I started this blog with one daughter, kept it up with the other, to spend time together doing something we enjoyed.
However, things change and people evolve. My daughters are older, busier, and not as interested in writing.
From now on this blog will be mostly mom with occasional contributions from my daughters and maybe even my husband.
Nothing else will change. We'll still focus on sharing fun places to go, fun things to do, and more, and we would  still love to hear your views too

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Tips for Tuesday: Books: If This Gets Out & Purrs of Wisdom & Movies: Estella Scrooge

We may have been given complimentary copies for review purposes of one or more of any books and or other products mentioned below and/or complimentary access to any audio or visual media. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Books: If This Gets Out and Purrs of Wisdom


Today we are recommending if This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzales and Cale Dietrich. This book is about two members of a boy band who fall in love. Although they are quickly upfront about their relationship with their management team, it doesn't seem like the team will ever think it's the right time for them to come out and reveal the truth about themselves and their relationship. In fact, the team wants to manage everything about their lives and their images and not only theirs but those of their two bandmates as well. This book is a cautionary tale about the price of fame as well as an inspirational book on so many levels. It's about finding your true self and not being afraid to show it. It's about taking charge of your own life and not letting anybody else control you. Plus, the relationship between the two main protagonist's Ruben and Zach is just so sweet and adorable that you just can't help rooting for them. The book is full of great side characters as well including the other two bandmates, various members of the band's management team, and the boys' mothers. All in all, it's just a really engaging read.


Today we are recommending Purrs of Wisdom by Ingrid King. This book explores the relationship between cats and humans and how much they are alike. It is about the things we can learn from observing our cats including the benefits of stretching, how to live in the moment, how to be kind to yourself, and much more. Although much of the advice seems self-explanatory, these are not necessarily things we usually think about when observing our cats. Each chapter begins with a cute cat picture and a quote that points in the direction of that chapter's topic. This book will educate you, it will inspire you, and it will warm your hear especially if you are a cat lover.

Movies: Estella Scrooge


Today we are recommending Estella Scrooge. This new version of A Christmas Carol, much like the current Broadway production of Company, puts a gender spin on the classic story. Estella Scrooge is a hard-nosed businesswoman who thinks nothing of foreclosing on a hotel inhabited by a house full of people with nowhere else to go and on Christmas no less. The cast which is full of Broadway favorites includes recent Tony winners Lauren Patten and Danny Burstein in addition to Betsy Wolfe in the title role and more. It is full of brand-new songs that are a mix of over-the-top rocking songs and touching ballads. 

The show pays great homage to Charle's Dickens's work not only A Christmas Carol but his other works as well through character names, lines of dialogue spoken by the characters and more. It is fun to try to catch all the references as you watch. Many of them are familiar to most people including characters named Pip and Tiny Tammy and others are more obscure and may not be recognizable except to avid Dickens readers including references to Sissy Jupe, a character from his novel Hard Times and Mr. Merdle from Little Dorrit. 

The movie first aired last year and was made during the height of Covid before there were any vaccines. Accordingly, each actor's part was filmed separately. Despite that, it all blends together seamlessly albeit with a  slight air of virtual reality. The acting is terrific and the actors' reactions to each other are extremely spot on especially considering they weren't even in the same room when the movie was filmed.

In addition to the usual ending of the story, this film adds a little bit extra to the story. However, even if you can predict how it's all going to end up, that doesn't take anything away from how enjoyable this new version of the classic tale is. 

View the official trailer here
.
The Director's Cut version of Estella Scrooge will be available for streaming through Streaming Musicals or Broadway on Demand throughout the holiday season. For a special code for our readers for 25% off the price of the purchase or rental see below:\

1. Click RENT or BUY 
2. Enter your email
3. Choose a password
4. Click "I have a Promo Code" ENTER: SAYSMEMOM25
5. Rentals are available for 72 hours as you hit PLAY.
Purchases are available forever.
As you have the film, it will be in your library (dropdown menu on top right of screen)

ALSO: YOU MAY USE THIS CODE on BROADWAYONDEMAND.COM 

And that's our view. Tune in tomorrow for Where-To-Go Wednesday.

Monday, November 29, 2021

More Theater Monda - Sarah Brightman A Christmas Symphony

We were given complimentary tickets to Sarah Brightman A Christmas Symphony for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own

What: Sarah Brightman A Christmas Symphony 

Where: NJPAC
            1 Center St.
            Newark, NJ

When: This event took place on November 27, 2021


Sarah Brightman's voice is as clear and as beautiful as ever even more than thirty years after she first took on the role of Christine Daae in The Phantom of the Opera. The songs in her current concert tour are mostly Christmas music, of course, as indicated by the title of her tour. However, there is also a little opera and some other things thrown in as well. It was nice to hear her take on such songs as Vince Gill's "Colder Than Winter", Abba's "Arrival" and John Lennon's "So This Is Christmas". Highlights of the show included "Time to Say Goodbye" and the title song of Phantom of the Opera. It was especially good to hear her sing the latter. It's nice when performers embrace their past instead of shying away from it insisting that they have already been there and done that  and moving on without ever looking back. 

The concert was a bit of a fashion show as well as Ms. Brightman changed costumes frequently.  On the whole, her outfits did not seem that different from one another. They mostly consisted of an array of sparkly glittery princess-like dresses in a variety of different colors. In fact, all that costume changing didn't really seem necessary at all. It was much like when the host of an award show just keep changing outfits for no reason. Are people's attention spans so bad that we need to keep looking at different outfits on the same person or perhaps Ms. Brightman just has a lot of beautiful dresses that she just wanted to show off or make use of?  Sometimes, it makes sense when performers change costumes during a concert, in this case, it did not, especially because all the dresses seemed very similar.

Ms. Brightman had a great rapport with the audience, and they clearly loved her sometimes very vocally. A couple times during a break in the performance audience members called out to her even though it did not seem like the kind of concert where that sort of thing would happen. Each time it occurred, Ms. Brightman responded very graciously, however, and the shouting out did not phase her. 

All in all, it was a nice evening of music and Ms. Brightman is a talented performer with a lovely voice.

And that's our view. For more about Sarah Brightman's A Christmas Symphony tour and/or to find out when and if it will be coming to a city near you, visit sarahbrightman.com. To find out about upcoming events at NJPAC, visit www.njpac.org

Tune in tomorrow for Tips for Tuesday.

Sunday, November 28, 2021

Sunday Scoop Week of 11/28/21 - Live and Virtual Events Coming Up This Week and More

1) 2nd Stage Production of Lynn Notage's Clydes Now Open
2) 4th International Human Rights Art Festival Begins 12/6 
3) Angelina Bakery Unveils New Bombolone in Support of The Actor's Fund
4) Battery Dance Collaborates With Consulate General of India
5) Broadway Workshop Upcoming Events
6) Ensemble Studio Theatre & Sloan 2021 Artist Cultivation Panel 12/2
7)Food for Thought's Production of I Can't Remember Anything 12/6
8) George Street Playhouse Production of It's Only a Play Begins Performances 11/30
9) The Great Broadway Game Show Competition  Now on the Broadway Podcast Network
10) The Green Room 42 Upcoming Events 
11) J2 Spotlight Musical Theater Company Announces 2022 Season
12) Maxine Linehan Releases New Single Evergreen
13) MasterVoices Opens Season With A Joyful Noise 12/6
14) The Orchestra Now Performs at The Metropolitan Museum of Art 12/5
15) Quantum Debt Beings Performances 12/2
16) Schitt's Creek's Noah Reid Joins Cast of The Minutes Tickets Now on Sale
17) Slave Play Announces First Blackout Performance
18) Slave Play & Jujamcyn Theater Unveil Wilson Lounge 
19) South Street Seaport Monthly Virtual Sing Along 12/5
20) The York Theater's Cheek to Cheek Begins Performances

                                            1)

LYNN NOTTAGE’S

CLYDE’S

NOW OPEN ON BROADWAY

ON BROADWAY AT SECOND STAGE’S HAYES THEATER     


Second Stage Theater’s (Carole Rothman, President & Artistic Director; Khady Kamara, Executive Director) production of Lynn Nottage’s Clyde's is now playing at Second Stage’s Broadway home, the Hayes Theater (240 W 44th Street at 8Th Avenue).


