Theater Thursday: Small

We received complimentary tickets to Small for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.

What: Small

Where: NBPAC

             11 Livingston Ave.

             New Brunswick, NJ 

Who: Recommended for Ages 12 and Up

When: Through February 2, 2025

Small is Robert Montano's one-man autobiographical show about how he became a horse jockey and his later transition to acting. The show is quite interesting. Montano really holds the audience's attention for the duration. This is not a show where a performer stands on a stage and merely talks to the audience. He is all over the stage taking on and acting out not only his own persona but that of horse trainers, fellow jockeys, his parents, and more. He really draws the audience into the story. This is complemented by the sets, lighting, and sound. They do a particularly excellent job of providing a sense of place. Although some one-person shows begin to drag after a while and feel much longer than they are, this one doesn't. Even when it's over, it hardly feels like that much time has passed because it's so entertaining.

And that's our view. For more about Small or to purchase a ticket to one of the few remaining performances, visit www.georgestreetplayhouse.org/events/detail/small

Tune in Saturday for Still More Theater Saturday.

Photo credits:

All Small production photos by T. Charles Erickson

Images used in this post have been sent to us from publicists, artists, and/or  PR firms and are used by permission. If there is a problem with the rights to any image,  contact us here, and we will look into the matter.

Where-To-Go Wednesday - AMC 42

What: AMC 42 

Where: 234 W. 42nd St.

             New York, NY

Who: All ages

The AMC movie theater on 42nd Street is a massive theater with three levels of lobbies and 25 theaters. However, that is not what makes it so interesting.  It has quite an intriguing history. It used to be a legitimate Broadway theater or at least the lobby of the current theater was a part of a theater that was originally called the Eltinge Theatre. Although obviously, the building has undergone many changes over the years. parts of the original proscenium remains. 

The theater wasn't even in the same spot before it became a movie theater. The entire building was literally moved down the block with giant Abbott and Costello balloons attached leading the way to its current location. You can actually see a video of the move on YouTube here. 

Of course, going to the movies is not as popular as it once was. Ever since the pandemic, many people have preferred to stay home and watch movies especially since they are available immediately or very quickly after release for streaming. It remains to be seen how long a theater as big as the AMC 42 can stay profitable, if even still is now, and stay open. However, whatever happens with the building, it is good to know that those sections that were part of the original theater will remain as they have been landmarked.

And that's our view. Tune in tomorrow for Theater Thursday.

All pictures used in this post are our own. If there is a problem with any image, contact us here and we will look into the matter.

Tips for Tuesday: She Doesn't Have a Clue & Head Cases; Movie: Knight Life

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

Books: She Doesn't Have a Clue & Head Cases

Today we recommend She Doesn't Have a Clue by Jenny Elder Moke. At a high society wedding on a private island, strange events start occurring that eerily echo the plots of author, Kate Valentine's novels. It seems that someone is trying to frame her so she tries to channel her creation, Loretta Starling to figure out what's going on with the help of hot Australian, Jake Hawkins. Jake and Kate could have been a thing but weren't, and she hasn't gotten over it. 

This is a fun and quirky mystery. It is full of unique characters and surprising situations. You never know what will happen from one moment to the next.

The two main characters have amazing chemistry that oozes right off the page. Their relationship is almost better than the main plot of the story. There are some intense sex scenes so if you like your romance more subtle and those kinds of details left largely to the imagination, you might want to choose a different book. Anyone else looking for a mystery with plenty of romance should enjoy this book. 

Today we are talking about Head Cases by John McMahon. A dead man turns out to be a serial killer who was thought to have died years ago. Then, another murderer is found dead, and it seems like a pattern. Gardner Camden and his quirky group of agents at the Patterns and Recognition Unit (PAR) are put on the case. The perpetrator seems to want to make the case personal and also seems to know a lot about them so it's a race against time to solve the case and protect their loved ones.

This book starts out with an exciting and unique premise. However, it quickly devolves into a pretty standard procedural and an extremely slow-burning one. Much of the time, it feels like nothing is really happening. Plus, none of the characters are really likable enough to care about. It feels like watching an episode of Criminal Minds with the most exciting parts of the story left off the screen.

Today we are recommending Knight Life. This is a fascinating documentary about professional jousters. Yes, apparently there is such a thing. The film follows one jouster on the brink of his retirement from the sport. Is it actually considered a sport? Not sure about that. In any case, he and many others involved with jousting are interviewed regarding their specific jousting-related jobs, how they got involved, and more. Plus, you even get to view some actual jousting matches. Any Renaissance fan will love this film, but even if you are not necessarily a Renaissance fan, you still may enjoy this interesting look at an unusual occupation. 

Knight Life is available on streaming platforms today. A DVD with extra bonus content will follow shortly.

And that's our view. 

Tune in tomorrow for Where-To-Go Wednesday.

Book images used in this post are our own.  All other photos have been sent to us by publicists, artists, and/or PR firms and are used with permission. If there is a problem with the rights to any image, contact us here, and we will look into the matter

More Theater Monday - My Mother's Funeral: The Show

We received complimentary tickets to My Mother's Funeral: The Show for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.

What: My Mother's Funeral: The Show

Where: SoHo Playhouse

            15 Vandam St.

When: This event took place from 1/4/25 - 1/25/25

Playwright, Abigail does not even have enough money to collect her mother's body from the hospital and give her a property funeral so she writes a play regarding a woman in a similar situation so she can sell it to a theater group and raise the money she needs. However, she is a little too close to her subject matter. Thus. when the theater wants too many changes to make her play "sellable", she is torn between betraying her mother by letting them change her character too much or betraying her mother by not giving her the funeral she deserves.

