I am not a fan of “Labor Day” weekend. First, similar to other holidays we celebrate in the United States – let’s face it – the use of “day” in the name is a misnomer. For some, “Labor Day” is an entire week of last minute vacation time or at the very least a four-day attempt to get the final moments of surf and sand!
Labor Day – 1960’s-1970’s
When I was young this weekend meant that summer was done and school was to begin. Yes, I liked the idea of going to the FIRST day of school. But, after that – I was not necessarily “in the mood”. I would have much rather been running around with friends until the “lights came on” and wait evenings for the ice-cream truck to stop at the nearby corner. Now, I was being relegated to sit in a row in a school – sans air conditioning – on what was predictably some of the hottest days of the year. Toss in the fact that I had a hefty dose of ADHD and sitting in a chair for HOURS after a couple of months of freedom, was for me – torture!
Labor Day 1977
Labor Day 1977 meant I was going to load a car up and drive the 7 hours from my house to the University of Delaware. While I was “all in” to enjoy living away from home and starting life as a collegiate – I was scared and second -guessing the distance. (Those feelings didn’t last more than a few days, by the way!)
Labor Day 1987 – 2007
When I had children my favorite part of their year (and mine) was indeed – Summer. We initiated the Adventurer’s Club – where each week one child would have the exciting “duty” to choose where we would explore in our local area. From museums to hiking state parks, we relished in the knowledge that we can come and go as we please. The lack of schedule and desire to explore on these mini-staycations were some of the most memorable moments of my parenting school-aged kids. Honestly, there were many times I “got” homeschooling.
Labor Day – My Mature Years
Now as a person with no children at home and my own business – Summer seems to roll in to Fall with nearly a blink. Except for a few notable changes. First, Labor Day weekend means that Hallmark stores (and others) seem to wave a magic wand and all their Christmas ‘stuff’ appears on shelves. Yes, we seem to bypass all other holidays and go straight to Christmas.
Positive Note: Fall also does bring one positive element- cheaper travel rates. Hubby and I often like to take advantage of this time of the year.
Back to my list… Labor Day also means that floral scents are replaced with pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg spices. Good-bye fruit pies and say hello to pumpkin pie! Not to worry – I love fruit and pumpkin pies!
Lastly and my main “complaint” – This time of year means people become more serious. We wear our “school or work clothes” and put away the fun flip-flop sandals.. We accept, begrudgingly, a life with more regimental scheduling of our day and less time to sit and chat without rushing. And clearly many of us forget the care-free and relaxed feelings of summertime. UGH!
Now you know, my friends, why I am not a fan of Labor Day weekend.
Laughter IS the common language of our world. And, you will find much of it at the National Comedy Center!
From Vaudeville to the Family Guy and every genre of comedy in between – you will find them here in Jamestown, New York!
When you think of destination spots for vacations one usually doesn’t pick Jamestown – until now. The National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz Museums are about to invigorate this sleepy hamlet located in Western New York the way that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame revived Cleveland, Ohio.
In order to truly appreciate this “cultural center” you really need to experience it first person. But, I will try my best to give you a close-up account my words and the images snapped from my trusty iPhone 8 plus.
More than 50 immersive exhibits take visitors on an interactive journey through comedy history, from early vaudeville acts to the latest viral memes.
There is so much to see and “feel” at this center. I can’t stress enough how you need to experience it for yourself. AND EVERY ADULT can access this place. The accessibility factor is super!
To entice you to indeed visit I have devised a TOP 10 list of my favorite “things” about the National Comedy Center. I encourage you to add to my list in the comment section.
Tip 1. Come early and plan on staying several hours!
The center opens at ten. Arrive early to beat the crowds and be able to take in the exhibits without feeling rushed. If you have have all day opt for the pass that allows you entry to the Lucille Ball – Desi Arnaz museum AND the National Comedy Center. Both are amazing and you will be glad you did!
Note: Wear comfortable shoes and bring Kleenex. You will need it to wipe the tears from belly laughs throughout your stay.
TIP 2: Go all out – immerse yourself!
The first step of this experience is to get a wrist band that allows for digital engagement throughout the center. You can use the code to ‘vote” for favorite actors, comedy shows and more! Also, to receive content to your inbox that you generate – you will need to have this “techie wristband”.
Note: The first time I visited I was shy about sharing my personal info so I made a bogus email and name. Bad move. This didn’t allow me to get any of my saved content that I generated along my visit. The second time I was forthcoming and sure enough – when I got back to my hotel there were my interactive videos, etc. waiting for me in my inbox!
And… Don’t forget to wave to yourself when you walk through the entry way!
Above the entry way door you will spot your welcome message!
