A Night Out with Broadway Utica: Michelle & Gina’s Story
In the whirlwind of busy lives, three children each, and full-time schedules, Gina Giruzzi and Michelle Hogan found a way to carve out something special for themselves: an evening of theater, laughter, and connection. As first-year subscribers to Broadway Utica, they’ve discovered not just the magic of live performance but a tradition they plan to continue for years to come.
It all began in June 2024, when Gina, already a fan of Broadway Utica, decided to take the leap and subscribe. After experiencing the powerful storytelling of Come From Away, she knew she couldn’t do it alone and called Michelle to join her.
“I thought Michelle would be the perfect person to do this with,” Gina shared. “We’re both busy moms, always juggling kids’ activities, and we needed an escape – a way to enjoy something together that we truly loved.”
For Michelle, the tipping point came when she saw The Cher Show. “It was phenomenal,” she said. “The energy, the storytelling, and, of course, the music – I left thinking, ‘Why don’t I do this more often?’ So when Gina asked, it was an easy yes.”
Carving Out Time for Theater
For Gina and Michelle, the subscription wasn’t just about the shows; it was about carving out time in their lives that rarely slowed down.
“If Gina had called me last minute to go to a show, I might’ve made an excuse because it’s so easy to say no when life is so busy,” Michelle explained. “With Broadway Utica, it’s on the calendar. I know months in advance, so I can coordinate with my husband and arrange the kid’s activities. It’s non-negotiable, and that makes it special.”
“We went to the Broadway Utica office together and flipped through the season schedule,” Gina said. “They were so patient with us as we juggled dates and worked around sports and family commitments. We even got to choose our seats – the row, the area, an end seat. It felt personal. And while we love where we sit now, we’ve already decided to adjust slightly next season for an even better view. It’s a little thing, but it’s part of what makes it ours.”
The Shows That Stole Their Hearts
This season, Gina and Michelle have found themselves captivated by the range and depth of the performances they attended. One standout for both was Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.
“I didn’t know much about Tina Turner’s life going in,” Michelle admitted. “Her later music resonated with me, but the show went deeper. It wasn’t just her rise to fame; it was about her resilience, and what she endured to get there. The performances, the music – it all built this incredible, emotional journey. I walked out amazed and wishing I could see it again the next night.”
Another surprise was Hadestown. “I didn’t know much about the show beforehand,” Michelle admitted. “At first, I was confused, but as the story unfolded, it all clicked. If I was watching it at home, I would have been on my phone searching characters and the storyline. That’s the beauty of theater – you’re forced to sit there and let it evolve in your head without technology interrupting.”
A Tradition Worth Keeping
As their first season comes to a close, Gina and Michelle are already looking ahead. They’re not just planning to subscribe again; they’re planning to make this a lasting tradition.
“To anyone on the fence, I’d say: do it,” Michelle urged. “It’s a chance to step outside your routine and do something meaningful for yourself. You won’t regret it.”
“And it’s not just about the shows,” Gina added. “It’s about the memories you create, the moments that remind you there’s more to life than the daily grind. Broadway Utica has given us that – and we can’t wait for what’s next.”
Here’s to Gina and Michelle – two busy moms who made time for themselves and found magic along the way.
Interested in joining Broadway Utica? Call 315-624-9444 or learn more here.