This is an extremely thoughtful play. It shines a light on the class divide in today's society and how it is so wide that even in death it still exists. It takes place in England where even if you are poor apparently you can get help with matters like these. Thus, even if your relative doesn't get the kind of funeral that you or they think they deserve at least you are helped to give them some kind of dignified send-off. Here in America where we don't even have that, thus, the situation is even worse.

Nicole Sawyerr who starred as Abigail gave a heartbreaking performance as a woman struggling with both her grief and her inability to do right by her mother. Any audience member in an equally precarious financial situation could so easily put themselves in her shoes although that may have been triggering for some people.  The rest of the cast, Samuel Armfield as Abigail's brother Darren and the head of the theater and Debra Baker as her mother and an actress playing her mother, also performed well in their roles although Nicole was clearly the standout. 

And that's our view. To learn about the remaining shows in this year's Fringe Encore Series at SoHo Playhouse, go to www.sohoplayhouse.com/theatre

Tune in tomorrow for Tips for Tuesday.

Photo credits:

All My Mother's Funeral the Play production photos by Nicola Young

Images used in this post have been sent to us from publicists, artists, and/or  PR firms and are used by permission. If there is a problem with the rights to any image,  contact us here, and we will look into the matter.

Sunday Scoop Week of 126/25 What's Happening This Week and More

A) Beginning Performances

In New Jersey

1) James and the Giant Peach

In New York

2) Liberation

3) Mrs. Loman

4) Still

B) What Else is Happening 

5) 92nd St. Y Presents Alison's Miller Song Cycle "River in our Veins"

with special guest Michelle Dorrance 2/2

6) A Night of Drama 

at the Cobra Club Bushwick 2/1

7) American Classical Orchestra Presents Bach's St. John's Passion

Alice Tully Hall 1/30

8) Ballet Hispanico School of Dance Los Pastitos/Little Steps Program

Now Open for Registration

9) BAMKids Film Festival

1/1 - 1/2

10) Brooklyn Children's Museum Celebrate Lunar New Year

2/1

11) CUNY Dance Initiative February Performances and Open Call for Auditions

12) Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents Jule Styne Tribute

2/2

13) Long Island Hall Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame

Extends Billy Joel Exhibit Through Spring 2025

14) Manayunk Presents Philly Freeze Out, Freeze Out Run, Chowder Crawl &

Winter Market 2/1

15) NJPAC Celebrates Lunar New Year with Nai-Ni Chen Dance Co.

2/1 & 2/23

16) Paley Center Opens Two New Football Related Exhibits

17) South Street Seaport Museum Lunar New Year Activities

2/1

18) TADA! Youth Theater Week Long Musical Theater School Break Camps

19) Trish Paytas Big Broadway Dream

St James Theatre 2/3

20) Two River Joins Forces With Project Write Now for Community Playmaking

21) Works & Process Presents Smash

2/3

A) Beginning Performances

In New Jersey

Courtesy of Kelsey Theater

1) James and the Giant Peach

A magical peach! An imprisoned boy! Insect friends! An incredible journey! This amazing adventure of James Henry Trotter will fulfill the fantasy of anyone who has ever dreamed of escape. Roald Dahl's story comes hilariously to life in this delightful dramatization that reveals the wickedness of some, the goodness of others, and the indecision encountered by many when they are faced with crises. You will see James (as he cleverly gets the Peach out of danger), the wise Old-Green-Grasshopper and the pessimistic Earthworm. Will James' mean Aunt Spiker and cruel Aunt Sponge come to a suitably sticky end?

Kelsey Theatre (1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor, NJ)

1/31 - 2/9 

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.purplepass.com/events/296542-james-and-the-giant-peach-jan-31st-2025

In New York

2) Liberation

1970, Ohio. Lizzie gathers a small group of women to talk. But talking quickly becomes a necessary and bracingly funny attempt to change their own lives and the world. Fifty years later, her daughter is shocked to find herself asking the very same questions her mother did, and goes on a search through the past for answers. 

Laura Pels Theatre in the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center (111 W. 46th St.)

1/31 - 3/30

Open Night 2/20 

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.roundabouttheatre.org/get-tickets/2024-2025/liberation

Courtesy of Spincycle NYC

3) Mrs. Loman

A play about a Linda Loman who becomes a very different person after Willy’s death.

Theatre Row (410 W. 42nd St.)

1/31 - 2/15

Opening Night 2/5

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit mrsloman.com.

4) Still

Thirty years ago, Helen and Mark broke up, but they never completely forgot one another. Now, they are getting a second chance at first love. Single, and frustrated with dating apps, they are ready to try again. But Mark has an agenda and Helen has a secret that could derail his plans. Still is a funny yet heart-wrenching story for anyone who has ever wondered “what if?”. 

The Sheen Center for Thought and Culture's Loretto Theatre (18 Bleeker St.)

