When she found that there wasn’t that much going on for kids and their parents in the entertainment sector in her neighborhood, Rania Ajami – along with her brother Rami Ajami – decided to take action. The result was ‘Pip’s Island’ an interactive show that is opening later this month at the Pod Hotel theater, 400 W. 42^nd Street.

It took six years to make this happen. And it cost $20 million and a 10 year lease with hotelier Richard Born who has now partnered with the show that he “instantly fell in love with the concept and the enthusiasm of the principles behind it.”  It is for kids aged 4-10 and features music, puppets, video and animation.  The story is based on a boy and his friends who rescue a magical island from the evil clutches of Joules Volter and his allies.  The idea is for members of the audience to participate in the challenge, earn “sparks” on their light-up wristband and more. 

While right now it’ll just be the play, it is hoped by Ajami and partners that it will later extend to books, games, merchandise and a series.  The story, featured characters and sets fluctuate so it’s more than a one-time event. Tickets are $39 each.