Tip 3 – Meander among the history of comedy, famous quotes and more
One of the very first exhibits you will encounter is a homage to comedy writers. Plus, a whole section dedicated to the humor of George Carlin. I spent quite a bit of time in this first section not realizing how expansive the remainder of the place was. But, I loved George Carlin and I was thrilled to see such a large exhibit about his genius and tumultuous history of censorship.
Now move on to the the first truly interactive room allows you to see behind the camera- literally. You also can pull up a chair and pick one of your favorite comics to perform. Dana Carvey got us off to a great start!
There are quotes and jokes along the way for all to enjoy. On windows of a walkway between sections of the building you will find great quotes that give you just enough chuckle. They also lead you in to an exhibit of a timeline of comedy in the United States. And, when you are done here – stop as you shouldn’t bypass the writer’s library. This area has some hidden gems – so go enjoy them!
Tip 4: Sit and stay.
There are several places that offer you a place to sit and watch a show, movie, news reel or interactive exhibit. Sit and stay for a while in these areas. Lingering is encouraged as there is sooooo much to see and reminisce. One of the areas I spent the most time was a huge wall with an interactive board of comedy influence – called The Continuum. It was fascinating to literally connect the dots between one comedian to another.
(Shameless side note: I will be working with Harry Shearer this October… guess what I am going to show him?! See below.)
Tip 5. Get a drink and a snack.
This place may seem a bit overwhelming with hysteria. So you may need to refuel. Lucky for you there is a snack bar easily accessible to the exhibits. Prices are fairly standard and won’t break the budget.
Tip 6 – Play with toys.
There is a section that shows you how props were used in comedic scenes, such as Saturday Night Live. . I missed this section during my first visit but went purposely to see it during my second. It was so much fun! Again, playing with toy props is encouraged! Also, a good place for older kids to explore.
Props!
Tip 7 – Become part of the act!
There are several opportunities to become part of the show. You can do you own improv stand-up comedy routines. You also can sit in a booth an insert yourself in to several well known scenes from past comedies such as I Love Lucy. Hubby and I took a few photos as Ethel and Fred Mertz.
Tip 8: Go Blue… Go if you dare…
The Blue Room is “rude, crude and at times socially unacceptable”. It also highlights some of the most “on the edge ” comediennes during the past century. I loved this room. It wasn’t salacious but more educational, if comedy that makes you blush can be that. So, if you want to see Richard Pryor, James Carlin, Amy Schumer, Don Rickles, Lenny Bruce and many more at their comedic best – take the elevator to the BLUE ROOM floor. No kids allowed. Read the caution below before entering. And, be prepared. The F-word is used liberally like salt is sprinkled on fries.
Tip 9: Keep going – there is so much more to do!
Just when you thought you were done with the exhibits here you will happen upon one of the most fun gift shops … anywhere. This place alone is a homage to comedy! Stay. Laugh. Purchase.
When you are done keep going and make your way to the Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz Museum a short walk away. If you find yourself hungry – stop for lunch at one of the several little cafes you will find along the streets.
Jamestown also is a stone’s throw to the famous Chautauqua Lake and institute.
Like some night life? Head east to the Seneca Nation Casino and Resort. They have a number of bands that play there, including Peter Frampton who packed the house!
Last Tip – #10 – Avail yourself of the events at the National Comedy Center and make plans to come back!
There is so much that happens at the National Comedy Center- especially in the summer months when the tourist season is at full peak. I am so bummed I won’t be there this week as August 7-11th is the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival with top comedians headlining.
Our world is a bit topsy-turvy these days. In fact, there is so much dissension and violence that laughter gets lost in our collective worry and grief. We NEED a place like the National Comedy Center to help remind us about good times and good people. After all, laughter IS the best medicine.
Lastly, a special shout-out to the wonderful staff at the National Comedy Center. Gary Hahn and Adrienne (sorry forgot your last name) – both were super attentive and answered all my questions to help me prepare for this article. I hope our paths cross again – very soon! And, special thanks to all the staff – they were nice to every person who walked through their doors!
Life Lessons - Behind the Scenes of SHREK the MUSICAL by 3-D Theatricals.
While other media correspondents may wish to write about the show cast and the celebrities involved with an entertainment project, I have chosen to give readers insight to the “behind the scenes” of one of the most robust regional theaters in the United States – 3-D Theatricals. My hope is that I may inspire some of you to put down your electronics to enjoy live theater. To give you an incentive… I am offering an opportunity to enter a giveaway for tickets – four of them to a wonderful family production of SHREK- The Musical!
“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek….” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand… and his name is Shrek.
