Alma's Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood!
About the Exhibit
Alma’s Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood!, is an immersive exhibit developed and fabricated by The Magic House in collaboration with Fred Rogers Productions and PBS Kids. The exhibit is based on Almaโs Way, the popular animated series on PBS KIDSยฎ. The series follows the neighborhood adventures of 6-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her family and a diverse group of friends and neighbors.
The series was created by actor and writer, Sonia Manzano, who positively impacted the lives of generations of children as โMariaโ on Sesame Street. Sonia created Almaโs Way by drawing inspiration from her own childhood in the Bronx. In every episode, Alma models life lessons while encouraging kids to develop critical thinking skills and value their own ideas and questions.
This exhibit was made possible by a generous donation from The Kent Family Foundation.
Exhibit Areas
The familiar environments from the show come to life as visitors are transported to Almaโs vibrant neighborhood in the Bronx to explore:
Almaโs Family Duplex: Step inside Alma’s welcoming Family Duplex, where generations come together to share traditions. Learn to make mofongo, a Puerto Rican dish, or immerse yourself in the sounds of Puerto Rican music by playing instruments like maracas. Outside, play hopscotch on the sidewalk or have a barbecue in the backyard.
Bodega: Explore a Bronx Bodega, a small neighborhood store that is full of a variety of items like food, drinks, snacks, household items, and souvenirs. Contribute to a collaborative community mural, adding a creative touch to the vibrant streetscape.
Community Center: Discover the rich heritage of Puerto Rican culture at the Community Center, where you can participate in Bomba dance lessons and learn to play the Bomba drums.
Pet Clinic: Become a veterinarian like Almaโs papi, Dr. Rivera, and perform check-ups while learning about fascinating creatures like parrots, lizards, and frogs, then create your own video inspired by Dr. Riveraโs internet animal show.
6 Train: Take a subway ride aboard the 6 train, play The Alma Train game, and be a conductor like Almaโs Tรญa Gloria.
Park: Go on a quest to find coquรs (tiny frogs) native to Puerto Rico. Enjoy a game of checkers, climb on rock formations, or decorate a cardboard clubhouse.
Touring Schedule
- Summer 2024 – The Magic House (MO)
- Fall 2024 – The Magic House (MO)
- Summer 2025 – Grand Rapids Children’s Museum (MI)
- Fall 2025 โ Discovery Center (FL)
โWe are thrilled to work with The Magic House to bring Almaโs neighborhood to life in a unique way that families can experience together. Kids can learn about the 6 train, dance Bomba, and shop at the bodega – just like Alma!”
Ellen Doherty, Executive producer, Almaโs Way, and Chief Creative Officer, Fred Rogers Productions
Contact Us!
For more details on Alma’s Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood! or to book the exhibit, please contact us at travelingexhibits@magichouse.org or call us at 314-288-2539.