In CLYDE’S, a stirring and funny new play from two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and her frequent collaborator, director Kate Whoriskey (Ruined, Sweat), a truck stop sandwich shop offers its formerly incarcerated kitchen staff a shot at redemption. Even as the shop’s callous owner, Clyde (played by Aduba), tries to keep them under her thumb, the staff members are given purpose and permission to dream by their shared quest to create the perfect sandwich. 


TICKET AND SUBSCRIPTION INFO

 

Single tickets for CLYDE’S are on sale at 2ST.com or by calling 212-541-4516.

 

$30 tickets are available to people aged 30 and under with valid ID.  

                            

In the spirit of welcoming new audiences, a new subscription package, Flip the Script, is available to those ages 30 and under. All five productions at Second Stage this season, three Broadway and two Off-Broadway, can be purchased for $140. See 2st.com for details.


HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR SECOND STAGE THEATER AS OF AUGUST 1, 2021


For the health and safety of our audience, employees, cast and crew please be advised of the following protocols: to be permitted to enter any Second Stage Theater venue (The Tony Kiser Theater, The Hayes Theater, The McGinn/Cazele Theater), guests will need to be fully vaccinated (as defined below) with an FDA or WHO authorized vaccine. Evidence of the vaccination will be required at the time of entry along with a valid ticket for the current production. Other health & safety requirements may be required in addition to the vaccine. See further details on our health & safety protocols page: https://2st.com/visit/safety-updates. “Fully vaccinated” means on the day of the performance date as shown on the valid ticket, a guest is at least 14 days after their second dose of an FDA or WHO approved two dose COVID-19 vaccine, or at least 14 days after their single dose of an FDA or WHO approved single dose COVID-19 Vaccine.


Guests may display proof on a smartphone or present a physical copy. New York State residents, or anyone who received a COVID-19 vaccine in New York State, may present proof through the use of the Excelsior Pass (for more details, visit: https://epass.ny.gov) or any other CDC-approved digital app. The only exceptions are guests under the age of 12, who must be accompanied by an adult that meets the above vaccination requirements or guests who need reasonable accommodations due to a medical exception or a sincerely held religious belief. For guests who are not able to be vaccinated for one of the reasons listed above, they must provide proof one of the following instead of evidence of vaccination: a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within 6 hours of the performance start time, or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance start time. In addition to proof of vaccination, all guests 18 years or older must also present a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Guests younger than 18 may use a government-issued photo ID or school photo ID. Guests under 12 must be accompanied by an adult who meets the above requirements. Entry will be denied for guests who do not provide the documentation as required above. Masks are required for all guests, regardless of vaccination status. Masks must be worn at all times while visiting the venue except when eating or drinking in designated areas. All masks must completely cover the nose and mouth and comply with the CDC guidelines for acceptable face coverings: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face

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2) INTERNATIONAL HUMAN 
RIGHTS ART FESTIVAL
RETURNS FOR 4TH SEASON 
OF THEATER, DANCE, MUSIC, 
ART & ACTIVISM
December 6 - 12

Over 100 artists and activists from all over the globe are set to take part in the 4th INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ART FESTIVAL in New York City December 6 - 12 at Wild Project (195 E. 3rd Street in Manhattan). Set to coincide with International Human Rights Day which falls on December 10 every year, the Festival brings together artists with social and political leaders and the general public to imagine and implement a better, more caring world. Artists around the world speak truth to power -- often alone, and at great personal risk. The INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ART FESTIVAL empowers their voices, activating a global audience of allies to support them in their struggle for social justice and human rights. Artists and activists from 24 countries including Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, China, Haiti, India, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Singapore, South Korea, Uganda and Venezuela are represented in the 2021 festival.

Featuring dance, theatre, music, spoken word, comedy, circus, and film, the 4th INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ART FESTIVAL (produced by Tom Block) is a week-long series of advocacy events and performances at the intersection of art, activism and society. The full schedule can be viewed at www.ihraf.org. Tickets are $20 each, or $50 for a festival pass.

Some of the highlights of the festival include: 

• "Short Play Festival" featuring 7 new works by playwrights Sam Affoumado, D. Lee Miller, Cate Wiley, Laura Gaspari, Tom Block, Zizi Azah Abdul Majid, Leonard Goodisman. Monday, December 6 at 7:30pm. 

• "Celebration of Immigration" featuring an excerpt of a new play by Sara Farrington, new music by Luis D'Elias, a performance piece by Gabriel Torres and a dance piece on immigration by Axons Dance Company. Tuesday, December 7 at 7:30pm. 

• "Shalom/Salaam" featuring Arabic-language songs by Call Me Córdoba, Moroccan music by Rachid Halihal and Richard Khuzami, comedy by Jewish Uzbek-American comedian Natan Badalov, and music by  six-time Independent Music Award-winning musician and producer Rachael Sage. Wednesday, December 8 at 7:30pm.

• "Farm Arts Collective" featuring neo-beat post-punk liberation jazz by The Red Microphone and a theatrical spectacle addressing climate change and social justice by Farm Arts Collective (as recently featured in The New York Times). Saturday, December 11 at 7:30pm.

• "Celebration of Africa" featuring work by Ugandan poet-in-exile Razack Buwaso Ibrahim, Gambian griot Salieu Suso's dance/music troupe Jalikunda and a presentation by Wole Adedoyin, President of the IHRAF African Secretariat in Ibadan, Nigeria. Saturday, December 11 at 7:30pm.

The 2021 Festival also features the Art of Unity Creative Award and performances from Aseemkala Initiative, Jessica Litwak, Valerie Green/Dance Entropy, Teresa Fellion Dance, Ellen Mandel, Michael Lydon, Jessica Crandall, LatticeWorks Dance, Catey Clark, Dancers Unlimited, Amy Liou, Sayoko Kojima, Gabrielle Senza, Maggie Munday Odom, Robin Hirsch, Philippe Garcesto, Laurel Snyder, Steven Hoffen, and Dubbs Weinblatt's Thank You For Coming Out, among others.

For more info, visit www.ihraf.org.
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3) ANGELINA BAKERY


UNVEILS NEW BROADWAY BOMBOLONE


IN SUPPORT OF 


THE ACTORS FUND


Angelina Bakery announced that they have partnered with The Actors Fund to create a special Broadway Bombalone featuring their motto “I Heart The Arts” in colorful sugar. All sales of this special bombolone are donated to this renowned organization that supports working professionals of the theatre and entertainment community.

To learn more about Angelina Bakery, please visit https://www.angelinabakery.com/ or follow @angelinabakerynyc.

 

Angelina Bakery is now available for local delivery orders and nationwide shipping via Goldbelly.

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4) Consulate General of India - New York Announces
An Evening of Indian Dance 
Curated by Jonathan Hollander
as Part of Iconic Week

Battery Dance is pleased to collaborate with the Consulate General of India in presenting an evening of performances by diverse Indian dancers curated by Jonathan Hollander, Artistic Director and Founder of Battery Dance, on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 6pm at 3 East 64th Street. The night will feature four dancers: Durgesh Gangani performing Kathak dance; Kaustavi Sarkar performing Odissi dance; Sri Reshmi Ogoti performing Kuchipudi dance; and Manish Chauhan performing Contemporary Dance. Space is limited for this free event space and eonearly reservations are encouraged: 

Please note, COVID-19 vaccination is required for entry to the Consulate General of India. 
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5) NEXT UP AT BROADWAY WORKSHOP

JESSICA VOSK

MUSICAL THEATER WORKSHOP - IN PERSON

Join Broadway star - Jessica Vosk live in the studio for an unforgettable workshop!

