It’s beginning to look (and feel!) a lot like Spring time! This weekend, there are a slew of events that will have you busy, busy, busy…in a good way, of course. If you haven’t gotten a chance to see “Knuffle Bunny” or “Lucky Duck,” this is the last weekend to catch it. For all you mutt lovers, there will be a renegade dog show on Saturday and Sunday. Also on Saturday is Egg-Travaganza, which promises to be a great time. Also on Sunday, Bija is having a fun and FREE day of activities that you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to visit our music listings and calendar for more fun-filled events. Enjoy your weekend!
ONGOING
Friday, March 23rd — April 1st
Freckleface Strawberry at The Manhattan Movement and Arts Center
Freckleface the Musical, though not new spring theater, is ending on April 1st, which is why I wanted to highlight it in this post. If you haven’t seen this positive, anti-bullying musical, it’s a great way to introduce your children theatrically to the notion that being different is not only acceptable, but interesting. Freckleface the Musical is based on the best-selling children’s book “Freckleface Strawberry” by Julianne Moore. Strawberry (aka Julianne), is an elementary school kid whose freckles make her the subject of teasing. As Strawberry makes various attempts to disguise her freckles, she finds that her classmate also have their insecurities. Along the way, Strawberry makes new friends, reaches out to others despite her own anxieties and discovers that it’s important to be comfortable in your own skin. The stereotypical characters are easily identifiable for kids: ballerina, nerd, athelete, girly girl- but the cast makes them fun. The voices are all solid, with some being stronger than others. Strawberry is a charismatic presence on stage and is only upstaged on occasion by the scooting ballerina. The musical numbers are very catchy and the lyrics are insightful into the characters’ feelings. My 3.5 year old (a rather seasoned theater goer), loved it but had trouble following some of the plot. My 5.5 year old took it all in, including a hilarious cabaret style dream sequence that was wonderfully complex enough for adults. As an adult, I enjoyed the musical numbers the most and as a parent, appreciated the anti-bullying message that was wrapped up in a catchy and upbeat musical.
Tickets: $40 tickets with discount code by either saying “MAMADRAMA” for $40 tickets at the box office or visit BroadwayOffers to purchase your discounted tickets on-line.
Details: Freckleface the Musical is at the MMAC Theater at Manhattan Movement and Arts Center 248 West 60th Street (Between Amsterdam and West End Avenue)
Friday, March 23rd – open ended
The Berenstain Bears LIVE!
We are so excited about the “beary” good show that will be held at the Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre! In The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters, our favorite Bear Country citizens come to life on the Off-Broadway stage. In addition to teaching life lessons during the show, there will be a mini dance party and face painting afterwards. It’s going to be “bear”mazing! We have all seen it a couple of times and it’s super cute for the kids.
Details: Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre. 10 West 64th Street and Central Park West. Tickets start at $34.95. 866.811.4111.
Saturday, March 24th — Monday, March 26th: various times
“Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical” at Manhattan’s Children Theatre
Who doesn’t LOVE Mo Willems’ Trixie and her beloved Knuffle Bunny?! I know my son and I can’t get enough of that series! the musical adaptation features Trixie, Daddy and Knuffle Bunny. The trio takes a trip to the neighborhood Laundromat, but the adventure takes a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes “somebunny” got left behind…
Details: 380 Broadway, 4th Floor, NYC. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $40. Contact 212.226.4085 or visit the website for more information.
Friday, March 23rd – Saturday March 31st from 10am – 5pm
Secrets of Circles Exhibit at Brooklyn Children’s Museum
There’s no doubt about it, circles are everywhere! The “Secrets of Circles” exhibit at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum features 18 different interactive activities that explore the nature of this simple, but amazing shape. From building mechanical contraptions to using a compass to draw awesome glow-in-the-dark circles, this fun exhibit provides a great way for math and science to come to life. This is going to be a crowd-pleaser, for sure, and will definitely give new meaning to “the wheels on the bus go round and round.”
Details: Brooklyn Children’s Museum 45 Brooklyn Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11213 718-735-4400 www.brooklynkids.org.
Friday, March 23rd –Sunday, March 25th: various times
Lucky Duck at The New Victory Theater
This new musical from the Broadway team of Henry Krieger (Dreamgirls, Side Show), Bill Russell (Side Show) and Jeffrey Hatcher (Tuesdays with Morrie) has live musicians! This satirical, rags-to-runway musical created for young people puts a modern spin on classic musical theater. In this no-intermission, 75-minute production best for kids 4 to 8, doo-wopping ducks and other birdie beauties belt out show-stopping pop-soul numbers in exotic locales, like The Barnyard, The Forest and New Duck City.