1/28 -3/23

Opening Night 2/6

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit 

www.sheencenter.org/events/detail/still

B) What Else is Happening

Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

5) The 92nd Street Y, New York Presents

ALLISON MILLER

RIVERS IN OUR VEINS

With Special Guest Michelle Dorrance

Featuring

Claudia Rahardjanoto – Tap Dance

Maleek Washington – Contemporary Dance

Luke Hickey – Tap Dance

In Person & Online

Sunday, February 2, 3 pm

Tickets from $40

https://www.92ny.org/event/allison-miller

The 92nd Street Y, New York presents acclaimed drummer/composer Allison Miller for a matinee performance of her immersive multimedia work Rivers in Our Veins. The performance includes as special guest the award-winning dancer Michelle Dorrance and features three additional dancers – Claudia Rahardjanoto, Maleek Washington and Luke Hickey – and live video projections by Todd Winkler. Rivers in Our Veins is in 92NY’s Kaufmann Concert Hall on Sunday, February 2 at 3pm and the livestream is available for 72 hours following the initial broadcast. Tickets are available here.

A song cycle embracing the concept of flow and renewal, Rivers in Our Veins is inspired by what writer Rebecca Solnit calls “human geography” – a perspective encompassing indigenous communities who depend on rivers and the vital role waterways play in their survival. Miller celebrates the history and cultural diversity of some of the North America’s great rivers – the Hudson, Potomac, Delaware, Susquehanna and James – and the conservation movement dedicated to reclaiming them from pollution. This innovative, vibrant Americana work combines original jazz with percussive tap, modern dance, and video projections in a unique arts experience.

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Courtesy of DDPR

6) A NIGHT OF DRAMA

UNPRETENTIOUS THEATRE FOR THE PEOPLE, THE CULT CLASSIC AND EDINBURGH FRINGE HIT CONTINUES ITS NYC PERFORMANCES 
SATURDAY, FEB 1 AT 9:00PM 
AT THE COBRA CLUB IN BUSHWICK

THE NEW OFF-OFF BROADWAY SHOW INVITES AUDIENCES TO TOSS OUT POLITE REACTIONS AND OBLIGATORY APPLAUSE FOR A TRULY AUTHENTIC THEATER EXPERIENCE 

This show is bananas, B-A-N-A-N-A-S. Jack & Zoe Comedy, the comedic duo comprised of Jack Grossman and Zoe Wohlfeld today announced an upcoming performance of A Night of Drama, an outrageous theatrical experience that invites audiences to toss out polite reactions and obligatory applause and embrace authenticity—encouraging raw, visceral reactions, and even the tossing of fruit scraps. Messy, unpredictable, and hilariously freeing, the production offers a stark contrast to the overly polished and decorum-laden performances that dominate modern theater. A Night of Drama harkens back to the Elizabethan tradition of staging plays in intimate, communal spaces like inns and taverns, bringing theater directly to the people – and will do just that on Saturday, February 1 at 9:00pm at The Cobra Club, 6 Wykoff Avenue in Bushwick. It is a 21+ venue. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-night-of-drama-tickets-1141421284789?aff=oddtdtcreator

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Courtesy of Pascal Nadon Communications

7) AMERICAN CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA PRESENTS J. S. BACH’S ST. JOHN PASSION WITH THE ACO CHORUS AT LINCOLN CENTER’S ALICE TULLY HALL THURSDAY, JANUARY 30

The Masterpiece’s Three Roles Feature singers Enrico Lagasca, Jacob Perry, and Joseph Parrish; Soloists are Elisse Albian, Kristen Hahn, Reginald Mobley, Alex Guerrero, Gene Stenger, Edward Vogel, and Timothy McDevitt

7) AMERICAN CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA PRESENTS J. S. BACH’S ST. JOHN PASSION WITH THE ACO CHORUS AT LINCOLN CENTER’S ALICE TULLY HALL THURSDAY, JANUARY 30

7) AMERICAN CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

J. S. BACH’S ST. JOHN PASSION WITH THE ACO CHORUS

AT LINCOLN CENTER’S ALICE TULLY HALL

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30

The Masterpiece’s Three Roles Feature singers Enrico Lagasca, Jacob Perry, and Joseph Parrish; Soloists are Elisse Albian, Kristen Hahn, Reginald Mobley, Alex Guerrero, Gene Stenger, Edward Vogel, and Timothy McDevitt

The Masterpiece’s Three Roles Feature singers Enrico Lagasca, Jacob Perry, and Joseph Parrish; Soloists are Elisse Albian, Kristen Hahn, Reginald Mobley, Alex Guerrero,

Gene Stenger, Edward Vogel, and Timothy McDevitt

The American Classical Orchestra (ACO), New York City’s leading period instrument orchestra, continues its 40th anniversary season with a performance of Bach’s grand choral masterwork, the St. John Passion, on Thursday, January 30. The concert is the second of three full orchestral concerts led this season by Founder and Artistic Director Thomas Crawford at Alice Tully Hall. The oratorio is notable as the earliest to survive of the very few Passions Bach composed. 

The role of Jesus is sung by Filipino-American bass-baritone Enrico Lagasca, who can be heard on five Grammy Award-nominated recordings. He debuts this season at BachFest in Leipzig with Bach Collegium San Diego. The role of the Evangelist features tenor Jacob Perry, who recently made his solo debut with the New York Philharmonic singing Handel’s Israel in Egypt; and the role of Pilate is sung by bass-baritone Joseph Parrish, winner of the 2022 Susan Wadsworth Young Concert Artists International Auditions.

