fun date night or girls night out? This is it. 

I had reservations going in wondering how the stage show would compare to the movie. I mean, who hasn’t seen Pretty Woman at least 100 times? How could someone take the “feeling” of a classic and bring it to life? They did it though. 

I didn’t realize until watching the show how much of the movie I knew and was excited to see. Watching the connection between Vivian and Edward on stage, it felt very much like the connection on screen. The difference is that most of the storyline is put to song, so even if you haven’t seen the movie it is still an entertaining show. I found myself smiling and tapping my feet through the entire show.

Of course when I go to the Kravis Center, I make sure to check out their drink specialties. They always have drinks that tie in with the show, and now that beverages are allowed in the theater I love knowing I can enjoy them throughout the show.

I vaguely remember watching the movie when I was younger, but I do not recommend this for kids under 13. There is something different about watching the ummm romantic scenes in a movie, than how it is implied on stage. If you don’t want to review what Vivian’s profession is with your kids before the show, I say take a girlfriend and make it an adult night. 

The first act is 67 minutes with act two running 58 minutes. 

Pretty Woman the Musical runs until March 12th in West Palm Beach at the Kravis Center. Find out more about the show and grab your tickets here. 

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Aladdin on Broadway — Now in South Florida

Aladdin has made its way to South Florida and is open at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach until December 23rd. Theatre lover or not, this show has something for everyone… even the youngest theatre goer.

The Kravis Center website recommends the show for ages 6 and up.

What Can I Expect?

The most amazing lighting and costuming of any show. Now I’m not expert, but the entire show was top to bottom amazing. The high school theatre nerd in me kept wondering how they were able to fill the space to make it feel magical. It’s hard to explain how the scenery, backdrops and lighting can completely change the feel of a show and make adults and kids alike feel wonder.

The storyline follows the animated movie pretty closely with a few minor character additions, it does not change the story at all, but allows for more diversity on stage. There were also additional songs that were added, that I was told were cut from the movie version… don’t quote me on that though. You can’t believe everything you read on the internet (wink, wink).

Should I Take My Kids?

Of course! I am a huge believer in taking your kids to the theatre and this is a wonderful show to start with. Keep in mind the time the show starts. If it is an 8pm showing… consider if your kids will be able to sit still at that time of night without falling asleep. A matinee might be the way to go with younger kids.

Something I had not considered because my son is older is that some kids might not be able to see over adults in front of them. Michelle, from Modern Boca Mom, had the brilliant idea of bringing in her daughter’s booster seat from the car so she had a better view and didn’t struggle to see the action taking place.

Please note, if you have a child with sound sensitivities there are quite a few loud bangs and crashes. A few even made me jump. This is something that might startle younger ones if they are not expecting it, but with ear plugs or fair warning it might not be a problem.

Is it all – age appropriate?

If you are OK with everything that happens in the Disney animated movie, then everything will be fine. There are sword fighting scenes, but more to help with the setting and conflict. Nothing gory or scary.

My overall review is that this is a great show for date night or a family day out. It is a feel good story of an underdog that wins in the end. If you are looking for something to do while your family is in town for the holidays or a gift experience, add this to your gift list for sure!

On Your Feet – The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan

ON YOUR FEET! is the inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent—and each other—to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan.

On Your Feet! opened in 2015, at Broadway’s Marquis Theatre and closed in 2017. It is now reopen and crossing the country with a 70 city nationwide tour. I was lucky to be invited to The Kravis Center, in West Palm Beach, to see opening night.

Gaby Albo and Samuel Garnica will star as Grammy winners Gloria and Emilio Estefan in the new, non-Equity national tour of On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan, launching November 15 at West Palm Beach’s Kravis Center for the Performing Arts before visiting 70 cities nationwide. – Playbill.com

Whether you are a fan of Gloria or just a fan of the theatre, you will enjoy the upbeat and familiar songs. A score that includes such hits as “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “1-2-3,” and “Coming Out of the Dark.”

Should I take my kids to On Your Feet!?

As I was watching, I wished I would have brought my oldest son (who is currently 10). It is a perfect theatre experience for younger audiences. The music and lights keep the show upbeat, even during some of the more somber moments. There were other kids in the audience bopping along to the music. I would say anyone 8 and up would be an appropriate age, just be mindful of the length of the show.

There were no moments during the performance that I thought wouldn’t be suitable, so if you are looking for a show to introduce your kids to, or involve them in a theatre night out…this is a good one. There are even moments where the actors are dancing in the aisles… that’s a fun moment no matter how old you are.

If you are considering taking your kids, start listening to some of the songs before hand, that way they are familiar with the songs on stage.

If you aren’t able to make any of the shows in West Palm, the tour finds its way back to Florida in March with quite a few stops.

If you are local to South Florida and looking for other shows that are stoping in, make sure to checkout The Kravis Center lineup for updates.