Ad Thank You For The Music -Mamma Mia!

AD/PR EVENT-As always, all views and opinions are my own.

Last night I had the pleasure of being invited along by Aberdeen Performing Arts to the press evening of the smash hit musical Mamma Mia!

The second performance of a fourteen show, nine-night stint at His Majesty’s Theatre was the perfect mid-week pick me up as the near capacity audience danced and sang along to the full catalogue of Abba classics.

Set on a Greek island paradise, Mamma Mia tells the story of 20-year-old Sophie’s quest to find the father she’s never known; however, this unfortunately brings her mother Donna face to face with three men from her distant past. All of this is on the eve of a wedding any of the guests are likely to ever forget.

Incredibly Mamma Mia first appeared on stage over 20 years ago. Since then the show has entertained audiences of over 70 million throughout the world and on last night’s showing its easy to see why. With a simple set this show is all about the performance of the cast, as with the hit movie there are plenty of humorous moments along the way – especially between Pepper (The resort barman) and Tanya (The posh friend of Donna’s). 

There were many colourful and cheery scenes along the way (we are warned pre-show of lots of lycra and bright colours!) but the Donna and the Dynamo reunion performance was a hit with the entire audience as was Jena Pandya’s (Sophie’s) moving rendition of I had a dream.

As the evening drew to a close, we were treated to a mini-Abba concert.  Everyone was on their feet as a melody of the Swedish super groups classic hits which are familiar to all generations filled the air and sent the audience off home singing and humming along to Abba tunes way into the night – well it certainly did for me!

I would recommend that you catch Mamma Mia! while you can – It’s in town until 26 March and tickets can be purchased here.

Alannah x

Ad Get Ready To Rock With Andrew Lloyd Webber’s, School of Rock!

AD/PR EVENT-As always, all views and opinions are my own.

Last night I had the pleasure of being invited along to the press evening of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s West End and Broadway hit musical, School of Rock by Aberdeen Performing Arts.

The first of seven dates at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, School of Rock The Musical is currently touring the UK and Ireland after its three and a half year stint at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in London’s West End.

The hit musical version of the cult movie starring Jack Black is based around wannabe rock star Dewey Finn. He teaches a class of elite prep-school kids, transforming them into a pint-sized rock band, competing for the grand prize in the battle of the bands!

Dewey Finn played by Jake Sharpe executed rock perfectly, along with a band of kids that lit up the stage with their talents. The kids play live every show, which is phenomenal and even have incredible vocals along with the acting skills to match. The closing scenes at the “Battle of the Bands” final transports the audience straight to the front rows of a live rock concert and had the entire house on their feet. The musical features some wonderful numbers but “stick it the man” was still stuck in our heads long after the show had finished.

I would highly recommend School of Rock for the perfect half term treat. The entire production will blow you away!

Here at His Majesty’s until this Saturday February 19th, you can purchase your tickets through Aberdeen Performing Arts at the Box Office.

Alannah x

AD-New Look Bon Accord Reopening Event

AD/PR EVENT-As always, all views and opinions are my own.

⁣⁣⁣This morning New Look Bon Accord kindly invited me to open the doors of my favourite fashion store. I’m so excited to welcome them back! 

⁣Non essential shops in Scotland have been closed due to COVID since last December and today they have reopened along with gyms, pools, pubs and restaurants. It felt so wonderful to spend the morning browsing new collections and just feeling that bit normal again!

⁣⁣⁣To welcome everyone back, New Look is currently offering 25% off throughout the store until Wednesday 28th April. This applies to all products, including sales items, but excludes third party brands.

The store is looking fabulous, with so many exciting new products from dresses and tops, to the most impressive denim collection! What I love most about the Bon Accord store is it’s diversity. From petite, to maternity and from curves to 915, there really is something for everyone! 

I couldn’t wait to do some shopping and picked up this beautiful Ditsy Floral Frill Smock Dress for only £10.