Date: Sunday, December 5th, 2021

Time: 10:00am – 12:30pm ET

Ages: 12-19

Cost: $160

Location: Ripley Grier Studios – 520 8th Avenue – 16th Floor


Jessica Vosk is best known for her star-turn as Elphaba in the musical Wicked. This past week she set NYC on fire with her sold out solo show at Carnegie Hall! Vosk starred as the Narrator in the 50th anniversary of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Lincoln Center. She created the role of Aunt Val in the world premiere of the new musical Becoming Nancy, Vosk’s Broadway credits include recreating the role of Fruma Sarah in the revival of Fiddler on the Roof, Finding Neverland, and The Bridges of Madison County.


Jessica, along with Broadway Workshop’s staff will work with each student on audition technique and song interpretation in this special one-day master class. We will focus on giving students the opportunity to bring their audition and performance skills to the next level. Students will break down their song material with one-on-one coaching in a fun-filled class setting. Students will also have the opportunity to be part of a Q&A with Jessica and the Broadway Workshop team.


Students will need sheet music for 1 or 2 musical theatre or pop/rock audition song in the correct key for this workshop. We will only be focusing on ONE 16/32 bar musical cut in this class. Accompanist/Musical Director will be provided. S


This workshop is limited to 12 students. Students will need to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to participate in this workshop


For more information or to register, go to www.broadwayworkshop.com/program/jessica-vosk-online-workshop/


Marc Tumminelli Songbook Workshop - Virtual (TUESDAYS)


Dates: Tuesday, November 30, 2021 & Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Time: 5:00pm – 6:30pm

Ages: 12-19

Cost: $195

ZOOM

Class is limited to 8 students.


After 6 sold out songbook workshops, Broadway Workshop Director, Marc Tumminelli is back for another session of his signature workshop! Over two sessions, Marc will find new audition songs for each student and create tracks as well as get them cut sheet music to use for auditions, classes, cabarets etc.


For more information or to register, go to www.broadwayworkshop.com/program/musical-theater-song-book-2-week-workshop-with-marc-tumminelli/

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                                         6) 
and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation

EST/SLOAN

2021 ARTIST CULTIVATION PANEL

 

FEATURING

JAD ABUMRAD, SAM CHANSE,

KARINE GIBBS, LUCAS HNATH AND MANDË HOLFORD

 

LIVE STREAMING ONLINE

THURSDAY DECEMBER 2, 2021, at 8PM EST

 

AND

 

2021 EST/SLOAN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY PROJECT COMMISSIONS

 

Ensemble Studio Theatre (EST) (William Carden, Artistic Director), along with The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation (Doron Weber, Vice-President and Program Director) and the EST/Sloan Project, announced today the 2021 Fall Artist Cultivation Event for the EST/Sloan Project. This year’s event will take place virtually, over Zoom, on Thursday December 2 at 8PM EST. EST and The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation are also pleased to announce new EST/Sloan Project commissions for 2021.

The 2021 Fall Artist Cultivation Event is free, and any playwright interested in developing a play about science or technology is encouraged to attend to hear a far-ranging discussion about science, storytelling and what makes plays work. The panel will feature Jad Abumrad (Producer and host of “Radiolab”), Sam Chanse (What You are Now, premiering in February 2022), Karine Gibbs (Associate Professor in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at the University of California, BerkeleyLucas Hnath (Dana H., Isaac’s Eye), and Mandë Holford (Associate Professor in Chemistry at Hunter College and CUNY-Graduate Center). Advance registration is required and can be made here.

The 2021 Sloan Commission recipients and plays are Karina Billini (Apple Bottom), Nikki Brake-Sillá (ReWombed), Dustin H. Chinn (The People vs. Andy Hildebrand), Xandra Nur Clark (Ursa Major)Sandra A. Daley-Sharif (Mother Wit: The Onnie Lee Logan Story), Jeanne Dorsey (The Kit: Made by Martha), Kareem Fahmy (Riparian States), Amy Gijsbers van Wijk (Beckon, or The G-Spot Play)Nadja Leonhard-Hooper (want.want.outside.love you), Thandiwe Mawungwa (How Power Flows), Allyson Morgan (Teenage Huntress), Ankita Raturi (Thesis Defense), Kira Rockwell (Space Town), Caitlin Saylor Stephens (Bunnies) and Zhu Yi (Frozen).

 

EST is also now accepting proposals for the 2022 EST/Sloan Project commissions. Proposals will be accepted through January 15, 2022, and guidelines are available here


Karina Billini - Apple Bottom 

Gladys Castillo has spent her whole life bullied by her Dominican chicken hen for her boyish figure. Why did God decide to make her look like Olive Oyl instead of a voluptuous goddess like her cousins? Jokes on them; Gladys plays God now. In 2018, Dr. Castillo is now a prestigious plastic surgeon performing Brazilian butt lifts on rich white women looking to look like Kim Kardashian and well.... the curvy Dominican women she grew up with. Times sure have change since the Britney Spears era of Gladys’ childhood. But when members of the chicken hen begin to show up at Gladys' practice in agonizing pain from illegal butt injections—Gladys can't help to wonder—Is she any different from the back-alley monsters who performed on her loved ones?

 

Nikki Brake-Sillá - ReWombed

ReWombed takes place over the course of multiple office visits, between Pastor Rachel Johnson and Dr. Eve Jardín, OBGYN. Eve challenges Rachel’s participation in a trial whose selection process, coupled with the biological harm of immunosuppression drugs, cervical biopsies, and numerous abdominal surgeries, have made it impossible for her to uphold her vow to do no harm.

 

Dustin H. Chinn - The People vs. Andy Hildebrand

Andy Hildebrand is an engineer whose work in signal processing led to two far-reaching advances. The first was the improvement of oil exploration for Exxon. The second was the invention of Auto-Tune. Dr. Hildebrand has a lot to answer for, so it's time to put the show in show trial (with songs!).   

 

Xandra Nur Clark - Ursa Major

It is simultaneously present-day New York and Stalin-era Soviet Moscow. A mother writes a book on crystallography while her daughter explores genderqueerness. A scientist studies properties of clay minerals while falling in love with her female colleague’s girlfriend. Inspired by the stories of three real Soviet women and with a live soundtrack of Russian folk songs, Ursa Major is a story of heritage, love and the work that often gets overlooked in the historical record.

 

Sandra A. Daley-Sharif - Mother Wit: The Onnie Lee Logan Story

Onnie Lee Logan, one of our first feminists, struggled to become a licensed midwife to Black and white women of Mobile County, Alabama, during the Depression and the prejudice of the rural South. Her life, death and legacy of a woman’s right to reproductive health still resonates today.

 

Jeanne Dorsey - The Kit: Made by Martha

The Kit: Made by Martha explores how Martha Goddard’s innovative thinking set her on a path to creating and instituting the first Rape Kit, a powerful scientific procedure and tool that would transform criminal forensics and bring justice to countless victims of sexual assault.

 

Kareem Fahmy - Riparian States

It’s known as “The Mother of All Men,” the Nile, the world’s longest river. Countries that rely on the same body of water are referred to as “riparian states,” and currently two of them—Egypt and Ethiopia—are at the brink of war. The completion of a new Ethiopian dam would transform that country, but the Egyptians see it as a threat to theirs, hastening doubt and famine. Riparian States focuses on the climatologists and engineers who are caught in a power struggle that could destabilize the entire economy of Africa.

 

Amy Gijsbers van Wijk - Beckon, or The G-Spot Play

It's the 1980s, and Rose is a medical student with her wedding date looming. She is questioning everything, including her understanding of her most intimate (like, seriously, hand-mirror intimate) self. When Rose and her aloof classmate Lora pair up to run a study, Rose finds herself suddenly fighting against the medical establishment, social norms, and spending a lot of time with the vaginas of cadavers, all in hopes of finding answers to questions that polite society seems too afraid to even ask.

 

Nadja Leonhard-Hooper - want.want.outside.love you.

want.want.outside.love you. is a comedy about using language, consciousness, affection, reward and the difficulty of removing yourself from the equation. 

 

Thandiwe Mawungwa - How Power Flows

How Power Flows is a 90-minute play which follows the internal and external struggles of a young woman who is determined to put a mini hydro-electric power station in a remote Zimbabwean village community where nothing can be done without consultation and approval of the ancestors. 

