The last few weeks has been a rather busy one here in Momma Findings land, not only with our blog posting schedule and projects, but with lots of events for my family. We've hit the Houston Auto Show. We've jumped into a cupcake wonderland at Sprinkles Cupcakes, grabbed an early press screening for Gnomeo and Juliet, and now we've experienced Madagascar in REAL LIFE.

Yes, I grabbed up my kids, even invited a few friends, and headed into the Hobby Center in Houston, to experience Madagascar LIVE. This is the ultimate stage show for all those who like to MOVE IT MOVE IT!


About Madagascar LIVE:

The original story of Madagascar will be brought to new life in the 90-minute stage show that will transport audience members from the Central Park Zoo to the wilds of Madagascar. In addition to featuring everyone’s favorite characters, “MADAGASCAR LIVE” takes the audience on an action packed adventure with imaginative set, costume and puppet design, magnificent singing and dancing and the hit song “Move It, Move It” for an experience the entire family will enjoy.

Momma Findings:


We were so excited to be able to go to another stage show, catered to families just like mine. The last show we went to was before my youngest was even born (and WAY before I was blogging). I believe that was Blues Clues LIVE. As cheesy as it sounds... it rocked.

This time, we headed over to the Hobby Center and sat back with friends. In true blogger form, I took my camera hoping I could take pictures, however, it was strictly forbidden while inside the theater. Keep that in mind should you be hitting any of the shows scheduled in your hometown.

Upon entry, we were given fun glasses to wear. They weren't 3D glasses, merely paper, however, this was exceptional in my eyes because we weren't prepared to purchase the Madagascar LIVE shirts and stuffed animals they sold there. Buying for three kids can get pricey if you know what I mean.


I, personally, loved the show because it followed the storyline of Madagascar movie, with very few changes. The cast was completely amazing. Gloria. Oh sweet Gloria! She was my favorite. Her facial expressions were right on, as was King Julien.

Tips for Parents:


As a Mom, I know it's quite the investment to purchase tickets and take the whole family, but I, for one, think it's totally worth it. My kids had such a great time and it was just a special memory we'll have together. I also understand that it can get stressful if you have younger children or a big family. So, I've come up with a few tips before you head out to see Madagascar LIVE.

1. Eat Before: We had an early show and it was a long drive for us, so by the time we got to the show the kids were famished. Food prices at the Hobby Center are crazy when trying to feed young children. Let's just say I never want to pay that much for a canned beverage ever again. Prices may be different at your venue, but keep that in mind, just in case.

2. Take In Your Booster Seat: Depending on how your theater is set up, your kids may or may not be able to see according to who is sitting in front of them. They sell inflatable boosters with the Madagascar emblem, but this is a great way to save the money and enjoy the show.

3. Buying Souvenirs: If we weren't a family of five on a strict budget, I would suggest buying Madagascar LIVE Souvenirs. The shirts are really cool and I know it would have made the kids day if we had, but we just couldn't swing it. Save a little money, by sitting down with your kids beforehand letting them know, there WILL be items for sale and why you will or will not be buying them. If you feel like splurging? Totally go for it! The stuffed animals are SOOO worth it.

4. Potty Breaks: I know with young children you'll be bombarded with requests to go to the bathroom. I had a 4, 5, and 7 year old with me. They ALL made it through the whole show without having to go (unless you count the last 2 minutes). The show is a great length for families, unlike say.. the Nutcracker where we have to go 2 or 3 times. Not sure your little one will wait? They do have break in between lasting maybe 15-20 minutes at most. Gives you time to hit the potty and find your seats.

5. Seating: We were on the 3rd row folks. I was very blessed to get awesome press tickets. If you can splurge a little more for better seats, I say do it. It felt like they were RIGHT there singing just to us. It was REALLY cool.

6. Sound Effects: Like any other show, there are lots of sound effects and Alex, the Lion, growls a lot. It can get kind of scary for young children. Keep that in mind.

Final Findings:

At the end of the day, Madagascar LIVE was a perfect day with the family. The show was created perfectly in comparison to the movie, with lots of laughs in between!

Watch It:

For more information or to find out if Madagascar LIVE is coming to a city near you, visit www.madlive.com.

MADAGASCAR LIVE 2011 Tour Dates (schedule subject to change):

January 28-30 York, PA- Pullo Center
February 3-6 Pittsburgh, PA- Benedum
February 8-9 Norfolk, VA- Chrysler Hall
February 11-13 Houston, TX- Hobby Center
February 15-16 Birmingham, AL- BJCC
February 18-20 Durham, NC- Durham Performing Arts Center
February 22-23 Toledo, OH- Stranahan Theater
February 25-27 Columbus, OH- Palace Theatre
March 1-2 Peoria, IL- Peoria Civic Center
March 4-6 Louisville, KY- Palace Theatre
March 8-9 Kalamazoo, MI- Miller Auditorium
March 11-13 Des Moines, IA- Civic Center of Greater Des Moines
March 16-20 Chicago, IL- Rosemont Theater
March 22-23 Saginaw, MI- Dow Theatre
March 25-27 Memphis, TN- Orpheum Theater
March 29-30 Indianapolis, IN- Murat Theater
April 1-3 Minneapolis, MN- Orpheum Theatre
April 5-6 Ft. Wayne, IN- Embassy Theatre
April 8-10 Providence, RI- Providence Performing Arts Center
April 15-24 New York City, NY- Radio City Music Hall
April 26-27 Knoxville, TN- Tennessee Theatre
April 29–May 1 Detroit, MI- Fox Theater
May 3-4 Appleton, WI- Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
May 6-8 Wallingford, CT- Oakdale Theatre
May 11-15 Philadelphia, PA- Academy of Music
May 18-22 Washington, DC- Warner Theater
May 25-29 Toronto, ON- Sony Centre



Disclosure: This post made possible by Dreamworks Theatricals, Broadway Across America, and representing PR agency, who provided me with press tickets to the show to facilitate this post. Opinions, stated, are always my own and never wavered by products received nor compensated unless, otherwise, stated. In short? If I don't like it, I won't say I do. If a company pays to sponsor a post, I'll be the first to tell ya. I'm an Amazon Affiliated Site. If you purchase anything through Amazon links found here I receive a small (when I say small I mean a VERY small) percentage of that purchase.

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