5 Things to Know Before Seeing Wicked in Detroit
We all know The Wizard of Oz story; ruby slippers, a yellow brick road, flying monkeys, and of course the witches of Oz. While Wicked offers the untold story of the witches of Oz. You’ll learn why Elphaba (Wicked Witch of the West) has green skin, and how she got that pointy hat. Plus, you’ll also learn how two unlikely friends end up becoming the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Wicked returned to the Detroit Opera House in downtown Detroit this week, if you know me, you know I couldn’t miss seeing the show while it’s in town. You can check it out now through February 18th, 2024.
Purchase your tickets to see Wicked in Detroit at BroadwayinDetroit.com.
I have seen Wicked a whopping 13 times, in various cities, and while no performance will EVER come close to the first time I saw Wicked with the original company (Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel) I couldn’t be happier to tell you that this performance is definitely my second favorite. The entire company is incredible, but I have to shout out these two ladies not only are their vocals unreal, but they are performers!
Celia Hottenstein plays Glinda, and she is the BEST Glinda I have seen aside from Kristin Chenoweth. Her voice would make Ms. Chenoweth so incredibly proud.
Olivia Valli plays Elphaba and I have seen her in a few other shows (not Wicked) prior to this. I have always loved her performances and I truly think she excels as Elphaba. I was STOKED to see her in this role.
Before you head to the Detroit Opera House to see this spectacular performance here are 5 things to know before seeing Wicked that’ll make your experience more enjoyable.
5 Things To Know Before Seeing Wicked (from someone who has seen the show 13 times)
1. Play the Detroit Wicked Lucky Seats Digital Lottery
Let’s face it, tickets to see Wicked are expensive, but with the Wicked Lucky Seats digital lottery, you’re given the opportunity to win a pair of tickets with a price tag that will not break the bank. The digital lottery gives fans the chance to purchase a limited number of $31 tickets (including Lucky Seat fees) available per performance. To submit an entry for lottery tickets to Wicked in Detroit visit www.luckyseat.com.
2. Buy Your Detroit Parking Ahead of Time
The Detroit Opera House is located in the heart of downtown Detroit, and like any major city, parking is limited. I purchased nearby parking that was only a 3-minute walk from the doors, this was especially nice because the show finished at 10:30 pm and I was able to quickly make it back to my car.
3. Make Dinner Reservations
Yes, there are a plethora of restaurants near the Detroit Opera House with all types of cuisine and price points. However, Detroit is a happening place. If you have a specific restaurant in mind making a reservation will guarantee to get in and out in a timely manner. Even Eminem’s joint Mom’s Spaghetti had an HOUR alley wait (they do not take reservations you order in the alley).
4. Arrive Early to the Detroit Opera House
Typically arriving at least 30 minutes before the start of the show is a good enough amount of time to get through security, bag check, get your ticket scanned, go to the bathroom, and get to your seat. If you want food or merchandise these lines are substantially longer (I waited 45 minutes in the merch line) so be sure to plan accordingly. The first 15 minutes of the show are extremely important to the storyline. Plus, if you arrive late, the ushers may not let you in until the opening number is over (standard theatre etiquette).
4. Wicked is a Long Show, Plan Accordingly.
Wicked is a 2-hour and 45-minute show with a 15-minute intermission. I highly recommend using the restroom BEFORE the show starts. Especially since the first act is almost 90 minutes.
5. Watch The Wizard of Oz Before Going
You do not need to be a Wizard of Oz expert to appreciate Wicked. Even if you don’t watch it beforehand, you’ll still enjoy the show. That being said, if you are familiar with the music, storyline, and a few of the famous lines from the 1939 film, you’ll have a better connection with Wicked. Plus, you’ll “get” all the subtle, jokes, puns, and references when you see/hear them in the musical.
Wicked is playing at the Detroit Opera House in Downtown Detroit through February 18th, 2024, and will give you a newfound appreciation for the Wicked Witch of the West.