 

Allyson Morgan - Teenage Huntress

In 2018, an international team of archaeologists and anthropologists working in Peru found the 9,000-year-old remains of a great warrior, who was imagined to be fierce male hunter. But they were wrong: she was a teenage girl, who probably loved spear throwing as much as painting her nails. This is a play about being known; the chasm between who we are and who we are imagined to be. But mostly, a story about a young woman who defies modern gender norms and the researchers who fight to preserve her legacy.

 

Ankita Raturi - Thesis Defense

A party for a successful doctoral thesis defense in Biochemistry turns volatile when the uncommon collection of minds gathered to celebrate clashes spectacularly over vaccine science. Thesis Defense asks whose responsibility it is to ensure we all understand the science that governs our world.

 

Kira Rockwell - Space Town

Planted within the farm fields of McGregor, Texas is SpaceX’s Rocket Development and Test Facility. Space Town follows five friends across the span of four Sunday mornings as they voluntarily scavenge for launch wreckage. Space Town is a tender drama that explores our current commercial space race and everyman's proximity to this billion-dollar industry. 

 

Caitlin Saylor Stephens - Bunnies

1978. In the back of the Chicago Playboy Club, five Playboy Bunnies and an activist hold an assembly party for a remarkable new invention: the rape kit. 

 

Zhu Yi - Frozen

A musical about two Chinese women’s friendship and egg freezing journey across the border when China bans single women freezing their eggs, Frozen explores the history of reproductive justice, female friendship, adventures in a foreign land, and the poetry in defending our most primal instinct with technology.

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7) FOOD FOR THOUGHT PRODUCTIONS

The Award-Winning Theatre Company

 

Finishes Its 2021 Season

With

 

BLYTHE DANNER & BOB DISHY

Starring In

ARTHUR MILLER’S

 

I CAN’T REMEMBER ANYTHING

 

Directed By Antony Marsellis

 

December 6th, 2021 From 2:00-4:00 pm

In Person At Theatre 80 St. Mark’s

And Streaming “Live” Out To The World

With Repeat Streamed Performances Available On The Following Weekend

 

Followed by a Q&A With The Cast

A Guest On Hand To Speak About

Arthur Miller’s Other Ending!

 

And FOOD Is Back At FOOD FOR THOUGHT PRODUCTIONS (Yummmm)


 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT PRODUCTIONS, now in its 21st year, continues celebrating the oft-neglected one-act play and theatre at its best with Award-winning actors, writers and directors, with a tremendously fun production on December 6th, 2021.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT PRODUCTIONS, now in its 21st year, continues celebrating the oft-neglected one-act play and theatre at its best with Award-winning actors, writers and directors, with a tremendously fun production on December 6th, 2021.

So, FFTP is back with, in her first FFTP appearance, Blythe Danner & Bob Dishy starring in

Arthur Miller’s I CAN’T REMEMBER ANYTHING, Directed by Antony Marsellis. While they will be performing the usual DPS version of the play, David Palmer of the Miller Society will join in for the Q&A and will talk about the other ending presented in Kushner’s anthology. Revolving around a widow, her husband’s best friend and her inability to remember much of the past, this compelling drama is filled with humor throughout.

The December 6th, 2:00pm performance will be available live via Streaming as well as a limited in-theatre ‘audience’ who will be part of a documentary being filmed on FFTP. The entire FFT series has been presented at Theatre 80 St. Marks. Tickets for the ‘live’ performance are free to first-come patrons, who have agreed to be part of the documentary on FFTP. All social distancing precautions will be respected. There will be a medical professional onsite to check temperatures and audience members must wear masks and have recently tested negative for Covid-19. There will be a nominal charge for the streaming. For those who can’t make the streamed performance on Monday, the program will be repeated on Saturday and Sunday. For additional information and tickets please contact FFTP at: 646-366-9340 or email:  info@foodforthoughtproductions.com

OOD FOR THOUGHT BRINGS FOOD BACK!  Beginning in the New Year, FFTP will present shows at its current venue—Theatre 80 as well as a former venue—3 West Club—with FABULOUS BUFFET LUNCHES. Lunches were always part of the FFTP program until COVID wiped out everyone’s appetite.

For additional information and tickets please contact FFTP at: 646-366-9340 or email:  info@foodforthoughtproductions.com
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8) George Street Playhouse continues return to IN-PERSON performances with 
IT’S ONLY A PLAY
Terrence McNally’s Laugh-Out-Loud Comedy Hit
On stage at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center
November 30  - December 19


George Street Playhouse (GSP) is excited to continue their return to in-person performances with “It’s Only A Play”, by award-winning playwright and Broadway legend Terrence McNally.  This hilarious work is co-directed by Kevin Cahoon and Colin Hanlon and takes to the stage on November 30, running through December 19, 2021.  

A Broadway opening night party in the producer’s stylish home brings together a delicious cacophony of characters—playwrights, producers, actors and wannabes-- proving the old adage “there’s no people like show people” with an armload of wit, warmth and winter coats.  It’s Only A Play is a laugh-out-loud comedy love letter to the resilience of live theatre, and an homage to the people that -- even when things seem impossible -- always believe that the marquee will be lit again, and the show must go on.

Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online at www.georgestreetplayhouse.org  

Choose-Your-Own Three Play Packages are also available starting at $90.
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9) JASON ALEXANDER, ANNALEIGH ASHFORD,  CAPATHIA JENKINS, ROBIN DE JESÚS, JEREMY JORDAN, ANDY KARL, ROSIE O’DONNELL, ORFEH, KRYSTA RODRIGUEZ, BRUCE VILANCH … AND MANY MORE… 

 

JOIN BROADWAY PODCAST NETWORK’S

 

THE GREAT BROADWAY 

GAME SHOW COMPETITION


It’s all dish and sparkle as your favorite Broadway celebs put their musical theatre chops to the test in The Great Broadway Game Show Competition, the latest from the Broadway Podcast NetworkThe Great Broadway Game Show Competition first two episodes are now available exclusively from the Broadway Podcast Network wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Find it weekly at BPN.FM/Gameshow.

This is ‘THE’ original Musical Theatre Game Show created by Todd Graff and played by Broadway insiders for decades! The Great Broadway Game Show Competition pits Theatre, TV, and Film stars against each other (and the audience) in a fierce battle of musical theatre knowledge and behind-the-curtain storytelling to win money for charity.  Tune in and play along with host Todd Graff as he puts everyone’s musical theatre aptitude to the ultimate test.

Created and hosted by Graff (Tony nominated actor and writer/director of Camp and Joyful Noise), and joined by co-host Andrew Lippa (Tony nominated composer/lyricist of The Addams Family, Big Fish and The Wild Party), guest players include Jason Alexander, Annaleigh Ashford, Tracee BeazerLiz Callaway, Katie Finneran, Stephen Flaherty, Angela Grovey, Ann Harada, Jackie Hoffman, Capathia Jenkins, Robin de Jesús, Jeremy Jordan, Andy Karl, Andrew  Keenan-Bolger, Richard Kind, Beth Leavel, Howard McGillin, Donna Murphy, Rosie O’Donnell, Orfeh, Ken Page, Mo Rocca, Krysta Rodriguez, Marc Shaiman, J.K. Simmons, Ashley Spencer, Jason Tam, Tamara Tunie, Bruce Vilanch, Max Von Essen, Scott Wittman, and many, many more. Plus, the home audience not only provides game questions, but can actually come onto  the podcast and play. 

Episode 1 Team Fairycakes Comes to Play

 

Ann Harada, Jackie Hoffman, Mo Rocca, and Jason Tam (Team Fairycakes) take on Liz Callaway, Robin de Jesús, Stephen Flaherty and Andrew Lippa (Team Not-Fairycakes) in this no holds barred, intense, sometimes inappropriate inaugural episode of The Great Broadway Gameshow Competition.

 

Episode 2 - Orfeh, Andy Karl, and Angela Grovey

 

Power couple Orfeh and Andy Karl square off against Angela Grovey and Andrew Lippa in our juggernaut second episode. Whether you’re new to Broadway or know every single lyric of every song ever written (as does Lippa, it seems!?), this show puts your Broadway knowledge to the test. Or if you simply want to watch everyone dance to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You,” this episode was made especially for you. 