St. John Passion

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 7:30 pm at Alice Tully Hall          

American Classical Orchestra

Thomas Crawford, conductor

ACO Chorus

Roles:

Enrico Lagasca, bass-baritone, Jesus

Jacob Perry, tenor, Evangelist

Joseph Parrish, bass-baritone, Pilate

Soloists:

Elisse Albian, soprano

Kristen Hahn, soprano

Reginald Mobley, countertenor

Alex Guerrero, tenor

Gene Stenger, tenor

Edward Vogel, tenor

Timothy McDevitt, baritone

J. S. Bach: St. John Passion, BWV 245

Composed just after Bach’s 39th birthday for a vesper service on Good Friday, the St. John Passion premiered in 1724, three years before the St. Matthew, the only other surviving Passion of the five he wrote. While oratorios were originally developed as large-scale musical compositions for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra in celebration of a religious theme, Bach contributed to the genre with vigorous treatment of the choruses and the use of narrative as a binding element. The soloists are American Grammy Award-nominated countertenor Reginald Mobley, sopranos Elisse Albian and Kristen Hahn; tenors Alex Guererro, Gene Stenger, and Edward Vogel; and baritone Timothy McDevitt. The ACO Chorus is comprised of professional New York metro area vocalists who join the Orchestra for larger works.

Tickets, priced at $75, $55, and $35, are available at aconyc.org or by calling ACO at (212) 362-2727, ext.4; at lincolncenter.org or the Alice Tully Hall box office, or by calling CenterCharge at 212.721.6500.

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8) Registration is now open for Ballet Hispánico School of Dance's Los Pasitos/Little Steps Program - March 10 to May 23

Ballet Hispánico School of Dance's Los Pasitos/Little Steps Program for children ages 2-5. Registration is now open for the program, which runs from March 10 to May 23. 

Los Pasitos/Little Steps is a dynamic fusion of creativity, cultures, and technique. Going beyond dance, the program provides a holistic approach to skill development. Offering a customized program for each age group developed through careful assessment and a deep understanding of early childhood development, the curriculum focuses on developing coordination, spatial awareness, and musicality, with an emphasis on the Early Childhood student’s individual self-expression and skills for working cooperatively. 

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9) BAMkids Film Festival

In association with Melbourne International Animation Festival

Feb 1 & 2

BAM Rose Cinemas (Peter Jay Sharp Building) 30 Lafayette Ave.

Tickets are $14 for adults, $10 for children, $9 for Members

Ages 3+

 

Adventure and imagination take center stage at the 27th annual BAMkids Film Festival, one of Brooklyn’s most cherished cinematic traditions. This year’s program features an exciting selection of kid-friendly shorts from around the world, showcasing the work of more than 50 filmmakers. From animated adventures to live-action journeys and inspiring documentaries, these diverse and uplifting stories offer fresh perspectives for families and spark young imaginations. Families can also vote for their favorite film to win Best Live Action or Best Animated Short.

 

Families are also invited to join the fun in the Peter Jay Sharp Building lobby, where Parallel Exit walkabout entertainers will bring interactive play and delight to kids from 11am to 2pm. Don’t miss this fun-filled opportunity to explore the world through film and lively entertainment!

 

List of shorts are below. For specific dates, times, and additional shorts visit BAM.org

 

Small Tales, Big Surprises (Ages 3—5)

Sat, Feb 1 at 10 am

Sun, Feb 2 at 10:20 am & 11 am

Prepare for adventure with these super fun kids short films from around the world, blending imagination, music, and surprising friendships for a day of pure movie magic. From a sneezing village baker to a courageous little raindrop, these inspiring cinematic treasures are perfect for kids ages three to five.

A complete list of shorts: ANIMANIMUSICAL (2024) [Germany], Baking With Boris (2023) [France], Drop (2023) [Italy], Watercolor Piggie (2024) [Taiwan], Drawing Land (2023) [United Kingdom], Kid President (2024) [Brooklyn/United States], Afternoon Snack (2024) [United States], Mogu Mogu (2024) [Taiwan], Forever Seven (2024) [Germany], Fly By (2023) [Czech Republic], A Dragon in Name Only (2024) [New Zealand], The Carp and the Child (2024) [France], The Seed (2023) [India]. 

Magical Moments (Ages 3—5)

Sat, Feb 1 at 10:20 am & 11:40 am

Sun, Feb 2 at 10 am

Animals, clouds, fairies, and more bring wonder and excitement to life on-screen in these enchanting shorts for kids ages six to eight. Featuring imaginative stories from all around the globe, this special program celebrates those magical moments that set our imaginations free and let our creative hearts run wild.

 

A complete list of shorts: Lost Marble (2024) [United Kingdom], Mushroom Magic (2024) [Denmark], Balloon (2023) [United Kingdom], Sleepy (2022) [United Kingdom], Tears of the Little Cloud (2024) [Italy], Finding Play (2024) [United Kingdom], Finley (2024) [United States], The Tree of a Thousand Keys (2024) [Canada]. More films to be announced on BAM.org. 

 

Adventurous Friends (Ages 6—8)

Sat, Feb 1 at 12:20 pm 

Sun, Feb 2 at 11:40 am

A silly scientist, two little bunnies, and a puffy white cloud are just a few of the adventurous heroes in these playful short films. Perfect for kids ages six to eight, this screening sends imaginations soaring from the beautiful green depths of the forest to the surface of the moon, and all the way to the North Pole! This program has two films with subtitles.

 

A complete list of shorts: Night Tunnel (2024) [Belgium], Coot (2023) [Netherlands], Nube (2023) [Mexico], These Are My Friends and They’re Awesome (2024) [United States], Sparrows (2024) [France], The Odd Carrot (2024) [Latvia], Sockz Studios: The Lab Rat (2024) [United States], Monster Sister (2024) [Republic of Korea], The Refusers (2024) [Netherlands], Meet Me in the Woods (2024) [United Kingdom].