These beautiful Ruffle and Collar Tees were £6 and £5 and all with a further 25% off! 

I also chose the Blue Denim Smock Dress and Gold Heart and Silver Star Necklaces, which I’m wearing. These were PR products.

I really enjoyed my experience at New Look Bon Accord today! I truly felt safe and very welcomed by the lovely team who followed and encouraged the current government guidelines.

Have you been shopping since the stores reopened in the UK? Stay safe friends!⁣⁣⁣

Alannah x

AD-Fan Friday Returns To shopDisney!

AD/SPONSORED-There are affiliate links in this post. I receive a small commission if you purchase from my links. As always, all views and opinions are my own.

One of my favourite events has returned to shopDisney, Fan Friday is back! From now until 8am on Tuesday 27th April, get 20% off selected home, apparel and accessories. Simply click here to shop and use code FAN10 for an extra 10% off at checkout!

Here are the top ten products on offer for Fan Friday.

  1. Winnie the Pooh Backpack. Was £26.95, Fan Friday price £13.48.

2. Marvel Black Hooded Sweatshirt for Adults. Was £35, Fan Friday price £17.50.

3. Mickey Mouse Backpack. Was 20.95, Fan Friday price £10.48.

4. Alien Remix Ladies T-shirt. Was £16, Fan Friday price £8.

5. Marvel Cap for Adults. Was £12.95, Fan Friday price £6.48.

6. National Geographic Backpack. Was £140, Fan Friday price £70.

7. Avengers Sketch Hooded Sweatshirt for Adults. Was £35, Fan Friday price £17.50.

8. Mickey and Minnie Cartoon Tote Bag. Was £22, Fan Friday price £11.

9. Winnie the Pooh Umbrella. Was £14.95, Fan Friday price £7.48.

10. Marvel Ladies Lounge Shirt. Was £20, Fan Friday price £10.

These great deals won’t hang around for long, so add them to your basket fast!

I have listed my favourite products below.

Mickey Mouse Denim Jacket for Adults. Was £50, Fan Friday price £40.

Mickey Mouse Denim Skirt for Adults. Was £35, Fan Friday price £28.

Mickey Mouse Jump T-shirt for Adults. Was £18, Fan Friday price £14.40.

Loungefly Minnie Mouse Polka Dot Mini Backpack. Was £75, Fan Friday price £52.50.

Lego Mickey and Minnie Figures Set 43179. Was £169.99, Fan Friday price £144.49.

Let me know if your favourites are included in shopDisney Fan Friday?

Alannah x

Celebrate Pixar Fest With shopDisney!

AD–There are some affiliate links and PR samples in this post. I receive a small commission if you purchase from my links. As always, all views and opinions are my own.

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This month, Pixar sees 25 years of filmmaking and to celebrate, Disney is launching Pixar Fest, a virtual family festival featuring Pixar movies streaming on Disney+. Throughout the month of August, celebrate Pixar Fest with shopDisney and their perfect Pixar range featuring toys, clothes and much more!

This week, there is 25% off selected Pixar toys at shopDisney! Here are some of Quinn and I’s favourites from the collection.

Woody Interactive Talking  Action Figure £22.50

Woody will always be my favourite character from Toy Story and I’m so glad Quinn shares in my love for him!

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Rex Talking Action Figure £22.50

Quinn loves this Rex figure because of his size, (he’s huge!) and he’s the perfect companion to the talking Woody Action Figure. When you pair Rex together with Woody or Buzz, a special phrase is unlocked!

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Bo Peep Soft Toy Doll £15.75

I love this Bo Peep plush as she is just beautiful! She features the classic embroidered face and a 2 in 1 reversible skirt that can also be used as a cape.

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Forky Talking Action Figure £14

This figure has been one of Quinn’s favourite recent purchases from shopDisney. Forky is such a fun character, and this figure displays that perfectly! You can take one home for £9 when you spend £10 or more at shopDisney.

