Author

Sydney Hargrove

Sydney Hargrove is a current Media Studies student at Hunter College. A New York City native currently living in the Upper East Side, she got her start in the journalism field through social media management and has explored the world of on camera hosting and on the scene reporting since then.

EntertainmentEventsThe Latest

On The Scene: A Night at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

December in New York often feels just like the movies, with the magic of glistening lights and a Christmas tree in every corner. Through the ups and downs of major city living, the holidays are an effervescent reminder of how magical life can be. At the heart of the holiday magic, Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park has stood as a capsule for as long as I can remember. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering an array of festive activities, shopping opportunities, and delightful entertainment for everyone, weather you’re a native New Yorker or visiting for the very first time.

Even before its lively tree lighting, which will be taking place on November 28th this year and will be leading the charge as the first major NYC tree lighting for 2023, the park looks absolutely magical. One of the most iconic parts of the yearly experience is the picturesque ice-skating rink, surrounded by an iconic landscape adorned with sparkling holiday lights and decorations. The rink provides a magical setting for visitors to glide across the ice, creating cherished memories with friends and family against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.

Lacing up my skates and heading over to Bryant Park’s (free admission!) skating rink has always been a vibrant memory of how we kicked off the holiday season, and I am beyond grateful to have carried that experience into adulthood. On Tuesday, I headed over to the park to see an exclusive preview of what the park has in store for the season. The night commenced with a nostalgic skating experience at the rink. The enchanting ambiance of twinkling lights and joyful decorations enhanced the already joyful feeling of gliding across the ice.

Following the skating session, I headed to The Lodge, an inviting bar and food hall adorned with seasonal cheer. Here, I indulged in some of the year’s signature food and drink offerings, which included loaded croissants, churros, tacos, and so much more.

One of the most exciting features of Bryant Park’s Winter Village is its bustling holiday market. The market features rows of charming kiosks and stalls offering an assortment of unique gifts, crafts, artisanal goods, and delectable holiday treats. Visitors can explore a diverse range of vendors selling handcrafted jewelry, clothing, artwork, ornaments, specialty foods, and much more, making it an ideal destination for holiday shopping. After enjoying some sweet treats at the lodge, I strolled around the shops and was delighted by the hand crafted goods and sweet smell of hot cocoa that exists all around the park.

The atmosphere in the park is lively and spirited, with seasonal music performances, festive events, and activities for all ages. Throughout the holiday season, Bryant Park hosts various themed celebrations in addition to the iconic tree lighting, including caroling sessions and visits from Santa Claus, adding to the joyful ambiance.

We highly reccomend a trip to Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park this holiday season! Hear more about it here!

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EntertainmentEventsThe Latest

On The Scene: A Snax-Sational Ginger Bread House Making Extravaganza with Cookie Pop and Candy Pop!

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

The holidays are well on their way, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, the ever long debate of how early is too early to start celebrating the Christmas season is back in action. But here in New York City, arguably one of the most festive places you can be for the season, it seems like everyone is determined to maximize the most wonderful time of the year, and I could not possibly agree more. 

When it comes to festivities, Cookie Pop and Candy Pop always hits the nail on the head. The goal of the brand was to seamlessly combine two of the best parts about going to the movies, the savory taste of popcorn and the sweetness of candy. “For almost a century, movie lovers have been combining their candy and cookie brands with popcorn for a delicious sweet and savory combo,” the brand states. “Now, consumers can find this tasty combo in stores all over the world. it’s a treat when watching your favorite movie at home or as a grab and go-to snack throughout the day.”

On Friday, New York City’s exclusive membership club and hotel, The Ned NoMad, played host to a delightful and charitable celebration. The occasion marked the kickoff of the #GivingTuesday SnackGiving campaign by Cookie Pop and Candy Pop, in support of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to inspire and uplift the spirits of hospitalized children and their families through entertainment and educational initiatives. Founded by Seacrest himself, the foundation seeks to utilize multimedia experiences to contribute positively to the healing process of young patients.