 

Big Dreams (Ages 6—8)

Sat, Feb 1 at 11 am & 12:40 pm

Sun, Feb 2 at 10:40 am

Heartwarming shorts for kids ages six to eight explore themes of friendship and courage as unique heroes chase their dreams. From captivating journeys to unexpected connections, these stories encourage kindness, perseverance, and appreciation of the beautiful world around us. 

 

A complete list of shorts: Ronny: A Crocumentary (2024) [Canada], The Alchemist’s Apprentice (2024) [Iran], Fallin' (2023) [Spain], Ummi and Zaki (2024) [Germany], Birds of a Feather (2024) [United States], Henrietta Finds a Nest (2024) [United States]. More films to be announced soon.

 

Follow Your Heart (Ages 6—8)

Sat, Feb 1 at 1:20 pm 

Sun, Feb 2 at 1:20 pm

These poignant stories inspire courage and empathy and reinforce the importance of friendship, all while sparking joy and imagination! Come along for a cinematic adventure where memorable characters turn worry into wonder, fear into creativity, and difficult moments into life-long friendships, perfect for kids ages six to eight. 

 

A complete list of shorts: Lulina and the Moon (2023) [Brazil], Munkha (2024) [Russia], Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge (2023) [Australia], Hoofs on Skates (2024) [Lithuania], Go My Way (2024) [Spain], Fishing (2023) [Russia].

 

Journey to Me (Ages 9+)

Sat, Feb 1 at 1:10 pm

Sun, Feb 2 at 12:30 pm

Join these courageous characters as they boldly explore the world and shape their own paths, inspiring everyone around them! This insightful program boasts a wide array of globetrotting gems for kids ages nine and above, featuring shorts from the US, Afghanistan, Canada, Russia, Colombia, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Spain, and more. 

 

Complete list of short: The Queen’s Flowers (2024) [United States], The Most Beautiful Kabuli Dress (2024) [Afghanistan], Heart of the Ocean (2024) [Russia], Ceiba y Sus Raices Tainas (2023) [United States], Boy Cut (2024) [United States], Skin Color (2024) [Colombia], My Name is Edgar and I Have a Cow (2023) [Czech Republic], Noor (2024) [United Arab Emirates], Having fun in the Mountains (2023) [Taiwan], Wood Hood (2022) [United States]

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10) Celebrate Lunar New Year at Brooklyn Children’s Museum on Saturday, February 1 to Welcome the Year of the Snake!

Activities include a traditional lion dance, Kung Fu and calligraphy workshops, storytelling, and a snake-themed makerspace!

Brooklyn Children's Museum (BCM) invites families to celebrate the Year of the Snake with music, dance performances, storytelling, and a host of other family-friendly activities at its Lunar New Year Festival on Saturday, February 1, 2025. 

Visitors will learn about the rich traditions of Lunar New Year through storytelling with authors Yobe Qiu and Ran Wei; live music, dance, and Kung Fu workshops with the New York Chinese Cultural Center; calligraphy workshops with artists Nelson Leung and Yan Xu, snake-themed programs in Nature’s Engineers (BCM’s STEM makerspace), and lion dance parades led by the Chinatown Community Young Lions.

Celebrate Lunar New Year activities will take place throughout the day on February 1 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets to the Museum grant access to all of the day’s events and are $15 for general admission, $14 for grandparents, and free for children under one year-old and BCM members. To purchase tickets, visit: www.brooklynkids.org/programs/lunar-new-year.

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

11) CUNY Dance Initiative Announces

February Performances and Open Call for Applications

The CUNY Dance Initiative (CDI), an expansive program providing New York City choreographers and dance companies with creative residencies on CUNY college campuses, announces public performances in winter 2025 and the next open call for applications.

This season, the CUNY Dance Initiative is underwriting residencies for 24 early- to mid-career choreographers at 13 CUNY colleges and three partner arts organizations in all five boroughs. CDI residencies are in full swing this winter with public performances by Laura Peralta and IMGE Dance (details below).

CDI also announces an open call for applications for its next residency cycle. Professional NYC-based choreographers and dance companies working in all styles and forms are invited to apply, and applications can be submitted between January 15 and February 20, 2025. CDI supports residencies that are for rehearsal only, or may culminate in a public performance, and all awards include an honorarium in addition to the space grant. CDI, via its consortium of CUNY colleges and arts organizations, expects to award 22 to 24 residencies from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Starting with the 2025-26 cycle, CDI has forged a new partnership with Works & Process. In addition to a CDI rehearsal residency at Queens College, the selected artist will be awarded a fully-funded out-of-town Works & Process LaunchPAD residency.

More information about the residencies and application: http://bit.ly/CDIHowtoApply.

PERFORMANCE DETAILS:

Laura Peralta: Entre Líneas

February 1 at 7:30pm

LaGuardia Performing Arts Center

31-10 Thompson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

General admission $25 / Faculty & Staff $20 / Students $15

Tickets: lpac.nyc

In Entre Líneas, Afro-Dominican Flamenco artist Laura Peralta uses the individual symbolic elements of Flamenco – the dress, the shawl, the guitar, rhythm, masculinity, and femininity – to examine the tension between tradition and self-expression and explore how Flamenco’s archetypes can be both limiting and empowering. In her debut production as an emerging independent artist, Peralta charts a new path after over a decade performing with renowned companies such as Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana and Soledad Barrio y Noche Flamenca, among many others.

