Bringing kids to New York City during the holidays is a special kind of magic. The city twinkles with millions of lights, with a festive spirit that’s visible in every corner. The holiday spirit is especially palpable on Broadway, where the world’s greatest stage productions entertain visitors from every corner of the globe. Whether you’re planning a school trip for your students or are a traveler seeking a fun experience with a group, Broadway has a plethora of shows this holiday season.
Broadway: An Educational Journey during the Holidays
Educational trips to Broadway are more than just fun outings. Students get to experience first-hand the best of Broadway, igniting a passion for theatre and the arts. Plus, visiting NYC during the holidays allows students to witness the city’s iconic holiday decorations, like the tree at Rockefeller Center, adding to the overall holiday experience.
Why & Juliet is a Must-See this Holiday Season
One show that is a perfect choice for a Broadway-focused holiday trip is & Juliet. This musical takes the well-known story of Romeo and Juliet and adds a refreshing twist. When Juliet decides not to end her life after Romeo’s death, a journey of self-discovery follows, set to a catchy, contemporary pop soundtrack. The show blends classic literature and modern themes, making it an engaging experience for students. & Juliet promotes messages of independence, resilience, and self-love, empowering young audiences.
The Great Gatsby: A Timeless Classic
The Great Gatsby is another Broadway offering this season, bringing audiences back in time to the Roaring Twenties, complete with its jazz, glamour, and drama. It’s a story of love, ambition, and the American Dream, making history come alive on stage. The show’s opulent settings and costumes are the perfect backdrop for the story, which deals with themes like aspiration, disillusionment, and the pursuit of happiness.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: A Magical Holiday Experience on Broadway
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a Broadway show that continues the beloved Harry Potter series. It picks up where the final book left off, introducing audiences to an adult Harry and his son, Albus. With its fascinating plot and magical stage effects, the play is a spellbinding journey into the world of wizardry. The magic and mystique of the wizarding world align beautifully with the sense of wonder that the holiday season brings. The show’s themes of courage, friendship, and personal growth will resonate with students, providing valuable life lessons in addition to entertaining with mesmerizing special effects. For the many students who have grown up reading the Harry Potter books, seeing the characters come to life on stage is a dream come true.
Planning Your Broadway Visit: Tips for the Holiday Season
Visiting Broadway during the holiday season is a special experience, but it does require some planning. Shows generally run Tuesday through Sunday, with multiple performances held on weekends. Matinee shows, usually on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and now available for some shows on Thursdays, can be a good choice for school groups as they allow for a more flexible itinerary that doesn’t keep kids out too late.
Securing tickets for popular shows like & Juliet, The Great Gatsby, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, requires some planning, especially during the holidays, so booking in advance is essential. Group discounts are often available for educational trips, so be sure to inquire about these rates when booking.
New York City during the holidays offers a plethora of festive activities that can complement your Broadway visit. The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink are must-sees, while holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue offer a free visual treat. For a cultural excursion, consider visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art.
There’s no doubt that NYC and Broadway are the perfect destination during the holiday season, offering an enriching blend of education and entertainment. For student groups, it provides an opportunity to learn outside the traditional classroom setting while diving into the world of theatre and the lively culture of the city. So, why wait? Start planning your Broadway-focused holiday trip to NYC today. Experience world-class theatre productions, explore the city’s holiday attractions, and create unforgettable memories.
Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
