Blippi brings the fun to Greensburg with 鈥淛oin the Band Tour鈥�
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Giggles, wiggles and squeals of delight fill the air when Blippi, otherwise known as Stevin John, arrives on stage all decked out in his signature bright blue and orange. For some fans, this is their first glimpse of Blippi live and he’s ready to deliver the educational, energetic entertainment that has earned him 22.5 million YouTube subscribers.
Blippi’s “Join the Band Tour” is set to arrive at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg on Thursday, April 17 at 6 p.m. He will be joined by his best friend Meekah, otherwise known as Kaitlin Becker, and other singing and dancing buddies, bringing to life a learning experience that children love. Live musicians will also take the stage, helping kids explore the magic of music with some of Blippi’s greatest hits.
Blippi Live!
Blippi started making videos in January 2014 after witnessing his young nephew viewing low-quality videos on YouTube. “I can do better than that,” said the video editor and marketing consultant. And with that, the Blippi phenomenon was born.
According to Josh Blackburn, senior producer of the stage show, live performances were the next logical step, and Blippi began appearing in front of audiences in early 2020. Today, the live show is in its third version-now with a strong musical focus.
“We wanted to take some time to teach kids more about instruments and how music can be discovered in unlikely places, like a phone ringing, or a rooster crowing,” Blackburn explained.
A fan favorite is the “Excavator Song,” which kids love singing. The song’s video shows the machine at work while Blippi, dressed in his usual bow tie and suspenders, appears in the foreground showing children how to dance to the catchy song. With lyrics like:
“I’ve got a big old bucket and I scoop all the time
Digging holes in the ground, wonder what I’ll find,
I’m a dirt separator, hey dirt see ya later,”
…kids are entertained, while learning at the same time.”
Blackburn noted that there’s a cast of 10 singers, actors and musicians joining Blippi, who encourages audience participation. “The kids stand, jump and clap with Blippi and his buddies. It’s a highly interactive experience,” he said.
A Parental Favorite
Amy Johnson, who owns a parenting blog called Amybabys.com, said that with a 3-year-old girl and a 2-year-old boy, Blippi is a household favorite. “Our son loves monster trucks and construction vehicles, while our daughter enjoys Play-Doh and horses. There are almost always songs related to the topics at hand, which help to really hammer the learning home,” according to the Cleveland resident.
Johnson also appreciates Blippi’s travel-based videos.
“He visits farms, museums, sports stadiums, theme parks and beyond. This gives us the opportunity to explore and find out what the kids are into, almost by accident,” she explained.
Johnson, who has her finger on the pulse of edutainment, says that there are many options available, but Blippi is one of the better choices.
“Our children love his goofiness and of course, the songs,” she explained. “They get to go along for the ride and see all the different places without ever leaving the couch.”
The teaching elements that Blippi brings are also worthwhile, Johnson added: “From colors, to the alphabet, science basics and more, it gives us peace of mind that at least they are absorbing some learning while they watch.”
Johnson said that the kids in the audience will be delighted to see the character Meekah as well. “She shows how boys and girls can be friends, while adding a touch of femininity to the program,” she said.
Making Memories
Blackburn said that each Blippi live show runs for an hour, with a 20-minute intermission. After the show, fans can purchase photo experience tickets for a chance to meet Blippi and take home a special memento.
“Parents will love the fact that this is not a sit-in-your-seat and watch experience. We’re clapping, singing and burning energy, so it’s super engaging,” said Blackburn, adding that oftentimes it’s the child’s first concert experience. “Kids are often so mesmerized that their eyes are glued to the stage. It’s something that parents will remember and treasure,” he said.
To learn more, or purchase tickets, visit: https://westmorelandculturaltrust.org/events/blippi-join-the-band-tour/
Stephanie Kalina-Metzger is a freelance writer.