IMGE Dance: (no)man

February 14-15 at 7:30pm

BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center

199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007

General admission $40 / Students $30

Tickets: tribecapac.org or (212) 220-1460

Culture and movement merge with IMGE, an American dance company blending Indian classical dance, hip hop, and contemporary styles. Led by Ishita Mili, IMGE brings a fresh perspective to storytelling, tackling social, cultural, and environmental themes through a global movement vocabulary. Weaving together dynamic body language, percussive footwork, and a soundscape that pulls from 11 different languages, from Bengali to Yoruba, (no)man examines relationships between [power-loss] and [birth-death] to reveal repeating cycles between the past, present, and future.

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12) Songbook Sundays 

at 

Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Dizzy’s Club 

hosted by Deborah Grace Winer 

 

JUST IN TIME FOR JULE STYNE
featuring

La Tanya Hall, Matthew Scott, Kate Kortum

 

Sunday, February 2nd, 5 PM & 7:30 PM 

Just in Time for Jule Styne kicks off a brand new year of Songbook Sundays, as Jazz at Lincoln Center American Songbook’s popular series enters its fourth season at Dizzy’s.  Celebrating the composer as famous for Gypsy and Funny Girl as he is for writing hit Sinatra songs, the show swings Jule Styne songs from Time After Time, People and The Party’s Over, to Never Never Land, Just in Time and more.

To reach Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Dizzy’s Club, enter at Columbus Circle at 60^th Street and Broadway, take the Jazz elevators to the 5^th floor for Dizzy’s Club as well as The Rose Theater and The Appel Room.

 

Tickets for Songbook Sundays are $65, with student tickets available at $20.  There is a $21 food/drink minimum.

To purchase, visit: Jazz.org/dizzys

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Photo by Myrna Suarez @myrnasuarezphoto

 

13) Exclusive Billy Joel Exhibit Extended Through Spring of 2025 

at The Long Island Music & 

Entertainment Hall of Fame

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) has announced it will be extending the run of the first ever exhibit dedicated exclusively to LIMEHOF Inductee and Legendary Long Island Musician Billy Joel. The exhibit opened last November and is currently running at LIMEHOF’s Stony Brook Village location (97 Main Street, Stony Brook, NY). It was initially planned to run through September 2024.

 

The exclusive exhibit, called Billy Joel- My Life, A Piano Man’s Journey spans Joel’s life and career from growing up in Hicksville to his legendary run at Madison Square Garden. It includes over 50 years of Billy Joel’s most cherished items including rare memorabilia, behind-the-scenes video, dozens of awards, rare audio and video recordings, vintage instruments and historic photos, many donated by Billy Joel himself.

Tickets are available now at www.TheBillyExhibit.com  or are available to be purchased in person at LIMEHOF. This is a timed entry exhibit so tickets will be sold by time block availability, or you can purchase VIP “any time” tickets good any time for the duration of the exhibit.  For more information about LIMEHOF visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/museum/.

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Courtesy of Aversa PR

14) MANAYUNK PRESENTS PHILLY’S COOLEST FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR WITH FOUNDERS PHILLY FREEZE OUT, FREEZE OUT RUN, CHOWDER CRAWL AND WINTER MARKET

Bundle up and head on over to Manayunk for a frosty, fun-filled day at the Founders Philly Freeze-Out, Freeze Out Run and 2025 MNYK Chowder Crawl on February 1, 2025, from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Founders Brewing Company and the Manayunk Development Corporation are teaming up to transform Main Street into a winter wonderland with 25+ photo-worthy ice sculptures created by "ice king" Peter Slavin of Ice Sculpture Philadelphia, plus 10 live carving demonstrations, an ice slide, snowy igloo, winter market, chowder crawl and more frosty surprises. The day starts with the Freeze Out Run by Philadelphia Runner and New Balance at 9:00am, followed by the Freeze Out main event from 11:00am to 4:00pm, followed by the 2025 MNYK Chowder Crawl from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Festivities during the day will also include the Lion Dance with New Leaf for Chinese and Lunar New Year, offerings from popular food trucks, Founders and MNYK giveaways, and Founders specials at restaurants and bars up and down Main Street. Founders Philly Freeze Out is free to attend, with food, drink and shopping pay as you go. Freeze Out Run is no charge to participate, with advance registration required. 2025 MNYK Chowder Crawl is $18 per ticket. For event info, race registration and chowder crawl tickets, visit manayunk dot com/events/ and follow @manayunkdotcom

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

15) The New Jersey Performing Arts Center

will celebrate

The 2025 Lunar New Year of the Snake

with Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company

February 1 & 2 at 2pm

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center will celebrate The 2025 Lunar New Year of the Snake on Saturday & Sunday, February 1 & 2 at 2pm, with Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, at the Victoria Theater lizzie & jonathan tisch stage, 1 Centre Street. Tickets can be purchased online at www.njpac.org or by phone at 888-696-5722.