 

The Podcast is available weekly at BPN.FM/Gameshow and on the BPN APP, Apple/iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart, TuneIn, Deezer, Player.FM, Pocket Cast, Podcast Addict and everywhere else you listen  to podcasts. New episodes will be released weekly for the first season.

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10) NEXT WEEK AT
THE GREEN ROOM 42

JOANNA CARPENTER
AMY SPANGER SINGS HER FACE OFF
AVIONCE HOYLES
MADDIE POPPE’S ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS 2021
FRIPP: HOMEWARD BOUND
FABULOUS FANNY
ELIZABETH DAVIS: THE APPLE TREE
SARAH HAMATY: PURPLE REIGN
BACKTRACK VOCALS
BETSY WOLFE: THE HOLIDAY SHOW
THE BELTRESS POWER HOUR
LEVONIA
LINDENFELZER & NEWMAN
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28


JOANNA CARPENTER
“Keeping It Together In Public”


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $29


Some people choose to wear their heart on their sleeve; other people lock their heart away in a hidden iron vault and try to save the world instead of maybe dealing with their own issues. Joanna Carpenter...is other people. Until now. For the first time, that vault is going to get cracked open and the songs, stories, loves, and losses will come spilling out.


MONDAY, NOVEMBER 29


7:00pm / Tickets begin at $29


Drama Desk nominee Amy Spanger will make her The Green Room 42 debut by singing her face off for one night only! This Broadway veteran of beloved shows including Kiss Me KateRock Of AgesChicago, and The Wedding Singer will sing the songs of Kander and Ebb, Stephen Sondheim, Alan Menken, Pasek and Paul, Carole King, and more. Amy welcomes musical director, Paul Masse, who has led the Broadway orchestras of The Scottsboro BoysThe Gershwins’ Porgy And Bess, and Holler If You Hear Me. Amy’s special guests are the brilliant Lana Gordon from Broadway’s ChicagoJesus Christ SuperstarThe Lion King, and Hadestown, and Amy’s husband, superstar Brian Shepard, veteran of eight Broadway shows including SpamalotSomething Rotten, and My Fair Lady. Amy and Paul have curated a rocking set that will give you all the feels . . . and in true triple threat form, Amy might just dance for you!


AVIONCE HOYLES
“Dear Tina”
A love letter to Tina Turner


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $19


Dear Tina.. is an explosive, high-energy, rock and roll music experience that celebrates the inspiring life and legacy of music icon, Tina Turner. Actor, singer and storyteller Avionce Hoyles (MemphisBat Out of Hell) honors his childhood inspiration in an electrifying rock concert featuring stories and songs made famous by the legendary Queen of Rock and Roll. Starring Avionce Hoyles. Music Direction by Darnell White. Developed and Directed by Daryl Stewart.


WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1


MADDIE POPPE’S ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS 2021
Season 16 “American Idol” Winner


7:00PM / Tickets begin at $39


Maddie Poppe is a 23-year-old singer-songwriter from Clarksville, Iowa and Season 16 winner of “American Idol”. She has appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “Live! with Kelly & Ryan” to name a few, and performed at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles and CMAFest in Nashville. Fall 2019, Maddie supported Ingrid Michaelson on The Dramatic Tour, an experience she calls “a dream come true.” Maddie’s sophomore album Whirlwind reached #2 on the iTunes Pop charts and her hit single “Made You Miss” earned #19 on the Hot AC Radio charts. Her sentimental ballad “Not Losing You” also swept radio charts, reaching #17. Hoping to brighten the 2020 holiday season, Maddie released a holiday EP aptly titled Christmas From Home on November 20th and embarked on a near-sold out acoustic Christmas tour. This November, Maddie will return with her Acoustic Christmas Tour hitting select cities across the U.S.! 


FRIPP: HOMEWARD BOUND
The Incredible Journey


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $29
Live-stream tickets begin at $19


In the not-so-distant future, on an awfully distant planet, a new visitor arrives. The landing is pretty rough actually and he wakes up with a few ouchies and booboos. How ever will he get home? Can he even survive on this Jovian rock? Will his two new uncanny companions prove to be allies... or adversaries? The only way to learn, the only way to persist through this harsh foreign hellscape... is to sing. Featuring FrippMahayla LaurenceLivvy Marcus. Director: Lillian Meredith. Arrangements by: Jake Landau. Cello: Anthime Miller. Percussion: Manny Lasmanos.


THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2


FABULOUS FANNY
The Songs & Stories of Fanny Brice
Starring Kimberly Faye Greenberg


7:00pm / Tickets begin at $29


Join them at The Green Room 42 as they bring back classic musical theatre and the Roaring 1920’s with the acclaimed solo show Fabulous Fanny: The Songs & Stories of Fanny Brice. Enjoy classic show tunes, good old-fashioned fun, and hilarity, as we travel through time with Fanny Brice, the legendary Jewish comedienne, Ziegfeld Follies/Broadway star, recording artist, and film actress extraordinaire. One of the most popular radio stars of all time, Fanny was the voice of “Baby Snooks” on air for 25 years and even better known as the inspiration for Funny Girl. Join her as she takes you on a nostalgic journey throughout her life and infamous relationships, while she entertains with many of her popular hits and songs inspired by her legacy.


The show stars Fanny Brice go-to gal, Kimberly Faye Greenberg (4 shows & 2 CDs) and has been touring in theatres and venues across the U.S. for the past 8 years and live streamed during the pandemic on the STELLAR platform where it was named Best To Stream by Time Out NYAmerican Theatre Magazine, and more. The Green Room 42 is happy to Host this shows first live performance back after the pandemic hiatus. Visit: www.fabulousfannybriceshow.com


ELIZABETH DAVIS: THE APPLE TREE
A concept album for 
child(less) play


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $29


Elizabeth A. Davis will next be seen in the ART / Roundabout Broadway revival of 1776. Until then, Elizabeth will layer her passionate folk-rock sound with a compulsion for writing stories about complicated women. The Apple Tree is a 10-song collection of songs Elizabeth has written inspired by the trajectory of her forthcoming play, child(less). Thematically tight but genre-exploratory, The Apple Tree album mixes pop sensibilities with a love for the theatrical. Come to laugh & come to cry.


FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3


SARAH HAMATY: PURPLE REIGN


7:00pm / Tickets begin at $19


With “ev’ry sweet imagined possibility,” Sarah Hamaty returns to Green Room 42 with her very own solo show! Sarah will take you back in time to the songs, and the Divas of music that sparked her love for the art of singing in this evening full of discovery, humanity and joy. Through a journey of beloved eras, genres, and Sarah’s signature purple hair, Purple Reign explores the soulful impact of music as it aids us in the discovery of our most authentic selves to find that in the end, art reigns.


BACKTRACK VOCALS
Award-Winning A Capella


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $29


Backtrack Vocals is thrilled to return to Green Room 42 after two years of covid-creating. They first performed at the Green Room when they took first place in New York’s Got Talent Season 6, and then packed the house again with a high energy, jam-packed show in the fall of 2019. Infusing heart and humor into every performance, Backtrack covers genres from pop to Motown to classical to holiday, and they perform original compositions as well. Their exciting arrangements transform familiar tunes and showcase the top-notch vocal and beatboxing abilities of all five of its members. Backtrack got its start on YouTube, where the group now has over 10 million views and 110,000 subscribers, and they've appeared on PopTV & Scary Mommy’s "Lullaby League" hosted by “Parks and Recreation” star, Jim O’Heir, Steve Harvey's daytime show, “STEVE!”, “Access Daily”, and Broadway's Kinky Boots


SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4


BETSY WOLFE: THE HOLIDAY SHOW

Featuring Andrew Rannells


7:00pm / SOLD OUT!
Live-stream tickets begin at $19


Join Betsy Wolfe (WaitressFalsettosLast 5 Years) as she belts her face off through seasonally appropriate and just plain inappropriate favorites. Just when you thought December 4th couldn’t get any better, the night also features Tony nominated Andrew Rannells (FalsettosBook of MormonBlack Monday) and other performers not yet employed in a Broadway show (subject to change pending employment on Broadway.