The highlight of the event was an engaging Gingerbread House Making Workshop, where attendees had the opportunity to indulge in the holiday spirit while supporting a worthy cause. The popcorn comes in a wide variety of flavors, but has recently unveiled two new ones for the holiday season, a delicious iced gingerbread with a glorious spice, and a tasty peppermint hot chocolate with smooth minty and chocolatey interludes. Guests were encouraged to incorporate the delicious snacks into their gingerbread houses, which gave the finished products a delightful crunch. These limited-time holiday editions are now available in various retailers, including Albertsons, Publix, and more, adding an extra touch of festive cheer to snack times during the holiday season.

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed festival-themed cocktails adorned with holiday popcorn, including a Gingerbread-rimmed Espresso Martini featuring Thomas Ashbourne By NPH, a non-alcoholic Cucumber G&T cocktail by Free AF, garnished with peppermint and cherry, Prosecco topped with edible glitter, and a tantalizing vanilla & chocolate peppermint martini crafted by The Ned NoMad’s mixology team.

In addition to the festive popcorn delights, guests savored delectable catering options from The Ned, ranging from gourmet pigs in a blanket, ricotta crostinis, chicken parm sticks, mini grilled cheese, to gourmet pizza. The culinary offerings perfectly complemented the lively atmosphere, creating an unforgettable evening filled with joy, delicious treats, and the spirit of giving back.

The collaborative efforts of Cookie Pop and Candy Pop in conjunction with The Ned NoMad and the esteemed personalities present truly encapsulated the essence of the holiday season, a time for celebration, generosity, and making a positive impact within the community.

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EntertainmentEvents

On The Scene: A Look Inside of The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic, Rockefeller Center’s Latest Holiday Installment

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

During the holiday season, there are very few places more festive than the heart of Rockefeller Center. Between it’s iconic Christmas tree, dazzling ice skating rink, tons of shops, and close relation to the SAKS windows and their remarkable light show, spending a cozy winter evening there with a cup of hot cocoa is surely a bucket list item for many.

As if the renowned location wasn’t festive enough, it just got even jollier, with it’s latest pop-up, The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic! Nestled within the Chanel Gardens, this sugar-coated wonderland is an immersive, family-friendly escapade designed to infuse the holiday spirit with a dash of whimsy.

Running now through January 2nd, the Candy Cottage promises an experience for all ages. It will take guests on an adventure that will invite them to embark on a journey through a magical, candy-filled Christmas tree.

Inspired by a fabled tale of an old cottage within a Christmas tree trunk, overflowing with magical sugar turned into edible delights by the cottage keepers, the Candy Cottage experience beckons visitors into a swirling, sugar-laden fantasy. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the feverishly working Cottage Keepers, spinning sugar into delectable treats while encouraging visitors to pluck candy from the cottage walls—truly a dream come true for those with a sweet tooth!

Once the sugary wonderland cravings are satisfied, visitors are equipped with a specially crafted map, setting them on a scavenger hunt throughout Rockefeller Center. This quest, teeming with hidden Christmas magic, leads participants through the iconic landmarks of the Center.

The journey culminates as guests return to the transformed Candy Cottage, where they receive a magically conjured gift along with a personalized message, as if crafted from thin air. The entire experience is curated to leave a lasting impression of the holiday spirit, wrapping visitors in the magic of Christmas.

The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic is the brainchild of We Are Smile Studio, a creative force founded by seasoned theater and film producer Arielle Tepper and Creative Producer Vance Garrett. Their expertise in crafting immersive experiences is evident in this delightful collaboration, marking the first of many to come from this innovative studio.

The design, courtesy of Nate Bertone and Adam Blumenthal, promises an enchanting atmosphere, while fabrication and production management by Nicolas Locke and Jonathan Zencheck ensure a seamless and magical execution of this whimsical concept.

The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic at Rockefeller Center promises an immersive, magical experience ideal for families, friends, and anyone seeking to infuse the holiday season with a sprinkle of enchantment. With its darling design, creative storytelling, and a touch of theatrical expertise, it’s destined to create lasting memories that capture the essence of Christmas.

The experience operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., providing ample opportunity for families and visitors of all ages to partake in the festivities. Ticket prices range from $25 to $45 per person, depending on the day of the week and time of visit. Tickets are available here!

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EntertainmentEventsThe Latest

On The Scene: A First Look at New York City’s Balloon Museum!