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16) The Paley Museum Counts Down to Super Bowl LIX with

Two Blockbuster Exhibits

 

The Road to the Big Game: New Orleans Will Feature the Storied Vince Lombardi Trophy, Championship Rings from Every Winning Team, Game Balls and Historic Memorabilia from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Memorable Super Bowl Commercials, Katy Perry’s “Firework” Halftime Show Costume, Photo Opportunities, and More

 

Celebrating the Black Heroes of Football’s Biggest Game, A Black History Month Experience Presented by Citi®, Spotlights the Athleticism and Heroics of Black Super Bowl MVPs and Legendary Players

 

Special Preview of the Vince Lombardi Trophy and All Championship Rings Now Taking Place at The Paley Museum

 

For the Second Time Only a Screening of the Original Broadcast of Super Bowl 1 on

Saturday, February 1 Exclusive to Paley Members

 

An Exciting PaleyGX EA Madden NFL 25 E-Sports Tournament on Sunday, February 2

 

Exhibits Are Free to Paley Museum Members

The Paley Museum announced today that it will celebrate football’s biggest game with two blockbuster exhibits that capture the excitement of the Super Bowl and celebrate some of the game’s most iconic MVPs and players in The Road to the Big Game: New Orleans and Celebrating the Black Heroes of Football’s Biggest Game. The exhibits will open on Friday, January 24, 2025, and run through March 30, 2025, at The Paley Museum on 25 West 52 Street. 

 

The Road to the Big Game will feature the storied Vince Lombardi Trophy, all 58 team rings from each championship-winning team, and a showcase of the most memorable Super Bowl Commercials. There will also be rare artifacts on display including game balls and uniforms from past Super Bowl games on loan from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, over 150 photos of iconic, thrilling Super Bowl moments, and screenings of some of the greatest Super Bowl plays and Super Bowl Halftime Shows. Also on display will be Katy Perry’s “Firework” costume from her Super Bowl XLIX Halftime Show performance.

 

The exhibit will pay tribute to local teams with rare Super Bowl memorabilia from the New York Jets and the New York Giants. On loan from the Giants will be their Vince Lombardi Trophy which will be on display January 31 through February 14, a game-used football from Super Bowl XLII, a game pylon from Super Bowl XLVI, and more. Some of the noteworthy Jets memorabilia includes a championship ring, helmet from linebacker Larry Grantham, and a Super Bowl III ticket signed by Joe Namath.

 

There will also be items on loan from the New England Patriots Hall of Fame including Tom Brady’s cleats from Super Bowl XXXVI, Brady’s record-breaking 16th consecutive Super Bowl pass completion from Super Bowl XLVI, a game-worn jersey from Rob Gronkowski, and more.

 

Celebrating the Black Heroes of Football’s Biggest Game showcases the Black athletes whose spectacular talent and leadership skills helped propel their team to Super Bowl glory and inspired young people of all backgrounds to pursue their dreams in sports and beyond. This Black History Month Experience Presented by Citi, includes the twenty Black players named Super Bowl MVPs and several other pioneering Big Game athletes, coaches, and performers, documenting how their Super success has broken down barriers and demonstrated excellence at the highest level. The exhibit will also feature memorabilia including game-used footballs, jerseys, the player draft cards of Patrick Mahomes and Von Miller, and more.

Among the screenings of past Super Bowl games and highlights will be only the second in-person screening of the original broadcast of Super Bowl 1. Long thought lost, this iconic piece of television history features Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers triumphant win over the Kansas City Chiefs, and includes commercials of the time and a post-game interview with then NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle. The screening will take place on Saturday, February 1, at 12:30 pm. This screening will be exclusive to Paley Members and those interested in upgrading to Paley Membership to take advantage of this opportunity can visit paleycenter.org for details.

Football and gaming fans can partake in an EA Madden NFL 25 e-sports gaming tournament on Sunday, February 2, featuring prizes in the PaleyGX gaming studio. This state-of-the-art gaming studio features today’s hottest games including EA Madden NFL 25.

 

Rounding out the family-friendly exhibit will be Super Bowl–themed arts & crafts, fun photos opportunities, and exciting interactive trivia.

 

For the full schedule of events and screenings please visit paleycenter.org

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

17) South Street Seaport Museum

Announces

Lunar New Year at the Seaport Museum

February 1, 2025, 11am–5pm

South Street Seaport Museum announces Lunar New Year at the Seaport Museum on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 11am to 5pm. Presented as part of the neighborhood Lunar New Year Celebration at the Seaport, celebrate the Year of the Snake with the Seaport Museum. Enjoy free admission to the Seaport Museum, and participate in an exciting day of cultural activities! seaportmuseum.org/lunar-new-year

Immerse yourself in engaging Chinese Calligraphy Workshops and maritime-inspired craft activities to usher in the Year of the Snake, presented in collaboration with the New York Chinese Cultural Center and the Seaport. Explore special activities happening at the Museum throughout the day.

Chinese Calligraphy Workshop | 2pm, 3pm, 4pm

To celebrate the Lunar New Year, join the Seaport Museum and skilled teaching artists from the New York Chinese Cultural Center for one of three delightful 45-minute workshops exploring the art of Chinese Calligraphy and its importance to the Lunar New Year.

Using a traditional calligraphy brush, participants will be instructed on how to write simple characters while exploring the relationship between ancient Chinese pictographs and their modern-day ideographs. Together, we will learn the evolution of the Chinese characters that tie to fish, the sea, and a prosperous New Year.

While primarily designed for children ages 7–12, these workshops are open to all ages for free.

Nautical Chinese Lion Chains | 11am–4:30pm

Celebrate the Lunar New Year by making a maritime-inspired spin on a Chinese Lion Chain craft. Come create your own, unique lion chain decoration using paper links inspired by the colorful signal flags, which sailors use to communicate.

This fun-filled activity is in partnership with the New York Chinese Cultural Center.