Tickets: Tickets for Lucky Duck at The New Victory Theater (209 West 42nd Street) cost $25, $18, $12 and $9 for Members and $38, $28, $18 and $14 for Non-members based on seat locations. Theater-goers who buy tickets for three or more New Vic shows qualify for free Membership benefits, including up to 35-percent savings. ONLINE at NewVictory.org BY PHONE at 646-223-3010; Sunday – Wednesday, 11 am-5 pm; Thursday – Saturday, 11 am-7 pm IN PERSON at The New Victory Theater Box Office (209 West 42nd Street); Sunday & Monday 11 am-5 pm; Tuesday-Saturday 12 pm-7 pm.
Details: The New Victory Theater (209 West 42nd Street)
Friday, March 23rd – Sunday, June 10, 2011: various times
Love From Mt. Pom Pom at The Children’s Museum of the Arts
Any art show that includes both the words “pom pom” and “love” in the show title will entice me anytime. That “Love from Mt. Pom Pom” is an art installation done by renowned Japanese artist Misaki Kawai is the clincher. This young artist has made has made a splash with her multi-media whimsical work all over the world including her wildly imaginative space stations and airplanes for Deitch Projects in 2004. In her first solo presentation in the U.S. since 2007, Kawai’s exhibition takes place during her 3-Month Museum Residency at The Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA).
Details: The Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA). 103 Charlton Street New York, NY 10014 (212) 274-0986 www.twitter.com/cmainnyc http://blog.cmany.org
Admission and Hours: The museum is open to the public: Monday and Wednesday, 12PM to 5PM; Thursday and Friday 12 PM to 6PM; Saturday and Sunday, 10AM to 5PM. Closed Tuesday. Admission: Adults $10; Children $10; Seniors, Infants (0-12mos) Free. Thursdays 4-6 PM, pay-as-you-wish.
Friday, March 23rd — June 30th: various times
Magic! The Amazing Max and The Box of Interesting Things
Magician Max Darwin makes objects appear out of thin air, as the laws of physics are defied, and miracles are performed inches from spectators’ faces. This isn’t a show that you ask, “How did he do that?” It’s not that Max doesn’t do great tricks, he does. It’s that the show is so focused on the hijinks of Hamlet the mind-reading pig and the silliness of coins appearing out of every bodily orifice, that the audience doesn’t have time to focus on the head-scratching things Max performs. The magic is just the sideshow to a very entertaining and engaging performance. Our full review is here.
Details: The Amazing Max and The Box of Interesting Things, in an open-ended Off-Broadway run. Manhattan Movement & Arts Center 248 W. 60th Street, NYC (between Amsterdam and West End Avenues)
Performances: Saturdays and Sundays at 4:30pm.
Tickets: The Amazing Max is performed at the MMAC Theater located in the Magic Carpet Rides (VIP seating) $49.50, regular general admission tickets $29.50. Tickets are available at www.telecharge.com or by phone at 212-239-6200 or 800-432-7250.
Saturday, March 24th — Sunday, July 8th: various times
“Ship-Shape: Nautical Scale Models” at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
Get excited! This new exhibition examines the detailed process of building model ships. It consists of dozens of artifacts, including model ships, vintage toy ships, a variety of antique model kit boxes, a mock-up of a modeler’s workbench that shows the building of a model ship being made in progress, and illustrations that shows how models are constructed. Among the highlights of the exhibit are models of the Battleship New Jersey, which served during WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam, and USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned vessel afloat in the world. The model USS New Jersey measures 112” W x 25” H x 15” D and the model USS Constitution measures 57” W x 43”H x 22” D. If you’ve got a child who is fascinated with ships, it doesn’t get more thorough than this, folks.p
Details: FREE with Museum admission. Pier 86 (46th Street and 12th Avenue) in NYC. Admissions: $24/adults, $12 children 3-6 years old/FREE children under 3. Visit the Museum’s website for more information.
FRIDAY MARCH 23RD
Friday, March 23rd from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Baby Boogie at the Prospect Park YMCA
Are you a new parent?! Then this class may just be perfect for you. Listen closely and you’ll hear the class calling your name. Not only will you have time to meet other parents here, but the class also includes games for babies, singing, and dancing. Jackpot!
Details: 357 Ninth Street. Ideal for parents with babies up to 13 months. $12/visit. Telephone: 718.768.7100.Visit the website for more information.
Friday, March 23rd from 4:30pm — 5:30pm
Animal Haven’s Caring Kids Program
Where are our animal lovers? Or parents of animal-loving children? You’ll want to check out this FREE event that introduces children and young teens to basic animal care and teaches them about existing issues in animal welfare. Through exciting lesson plans and interactive activities with cats and dogs at the shelter, participants learn the importance of treating animals humanely. They will not only make an impact on the lives of the animals they encounter, but it can certainly be a significant experience for them as well.