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

If you’re anything like me, anything with low, colorful lights and a ball pit will surely catch your eye. Maybe it’s my affinity for maximalist decor or the fact that I am more than likely a 10 year old trapped in the body of a 20 year old journalist, but I digress, the era of museums that double as adult (and kid!) playgrounds popping up (and coming to stay) all throughout my New York City home has been the perfect one for me to be living through.

    

It is because of the aforementioned affinity that I have such a vivid memory of season two of Emily in Paris. The Balloon Museum takes center stage in episode seven, titled “How to Lose a Designer in 10 Days.” The pop-up exhibition, initially located in Paris during filming and now residing in downtown Manhattan, gained significant attention during its time at La Grand Hall de la Villette, attracting over 800,000 visitors from April to September 2022. This success prompted its move to Milan, following a previous installation in Rome from December 2021 to May 2022.

The Balloon Museum, self-described as the “first incubator of artworks and installations completely created by inflatable and balloon art,” showcases immersive environments featuring works by international artists. As seen in the show, visitors encounter furnishings made entirely of balloons, including a lamp, cactus, couch, and coffee table. During Emily and Gabriel’s walk (and ball pit dive) through the immersive experience, I found myself utterly jealous, and wishing that the exhibition would make its way to New York. It would be just under a year before the exhibit made it’s way down to pier 36!

The New York installment is called the Let’s Fly exhibition, and it offers a stunning inflatable experience crafted by a collaboration of fourteen international artists. This concept transcends conventional art installations, embracing an avant-garde approach that redefines the traditional interactions with art. Let’s Fly encapsulates freedom, flight, and accessibility, taking spectators on an unprecedented sensory journey.

The exhibit thrives on physical interaction, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a universe of unparalleled freedom. It’s a space where play, touch, and exploration lead through hypnotic visual realms. Artists like Michael Shaw, Sasha Frolova, Rub Kandy, Camilla Falsini, Cyril Lancelin, Tadao Cern, and SpY offer contrasting atmospheres—ranging from light, colorful worlds to heavier, darker tones. The journey is designed as an expedition through surprises and contrasts, igniting a genuine thirst for discovery.

In addition to the contemporary installations, the museum offers a space dedicated to the history of inflatables, tracing its origins from the Montgolfier brothers’ 18th-century experiments to iconic contemporary works like Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog series. The Balloon Museum serves as a platform not only for contemporary inflatable art but also as a window into its rich historical evolution.

It aims to provide visitors with a tailor-made experience, offering marvels like the graceful bubbles of Quiet Ensemble, interactive sculptures such as ADA by Karina Smigla-Bobinski, the myriad black spheres of Hyperstudio collective, and the musical sculptures of Eness. These works stimulate the senses through touch, sight, and hearing, engaging visitors in transdisciplinary immersive art proposals.

If you make your way to the ball pit, you’re in for a treat. The massive area takes up nearly the whole room, and guests are treated to an immersive show while there. Between it’s interactive features, fantastic music, and photo worthy sites, everyone can have a great time at the exhibit, no matter what age they are.

We highly recommend a trip to the museum yourself! Hear more about it and grab your tickets here!

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On The Scene: Brunch at The Empire DIner in Celebration of Caran d’Ache in Collaboration with Keith Haring

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

Though he requires no introduction, renowned American artist Keith Haring is celebrated for his distinctive and instantly recognizable visual language, featuring bold lines, vivid colors, and a recurring cast of characters, including dancing figures and radiant babies. His art is a testament to his activism, using the universal language of symbols and vibrant design to address important social issues, including AIDS awareness, apartheid, and the fight against inequality. Haring’s work transcends time and borders, continuing to inspire and educate generations. His work has been kept alive through the years in nearly every way imaginable, but no collaboration has been more outstanding than Caran d’Ache’s latest collection.

