Julie Hanson

Des Moines

News Desk Editor at Seattle Times

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Articles

'Bye Bye Birdie' review: Lots of fun at Seattle's 5th Avenue

1 week ago | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

I wondered how “Bye Bye Birdie” would play with an image-conscious and at-times cynical 17-year-old. Too cute? Too energetic? Too over the top? Happily, none of those. Just like her much-less-cool mom, she got swept up in the showmanship and the silliness and the high level of talent on the stage. It surely helped that she could envision herself in the cast, some of whom were just a year or two older than she is.
'Mamma Mia!' review: great singing, silliness (and a little sexy)

2 weeks ago | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

The Broadway hit “Mamma Mia,” now in its 25th year, is briefly back in Seattle. It’s as popular as ever, and why not? Combine the beauty of Greece, the irresistible music of ABBA and the love of a mother and daughter and … you’ll likely laugh, cry and want to dance in the aisles. I know I did. Here’s the description: “Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA.
Be a Prepared Parent: Schedule a visit before the next school year

3 weeks ago | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

You don’t want to get this phone call at 9:15 a.m. on the first day of second grade:“I’m sorry, but you need to come and get your daughter.
5 tips to prepare a nervous child for a doctor visit or hospital trip

1 month ago | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

Going to the doctor can be frightening for a kid: It’s a new place, full of unfamiliar people and some equipment that can look a little scary. If the child is hurt or isn’t feeling well, all of this uneasiness might feel heightened. Thankfully, there are things parents can do to ease the tension – and some of them can be done before leaving home.
Mark Your Calendar: 2025 free state and national park days in Washington

2 months ago | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

Ready to soak up Washington’s natural beauty without spending a dime? In 2025, there are 12 days when you can visit Washington state parks for free — no Discover Pass needed — plus six national park free days, when entrance fees are waived at parks like Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades. Whether you’re planning a scenic day hike, a family adventure, or just want to wander among the trees, these are the perfect dates to mark on your calendar.
How to Recession-proof Your Finances

Mar 21, 2025 | justdoproperty.co.uk | Julie Hanson

Have you ever applied for a £500 loan or a short-term loan? If so, you may have noticed the rising interest rates that come with them. Over a period of years, the Bank of England has increased its base rate to combat inflation and rising prices. The cost of living crisis is at an all-time high, with basic necessities costing significantly higher than during the pre-COVID days. UK borrowing costs have hit the highest levels since the 2007-2008 banking crisis, also known as the Great Recession.
'Kimberly Akimbo' review: a sweet, funny, poignant show

Jan 8, 2025 | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

A rare, life-shortening condition; a new city and school; 100% inappropriate and unhelpful parents. Not exactly comedy gold? You might be surprised. The publicity materials for “Kimberly Akimbo” quote one critic as calling it, “Your new favorite musical.”Other reviewers have described it as “a howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” and “hilarious and heartbreaking.”These seemingly contradictory descriptions all actually make sense, but if you want to see for yourself, you don’t have much time.
'Back to the Future' review: Movie comes to the stage

Dec 11, 2024 | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

Paging children of the 1980s: “Back to the Future” is coming to a theater stage near you. “Back to the Future: the Musical,” that is. This touring production has just arrived in Seattle at the Paramount Theatre and runs through Dec. 22. Yes, not a movie screen but a stage. Wouldn’t time travel require the special effects available to film? And how will this show play with kids who take those special effects for granted? Well …As it turns out, on opening night, the special effects failed.
Help put the jolly into the holidays: Seattle-area toy drives

Nov 25, 2024 | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

Many Seattle-area families are in need of many things. Toys and gifts for kids are one area that can really tug at the heartstrings, but lots of good people are working hard to make sure that kids will get gifts during the holiday season. You can help by your donations of toys and cash. In most cases, this is not a time when you go through your closet and get rid of hand-me-downs (here are ideas for that).
Family-friendly holiday live theater around Seattle

Nov 14, 2024 | seattleschild.com | Julie Hanson

Seattle holiday live theater is full of opportunities for fabulous family entertainment! Now i the time do look at all the options and get your tickets based on your budget and family holiday plans. Excitement is building for the 5th Avenue Theatre holiday production of “Mary Poppins.”In case you need a refresher: “Precocious children Michael and Jane Banks have exhausted every nanny—that is, until Mary Poppins drops in on a strange breeze.