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18) TADA! YOUTH THEATER OFFERS 2025 WEEK-LONG MUSICAL THEATER

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS

 

February 17^th through February 21^st

March 17^th through March 21^st

March 24^th through March 28^th

April 14^th through April 18^th

 

Write it! Rehearse it! Premiere Original Mini-Musical!

Registration is open for future Broadway Stars!

When School is out, TADA! is in! Now offering week-long public and private school break camps for ages 4-5 & 5-9 in February, March, and April, 2025 at TADA! Youth Theater, 15 West 28^th Street in Manhattan.

Write it! Rehearse it! Perform it! Immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling! Each week, students co-create an original musical in just five days.  Children unleash their inner star, share their voice and create memories that will last a lifetime.  Join TADA! Youth Theater for a week of laughter, creativity, and applause.

TADA! Youth Theater presents week-long musical theater school break camps that take place from February 17^th through February 21^st Wish My Life Was A Musical!; March 17^th through March 21^st Pirates & Princesses!; March 24^th through March 28^th Unicorns, Mermaids, Dinosaurs, OH MY! and April 14^th through April 18^th The Show Must Go On! at TADA! Youth Theater, 15 West 28^th Street in Manhattan.  

 

Children, ages 4-5 & 5-9, attend camp Monday through Friday with ages 4-5 from 9:00AM-1:30PM and ages 5-9 from 9AM through 5PM.

 

For registration information, please visit:
https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/school-break-camps-3/

No child should be turned away because of their inability to pay. Financial Assistance available.
https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/financial-assistance/

Each week, students dive into the magic of musical theater. On the last day of all camps, friends and family are invited to attend the premiere of the campers’ original mini-musical.

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Photo by Carrieanne Older

19) VIRAL INTERNET SENSATION

TRISHA PAYTAS

TO MAKE BROADWAY DEBUT IN

“TRISHA PAYTAS’ BIG BROADWAY DREAM”

A ONE-NIGHT-ONLY MUSICAL THEATRE EXTRAVAGANZA

FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT COMMUNITY FUND

 

ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2025

AT BROADWAY’S ST. JAMES THEATRE

AND STREAMED LIVE ON STAGEPILOT

Trisha Paytas announced that she will make her long-awaited Broadway debut in an original show called Trisha Paytas’ Big Broadway Dream. The show, produced by Kobi Kassal (Editor-in-Chief, Theatrely) and Benson Drive Productions (George Strus, CEO), will be a one-night-only musical theatre extravaganza at Broadway’s St. James Theatre on Monday, February 3, 2025 at 8:00pm ET and livestreamed on StagePilot. To download video of the announcement, click here.

 

Tickets for both the in-person event and livestream will are vailable at 10:00am ET at www.TrishaOnBroadway.com. All net proceeds will benefit Entertainment Community Fund.  

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20) TWO RIVER THEATER JOIN FORCES WITH PROJECT WRITE NOW AND OTHER LOCAL NON-PROFITS FOR A NEW ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM, COMMUNITY PLAYMAKING

Free Adult Playwriting Workshops Culminating an Evening of Short Plays

Performed by Professional Actors 

Two River Theater, in partnership with Project Write Now, recently launched a new engagement program called Community Playmaking. Run in collaboration with local non-profits, it is open to adults from diverse, underserved communities free of charge. Participants engage in a series of free playwriting workshops fostering their creativity to write their own original short plays which are then performed by professional actors.  Community Playmaking requires no prior experience—just a desire to learn and share stories. 

The program kicked off in October 2024 with a group comprised of community members, staff, and volunteers from Lunch Break in Red Bank.  The participants attended playwriting classes led by Project Write Now Executive Director Jennifer Chauhan and TRT Director of Education Kate Cordaro and learned the basics of dramatic structure, form, and character, then wrote their own original 10-minute plays, and the program culminated in a staged reading of the newly minted playwright’s plays performed by professional actors in the dining room at Lunch Break on December 17, 2024. 

Community Playmaking will continue in February 2025, as the second iteration of the engagement program will collaborate with the Shore House in Long Branch, a local community resource open to adults living with a mental illness.

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

21) Works & Process Announces

SMASH by Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, Rick Elice, and Bob Martin

with Susan Stroman and Joshua Bergasse

February 3, 2025 at 7pm

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Works & Process at the Guggenheim presents SMASH with Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, Rick Elice, Bob Martin, Susan Stroman and Joshua Bergasse, on February 3, 2025 at the Peter B. Lewis Theater, 1071 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10128 at 7pm. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at https://www.worksandprocess.org/calendar/works-and-process-at-the-guggenheim-smas
h.

SMASH, inspired by the hit TV show, is finally coming to Broadway this spring! A hilarious behind-the-scenes rollercoaster ride about the making of a Marilyn Monroe musical called Bombshell, it’s got all the iconic songs, kick-ass choreography, and backstage pandemonium that make Broadway the beloved institution it is today. The production will be helmed by five-time Tony Award–winner Susan Stroman and feature a score by Tony, Emmy, and Grammy Award–winning duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, who wrote over two dozen songs for the television show (many of which will be heard in the musical); a book by Tony Award–nominee Rick Elice and Tony Award–winner Bob Martin; and choreography by Tony Award–nominee Joshua Bergasse. Members of the creative team will participate in a discussion moderated by Vanity Fair Staff Writer Chris Murphy and featuring excerpts performed in advance of previews beginning on March 11, 2025 at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre.

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And that's the scoop.Tune in tomorrow for More Theater Monday.