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A quirky, weekly collection inspired by everyone’s Pixar favourites debuted this week on shopDisney. The pin and soft toy collection will release each Monday at approximately 8am online and will feature the following.

Pin release £28 for a set of 4

10th August – Buzz, Nemo, Anger, Rex.

17th August- Remy, Woody, Russell, Bo Peep

24th August – Flik, Syndrome, Jessie, Wall-E

31st August – Coco, Carl, Incredibles, Forky

7th September – Ducky, Merida, Sully, Bunny

14th September – Mater, Lotso, Boo, Mike Wasowski

Soft Toy release £10 each

10th August – Merida, Woody, Incredibles, Anger, Lotso, Nemo

17th August – Russell

24th August – Wall-E

31st August – Carl

7th September- Sulley

14th September – Boo

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You can rediscover your favourite Pixar films with all the family during the live Pixar Fest watchalongs, every Sunday over on Disney UK Facebook page!

Alannah x

Festive Fun At The Friends Of ANCHOR Silent Disco Walking Tour

Last night Quinn and I were kindly invited to the VIP launch of the Friends of ANCHOR Silent Disco Adventure Tour at the Aberdeen Christmas Village. Friends of ANCHOR is a local cancer charity based in the North East of Scotland and are this years chosen charity for Aberdeen’s Christmas Village, which is organised by Aberdeen Inspired.

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I had never been to a silent disco prior to last night so although I had an idea, I really did not know what to fully expect. Quinn and I were each given a set of headphones at the start of the tour by the lovely Lauren from Jeff and Lauren in the Morning over on Northsound 1. Lauren started our tour off, before handing us over to our tour guide from Silent Adventures, the team that brought you this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Silent Disco. Our tour guide led us around the village for half an hour of music, dancing and festive fun! Each time I took in my surroundings, everyone involved in the tour were dancing with the biggest smiles on their faces! The most magical thing happens once you have those headphones on, you dance like no one is watching! Both Quinn and I had so much fu, we did not stop laughing throughout! There were some Disney hits of course which made our night! I would definitely recommend the tour for an evening of family fun to get you in the festive mood, all while raising funds for a precious charity.

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Tours take place in the Aberdeen Christmas Village and surrounding area and tickets can be pre booked by emailing info@friendsofanchor.org. A limited number of tickets can also be purchased on the day from the ticket booth at the Christmas Village. The attraction is suitable for ages five and over, but babies in arms are welcome at no charge. Unfortunately prams cannot be accommodated for on the tour.

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Tickets are priced at £10 per adult, £7.50 per child (age 5 to 12) or £25 for a family of four (two adults and two children). By supporting this festive, fundraising campaign, you will be supporting the thousands of people affected by cancer or haematology diagnosis, who receive treatment in the North East of Scotland. All profits go directly to Friends of ANCHOR which is amazing!

Alannah x

Some items in this post are gifted. As always all views and experiences are my own.

The Toys Are Back For Toy Story 4

This weekend Toy Story 4 was released in cinemas and my little Peter Pan and I couldn’t wait to see it! Having slept on it, I am now ready to share my thoughts (and emotions!) on the sequel to the much loved franchise.

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Yesterday we went to see it and it was everything I was expecting and more! I had goosebumps from start to finish and I am so glad we got the opportunity to see everyone’s favourite toys back in action again.

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Quinn and I both loved Forky, he was so fun and a genius addition to the Toy Story family. Bo Peep definitely stood out as a fierce role model and Gabby Gabby had a side to her I didn’t expect, but nevertheless her and the Dummie’s were terrifying! Duke Caboom was the perfect addition, Quinn and I both loved him also and Ducky and Bunny were the new characters you never knew you needed in your life!

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A few times throughout the movie I really choked up, particularly in a scene with Bonnie, If you have seen it already, I am sure you will understand why! The ending of the movie of course broke my heart and literally drained me. Who knew toys could give us all the feels?

