If you were a kid in the 80's like me than most likely you know that before there was Chuck E Cheese's there was a little place called Showbiz pizza. Instead of a Giant rat, its front man was a hillbilly bear named Billy Bob. There is a picture of me in some old photo album wearing a birthday hat and dancing to mind blowing songs played by Rock-afire Explosion, a motley crew of animatronic animal musicians, that rocked out to classic songs from the 60's. I remember thinking that was the coolest place ever and I always wanted to go play there.
Recently, Kevin and I took Morgan to check out Chuck E Cheese's. I was curious to see what she thought about the hustle and bustle of all the kids running around. She actually enjoyed it a lot. The only problem is a 14 month old doesn't quite understand that you have to take turns to ride the rides. So not only did Morgan have a blast running around and riding rides, she also had a few tantrums as well.
Morgan and daddy checking out the concert.
Morgan driving the car. We were actually impressed because we never told her what to do. She just grabbed the steering wheel and started turning.
Then "real life" Chuck E. came out to say hi.
"Is it ok, dad?"
"I've never seen teeth like that before."
Right after this picture another tantrum started. I took her by the hand and started walking to let another little girl have a turn and she freaked out. This girl goes crazy for giant characters. I guess we know how she would be at Disney. Too bad we aren't taking her until her 5th birthday :)
After we left I kept thinking that just wasn't as cool as when I was a kid. It felt smaller and well not as edgy because Showbiz was a little rough around the edges. I remember being a little scared of the gorilla keyboardist, but loving the show just the same. I think about the gradual transition from Showbiz to Chuck E. Cheese and I can't help but wonder what ever happened to Billy Bob? He was such a sweet, loving character. Sure he wasn't the most educated of all childrens characters and he might have promoted alcoholism (*Note the jug of moonshine on stage), but I loved him just the same. Billy Bob thanks for helping making my childhood a little more fun!
3 comments:
Yeah, I grew up in the 80's but I don't remember Billy Bob. :)
I am glad she did so well with the giant rat! Most kids are intimidated by him and the Mouse's! I cannot wait to see her react to the Disney crew! By then she will love the princess' and won't care about the rest!
I LOVED Showbiz pizza :) I had my birthday there once :) It was freaking fantastic!
I liked Showbiz too! I like them better than Chuckie Cheese!
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