The collection showcases a beautiful blend of Caran d’Ache’s signature pens and art materials reinterpreted with Keith Haring’s iconic visual language. With its notebooks, pens and colored pencils each uniquly inscribed with Haring’s designs, it’s a testament to the intricate attention to detail that sets the brand apart from so many others. Founded in Geneva in 1915, the brand has spent over a century perfecting the creation of high-quality writing instruments and art supplies. Its name, borrowed from the Russian term “karandash” (карандаш), meaning pencil, embodies a rich heritage of creativity and precision that has enamored artists, writers, and connoisseurs of fine tools the world over.

writing of the alphabet with the chromatics divine inkwell and a fountain pen

At the heart of Caran d’Ache’s allure is its dedication to quality. Their pencils and colored pencils are marvels of design, precision, and innovation. Whether it’s the smooth glide of a graphite pencil or the rich pigmentation of a colored one, each product is meticulously crafted to offer the best possible experience for those who wield them. Artists, illustrators, and designers often find themselves drawn to Caran d’Ache for the tools that promise not only precision but also a touch of artistic magic. 

On Wednesday, guests were treated to a stunning brunch event to celebrate the launch of the highly anticipated collection. It took place at the Empire Diner in Chelsea, a vibrant neighborhood deeply rooted in the NYC arts scene. Guests sipped on brunch cocktails and a curated menu of best eats against a backdrop of the iconic mural above Empire Diner, a stunning tribute to 20th-century modern artists like Keith Haring himself, while hearing all about the collection. To make matters even sweeter, everyone got to take home a piece of the art and channel their very own Keith Haring with gift bags containing pieces from the collection.

The collaboration between Keith Haring and Caran d’Ache is a fusion of Haring’s iconic imagery with Caran d’Ache’s commitment to quality and innovation. This artistic partnership has resulted in limited-edition collections of art supplies, including pencils and other creative tools, adorned with Keith Haring’s signature designs. These art supplies not only serve as a tribute to Haring’s enduring legacy but also as a source of inspiration for artists and creatives who admire his work. Check it out here!

 

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EntertainmentEvents

On The Scene: Closing out Summer with The Dry Challenge at Rise Nation NYC!

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

To me, fall means new beginnings. It’s a sweet reminder to make the rest of the year as incredible as it can be, which starts with feeling my best. As summer comes to a close, new adventures are on the horizon, who isn’t in search of ways to be our best selves this fall? I know I am, and when it comes to wellness, few are more well versed than Hilary Sheinbaum. In her book The Dry Challenge, she provides life changing insight on the benefits of abstaining from alcohol for periods of time, and provides fun ways to tackle the challenge. The challenge promotes a healthy lifestyle, raises awareness about the effects of alcohol, and allows individuals to focus on self-improvement. 

Hilary challenges are not only a brilliant way to get back in touch with your body and mind, but they’re also super unique and tons of fun! On Tuesday, we gathered at Rise Nation, the viral fitness studio that has taken the city by storm with its unique approach to working out. The VersaClimber, a versatile vertical climbing machine, is at the core of their workouts. This equipment challenges users to climb to new heights and push their physical limits while engaging the entire body. VersaClimbing is known for its low impact on joints and its ability to deliver a full-body workout, and when done with a fun loving instructor, can feel like a dance party. 

If you’ve never seen a  VersaClimber before, I’ll admit that it looks a bit jarring. The standing machine is confusing at first, and I found myself unsure of how it would even be used. But after a demonstration from our kindhearted instructor, I was shocked at how easy it was to get into the groove of the machine. The event began with a dynamic warm-up to prepare us for what lay ahead, set to high energy dance music that made the time go by way faster than expected. Our instructor guided us through a high-intensity climbing routine that incorporated ever changing speeds and resistance levels.

The room felt like a party in itself, with the lights constantly changing colors to the sound of the music. The atmosphere and music were both infectious and made for an immersive, high energy experience..Whether someone was an experienced climber or a beginner (me!), the workout was designed to be accessible and adaptable to all fitness levels.

After an exhilarating workout, we were treated to a sweet finale. Martini + Rossi, renowned for its sparkling wines and vermouth, had crafted a selection of mocktails. The alcohol-free beverages were the perfect way to celebrate the Dry Challenge while providing a refreshing and satisfying conclusion to the workout.

The event was more than just a workout class and mocktail party; it was a celebration of health and community. We were reminded that fitness and fun can go hand in hand, and that there are tons of enjoyable alternatives to alcohol for those participating in the Dry Challenge.

Hear more about Hilary and The Dry Challenge here!