3-D Theatricals Online
It takes a village to make what happens on a stage seem effortless and par excellence! Let's go behind the scenes and discover the making of SHREK- the Musical!
Meet Gigi Meese
"Pure joy", is how Gigi Meese, Director of Community Relations for 3-D Theatricals described this production of SHREK - The Musical. Gigi was kind enough to carve out time at the end of a busy day to chat with me about the history and marketing aspects of 3-D Theatricals. I loved speaking with Gigi, learning about her unique name, how she met Leslie Caron and also her hopes for one day seeing Man of the LaMancha as a season musical selection. Related: See video at the very end about her meeting the actress who immortalized the musical, Gigi - Leslie Caron.
What I learned about this theater, set, costumes, team and more-
I was surprised to learn that the team behind the scenes is smaller than I expected. They all have double and triple duties . Does that upset anyone? – Seemingly not. In fact, this group embraces the challenges as many have been with 3-D Theatricals for years. And, they truly are family – literally!
3-D Theatricals hasn’t just popped on the scene overnight. In fact, the company has a history of starting in Fullerton, California and then adding Redondo Beach as a venue. In the last year, however, they have exclusively performed at the Cerritos Performing Arts Center. This is a gorgeous playhouse with a stage that can can be “in the round” and a traditional stage. It is simply a lovely place with an “old world” theater feel in a newer building. The box seats (and there are many) are simply charming.
Gigi also described the 3-D Theatricals audience. They are diverse in age and travel from many zip codes. I piqued my interviewees interest when asked if there was an opportunity for a sign language interpreted production (you know how I love inclusion and access). We spoke a bit about this subject and now I bet there will be soon!
“Everything you see is on the stage”, said Gigi – meaning that a large part of the monies spent are used to keep the authenticity of the SHREK production.
And the quality shows as they have obtained authentic and original sets and costumes with local craftsmen employed to make sure everything looks A+.
Let’s chat about the CAST. They are OUTSTANDING! Regional theater is a career – not a hobby. And, after witnessing a practice session, I can tell you that 3-D Theatrical indeed brought to Cerritos very talented directors and performers.
Marketing for a production this massive with a very good sized theater can prove to be a challenge. But, Gigi relayed that they have heavily entered the digital age with marketing efforts largely on social media and Google. This has proven, thus far, to be a good formula as ticket sales are on the rise. The company would like to see a higher conversion to subscription sales to keep revenue streams up. Note that the subscription rate for the season is very reasonable and ticket prices for individual seats start at $20.
Watch for illegal ticket sales – Gigi wanted me to share. Apparently, there are some very “legitimate looking, but illegal” ticket sales happening. How to know you have a “real” ticket? Order only from the websiteor box office.
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Meet TJ Dawson – The 3D-Theatrical “Captain”
First admission, I have known TJ Dawson for a little bit over a year. He has energy to burn. So, it came as no surprise when I found out that the Executive Officer and Artistic Director of this company also is … wait for it… SHREK!
Once I learned that little nugget I ended up asking TJ to video answer some questions I had. I combined the questions in to one video – so sit back and the insights TJ shared. Plus, there may be surprise or two he reveals –
Practice Makes Perfect - Sneak Peek in to the Rehearsal of SHREK - the Musical
By the way – video here is not for distribution or any copying.
So - What are you waiting for?
Get your tickets HERE and enter the GIVEAWAY! 🙂
When the curtains rises on August 9th there will be an ensemble cast that has rehearsed countless hours gracing the stage. I hope that I have enticed you with enough fun information that you will want to order tickets now. In fact, I’ll make it easy for you…
To enter my contest (see rules below) simply COMMENT on my FACEBOOK POST. If you win you will be contacted via FACEBOOK MESSENGER. CLICK HERE TO ENTER
THE FINE PRINT:
** Note entering is for an opportunity to win 4 TICKETS to see SHREK the MUSICAL via 3D-Theatrical Summer of 2019 production. You may not exchange these four tickets for any other production. You must call the box office to get the tickets for the night or matinee you wish. Travel, food, and drinks are not covered. (*Parking is free) You may not be a relative of mine (sorry kids!) These tickets may not be exchanged for cash or credit.
Winner is randomly chosen via a digital random selector. Winner will be announced on Wednesday, August 7th before midnight, Eastern Time. Must submit a comment on FACEBOOK (see above) before 11:59pm on August 7, 2019 to be eligible to enter. ONE COMMENT PER PERSON.
Lastly, the story of GIGI MEESE meeting LESLIE CARON
To order tickets (single or bulk) go here : 
To enter my contest (see rules below) simply COMMENT on my FACEBOOK POST. If you win you will be contacted via FACEBOOK MESSENGER. 
