Sunday Scoop Week of 4/27/25 What's Happening This Week and More

A) Beginning Performances 

In New Jersey

1) The Shark is Broken

In New York

2) Akira Kurosawa Explains His Movies and Yogurt (With Live and Active Cultures)

3) The Black Wolfe Tone

4) Collected Stories 

5) Lights Out: Nat King Cole

6) ¡Someone ExtraordinariX! 

7) Parrots at the Pagoda

8) We Do the Same Thing Every Week

Philadelphia

9) The Apple Boys

B) Cast Changes

In New York

10) Hadestown

C) Streaming on Demand

11) América Tropical 

D) Tickets on Sale

In New Jersey

12) The Price is Right Live 

E) What Else is Happening

13) 25th Annual Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards

In New York

14) Artechouse NYC New Exhibit

Rolling Stone Presents: Amplified, the Immersive Rock Experience Starting 4/30

15) Brooklyn Academy of Music Upcoming Events

16) Bergen Women's Health Festival

The Terrace at Biaggios 4/30

17) Brooklyn Children's Museum Celebrates AAPI Month

18) Brooklyn Children's Museum Celebrates Holi

5/3

19) Conwell Coffee House New Spring Events

20) CUNY Dance Initiative May Performances 

21) Emerging Artists Theatre Accepting Submissions for Fall Spark Theatre Festival

Deadline 6/2

22) En Scena! Italian Theatre Festival

5/5 - 5/19

23) Epic Players Presents Lights, Camera, Cabaret:

A Neuroinclusive Celebration of Hollywood's Hit Music at Dynasty Typewriter 4/3

24) The Jackie Factory Night of 1000 Stevies 

5/3

25) Mamma Mia Themed Brunch Hosted by Ellen's Stardust Diner

26) Margaret Mead Film Festival 

American Museum of Natural History 5/2 - 54

The Iridium 5/11

27) Master Voices Presents Bach Reframed: The B Minor Mass 

at The Great Hall at Cooper Union 5/5

28) Queens Theatre's Latin Culture and Dance Fiesta Returns

5/2 - 5/4

In Pennsylvania

29) Bucks County Playhouse Launches Playhouse Books in the Barn

30) Jim Thorpe Festival Returns

Jim Thorpe, PA 5/1 - 5/4

31) Lincoln Mills Back With Stars Wars Themed Haunted House

The Eve of 5/4 Only 

32) Maifest Returns to South Street

33) Philadelphia Marketplace

5/2 - 6/28

34) Philadelphia Zoo Debuts Tortoise Hatchlings and Launches Naming Contest

A) Beginning Performances 

In New Jersey

1) The Shark is Broken

The Olivier Award-nominated The Shark Is Broken brings the legendary actors of Jaws—Robert Shaw, Roy Scheider, and Richard Dreyfuss—face-to-face with their most absurd challenges during the filming of this iconic blockbuster. With a broken shark and tempers running high, this laugh-out-loud comedy dives into the hilarious behind-the-scenes drama of a movie shoot that goes anything but smoothly.

NBPAC (11 Livingston Ave.)

4/29 - 5/18

Opening Night 5/3

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.georgestreetplayhouse.org.

In New York

2) Akira Kurosawa Explains His Movies and Yogurt (With Live and Active Cultures)

Tonight, renowned filmmaker Akira Kurosawa joins us for a lecture: a look into his iconic filmography, brilliant mind, the thrilling world of movies, and “culture.” But… why can’t he stop talking about yogurt? In this whimsical world premiere, playwright Julia Izumi weaves through media and memory to examine cultural imperialism, “healthy” consumption, and why we make art. 

HERE (145th 6th Ave.)

5/2 - 6/4

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.newgeorges.org

3) The Black Wolfe Tone

The Black Wolfe Tone is a thrilling new play about identity, raging against the machine, and how young men deal or don’t deal with the darkness. A fast-paced journey that interrogates our culture of silence, the mind, and growing up mixed race in Ireland. At its heart, it’s about a young boy seeking forgiveness: the inner child wanting only to be acknowledged, loved, and held.