 

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EntertainmentEventsFilm

On The Scene: Seeing Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Concert Film With Dolby Cinemas!

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

This summer, the closest that I got to attending Taylor Swift’s infamous Eras Tour was in fact sitting on my couch and scrolling Twitter to see an array of super cute outfits and eagerly awaiting the nightly surprise song. On top of that, being met with complete devastation when Mexico City received Cornelia Street, my favorite song of all time. That’s not to say that I didn’t wholeheartedly try to receive tickets, but in recent times, obtaining a concert ticket is basically the equivalent to winning the lottery, if the latter required a lot more patience and an internet connection of steel.

 

So I may not have won the Ticketmaster war, but I still enjoyed the concert from my home, and even had a few friends Facetime me from their seats at the MetLife show. Still, that didn’t stop my longing for getting to experience the full show firsthand, complete with the visual effects and impeccable sound quality. That was, until this last week, when Swift herself announced that the concert would be coming to the big screen, with an immersive concert film experience!

The concert film promised to bridge the gap between devoted fans and those who missed out on the live experience due to factors like high demand, ticket prices, and even technical glitches, and was the perfect way for me to experience what I was missing.

The film quickly became a sensation, breaking records with a staggering $92.8 million in its opening weekend, making it the highest-grossing concert film in history. Swifties worldwide flocked to theaters to relive the magic of the Eras Tour, eagerly anticipating a unique cinematic journey.

The movie-going experience has evolved over the years, with each era (no pun intended) bringing innovation, excitement, and immersion to the audience. In this ongoing quest for an unparalleled cinematic adventure, Dolby Cinemas have emerged as a beacon of excellence, offering a movie experience like no other.

Dolby Cinema allows you to catch subtle details and ultra-vivid colors (courtesy of Dolby Vision) and hear sounds come alive all around you (thanks to Dolby Atmos). So, it was time for us to get ready to be completely immersed in Taylor’s world, where we were promised to pick up on all the easter eggs, be mesmerized by the dazzling, bejeweled costumes that pop on screen, and, of course, be enveloped by her masterful catalog.

One of the most striking aspects of the Dolby Cinema experience is the visual quality. Equipped with state-of-the-art projection systems, Dolby Cinemas ensure the clearest, most vibrant imagery imaginable. Dolby Vision, a high dynamic range (HDR) technology, coupled with dual laser projection, brings out the deepest blacks, brightest whites, and the entire spectrum of colors in between. The result is a picture that is lifelike, immersive, and exceptionally detailed. When you step into a Dolby Cinema, you’re not merely watching a movie; you’re inside the story. This, as you can imagine, made for the ideal viewing experience for the concert film. The curved, floor to ceiling screen and stadium style seating made it feel like you were at the concert firsthand, albiet with way comfier seats.

A hallmark, and possibly the hallmark of Swift’s live shows, is the immersive sound experience, which is the heart of what I missed out on during my Twitter listening sessions. Her music, lyrics, and powerful vocals come to life, enveloping the audience in a mesmerizing audio landscape. Dolby Cinema’s Dolby At mos technology, with speakers placed strategically around the theater, allows the film’s soundtrack to surround the audience. It replicated the feeling of being at a live concert, where the music reverberates from all directions. For us, the experience was not just about hearing but feeling the music, making Dolby Cinema the perfect place to immerse yourself in The Eras Tour.

In my opinion, the transition from real-life concert settings to a cinema environment can be seamless and tailored to enhance the overall experience. Dolby Cinemas understand the importance of creating the right atmosphere. The transition from illuminated walls and ceilings to the dimmed theater happens effortlessly, allowing you to focus on the film. The ambiance perfectly complements the mood of the concert, enhancing the connection between you and Taylor Swift’s performance.

All in all, I can not possibly recommend Dolby Cinemas for your Eras Tour Film viewing experience, more. To experience the magic for yourself and find the closest Dolby Cinema near you, click here!

 

 

 

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On The Scene: FC Bayern Unveils Collaboration with Adidas

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

In the world of sports and fashion, collaborations have the power to create ripples of excitement, and sometimes, even waves of inspiration. Recently, FC Bayern Munich and Adidas, two iconic giants in their respective fields, announced a groundbreaking collaboration that has sent shockwaves throughout the world of soccer and sportswear enthusiasts. To unveil this monumental partnership, an event was held at Rockefeller Plaza in the heart of Manhattan on September 13th, setting the stage for a new era of style and innovation.