THE BELTRESS POWER HOUR
Jingle BELT Jubilee!


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $29


Christopher Metzger-Timson’s hit show makes its grand return to The Green Room 42 just in time to kick off the holiday season with a peppermint twist! The Beltress Power Hour features Broadway's most beloved divas alongside fresh new voices as they belt out the most iconic Christmas tunes. The night will be filled with drinking games, audience participation, and, of course, a Power Hour Finale of the fiercest 60 seconds from all your favorite holiday songs! From Mariah to Whitney to Kelly to Babs- the belting is sure to impress while you sit back, relax, and put the “spirit” in “holiday spirit!”


SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5


LEVONIA
“Levonia’s Christmas Sex-tacular”
Gender-bending drag chanteuse


7:00pm / Tickets begin at $29


Gender-bending drag chanteuse, Levonia, makes her Green Room 42 debut in Levonia’s Christmas Sex-tacular, a night of comedy and filthy holiday parodies. Come hear Levonia mangle – er – put her own sex-tacular spin – on songs like “All I Want For Christmas” and “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” as well as pop classics by David Bowie, Prince, Madonna, and other beloved recording artists. For this one-night-only event, Levonia will be joined by special guest, Bowen Yang, and music director and pianist, Lance Horne.


LINDENFELZER & NEWMAN
“Scarlet & Gold”
Songs by Linderfelzer & Newman


9:30pm / Tickets begin at $19


Lyricist Richard Lindenfelzer and composer Jess Newman present selections from their two new––and despite both being colors––very different shows. SCARLET takes us five hundred years in the future to a world ravaged by a changing climate. This steampunk pop-era imagines what might happen if global leaders are forced to make drastic and messy decisions to combat global warming. GOLD follows a high school outcast who longs to feel important. When she runs away to rural Colorado in the hopes of finding her estranged grandfather and long-lost buried treasure, she is forced to reckon with the past, a family legacy, and herself. Book and Music: Jess Newman. Book and Lyrics: Richard Lindenfelzer. Producers: Neil Gooding of Neil Gooding Productions.


The Green Room 42 COVID-19 Policy
All guests are required to be fully vaccinated in order to enter our venue. For help providing proof of vaccination, we recommend NY State Excelsior Pass, linked here. Our staff is required to be masked and they are fully vaccinated whenever possible.


Food & Beverage Voucher
While food or beverages service is now provided inside the theatre, the ticket price includes a $10 credit to be spent inside at The Green Room 42 or outdoors at Social Drink & Food, the largest rooftop of any hotel in New York City.

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11) J2 SPOTLIGHT MUSICAL THEATER COMPANY

ANNOUNCES 2022 SEASON OF THREE MUSICALS:

“A CLASS ACT”


A DAY IN HOLLYWOOD / 

A NIGHT IN THE UKRAINE


THE BAKER’S WIFE


FEBRUARY 10 - MARCH 20, 2022
AT THEATRE ROW

TICKETS NOW ON SALE!


2 Spotlight Musical Theater Company (Jim Jimirro, Executive Producer/Co-Founder; Robert W. Schneider, Artistic Director/Co-Founder) announces the exciting three-musical lineup for its second season. The 2022 season, running February 10 - March 20, 2022 at Theatre Row (410 West 42nd Street - between 9th and Dyer Avenues), will include A Class ActA Day in Hollywood / A Night in the Ukraine, and The Baker’s Wife

The 2022 season begins with the Linda Kline and Lonny Price (book) and Edward Kleban (music and lyrics) Tony Award-nominated musical A Class Act (February 10 - 20), continues with Frank Lazarus (music) and Dick Vosburgh’s (book and lyrics) Tony-nominated A Day in Hollywood / A Night in the Ukraine (February 24 - March 6) and concludes with Stephen Schwartz (music and lyrics) and Joseph Stein’s (book) celebrated musical The Baker’s Wife (March 10 - 20). 

Single tickets (priced at $55) and discounted 3-show subscription packages are now on sale at j2spotlightnyc.com

ABOUT THE SEASON


A Class Act 

Music & Lyrics: Edward Kleban
Book: Linda Kline & Lonny Price

February 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 7:30 PM

February 12, 20 at 3:00 PM


In A Class Act, Ed Kleban, the Tony Award-winning lyricist of A Chorus Line and one of the unsung champions of Broadway, returns to his own memorial service to set the record straight in this vibrant musical about musicals. A colorful gallery of friends and loved ones in Ed’s life including the relentlessly peppy Marvin Hamlisch and stage wizard Michael Bennett all appear to celebrate Ed’s life, loves, and legacy. Songs include: “Better,” “Paris Through The Window,” and “The Next Best Thing To Love.” 


A Day in Hollywood / A Night in the Ukraine

Music: Frank Lazarus

Book & Lyrics: Dick Vosburgh


February 24, 25, 26, and March 3, 4, 5 at 7:30 PM 

February 27 and March 6 at 3:00 PM


A Day In Hollywood / A Night in the Ukraine features two one-act musicals that provide a double feature more hilarious than any presented in Hollywood's heyday: the first, a salute to the Golden Age of film musicals; the second, a rambunctious Marx Brothers farce. Featuring such songs as “Just Go To The Movies,” “Nelson,” and “Doin’ The Production Code.” 


A Day In Hollywood / A Night in the Ukraine is presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals. 


The Baker’s Wife

Music & Lyrics: Stephen Schwartz

Book: Joseph Stein

Based on the film La Femme de Boulanger by Marcel Pagnol and Jean Giono

March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 7:30 PM 

March 13, 20 at 3:00 PM

In The Baker’s Wife  bickering residents of a rural village in 1935 Provence, France, have been without a baker for seven weeks. They finally find peace and contentment in the new baker, Aimable, and his attractive young wife, Genevieve. However, when Genevieve is lured away by a handsome young gigolo, the middle-aged baker loses all zest for life and baking. When he refuses to bake, the villagers must work as a team to bring Aimable and Genevieve back together. Songs include: “Meadowlark” “Proud Lady,” and “Where Is The 
Warmth?”
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12) MAXINE LINEHAN


RELEASES NEW SINGLE


EVERGREEN


FROM HER "THIS TIME OF YEAR" HOLIDAY ALBUM 


 

International concert and recording artist Maxine Linehan has released a new single, “Evergreen,” off her acclaimed holiday album, This Time of YearInspired by the evergreen trees populating the backyard garden of her Vermont home, Maxine Linehan’s newest single is a tribute to love’s ability to endure even in the darkest of times — like an evergreen surviving the harshest of winters. “Evergreen” is perfect holiday ballad for a world regaining its hope and rekindling its joy after a most difficult time.



"Evergreen” is now available on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, YouTube, and Tidal. Click HERE to download.

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13) MASTERVOICES OPENS ITS 2021-22 SEASON WITH
 A JOYFUL NOISE,
A FESTIVE PROGRAM CELEBRATING 
THE RETURN TO LIVE PERFORMANCES
AND THE HOLIDAY SEASON ON DECEMBER 6 
AT CARNEGIE HALL
The Chorus Celebrates the Start of its 80th Season with Guest Artists Mikaela Bennett,
 Northwell Health Nurse Choir, and Take 6

MasterVoices begins its 2021-22 season on Monday, December 6 at Carnegie Hall with A Joyful Noise, an occasion to celebrate a return to performing before an audience after a two-year absence, featuring music to mark the holiday season as well as the perseverance of the human spirit after a long hiatus. Joining in this first concert of MasterVoices’ 80th anniversary season are rising Canadian soprano Mikaela Bennett, the Northwell Health Nurse Choir and 10-time Grammy Award winning a capella group, Take 6. MasterVoices will provide free tickets to a few hundred essential and frontline workers to this concert to thank them for their personal sacrifices during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Musical selections, sacred and secular, will include works by Randall Thompson and Adam Guettel that MasterVoices performed virtually last season and will sing together in person for the first time. Take 6, heard last season with MasterVoices in the online premiere of Adam Guettel’s song cycle, Myths and Hymns, perform their unique arrangements both on their own and with MasterVoices joining, including If We Ever Needed the Lord Before (We Sure Do Need Him Now) by Thomas A. Dorsey, “the father of gospel music.” A pillar of the program is Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms which uses the text “A Joyful Noise,” from the opening of Psalm 100. It features Mikaela Bennett, who sang the role of Mary Wintergreen in MasterVoices’ 2019 concert production of Gershwin’s Let ‘Em Eat Cake as well as joining MasterVoices in a performance of Handel’s Israel in Egypt in 2018. The evening ends on a majestic note with the traditional carol, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing with the soloists joining forces with the full ensemble.