W. Scott McLaren Studio Theatre, Irish Repetory Theatre (132 W. 22nd St.)

5/1 - 6/1

Opening Night 5/8 

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit  IrishRep.org

Photo courtesy of production

4) Collected Stories 

When aspiring writer Lisa becomes the personal assistant to her literary idol, celebrated author Ruth Steiner, what begins as mentorship blossoms into a profound creative partnership. Over six transformative years, their relationship evolves through moments of inspiration, vulnerability, and shared passion for their craft.

But as Lisa finds her voice and begins to soar while Ruth faces her own creative challenges, the delicate balance between them shifts. When the boundaries between personal connection and artistic inspiration blur, both women must confront difficult questions: Where does one's story end and another's begin? Can the creative process honor both ambition and loyalty?

The East Village Basement (321 E. 9th St.)

5/4 - 5/18

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit 

www.eventbrite.com/e/collected-stories

5) Lights Out: Nat King Cole

On December 17th, 1957, it was LIGHTS OUT on "The Nat ‘King’ Cole Sho

Despite being the voice that built Capitol Records, Nat “King” Cole's groundbreaking television show was rejected by Madison Avenue, unwilling to sponsor America’s first black television host. Now, on the night of his final broadcast, Nat must grapple with the complexities of his psyche, personified by his best friend and alter-ego, Sammy Davis Jr., and decide whether to quietly step out of the spotlight or go out with a bang.

New York Theatre Workshop (79 E. 4th St.)

4/30 - 6/16

Opening Night 5/19

For more information or to purchase tickets. visit  NYTW.org

Photo by Ibsen Santos

6) ¡Someone ExtraordinariX! 

It's present-day Manhattan, and Chilean immigrant Mona is coming up on her Visa deadline. As she tries to stay employed, auditioning, and in the country, she encounters Maggie, an All-American songwriter, who just can't let things go, and Vicho, a Mexican actor and playwright who has more in common with Mona than she might think. Helped and/or hindered by Someone, Mona tries to navigate her upcoming deadlines, a perma-intoxicated boss, a budding relationship, and the 'endless loneliness that comes with being alive'. ¡Someone ExtraordinariX! poses the question: how does it feel when the one thing you want doesn't want you back?

The Players Theatre (115 MacDougal St.)

5/1 - 5/18

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.linktr.ee/someoneextraordinarix.

7) Parrots at the Pagoda

Parrots at the Pagoda is a drag origins story inspired by the life and times of Johnny Rodríguez (1912-1997), standout vocalist and prolific trios musician, pioneering female impersonator and impresario, owner of legendary El Cotorrito club in Puerto Rico, and brother to the also legendary Tito “El Inolvidable” Rodríguez. Prepare to be transported into his world, rife with vibrant costumes and timeless songs, every element crafted to immerse you in the journey of this queer trailblazer and all-around icon.

Puerto Rican Traveling Theater (304 W. 47th St.)

5/1 - 5/25

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit pregonesprtt.org

Courtesy of Emily Owens PR

8) We Do the Same Thing Every Week

Dick and Jane are bored on a rainy Sunday afternoon. A six-foot tall cat shows up, and hijinks ensue. Later, elsewhere, Dick and Jane are bored on a rainy Sunday afternoon. A six-foot tall cat shows up, and hijinks ensue. Everywhere, space is a false vacuum waiting to decay. Try not to think about it while your boredom gnaws away at you. We Do the Same Thing Every Week is a one-act comedy about repetition, boredom, and the delicious, refreshing taste of Coca-Cola®.

Jeffrey and Paula Gurual Theatre at A.R.T. /New York Theatres (502 W. 53rd St.)

5/2 - 5/17

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit  www.ticketleap.events/tickets/attractive-nuisance/WDTSTEW.