Details: 251 Centre Street. Ages 5-12. FREE for all, but RSVP is required. Contact KendraM@ah-nyc.org or visit the website for more information.
Friday, March 23rd at 6:15pm
Family Movie Night at The Moxie Spot
Still stumped on how to enjoy Family Friday Nights after a long week? Head on over to The Moxie Spot, a family-friendly restaurant and play space for a fun Friday night film screening. Kids will eat for free when you purchase an entrée from the dinner special after 5:30pm. Now that what we call “family friendly.”
Details: The short feature begins at 6:15pm. The longer feature begins at 6:45pm. 81-83 Atlantic Avenue (at Hicks Street). 718.923.9710
Friday, March 23rd from 7:00pm –8:30pm
The Neverending Story at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
Who doesn’t have fond memories of The Neverending Story? I know I do! Based on the classic German novel and popularized by the iconic film, The Neverending Story tells the story of a shy boy named Bastian who is tormented by school bullies and finds solace in a mysterious book. The book’s captivating tale tells of the fictional and far away land Fantastica, which is in grave danger from The Nothing. Follow Bastian, Atreyu the warrior boy, and Falkor the happy Luck Dragon as they travel through the Swamp of Sadness, the cave of a giant spider and the maze of the Southern Oracle to reach the Childlike Empress. This is a great show for children who have read and/or heard of the book.
Details: 566 Laguardia Place, NYC. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Tickets: $20-$30. Telephone: 212.992.8484. Visit the website for more information.
SATURDAY MARCH 24TH
Saturday, March 24th at 9:00am
NYRR Youth Jamboree at New Balance Track and Field at the Armory
This is THE event for little runners or aspiring track and field all-stars! There will be fun competition in a variety of track and field events including relays, runs, long jump, and shot put. Complimentary t-shirts and ribbons will be awarded to all participants. Please note: Races begin at 9:00 a.m. for younger kids (5-10); 1:45 p.m. for older kids (10-15); and 1:30 p.m. for the 4 year old 55-Meter Dash! Event day registration begins at 7:45 a.m.
Details: 216 Fort Washington Avenue, NYC. Recommended for ages 4 — 15. FREE for all. Telephone: 646.758.9675. Email: jamboree@nyrr.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th: 9am to 4pm
Electronics Recycling Event
Has your dead hard drive ceased its usefulness as a door stop? Then stop by the Electronics Recycling Event in Park Slope this Saturday. Drop off your old computers, monitors, printers, scanners, routers, hard drives, circuit boards and more. A full list of accepted items is below.
Details: 5th Ave and 4th St, Brooklyn
Saturday, March 24th from 9:30am — 11:00am
Eggs-Travaganza Easter Egg Hunt at The Brooklyn Children’s Museum
That’s right, Brooklynites… the Easter egg hunts are in full force! Hunt for and find eggs at the museum — will they hold prizes, treats or golden tickets? Exhibit areas will be divided by children’s age groups with timed entry tickets, so even the littlest explorers are sure to find treasures! After the hunt, join in for a private craft area for family fun, and remember to bring your own basket! Get excited!
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $14. Telephone: 718.735.4400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24h from 10:30am — 11:30am
Story Time with Carol and Friends
Carroll Garden folks, weekly story time has never been so good! The Friends of Carroll Garden Library present, “Story Time with Carol and Friends” so head on over to join in on the educational fun.
Details: All ages welcomed. FREE for all. 396 Clinton Street. For more information, contact:friendscglibrary@gmail.com or visit their website.
Saturday, March 24th at 10:30am and 12:30pm
Shadow Play at University Settlement
Have you ever wondered what happens to your shadow while you sleep? Well, it turns out that some shadows are more mischievous than others. And soon after moving to his new home, Flash discovers that his shadow has moving plans of his own! Follow the playful adventures of Flash and his exciting quest to reunite with his shadow in this multimedia performance for the youngest of audiences and the young at heart.
Details: 184 Eldridge Street (corner of Eldridge and Rivington), NYC. Recommended for ages 2 –5. Tickets: $10/adults; $5/children. Telephone: 212.453.4532. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th: 11am sharp!
Tree Giveaway and Clean and Green Event Celebrate your effort of recycling the old by bringing in the new- a new life, that is. Also on Saturday, the Gowanus Canal Conservancy is hosting a Tree Giveaway and Clean & Green Event. 100 trees will be given away courtesy of the MillionTreesNYC and New York Restoration Project. The only requirements are that you must plant the tree in the ground and on private property. This means that you may not plant the tree on the street, in a container, or on a roof. Some of the species we will be giving away include: Winter King Southern Hawthorne, Southern Magnolia, Crape Myrtle and River Birch. The trees are all planted in 3 and 7 gallon plastic containers, so please plan your transportation accordingly. After you get your tree loaded in your car, or walked home, hang around and help build a compost sifting table, remove trash and debris from the Salt Lot and the 2nd Ave. rain garden, weed, create a new berm garden, and other various tasks.