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To celebrate the release of Toy Story 4, Shop Disney UK kindly sent Quinn and I the cutest Woody and Bo Peep soft toys. These are available for £12.50 each when you spend £10 or more online or in store (full price £20 each). We can’t wait to see what new Toy Story products will be available from July 1st. I have a feeling Quinn will love it all!

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Toy Story 4’s release has got me so excited for our Walt Disney World trip next week! Have you been to see the movie yet? Or are you going soon? I would love to hear your thoughts!

Some items in this post are gifted, as stated. As always all views and experiences are my own.

Alannah x

A Magical Evening Aboard The Pirates And Pals Fireworks Voyage

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One of my Little Peter Pan’s favourite special events at the Walt Disney World Resort is the Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage. It’s hard to believe that the cruise was one of the first special events we ever brought Quinn to back in 2013 and he loves it just as much as he did back when he was two! Today I’m going to talk about our most recent Voyage during our trip in January where Quinn, Kevin and I were lucky enough to be invited along to by a friend.

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The cruise sets sail nightly from the Contemporary Resort and provides a fantastic entertainment including a spectacular view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from Seven Seas Lagoon and Quinn’s favourite part, the characters! We were staying at Bay Lake Tower, so with a short ten minute walk and we were at the check in desk on the second floor. We were met by a Cast Member who gave us our pirate bandanas and assigned us a row number on Hook’s boat for the evening. Depending on demand Hook and Smee each have a boat, but this evening there was just the one. We went on a little scavenger hunt around the third floor of the Contemporary to which Quinn received some pirate treasure upon completion which was right up his street! We had a little time to spare, so we found the colouring station that had been set up and Quinn happily coloured until the doors to the opened.

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Pirate Patch welcomed us in and announced that some special guests would be joining us, Captain Hook and Smee. Quinn ran over and immediately started interacting with Hook! I love how much he adores meeting with the characters at Walt Disney World and Hook and Smee are certainly two of his favourite characters. A Disney Photopass Photographer was present and took lots of fun shots for us which was wonderful. After Little Peter had battled the pirates, it was time to grab a snack. Available on the evening were chips and salsa, fruit, pretzels, cotton candy, cookies, mini cakes and a selection of ice cream bars. Drinks included water, coffee, lemonade and pirate punch. There was a large treasure chest filled with chocolate coins and Quinn had the time of his life playing along with Captain Hook and Smee as they hid and stole one another’s coins! The atmosphere was very relaxed and the characters went around dancing with the children to the pirate music playing in the background.

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Pirate Patch gave a five minute reminder to anyone that needed to use the restroom before boarding the boat, as important to note there are no bathrooms on board! Quinn was announced as Flag Bearer and First Mate to our surprise! We have been on the Pirates and Pals Voyage many times before and he has never had this opportunity, so to say he was delighted was un understatement! We headed to the boat dock and Quinn walked with Captain Hook bearing his flag, if only Peter Pan could have saw him! Hook and Smee waved us goodbye as we headed out to Seven Seas Lagoon. As we sailed around the resorts, Pirate Patch lead the singing and cracked some funny (or terrible) jokes.

 

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It was then time for the breathtaking view of Happily Ever After fireworks. It truly is a wonderful experience and brings me to tears each time. Walt Disney World means so much to our family and knowing we had to say goodbye the next day made it a very emotional evening. As the boat headed back to the Contemporary, Captain Patch hosted a quiz with a treasure chest filled with prizes which he handed to all the children on board. There was time for just one more treat but I wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise as to what or who it was!

Pirates and Pals Voyage is currently $75 plus tax per adult and $45 plus tax for kids aged 3-9 but prices are subject to change. It really is a night of swashbuckling fun and we cant wait to join the adventure again soon!