Purchase your tickets through Broadway in Detroit.
5 Solo Date Ideas That Will Help You Romanticize Winter
Winter has its way of reminding single people that we are—well, single.
A few of my friends have found themselves single leading up to Valentine’s Day and have made comments that there is nothing to do during the cold-weather months unless you have a plus one. I am here to let you know that you don’t need to be “cuffed” during the winter to enjoy the season. This season think about romancing yourself. After all, no one knows you quite like you do.
There are so many ways to treat yourself well during the colder months. For me, Valentine’s Day is my absolute favorite (yes, even when I am single). I love all the pink and hearts and always get myself something that will make me happy during the most dreadful time of the year.
If you’re not ready to spoil yourself for Valentine’s Day, I have some other great ideas that allow you to enjoy your own company through solo dates. I’m here to remind you, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy the snow solo. In fact, here are five solo date ideas for the wintertime that will ensure a fun-filled season.
5 Solo Date Ideas That Will Help You Romanticize Winter
Go for a snowy walk
If you live somewhere it snows, take advantage of it! Whether taking a walk in the snow literally means strapping on a pair of snowshoes, snapping into cross-country skis, or strolling around city streets, get out there and enjoy winter.
Pro Tip: Some cities offer wintery lantern hikes.
Take yourself ice skating
Ice skating is a classic winter activity that most of us picture doing with a partner, but instead, why not do it yourself? No matter where you are, it is likely there’s a skating rink indoors or outdoors somewhere around you. I love ice skating, and finally put my big girl snow pants on and went out on my own, and let me tell you the experience was fantastic.
Pro Tip: Some outdoor skating rinks offer hot cocoa to give you a full romantic moment for yourself.
Make a meal with seasonal winter ingredients
Yes, summer and fall get all the hype for the delicious seasonal fruits and vegetables, but you can still cook seasonally outside of the harvest season. Fill your cart with root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, beets, cruciferous veggies, and of course citrus! Then head into the kitchen, light a candle, and turn up some music as you get creative.
Pro Tip: Soups are a great way to use seasonal produce. And you can make a delicious salad with a citrus dressing.
Take yourself to a fancy dinner
Something that I NEVER thought I would enjoy is going to a fancy restaurant solo, but I actually kind of love it. Make yourself a reservation, order something nice, don’t forget dessert, and just enjoy the moment.
Pro Tip: Most of the time they’ll try to seat you at the bar, I always politely decline and ask for a table.
Go see a movie
When it comes to solo date ideas that you can do today without any prior planning, a trip to the movies is the perfect choice (and one of my favorites). Some of the best movies come out during the cooler months. Get yourself some delicious movie treats and enjoy the evening alone.
25 Things To Do On A No Spend Weekend
In a world where it seems like stepping foot out the door costs $50, saving money is easier said than done. That’s why I am a huge fan of no-spend weekends. However, the idea of staying inside with nothing on the agenda seems like a less than stellar way to spend my free time. So, what’s a girl to do? I’m sharing ways you can live a fulfilling life without spending money. One of the easiest ways to do so is participating in free activities around your city. From walking in the snow, to snuggling up with a good book, i’m sharing 25 things you can do during a no spend weekend.
25 Things To Do On A No Spend Weekend
- Go for a hike
- Read a book
- Enjoy a picnic in the park
- Play a board game
- Visit the library
- Head to the park
- Go sightseeing
- Learn a new skill
- Clean your car
- Have a movie marathon
- Check to see if any local museums are free
- Paint your nails at home
- Attend a free local event
- Enjoy a bonfire
- Go for a walk
- Visit an animal shelter
- Have a garage sale
- Make a meal with items you have on hand
- Clean out a junk drawer
- Exercise with videos online
- Work on a puzzle
- Go for a bike ride
- Clean out your closet
- Visit someone you haven’t seen in awhile
- Enjoy a beach day
24 Ways To Switch To A Toxin-Free Lifestyle In 2024
Switching to a toxin-free lifestyle can seem like a daunting task, but in the end, it will be worth it for the long-term benefits to your health. In 2023 I embarked on a journey to remove toxins from my lifestyle, and today I am sharing 24 simple ways you can create a toxin-free lifestyle in 2024.