Details: The Salt Lot, 2nd Avenue and 5th Street
Saturday, March 24th at 11am
Kids Story Time at Greenlight Bookstore
Grab the kiddies and head to Saturday Story Time, which typically features authors and illustrators of picture books and/or neighborhood performers reading stories. At times, there may even be crafts! A totally entertaining Saturday morning? We think so!
Details: Geared towards kids ages 3 – 8 years. Open to the public, but on a first come, first served basis. 686 Fulton Street (at South Portland). Phone: 718. 246. 0200. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 11:00am — 7:00pm
The Brooklyn Mutt Show at The Brooklyn Lyceum
Whether you have an adorable dog or an adorable child who is wild about dogs- head to this poor sister of the Westminster Dog Show- The Brooklyn Mutt Show. This dog show is done Brooklyn-style: contests include the softest ears, most animated tail or the sloppiest smooch. Celebrity judges, (local authors, comedians) will weigh in on each contestant and prizes for the pups include Doggie Bags of goodies from Brooklyn Bark, a photo shoot by Brooklyn Beasts Photography and gift certificates from One Love Vet, Les Pets en Voyage and Your Spoiled Pets. Now that’s something to go “woof woof” over!
Details: 227 4th Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $5 suggested donation fee for people; $25-$30 entrance fee for the mutts. Telephone: 718.857.4816. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 11:00am — 12:30pm
Nimbaya! West African Dance and Drumming at Symphony Space
NIMBAYA! is a troupe of women from West Africa playing the djembe, an instrument historically reserved for male players. These female artists have made a name for themselves in choosing to become percussion players, which shows their desire to control their destiny and lead themselves out of a life of poverty through art. Love that! They have been at several international children’s festivals, including The Seattle International Children Festival and Canada’s Edmonton International Children Festival. The company’s amazing drumming and high energy dance is both fun and inspirational for children, young and old.
Details: 2537 Broadway, NYC. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Tickets: $15 — $25. Email: boxoffice@symphonyspace.org. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 11:00am — 12:30pm
CD Release Party: The Good Ms. Padgett Sings, “The Little Red Hen” at the Knitting Factory
For her second full-length, The Good Ms. Padgett Sings The Little Red Hen and Other Stories (March 2012), The Good Ms. Padgett returns to offer her unique musical interpretations of four classic stories: “The Little Red Hen,” “Goldilocks,” “Henny Penny,” and “The Billy Goats Gruff.” Developed as a way to actively engage her preschool and Kindergarten students in the magic and drama of these favorite tales, The Good Ms. Padgett’s story/songs are funny and original and sure to be enjoyed by all!
Details: 361 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 6 and under. Tickets: $5/person; $24/family of 4. Email: Melissa@supersonickids.com. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 11:00am
Meet the Pilots Day at INTREPID Sea, Air, and Space Museum
Women’s History Month is still going strong! This Saturday, meet some amazing female aviators. The day will start with a panel discussion in the theater, followed by a meet and greet in the afternoon.
Details: Pier 86 West 46th and 12th Avenue, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE with museum admissions. Telephone: 212.245.0072. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 11:0am
Father Goose’s Tales at Canal Park Playhouse
There’s trouble in the nursery! Mother Goose has taken the day off and it’s up to Father Goose to do all of her chores, including the story telling. And he can’t get the stories quite right! With beautiful shadow puppets bringing classic stories to life, Father Goose’s Tales is a unique and fanciful retelling of nursery rhymes, stories and children’s songs.
Details: 508 Canal Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Tickets: $10. Telephone: 866.811.4111. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 12:00pm
Guest Workshops with Misaki Kawai at the Children’s Museum of Arts
Calling all budding artists! School-age kids can take a workshop with Japanese artist Misaki Kawai, whose Love from Mt. Pom Pom exhibit is currently on view at the museum. There’s no information on what she’ll be doing with the kiddies, but if her whimsical and cheerful artwork is any indication, the workshop will be some kind of awesome!
Details: 103 Charlton Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 5 and up. FREE with museum admission of $10. Telephone: 212. 274.0986. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 12:30pm and 2:30pm
Puss in Boots at Puppetworks, Inc
If your child is a fan of the movie, then they will love this too! Now is the chance for them to find out what happens to this little kitten when he is given a pair of boots that turns out to be… wait for it… magical! This adorable tale will leave your child feeling enchanted, to asy the least.
Details: 338 6th Aevnue at 4th Street. Tickets: $7/child, $8/adult. Registration is suggested. Call 718.965.3391 or email puppetworks@verizon.net to reserve your tickets!