The program also features the Northwell Health Nurse Choir, which began its journey in 2020 when nurses from different Northwell hospitals in New York gathered virtually to support the Nurse Heroes initiative. In June 2021, the Choir appeared on America’s Got Talent and its captivating performance resulted in a Top 10 spot in the TV show’s season finale.


Monday, December 6, 2021, 7:30 pm
Carnegie Hall, Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage
MasterVoices
Ted Sperling, Artistic Director and Conductor
Take 6, a cappella gospel music group
Northwell Health Nurse Choir (Tim Davis, Producer)

Highlights:
John Rutter: Rejoice and Sing
Randall Thompson: Alleluia
Adam GuettelMyths and Hymns excerpts: Migratory V (arr. Ted Sperling); Jesus, the Mighty Conqueror (arr. Mark Kibble)
Thomas A. Dorsey (arr. Mervyn Warren): If We Ever Needed the Lord Before (We Sure Do Need Him Now)
Leonard BernsteinChichester Psalms 
Traditional/Peter J. Wilhousky (lyrics), Mykola Leontovych (music) (arr. Cedric Dent): We Wish You a Merry Christmas / Carol of the Bells 
Theodor Seuss Geisel (lyrics), Albert Hague (music) (arr. Mark Kibble): You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch
Richard Bernhard Smith (lyrics), Felix Bernard (music) (arr. Mark Kibble): Winter Wonderland 
Traditional (arr. Cedric Dent and Mark Kibble): Hark, the Herald Angels Sing 

Tickets: Starting at $30, may be purchased online at carnegiehall.org, by calling CarnegieCharge at 212.247.7800 or in person at Carnegie Hall’s box office at 57th and Seventh Avenue. Ticket holders need to comply with the venue’s health and safety requirements, which can be found here.

MasterVoices will hold a Holiday Gala Reception following the concert. More details and ticket information can be found at MasterVoices.org/holiday-gala. 
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14) THE ORCHESTRA NOW PERFORMS AT THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
AND PETER NORTON SYMPHONY SPACE ON DECEMBER 5 & 19, 2021
Sight & Sound Series Features Pianist Shai Wosner in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5
 
Resident Conductor Zachary Schwartzman Leads a Free Concert
The Orchestra Now (TŌN) performs two concerts in Manhattan in December, one with guest pianist Shai Wosner at The Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of the Orchestra’s popular Sight & Sound series (Dec. 5); and a free concert at Peter Norton Symphony Space offering works by Berlioz, Britten, Tan Dun, and Sibelius led by TŌN’s resident conductor Zachary Schwartzman (Dec. 19). 

In addition, TŌN also presents two performances of Handel’s Messiah at the Fisher Center at Bard conducted by Leon Botstein with soloists from the Bard Conservatory Graduate Vocal Arts Program, along with the Bard Festival Chorale, and the Bard College Chamber Singers (Dec. 11-12). 

SIGHT & SOUND SERIES AT THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
The Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium
Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 2 PM
Leon Botstein, conductor
Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5, Emperor, and Cristofori’s 1720 Grand Piano
As part of the Orchestra’s Sight & Sound series at the Met Museum, conductor and music historian Leon Botstein surveys the parallels between orchestral music and the visual arts. This installment focuses on Italian instrument maker Bartolomeo Cristofori, who deserves to be credited as the inventor of the piano. Beethoven’s “Emperor” Piano Concerto reveals the composer’s fascination with the musical possibilities emerging from the rapidly evolving technology of piano construction.
 
Cristofori’s Grand Piano is on view at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in the Musical Instruments collection.

Tickets priced at $30–$50; Three-concert series from $75; All tickets include same-day museum admission and may be purchased online here, by calling The Met at 212.570.3949, or at any desk in The Great Hall at The Met Fifth Avenue. Ticket holders will need to comply with the venue’s health and safety requirements, which can be found here. Children under the age of 12 may not attend performances at this time.

FREE CONCERT SERIES
Peter Norton Symphony Space
Sunday, Dec 19, 2021 at 4 PM
BerliozRoman Carnival Overture
Britten: Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes
Tan Dun: Symphonic Poem of Three Notes
Sibelius: Symphony No. 5
The Orchestra returns to Symphony Space with a free concert that opens with Berlioz’ lively Roman Carnival Overture, music that came from his opera Benvenuto Cellini, a work widely panned at its 1838 Paris premiere. Next on the program is Britten’s Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes, the composer’s first successful opera, which tells the tale of a fisherman pursued to death by local villagers. Tan Dun’s Symphonic Poem of Three Notes follows with a score that expands the traditional orchestra with the sounds of wind, stones, and car brake drums. The program closes with Sibelius’ Fifth Symphony, written to celebrate his 50th birthday. The performance will be led by TŌN’s resident conductor Zachary Schwartzman. He is also assistant conductor of the American Symphony Orchestra, former music director of the Blue Hill Troupe, and has served as assistant conductor for Deutsche Opera Berlin and Glimmerglass Opera.
 
Tickets: This concert is FREE, advance RSVP suggested at symphonyspace.org. Concertgoers will need to comply with the venue’s health and safety requirements, which can be found here.
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15) New Drama Examines Student Debt Crisis
QUANTUM DEBT
Previews begin Off-Broadway December 2

Silver Glass Productions will present the World Premiere of QUANTUM DEBT, a new movement-based drama conceived, written and directed by Suzanne Willett. Previews begin December 2 at Off-Broadway's Players Theatre. Opening is set for December 9.


QUANTUM DEBT is a look at student debt through the lens of quantum physics. A first-generation college student struggles with increasing college debt as she returns home to help the family, leading her to question her sense of self-worth. This movement-based piece is rooted in the differing realities of the American Dream for GenXers and Millennials.

QUANTUM DEBT runs December 2-19, Thursday-Sunday at 7pm. The Players Theatre is located at 115 MacDougal Street, New York NY 10012 (accessible from the A,C,E trains at West 4th Street). Tickets are $52 - $72. For tickets and more information, visit www.quantumdebt.org.
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16) STEPPENWOLF’s production of

THE MINUTES

The New American Play by TRACY LETTS

Directed by ANNA D. SHAPIRO


NOAH REID

Joins the Original Broadway Cast


Previews begin March 19, 2022

Opens officially Thursday, April 7, 2022

At Studio 54 on Broadway


TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT TELECHARGE.COM

Steppenwolf’s production of The Minutes, the new American play by Tracy Letts, directed by Anna D. Shapiro announces the complete cast for when performances resume on Broadway on March 19, 2022Noah Reid (Emmy Award-winning “Schitt’s Creek) will join original Broadway company members Tony Award nominee Ian Barford (Linda VistaAugust: Osage County)Tony Award winner Blair Brown (The Parisian Woman, Copenhagen), Cliff Chamberlain (Superior Donuts, Homeland), Tony Award nominee K. Todd Freeman (Airline Highway, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest), Tony Award winner Tracy Letts (Lady Bird, Ford v Ferrari), Danny McCarthy (To Kill a Mockingbird, The Iceman Cometh), Tony Award winner Jessie Mueller (Waitress, Beautiful), Sally Murphy (Linda Vista, August: Osage County), Tony Award nominee Austin Pendleton (Choir BoyThe Diary of Anne Frank), Jeff Still (To Kill a Mockingbird, Oslo).