Alannah x

Christmas Eve Magic At The Disney Vacation Club Holiday Dinner 2018

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On Christmas Eve we were lucky enough to attend the Disney Vacation Club Holiday Dinner in The Fasntasia Ballroom at Disneys Contemporary Resort. We had high expectations for the evening having attended the event the previous year and thoroughly enjoyed all it had to offer.

Aside from the wonderful food, the main reason we attend DVC events is for our love of the unique character offerings available. This event was a little on the pricey side at almost $80 plus tax and gratuity per adult and $40 plus tax and gratuity for children, but it was our little family’s Christmas treat and seeing Quinn’s eyes light up whilst interacting with the characters made it all worthwhile.

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As we entered the ballroom, the Voices of Liberty were performing holiday songs and it felt very festive and magical. Meeting Mickey and Minnie in their festive outfits by the fireplace was our first stop, followed by dinner at our appointed table. The tables were set beautifully with the floral centrepiece designed to take home with you that evening. The food was served buffet style and dedicated servers visited each table taking drink orders. The theming of the food for the event was “Holiday dishes from around the world” with traditional food such as pot roast, chicken and vegetables on offer. There was a separate food section available for children which included chicken nuggets and Mickey-Roni and cheese. The desserts were a highlight for me, particularly the cheesecake which was to die for! After dinner there was a hot chocolate and warm apple cider station you could visit and add whipped cream, marshmallows and even candy canes!

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To our surprise, Pluto and Goofy arrived wearing their adorable holiday outfits from Hong Kong Disneyland. My Little Peter Pan couldn’t wait to fly over and give them both the biggest hug. They played and threw snowballs at each other and it was the cutest thing! As an added surprise, Donald and Daisy then arrived also in their outfits from Hong Kong Disneyland. Donald gave Quinn the biggest hug and they flew together before posing for a picture which was adorable!

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We have two upcoming Disney Vacation Club events to look forward to this year during our trips, Moonlight Magic at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Typhoon Lagoon. I can’t wait  to see what’s in store!

Alannah x

Body Shop Enchanted Forest Blogger Christmas Event

On Tuesday I spent the evening at The Body Shop at their latest Blogger event. You may remember my post from the last Body Shop Event back in September. I was very excited in the lead up to the after hours Enchanted Forest event, as I adore Christmas and couldn’t wait to sample the new festive range.

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Upon arrival I was greeted with a glass of Bucks Fizz and a goody bag containing samples of The Body Shops best selling products which included, Mango Body Yoghurt, Peppermint Intensive Cooling Foot Rescue and their Tea Tree 3 in 1 Wash Scrub Mask. The lovely staff members introduced themselves and gave us a run down of the event, which included hand massages and skincare and make up consultations. The store was filled with festive gift sets and set to the theme of Re-Wild the World , which is their current campaign. The Body Shop will help to protect and re-wild over ten million square metres of forest England and Armenia, as part of the World Bio Bridges Mission. A contribution from very purchase made during November and December will be donated to their partners, Woodland Trust and World Land Trust. So far The Body Shop customers have helped re-wild 714,371 square metres of forest so far this Christmas.

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I headed straight to the skincare section and picked myself up some Vanilla Marshmallow, Peppermint Candy Cane and Berry Bon Bon Hand Creams. I live for the Body Shops hand creams and each scent is wonderful and so festive. I chose out a Strawberry Delights Bag that included a bath gel, body butter and hand cream as the scent is just marvelous! I chose out a Peppermint Candy Cane shower gel and Reindeer Bath Bomb for Quinn as its his favourite scent. I also picked up a Tea Tree 3 in 1 Wash Scrub Mask which he loves.

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The Personalised Body Butters are back and at the end of the evening we each received one of our choice. I chose the Vanilla Marshmallow as it was so sweet and my favourite scent by far.

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Thanks for another great night Body Shop. I am already looking forward to the next event, but will be enjoying all these new products in the meantime.

Alannah x