Saturday, March 24th at 1:00pm
Nature Crafts for Kids at Fort Greene Park Visitors Center
Get outdoors so that the kids can work with the NYC Park Rangers to create seasonal arts and crafts. Have a picnic and/or play a game of ball afterwards!
Details: Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.722.3218. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 1:00pm –2:00pm
Saturday Family Programs: Flooky and the Beans at The Brooklyn Central Library
It’s a big giant party in the magical land of Beantown! The robot flew in from Outer Space. He’s been to Venus, he’s been to Mars! Let’s have a celebration and reach for the stars! Flooky and the Beans are back and ready to dance, dance, dance and sing, sing, sing in this fantastic Spring time concert celebrating their first trip to Brooklyn! Join Bobo the Funky Purple Bean, Emma the Go-Go Green Bean, Chili the Hot-Hot-Cool Bean, Angie the Checkerboard Bean and Flooky the Robot boy with their special guest, the Orange Farmer at this uplifiting interactive event.
Details: 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 2–8. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.230.1001. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 1:00pm and 4:00pm
Stunt Lab at Canal Park Playhouse
Brooklynites, get your metro cards ready because you’ll want to head into the city for this one! Oh yeah, and prepare to be awed! Yo-yo champ Mark Hayward and celebrated contortionist Jonathan Burns team up for STUNT LAB, putting their madness to the test in the wackiest laboratory in world. Using everyday objects and their own ingenuity, this duo creates dangerous, amazing and wild experiments sure to please thrill seekers of all ages as they scientifically attempt “The Greatest Stunt of All Time.” A World Record will be broken at every show (hopefully). Are you ready?!
Details: 508 Canal Street, NYC. Ages 5 and up. Tickets: $20. Telephone: 866.811.4111. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 1:30pm
Transit Rocks at The New York Transit Museum
Put on your hard hat with a fun matching game that explores different rocks found in underground subway tunnels across the five boroughs!
Details: Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 5 and up. FREE with museum admissions. Telephone: 718.694.1792. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 1:00pm — 3:00pm
Arts and Recreation at the Audubon Center
Naturalists at the Prospect Park Audubon Center will lead structured, fun and engaging arts activities combined with active play that will have kids up and moving like an animal or pretending to be a bat. Cool, right. Yeah… we thought so too!
Details: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park. Entrance near Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm
The Neverending Story at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
Who doesn’t have fond memories of The Neverending Story? I know I do! Based on the classic German novel and popularized by the iconic film, The Neverending Story tells the story of a shy boy named Bastian who is tormented by school bullies and finds solace in a mysterious book. The book’s captivating tale tells of the fictional and far away land Fantastica, which is in grave danger from The Nothing. Follow Bastian, Atreyu the warrior boy, and Falkor the happy Luck Dragon as they travel through the Swamp of Sadness, the cave of a giant spider and the maze of the Southern Oracle to reach the Childlike Empress. This is a great show for children who have read and/or heard of the book.
Details: 566 Laguardia Place, NYC. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Tickets: $20-$30. Telephone: 212.992.8484. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Nature’s Helpers at Prospect Park Audubon Center
Since it’s so nice out, spend time outside enjoying nature while helping to keep the Park clean. Gloves, garbage bags, and trash grabbers will be provided.
Details: Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
HandiWork: Tasks and Crafts from the Past at Lefferts Historic House
An afternoon of crafts? Sign me up! And if you and your children are anything like me, you’d want to check out this FREE event as well where kids will engage in arts, crafts, and games… just like they did in 19-Century Brooklyn. How’s that for a Saturday afternoon?
Details: Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Willink Entrance (near intersection of Ocean Avenue and Empire BLVD. FREE for children under 16 years old. $3 suggested donation for adults on the weekends. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 2:30pm
Art Works at The Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Visit the Totally Tots area with your little ones to see what’s in store for that budding Picasso!
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue. 718. 735.4400. Ages 5 and under.
Saturday, March 24th from 3:00pm — 5:30pm
French Play Date at EINY School
One Saturday a month kids can join in on an afternoon of playful French language immersion. Through song and talk, children’s French language skills will be encouraged in a fun setting. Each playdate will include 30 minutes of musician, artist, or teacher instruction as well as reading of three different books. Healthy snacks will be also be offered!
Details: 111 East 22nd Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 7 and under. Tickets: $10 suggested donation. Email frenchpg@32finearts.com for more information.
