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BIG, toy tips toy testing, toy testing in Milwaukee, growing up. toys, holiday

Dreaming of BIG!

Posted by Marianne Szymanski on Oct. 29, 2012

It's already holiday time in my life and one way to start off this holiday season is to go see the First Stage Production of BIG! It's worth every moment.

As we stay so wrapped up in our busy worlds as parents, sometimes we forget how fun growing up actually is. This production gives every audience member an opportunity to release your inner-child and think about what it was like to grow up. Bring your favorite children and enjoy one and a half hours of pure childhood! First Stage got it right when they created their own version of the movie, "BIG" and the Broadway production that was created in 2006.

Maxx, Mia and I saw the "Wild Thunder" Cast and the talent, dancing and singing is amazing. The whole storyline is based on Josh Baskin, a little boy that wishes and grows BIG. You yourself will find times where you will smile, laugh and cry (I did) thinking of your own dreams and aspirations and who you are now.

The famous piano scene in the toy store is exciting as Josh and the toy store owner, Mr. MacMillian light up the keys with their years of piano lessons! First Stage custom built this piano and... I admit it, I wish I had one of these at home! Who wouldn't want to jump and sing at the same time?

This play was close to my heart because I saw the original movie when I was in college. One memorable scene in the movie put a little thought in the back of my head that started to unravel when I created Toy Tips in 1991. That initial thought is my dream 22 years later. While my job is to play all day, it gives me the reassurance that I live out something daily I am passionate about.

I don't think anyone will leave the theater without the same thought. Whether you are knee-deep in your career now, focused on parenting, grand-parenting or spending time with a cause you fee strongly tied to, that is also an aspiration and dream. For kids, it's all about possibilities, making choices and decisions that will shape their lives.

It's a great discussion point for the car ride home. One thing I love about all of First Stage Productions is that in the Playbill they hand out, there are questions that they call "Curtain Call" to reflect on the play. My kids and I quiz each other all the time and it's fun to do. It allows them to see how much mom retained and they learned!

While we all secretly want our kids to stay little, as parents, we all want them to dream BIG!

The performance wraps up on November 11 and the last weekend ends with Toy Tips toy testing events prior to the show! Get your tickets and come play!

Marianne

Test Toys with Toy Tips!

Just like Josh in BIG, THE MUSICAL! Join First Stage and Toy Tips prior to the 1:00 p.m. performances of BIG, THE MUSICAL on November 10 & 11, and try out both this season’s newest toys and some of the favorites parents and grandparents alike will remember.

WHO: Grandparents, parents, and kids

WHEN: Saturday, November 10 at 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM and Sunday, November 11 at 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM

WHERE: Upper lobby of the Todd Wehr Theater, Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, 929 N. Water Street in downtown Milwaukee

ADMISSION: The cost to attend this event is FREE with ticket purchase. Option to purchase a box lunch in advance to enjoy before the performance is also available.

RSVP: To RSVP for this event, call (414) 267-2964 by Friday, November 2. Tickets may also be purchased by phone. Admission for this event is limited.

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