FC Bayern Munich, known affectionately as “Die Roten” (The Reds), is a German football club with a rich history dating back to 1900. The club boasts an incredible legacy of success, winning countless domestic and international titles, including multiple UEFA Champions League trophies. Beyond the pitch, Bayern has established itself as a global brand, celebrated for its excellence and unwavering commitment to its fan base.

adidas and FC Bayern München reveal 2023/24 'Munich is Red and White' Home Jersey

On the other side, Adidas, a German sportswear powerhouse, needs no introduction. The brand has a long-standing tradition of elevating sports fashion to an art form. Their iconic three stripes are synonymous with innovation, quality, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Given the shared German heritage, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for sport, a collaboration between FCBM and Adidas seemed inevitable. The partnership promises not only to redefine sportswear but also to create a connection between the pitch and the streets, uniting fans across the globe.

adidas FC Bayern 23/24 Third Jersey - White | Men's Soccer | adidas US

The collection pays homage to FC Bayern’s standard home kits, while also incorporating a stylish touch that combines with comfort and practicality for everyday wear.

adidas Samba FC Bayern Shoes - Red | Unisex Lifestyle | adidas US

The collaboration between FCBM and Adidas is not merely a union of logos but a melding of values. Both entities share a commitment to innovation and a deep respect for tradition. The FCBM crest, etched on the Adidas jerseys, serves as a symbol of this enduring partnership.

Hear more about the collection and shop here!

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On The Scene: Wicked Musical Themed Milkshake Returns to Hershey’s Chocolate World in NYC for 20th Anniversary

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

In a world where the city never sleeps and dreams are always on the horizon, an enchanting collaboration has emerged to defy gravity, and our taste buds. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the iconic Broadway musical Wicked,  Hershey’s Chocolate World in Times Square has unveiled a limited-edition masterpiece that promises to take your taste buds on a magical journey. 

Anyone who’s had the chance to catch the show within its twenty year run knows that it’s so much more than simply what we don’t see in The Wizard of Oz.  It’s a story of friendship, love, and the power of defying expectations. In a similar spirit, the Wicked Milkshake brings a new level of sweetness to the heart of New York City, combining two beloved sensations.

The milkshake itself doesn’t just look stunning, it’s delicious as well. The rich combination of the dark chocolate and mint is scrumptious, nostalgic to childhood summer days in the same way that for many, Wicked is nostalgic to a first Broadway show or a school field trip many years ago. The collaboration between Wicked and Hershey’s Chocolate World is not just about a limited-time beverage; it’s about this nostalgia, combined with a shared love for creativity and the desire to create unforgettable moments. Just as Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship defied the odds and changed the course of Oz’s history, this collaboration is a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression and culinary delights.

Available now through the end of October, the Wicked Milkshake is a match made in heaven. Combining the refreshing coolness of mint with the rich indulgence of dark chocolate, the delectable creation is a perfect homage to the Wicked universe.

“We partner with Turkey Hill, which they make some amazing ice creams, and they make it super creamy,” said Hershey’s Chocolate World Food and beverage department manager Gina Shin, on the process behind creating the shake. “It’s their mint chocolate chip ice cream, and we blend that up, and we make it into a really smooth, enjoyable consistency. And then on top of that, we put a good amount of whipped cream. And then we drizzle our Hershey’s dark chocolate syrup as well as some fun green syrup on there to make it Wicked. And we add the dark chocolate mint duo Kit-Kat bar on top”

Don’t miss your chance to savor this delectable creation. The clock is ticking, and, just like in Wicked, time is of the essence. Defy gravity and head down to Times Square today, and be prepared to be swept off your feet by the Wicked Milkshake. But remember, just like in the Land of Oz, good things never last forever, so seize the moment while you still can!