SUNDAY MARCH 25TH
Sunday, March 25th at 10:00am
Macy’s Flower Show at Macy’s Herald Square
Bursting with color, excitement and energy, The Macy’s Flower Show is like taking a walk through Brazil itself! Experience the vast, lush wonders of the Amazon rainforest as you walk by towering palms, tropical plants and exotic birds. Explore ponds abundant with exotic plant life, walk down secret pathways and stumble upon a hidden rushing waterfall. Be transported to the cities of Brazil through colorful, vibrant gardens that adorn both mid-century mission-style villages and modern-day inner city neighborhoods, plus take in a striking view of Sao Paolo, Brazil’s largest city, from a rooftop garden oasis. Discover the starkly modern architecture of Oscar Niemeyer’s Brasilia, and be swept away by the curvaceous gardens and swirling mosaic walkways of Roberto Burle Marx.
Details: 151 West 34th Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 212.695.4400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 11:00am
Passover Nosh and Stroll at the Museum at Eldridge Street
Journey into the kishkes of the old Jewish Lower Eat Side on this tasty expedition. Visit Streit’s Matzoh, with fresh matzoh right off the conveyor belt; The Pickle Guys, where you’ll taste freshly ground horseradish for Passover; the former site of Shapiro’s Wine, to raise a glass in tribute to this quintessential purveyor of kosher holiday wines, and other stores, streets and tenements in which immigrants shopped, schlepped and gathered. This unique and tasty tour sheds light on the holiday customs, foods and history of East European Jewish immigrants of a century ago. Please note: Reservations are recommended.
Details: 12 Eldridge Street, NYC. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $15. Telephone: 212.219.0888. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 11:00am — 12:00pm
Suzi Shelton Concert at J&R Music
Brooklyn, it’s time to band together and show Manhattan what we’re made of. Brooklyn-based kindie rocker Suzi Shelton will play a family show showcasing tunes from her latest release Tomboy in a Princess Dress, written with her 7 year old daughter in mind. Suzi will be joined by guitarist Greg Mayo, bass and trombone player Albert Elias, and her children. “I love the interactive element of my performances,” says Suzi. There’s nothing like seeing a room full of kids pumping their fists shouting “Road Trip! That personal connection to the audience…it’s one of the main reasons why I do kids music.” Suzi will also feature songs from her two previous solo CD’s “Simply Suzi” and, “No Ordinary Day,” which include favorites like “Scooter Boy,” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” A good time in store for all? I think so!
Details: 23 Park Row, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 212.238.9000. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 11:00am — 7:00pm
The Brooklyn Mutt Show at The Brooklyn Lyceum
Whether you have an adorable dog or an adorable child who is wild about dogs- head to this poor sister of the Westminster Dog Show- The Brooklyn Mutt Show. This dog show is done Brooklyn-style: contests include the softest ears, most animated tail or the sloppiest smooch. Celebrity judges, (local authors, comedians) will weigh in on each contestant and prizes for the pups include Doggie Bags of goodies from Brooklyn Bark, a photo shoot by Brooklyn Beasts Photography and gift certificates from One Love Vet, Les Pets en Voyage and Your Spoiled Pets. Now that’s something to go “woof woof” over!
Details: 227 4th Avenue, Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $5 suggested donation fee for people; $25-$30 entrance fee for the mutts. Telephone: 718.857.4816. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 11am
Baby Stories and Singalongs at Greenlight Bookstore
Babies and toddlers under 3 years old will be highly entertained with stories, songs, and interactive play as the children’s performers Miss Nina, Jon Samson, and Vered take turns keeping them busy.
Details: Geared toward ages 3 years and under. Open to public, but on a first come, first served basis. 686 Fulton Street (at South Portland). Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 11:00am — 1:00pm OR 2:00pm — 4:00pm
Pysanky (Ukrainian Easter Egg) Decorating at The Ukrainian Museum
Adults and children will have the opportunity to learn the art of making pysanky – Ukrainian Easter eggs. Dyes, beeswax and a stylus are used to decorate the eggs with traditional Ukrainian designs. Fill your Easter basket with beautiful pysanky, rather than just plain colored eggs! Please note: Registration is required.
Details: 222 East 6th Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets: $5/ages 12-16; $10/ages 16 and up; $15/adults. Telephone: 212.228.0110. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 12:00pm
Guest Workshop with Misaki Kawai at The Children’s Museum of Arts
Calling all budding artists! School-age kids can take a workshop with Japanese artist Misaki Kawai, whose Love from Mt. Pom Pom exhibit is currently on view at the museum. There’s no information on what she’ll be doing with the kiddies, but if her whimsical and cheerful artwork is any indication, the workshop will be some kind of awesome!
Details: 103 Charlton Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 5 and up. FREE with museum admissions of $10. Telephone: 212.274.0986. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 12:00pm — 5:00pm
Plant A Seed Activities Day at Bija
Face painting, food by Red Rabbit, and sidewalk chalk! Also, bring a container and plant a seed! Bring a shirt and get it silkscreened! Bring a photo, shell, or something special to add to the alter in the studio! Plus… get 15% off everything, including birthday parties, class sessions and cards, and summer camp and teacher training. Those were a lot of exclamation points, but I’m pretty excited!