- Choose non-toxic cleaning products for your home. I started using Branch Basics.
- Add a water purifier to your life to reduce contaminants in your tap water. I purchased an AquaTru last year.
- Buy organic when you can/the price is right to avoid pesticides.
- Burn beeswax candles. They naturally purify the air and leave a light honey scent behind. I made my own to give out as Christmas gifts last year.
- Ditch conventional dryer sheets and opt for wool dryer balls.
- Use natural deodorant. Bonus if you make your own.
- Diffuse essential oils instead of using candles.
- Avoid products with synthetic fragrances.
- Wear a large hat outside to help keep the sun off your face.
- Use a non-toxic toothpaste. I switched to Dr. Bronners.
- Add air-purifying plants to your home. Snake plants (what I have), Spider Plants, and Aloe are great options.
- Use a natural, toxic-free sunscreen.
- Make a simmer pot to make your house smell amazing without the toxicity.
- Give non-toxic shampoo and conditioners a try.
- Stop using fragrance hand soaps, especially from Bath and Body Works.
- Open your windows at least 5 minutes a day to air out your house, and add some clean air.
- Add the eucalyptus to your shower for a little extra self-care and love.
- Stop eating dyes. I discovered I was allergic to Red #40.
- Switch to non-toxic cookware.
- Go for nail polishes that are toxic-free, especially free of formaldehyde.
- Fragrance-free and chemical-free lotion is the way to go.
- Get rid of the microwave.
- Use glass containers for leftovers instead of plastic.
- Drop the sugar and incorporate honey instead.
January Bucket List 2024
And just like that a new year has arrived. Happy 2024. I hope you have the absolute best year yet. To get your year started off on the right foot, I am sharing 31 things you can do during the month of January.
- Happy New Year! One thing I like to do to start each new year is embark on a challenge that is not only obtainable but fun as well. Last year I challenged myself to do/try something new each month, and I am happy to report back, i was successful.
- Pick a room and organize it.
- Try a new healthy recipe.
- Pick up a new nail polish or lipstick color to change things up.
- Make time to go ice skating.
- It’s cuddle up day! Pick up some snacks and enjoy a movie.
- Have fun indoors: bowling, roller skating, rock climbing.
- Give your skin some extra love today.
- Get outside and enjoy the little things.
- Today is a great day to get a new plant (herb plants work too), Trader Joes has some great ones.
- Visit a bontantical garden.
- Learn a new hobby. I am taking a sewing class.
- It’s National Vision Board Day, and since we’re officially two weeks into the new year, it is the perfect opportunity to create your vision board.
- Give a workout class a try.
- As someone who absolutely LOVES hats, I am thrilled today is National Hat Day, and the perfect excuse to go out and get a new hat.
- Send a friend snail mail, just because.
- Light some candles and enjoy a slow evening.
- Happy National Michigan Day! In honor of this lovely day, get outside and hit a trail and enjoy some gorgeous views.
- Go on an adventure in a local town.
- Sort out a junk drawer.
- Head to a sledding hill.
- Plan a day at a muesum.
- Have you given calligraphy a try? Sip & Script offers fun events that will teach you how to elevate your handwriting.
- Giving someone a compliment is great any day, but make sure to go out of your way to compliment someone today for National Compliment Day.
- Find a local pottery class.
- Are you a green juice fan? It’s National Green Juice Day, and i’ll be making my favorite recipe: green apple, kale, celery, lemon and ginger.
- Have a game night.
- Clean your stove.
- Write three positive things about youself.
- Make homemade pizza.
- Do something fun for yourself.
Fashion meets Food 