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On The Scene: Olivia Rodrigo Performs GUTS Live For The First Time In Celebration of Amex Members Week

by Sydney Hargrove
written by Sydney Hargrove

Since its release just over a month ago, Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts has taken the world by storm. The sophomore album takes listeners on a cathartic journey through the apparent later years of girlhood, exploring themes like the perils of growing up (Teenage Dream), trying to forgive (The Grudge), comparing yourself to others (Lacy, Making The Bed, Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl), and of course, falling in love and all of the tumultuous twists and turns that come along with it (Vampire, Bad Idea, Right?).

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Preceding her upcoming and highly anticipated Guts Tour, Rodrigo has graced a handful of stages within the past month, from The TODAY Show in New York City all the way to The Bluebird in Nashville alongside Sheryl Crow. Her uniquely intimate appearances (such as the aforementioned performance at The Bluebird as well as last week’s Q&A at the Grammy Museum) have typically swayed away from the traditional way of receiving concert tickets, leaving fans who were able to get their hands on the experiences extremely lucky. 

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The luckiest Olivia fans, however, may very well have been patrons of The Theatre at The Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles last night. The 1600 person venue was bustling within fans, their arms full of limited edition I Spilled my Guts In Los Angeles merchandise and Midori iced matcha lattes in commemorative reusable OR glass cups, highly anticipating being among the very first people to hear most of the songs on the album live. 

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Tickets had been announced and had gone on sale only a day prior, which ensured that everyone in the hotel that night was a true fan, and made even the energy in the lobby before the show completely through the roof. So many fans had come from out of state and had lively stories about car rentals, train rides, and even a few plane rides, which happened to be my very own way of transportation to The Ace.

 

Not only did audience members hear the songs live for the first time, it’s also very possible that they heard them in a way that no other live performance goer will ever hear again. The concert was an extra special unplugged performance, only featuring a guitar and a piano, both played by Rodrigo’s producer and songwriting partner, Dan Nigro. The acoustic performances and minor tempo changes of the songs were a beautifully stark contrast to the ballad-y nature of a handful of the songs on Guts, and the lively, fast paced nature of Rodrigo’s music in general. The crowd remained seated for the majority of the night, standing up only for Traitor, Get Him Back, Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl, and All American Bitch, with Rodrigo adorably exclaiming “get up, get up!” in between lyrics during the latter. 

 

The soft sound, intimate venue, and the unspoken mutual agreement by everyone in the audience to simply sit back and let Rodrigo’s own vocals carry the night away, created an extremely unique concert experience. In between performances, her and Nigro told the story of how each song off the album came to be. From Teenage Dream coming about as Rodrigo babysat Nigro’s 6 month old daughter, to a hilarious interlude about Rodrigo trying to order a glass of wine at dinner with Nigro after finally finishing Get Him Back.

 

Even before Rodrigo took the stage, the night was full of experiences. The immersive concert experience brought some of GUTS’ most iconic moments to life, including an Instagram-worthy photo moment from the “Bad Idea Right” music video and vintage-style photo booths. On the lower level of the hotel there was an interactive Get Ready Room, which featured complimentary lipsticks and the cutest photo ops! Fans could also sip on an iconic complimentary matcha experience, featuring matcha lattes from LA-based small business Midori Matcha, in a commemorative reusable cup. After the show, fans were met with a surprise taco experience, as a food truck and taco stand with complimentary snacks for fans.

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The night was made possible by American Express. The epic Card Member-only concert experience was part of Amex’s third annual Member Week, a weeklong celebration of what it means to be #withAmex. Olivia’s concert followed 2022’s Member Week concert featuring Jack Harlow. “I’ve been excited by the response to GUTS and I can’t wait to perform live for my fans,” Rodrigo said. “Partnering with American Express for my GUTS world tour, the GUTS Gallery pop-up experiences, and now this intimate performance for my fans means so much. Since we’re making the show available on my YouTube during Member Week, Livies around the world can get a sneak preview of what’s to come on tour!”


Since the release of her debut album a little over two years ago, Olivia Rodrigo has skyrocketed, but continues to be the epitome of grace and kindness. One day there may be a time where intimate venues and surprise shows will be much fewer and farther between, and I could not possibly feel luckier to be living in the present. 

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The concert will be available on Olivia’s YouTube channel Tuesday, October 10 at 8pm ET through Thursday, October 12, courtesy of American Express.

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