Details: 900 Fulton Street (at Washington), Brooklyn. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.483.4795. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 12:30pm and 2:30pm
Puss in Boots at Puppetworks, Inc
If your child is a fan of the movie, then they will love this too! Now is the chance for them to find out what happens to this little kitten when he is given a pair of boots that turns out to be… wait for it… magical! This adorable tale will leave your child feeling enchanted, to asy the least.
Details: 338 6th Aevnue at 4th Street. Tickets: $7/child, $8/adult. Registration is suggested. Call 718.965.3391 or email puppetworks@verizon.net to reserve your tickets!
Sunday, March 25th at 12:30pm
Puppetsburg at the Greenpoint Reformed Church
Here’s your chance to watch a puppet show where the puppeters have tattoos and attitudes. Can you handle it?
Details: 136 Milton Street, Brooklyn. Recommended for kids ages 4 and under. Cost: $16/person, $14/each sibling, CASH ONLY. Contact Puppetsburg@gmail.com or visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 1:00pm
Kids ‘N Comedy: The New York Show at the Gotham Comedy Club
New York teens are a breed apart. They eat bagels, ride the subway by themselves and know every bubble tea joint on St. Mark’s Place. While other kids complain about the music in the mall, New York kids complain about the MTA. They even write and perform their own comedy routines. Is it hard being an urban icon before you get your learner’s permit? Find out in “The New York Show” by Kids ‘N Comedy, featuring teen comics Ryan Drum, Leo Frampton, Eric Kurn, Jake Sidransky, Lee Wolfowitz and more!
Details: 208 West 23rd Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 9-18. Tickets: $15 (plus one item minimum, food or drink). Telephone: 212.877.6115. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 1:00pm — 2:00pm
Z Brothers Concert at J&R Music
Who can play the Wheels on the Bus and Sweet Home Alabama at the same sing-a-long and still pull it off: The Z Brothers! Paulie Z, David Z and Joey Cassata, three Brooklyn boys, have been performing for kids for over a decade now and their youthful brand of showmanship and high energy sing-a-longs have successfully made the one of the most sought after children’s entertainers in the country.
Details: 23 Park Row, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 212.238.9000. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 1pm — 3pm
Arts and Recreation at the Audubon Center
Naturalists at the Prospect Park Audubon Center will lead structured, fun and engaging arts activities combined with active play that will have kids up and moving like an animal or pretending to be a bat. Cool, right. Yeah… we thought so too!
Details: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park. Entrance near Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 1:00pm and 4:00pm
Stunt Lab at Canal Park Playhouse
Brooklynites, get your metro cards ready because you’ll want to head into the city for this one! Oh yeah, and prepare to be awed! Yo-yo champ Mark Hayward and celebrated contortionist Jonathan Burns team up for STUNT LAB, putting their madness to the test in the wackiest laboratory in world. Using everyday objects and their own ingenuity, this duo creates dangerous, amazing and wild experiments sure to please thrill seekers of all ages as they scientifically attempt “The Greatest Stunt of All Time.” A World Record will be broken at every show (hopefully). Are you ready?!
Details: 508 Canal Street, NYC. Ages 5 and up. Tickets: $20. Telephone: 866.811.4111. Visit the website for more information.
Saturday, March 24th at 1:30pm
Transit Rocks at The New York Transit Museum
Put on your hard hat with a fun matching game that explores different rocks found in underground subway tunnels across the five boroughs!
Details: Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn. Recommended for ages 5 and up. FREE with museum admissions. Telephone: 718.694.1792. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm
The Neverending Story at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts
Who doesn’t have fond memories of The Neverending Story? I know I do! Based on the classic German novel and popularized by the iconic film, The Neverending Story tells the story of a shy boy named Bastian who is tormented by school bullies and finds solace in a mysterious book. The book’s captivating tale tells of the fictional and far away land Fantastica, which is in grave danger from The Nothing. Follow Bastian, Atreyu the warrior boy, and Falkor the happy Luck Dragon as they travel through the Swamp of Sadness, the cave of a giant spider and the maze of the Southern Oracle to reach the Childlike Empress. This is a great show for children who have read and/or heard of the book.
Details: 566 Laguardia Place, NYC. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Tickets: $20-$30. Telephone: 212.992.8484. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 2:00pm
Jazz Kids at 55 Bar
Who says that only adults can enjoy jazz? Not I! At this event, Singer Amy Cervini puts on an interactive jazz show where kids are encouraged to get up and dance, sing along, and even play with the instruments! Fun stuff!
Details: 55 Christopher Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 6 and under. Tickets: $6.00. Telephone: 212.929.9883. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Nature’s Helpers at Prospect Park Audubon Center
Since it’s so nice out, spend time outside enjoying nature while helping to keep the Park clean. Gloves, garbage bags, and trash grabbers will be provided.