The Minutes will resume performances at Studio 54 on March 19, 2022, and will officially open on Thursday, April 7, 2022. Tickets are on sale today at 10:00am (ET) at Telecharge.com.

The Minutes, the record-breaking hit production from Steppenwolf Theatre Company, takes a hard look at the inner workings of a city council meeting and the hypocrisy, greed and ambition that bubble to the surface when a newcomer to the small town of Big Cherry starts to ask the wrong questions. Why is someone on the council mysteriously missing? What happened to all those bicycles? Is there skullduggery afoot with the city’s finances? What’s the deal with the available parking space? What the F is going on with the Lincoln Smackdown? And why are the minutes from the last meeting being kept secret? “Nothing in this explosive 90-minute play is as it seems...A real-life heart-in-the-mouth experience,” declares the Chicago Tribune. Part “Parks & Recreation,” part “Twilight Zone,” this powerful, resonant, and funny portrayal of democracy in action proves that everything you know can change—it’s just a matter of minutes. After all, the smallest towns keep the biggest secrets.

For more information, go to www.theminutesbroadway.com
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17) SLAVE PLAY


ANNOUNCES


FIRST “BLACK OUT” PERFORMANCE 


OF THE RETURN ENGAGEMENT


TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3

 

FURTHERING THE PRODUCTION’S

 

“RADICAL ACCESSIBILITY” INITIATIVES


CONCEIVED DURING THE ORIGINAL BROADWAY RUN



It was recently announced that the first Black Out performance for the Broadway return of Slave Play will be Friday, December 3. This private, invitation-only performance will allow the Black-identifying audience to experience and discuss the play free from the white gaze. Harris birthed the idea of Black Out performances in the original Broadway run, in recognition of Broadway’s rich, diverse, and fraught history with Black work.

Tickets for the December 3 Black Out performance are priced at $100 or $45. For additional information and an invitation to this Black Out performance, please email rsvp@seaviewprods.com.

Slave Play has furthered its guiding principle of “radical accessibility” by doubling its ticketing initiative’s weekly commitment from the initial Broadway run. For the run at the August Wilson Theatre, 10,400 tickets have been made available for just $39.

The strictly limited return engagement of Slave Play will began performances Tuesday, November 23. It will open officially on Thursday, December 2 for a strictly limited eight-week engagement through Sunday, January 23, 2022. Tickets for the eight-week engagement are on sale now at www.seatgeek.com/slave-play-tickets or by visiting the August Wilson box office.

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18) SLAVE PLAY & JUJAMCYN THEATRES

UNVEIL

 

THE WILSON LOUNGE


A REIMAGINING OF THE LOBBY 


OF THE AUGUST WILSON THEATRE


AS A SPACE IN WHICH AUDIENCES


 CAN BE IN CONVERSATION


WITH THE WORK & EACH OTHER, 


Recently the producers of Slave Play and Jujamcyn Theatres unveiled the Wilson Lounge, a reimagining of the lobby of the August Wilson Theatre as a space for the conversations that the play stimulates, and in which audiences can be in conversation with the work and each other.

The Slave Play design team, led by Tony Award-winning scenic designer Clint Ramos, have created seating areas, conversation pods, music activations inspired by the play, and micro libraries featuring curated scripts by Black playwrights and art books celebrating Black work.


Upon entering the theater, audiences are greeted by a conceirge, who welcomes them into the lounge. The space features a large-scale LED screen showcasing “Kita Meditating” by acclaimed Black visual artist Martine Syms featuring a digital avatar modeled after the 1990s BET show “Cita’s World.” Cita floats peacefully among a background of soothing natural settings asking us to “stay here and just observe.”


Decor incorporating global furniture and foliage designed to create a warm environment for the collision of conversations aree complemented by custom mixtapes, inspired by the play.

 

Additionally, copies of plays included in The Golden Collection, a selection of 15 works by prominent Black playwrights curated by Harris, are available for sale at the Wilson Lounge.

The Wilson Lounge is an integrative and curated approach to expand and physicalize the ideas around Slave Play. Believing that by reimagining space, a deeper dialogue can be sparked: the role of theater in the larger culture and how, in community, people can evolve together through conversation.
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19) South Street Seaport Museum
Announces Monthly Virtual
Sea Chanteys and Maritime Music Live Sing-Along
Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 2pm ET

South Street Seaport Museum’s monthly sea-music event Sea Chanteys and Maritime Music – the original NYC chantey sing, now made popular on TikTok – continues virtually on Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 2pm ETFrom our living rooms and kitchens, join a round-robin of shared songs featuring members of The New York Packet and friends. Listen in, lead a song, and belt out the choruses for your neighbors to hear on the first Sunday of every month. The event is FREE. Sign up here to receive the Zoom link 24 hours prior: seaportmuseum.org/chanteysing. 
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20) THE YORK THEATRE COMPANY
IN ASSOCIATION WITH RIKI KANE LARIMER
PRESENTS
THE WORLD PREMIERE OF
CHEEK TO CHEEK: IRVING BERLIN IN HOLLYWOOD
AN ALL-SINGING, ALL-DANCING CELEBRATION
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY IRVING BERLIN

AT THE THEATRE AT ST. JEAN’S

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT THROUGH JANUARY 2, 2022
OPENING NIGHT IS THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021 AT 7:00PM
The York Theatre Company (James Morgan, Producing Artistic Director; Evans Haile, Executive Director), dedicated to the development of new musicals and rediscovery of musical gems from the past, presents the world premiere of Cheek to Cheek: Irving Berlin in Hollywood, a song and dance celebration featuring the music and lyrics of the legendary Irving Berlin. It is The York’s first mainstage production since the pandemic began in March, 2020 and the flood which forced them from their home of 30 years at St. Peter’s Theater in January 2021, and is produced in association with Riki Kane Larimer.

Performances begin on Wednesday evening, November 24, 2021 at 7:00PM for a limited engagement through Sunday afternoon, January 2, 2022 at 2:30PM at The York’s temporary home, The Theatre at St. Jean’s (150 East 76th Street, between Lexington and Third Avenues). Opening Night is Thursday, December 2, 2021 at 7:00PM.

Cheek to Cheek: Irving Berlin in Hollywood is an all-singing, all-dancing celebration of the most famous songs that the legendary Irving Berlin composed for the silver screen. Mr. Berlin understood the impact dance had on the public and his melodies, rhythms, and lyrics reflected his love of that art form. Six spectacular performers will showcase these magnificent songs and will also tell the stories behind the man who made the music that made the movies dance. Four-time Tony nominee Randy Skinner directs and choreographs an evening featuring an array of classic Berlin tunes from such classic films as Top Hat, Alexander’s Ragtime Band, Holiday Inn, Easter Parade, White Christmas, and many more! Cheek to Cheek: Irving Berlin in Hollywood is presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals and the Irving Berlin Estate, and is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

Cheek to Cheek: Irving Berlin in Hollywood plays the following performance schedule: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays at 7:00 p.m., Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m, with special additional performances on Monday, December 20 and 27 at 7:00 p.m. PLEASE NOTE: There are no performances on November 25, December 24, 25, and 31.

NOW ON SALE: Tickets for Cheek to Cheek: Irving Berlin in Hollywood are priced at $55 - $75 (plus $4 convenience fee). York Members receive Priority Seating and Discounted Tickets. Tickets may be purchased by visiting OvationTix at https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/cal/34375/1635739200000, by calling The York’s Box Office at (212) 935-5820, Tuesday – Friday 12:00PM – 5:00PM, or via email at boxoffice@yorktheatre.org.

Senior Rush tickets are available in-person beginning one hour prior to performances for $20 cash only. Student tickets can be purchased anytime in advance at the box office during regular box office business hours. Limit one ticket per valid student ID and tickets are subject to availability. Student Rush tickets are $20.00 cash or credit. The York Theatre also offers $25 tickets for guests aged 35 years and under.

COVID NOTEFor the safety of all, COVID policies established by the CDC and WHO will be strictly enforced. Proof of vaccination status will be required upon entry, and masks must be worn at all times. Full COVID policies can be found on the York Theatre Company website.
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Tune in tomorrow for More Theater Monday.