Key Takeaways
- The author’s granddaughters, Jayne and Norah, have a fascination with violent, combat sports, particularly theatrical combat.
- The girls were given tickets to the WWE Live Holiday Tour at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena as a Christmas present.
- The event was a unique experience for the girls, exposing them to a different world of entertainment.
- The author reflects on the contrast between the girls’ parochial school upbringing and their interest in combat sports.
- The experience sparked interesting discussions and reflections on the nature of entertainment, violence, and childhood development.
Introduction to the Event
The author’s granddaughters, Jayne and Norah, have a not-so-secret appreciation of violent, combat sports, at least theatrical combat. For a Christmas present, Staci and Adam surprised the girls with tickets to the WWE Live Holiday Tour at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena on December 27. This event was a unique experience for the girls, exposing them to a different world of entertainment that was both exciting and unfamiliar. The author notes that Jayne, an eight-year-old who competes in various activities, and Norah, her sister, have a keen interest in the theatrical aspect of combat sports, which might seem unexpected given their parochial school upbringing.
The Contrast Between Upbringing and Interests
The contrast between the girls’ parochial school background and their fascination with combat sports is an interesting observation. Typically, parochial schools emphasize values such as compassion, kindness, and non-violence, which might seem at odds with the aggressive nature of combat sports. However, it’s essential to recognize that children’s interests can be diverse and multifaceted, and their exposure to different forms of entertainment can shape their perspectives and preferences. The author’s observation highlights the complexity of childhood development, where children can navigate different worlds and interests, sometimes contradicting their upbringing or environment.
The WWE Live Holiday Tour Experience
The WWE Live Holiday Tour at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena was an immersive experience for Jayne and Norah. The event featured a lineup of popular WWE wrestlers, including fan favorites and villains, who engaged in theatrical matches and performances. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd cheering, chanting, and participating in the spectacle. The girls were fully engaged, cheering for their favorite wrestlers and enjoying the high-energy performances. The event was a departure from their usual activities, providing a unique and exhilarating experience that they would not soon forget.
Reflections on Entertainment and Violence
The author’s account of the event raises interesting questions about the nature of entertainment, violence, and childhood development. While some might view combat sports as promoting violence or aggression, others see them as a form of theatrical entertainment, where the line between reality and fiction is clearly drawn. The WWE, in particular, is known for its over-the-top storylines, charismatic performers, and staged matches, which are designed to entertain rather than promote harm. The experience sparked discussions about the impact of entertainment on children’s perceptions of violence and the importance of distinguishing between fiction and reality.
The Significance of the Experience
The experience of attending the WWE Live Holiday Tour was significant for Jayne and Norah, as it exposed them to a new world of entertainment and allowed them to engage with their interests in a unique way. The event also provided an opportunity for the author to reflect on the complexities of childhood development and the diverse interests that children can have. The experience highlights the importance of embracing children’s individuality and providing them with opportunities to explore their interests, even if they may seem unconventional or unexpected. By doing so, parents and caregivers can foster a deeper understanding of their children’s preferences and values, while also promoting a more nuanced understanding of the world around them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the author’s account of Jayne and Norah’s experience at the WWE Live Holiday Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of childhood development and the diverse interests that children can have. The event was a unique and exhilarating experience for the girls, exposing them to a different world of entertainment and sparking interesting discussions about the nature of entertainment, violence, and childhood development. The experience highlights the importance of embracing children’s individuality and providing them with opportunities to explore their interests, while also promoting a deeper understanding of the world around them.