Details: Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance. All are welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
HandiWork: Tasks and Crafts from the Past at Lefferts Historic House
An afternoon of crafts? Sign me up! And if you and your children are anything like me, you’d want to check out this FREE event as well where kids will engage in arts, crafts, and games… just like they did in 19-Century Brooklyn. How’s that for a Saturday afternoon?
Details: Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Willink Entrance (near intersection of Ocean Avenue and Empire BLVD. FREE for children under 16 years old. $3 suggested donation for adults on the weekends. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25th at 2:30pm
Jon Samson Concert at J&R Music
Jon Samson is a music therapist, performer and award winning producer of his original “Kids Albums.” As founder of CoCreative Music, Jon facilitates creativity, self esteem and expression for children and grown ups alike. He has worked alongside the founders of the Blue Man Group at the Blue School and has been interviewed on Doctor Radio Sirius XM about his approach to Autism and special needs.
Details: 23 Park Row, NYC. All ages welcomed. FREE for all. Telephone: 212.238.9000. Visit the website for more information.
Nat’l Dance Theatre Co of Jamaica
March 25, 2012 at 3 pm
Always a Brooklyn Center favorite, NDTC blends the lore, music and dance of Jamaica, Africa and the American South with modern and classical forms to create a colorful celebration of West Indian culture. This jewel of the Caribbean celebrates its 50th Anniversary with two programs combining evocative new works with favorites from their repertoire and rarely performed pieces from early in the company’s history.
Tickets: $30-$45. Online orders: BrooklynCenterOnline.org Box Office: (718) 951-4500, Tuesday – Saturday, 1pm – 6pm Groups of 15 or more: (718) 951-4600, ext. 33
Details: Performances at Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts. BY SUBWAY : #2 train to Brooklyn College/Flatbush Avenue. Exit the station via the staircase at the very front of the train. Walk to the corner and take a right onto Campus Road. Follow Campus Road approximately a block and a half and enter the college campus via the gate on your left. Ask at the guard booth for directions to Walt Whitman Theatre. Check www.mta.info for possible weekend service changes. BY BUS : In Brooklyn, B41, B44, B6, B11, B103 and Q35. BY CAR : For Google Maps or any GPS navigational device, the address for our parking lot is 2700 Avenue H, Brooklyn NY
Sunday, March 25th from 3:00pm — 4:00pm
Mario the Magician at Space on White
Abracadabra! Mario the Magician is back at it and wants you to join him for an uplifting, inventive, and highly interactive magical performance for the young and young-at-heart! Part retro, part rock and roll, Mario is an artist and inventor who creates his own props. Mario’s old world looks and physical comedy style are reminiscent of his heroes, Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, but he puts a thoroughly modern spin on everything he does. Mario the Magician is a full-time New York-based performer.
Details: 81 White Street, NYC. Recommended for ages 11 and under. Tickets: $10/child; $20/adult. Telephone: 917.605.0662. Email: Katie@mariothemagician.com. Visit the website for more information.
Sunday, March 25 at 3:00 p.m.
Paper Bag Dragons
As fans of The Paper Bag Players’ shows, we are excited about their new one coming later this month- plus, it involves dragons! The Players do a bit of everything: short plays with rousing songs, audience participation, mime, and painting and drawing on stage. They use common household objects like cardboard boxes and brown craft paper brightened with splashes of poster paint and crayon as sets, props and costumes. The Paper Bag Players’ brand new show includes the tale of the Dandy Do-Everything-Dynamo, a tiny paper bag dragon, a dancing broom, a super-hero, and more. Meet the cast in the lobby after the performance!
Tickets: $12. Tickets are now on sale, and available as follows: In Person: On Stage at Kingsborough box office, Kingsborough Community College, 2001 Oriental Boulevard (cross street: Oxford), Brooklyn, NY. There is ample, free parking on the campus. Box Office Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. By Phone: (718) 368-5596 Online: www.OnStageAtKingsborough.org
Details: Performance at On Stage At Kingsborough. By Car: AMPLE, FREE PARKING is available and we are just minutes from Exit 8 off the Belt Parkway. By Bus: Take the B1 or B49 bus straight to our gates. By Subway: Take the B, Q, F, D, or N and transfer to the B1 bus for a short ride to our gates.
Sunday, March 25th from 6:00pm — 9:00pm
Family Bingo Night at The Moxie Spot
What a lovely way to end the weekend! Eat, drink, play, and win big! (Well, hopefully.) There will be little prizes for the little kids, who, by the way, can eat for FREE with the purchase of any dinner entree or dinner special. Yum!
Details: 81 Atlantic Avenue. Ages 4 and up. Contact 718.923.9710 or visit the website for more information.