Philadelphia

Courtesy of Feldscher Horowitz PR

9) The Apple Boys

Step back in time to Gilded Age Coney Island with a fast-paced new musical comedy, “The Apple Boys.” Jack Chapman III, grandson of Johnny Appleseed, rallies a colorful cast of characters—including the founder of Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs and the world’s strongest man—to save his family’s struggling apple orchard. Featuring an inventive score with tight vocal harmonies, “The Apple Boys” is a boisterous show that will leave you cheering for the underdogs and celebrating the joys of friendship.

Bucks County Playhouse (70 S. Main St.)

5/2 - 5/25

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit bcptheater.org/shows/the-apple-boys

B) Cast Changes

In New York

10) Hadestown

KC Dela Cruz has joined the cast as Eurydice and will play the role through 5/4.

Philip Boykin has rejoined the cast as Hades and will the role through 8/31.

Following two intertwining love stories — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — Hadestown invites audiences on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back. Mitchell’s beguiling melodies and Chavkin’s poetic imagination pit industry against nature, doubt against faith, and fear against love. Performed by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers, and singers, Hadestown delivers a deeply resonant and defiantly hopeful theatrical experience.

Walter Kerr Theatre (219 W. 48th St.)

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit  www.seatgeek.com/hadestown-tickets 

C) Streaming on Demand

Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

11) América Tropical

América Tropical is the universal story of a family fighting to stay together against forces intent on tearing them apart. Rita Rey, a young Mexican American, must save her family from Repatriation, the Depression-era policy where US citizens of Mexican ancestry were deported. Based on real people and events, our heroine uses her wits to outsmart a corrupt cop to get her family back. The show’s title comes from a controversial mural created by Rita’s love interest, David Siqueiros, the famous Mexican artist and communist revolutionary. And the show’s relevance for today could not be more urgent.

Premiering Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 3PM ET.  The initial performance will include the video of the "dollars and sense" talkback with six Broadway and indie producers offering insights into the future development of this wonderful and timely show. After the 3pm viewing party, the online presentation will become available for a limited time – only 4 days, from May 4 at 6pm until May 8 at 6pm. To reserve a ticket for the premiere, visit https://truonline.org/events/america-tropical-on-demand.

D) Tickets on Sale

In New Jersey

2Courtesy of Prana PR

12) The Price is Right Live 

Get tickets early for The Price Is Right Live and experience the interactive, non-televised version of this legendary game show. With our Celebrity Host, contestants randomly selected from the audience will have the chance to play beloved games like Plinko, Cliffhangers, The Big Wheel, and the fabulous Showcase.

Exciting prizes range from appliances and electronics to dream vacations and even a brand-new car. You could be the next contestant!

NJPAC (Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center St., Newark)

10/16

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit  NJPAC.org, call 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722), or visit the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey.

E) What Else is Happening

13) THE 25^TH ANNUAL

BROADWAY.COM

AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARDS

WILL BE PRESENTED ON

THURSDAY, MAY 29

WINNER OF BROADWAY’S BIGGEST FAN COMPETITION

 ANNOUNCED

Broadway.com announced that the 25^th annual Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards will be presented on Thursday, May 29.  At the end of each Broadway season, fans from across the globe bestow the most democratic theater award of the year. In recent years, the ceremony has featured Award Winners Jessica Chastain, Elle Fanning, Hugh Jackman, Rachel McAdams, Leslie Odom, Jr., Sarah Jessica Parker, Ben Platt, Daniel Radcliffe, and more.

The winner of Broadway’s Biggest Fan competition, chosen by judges Josh Lamon (Death Becomes Her), Jasmine Amy Rogers (Boop! The Musical), and Helen J. Shen (Maybe Happy Ending), was also announced as Cynthia Fraser from Baltimore, Maryland. Each person who entered had to submit a 60 second or less video explaining why they are Broadway’s Biggest Fan. Cynthia and a friend will each attend the 25^th annual Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards as well as see each of the judges’ current Broadway shows.

You can view Cynthia’s submission HERE.

The Broadway.com Audience Choice Award is the only major theatrical prize awarded solely by votes cast online by audience members. Awards are presented in traditional categories as well as several unique to the Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards, including “Favorite Diva Performance,” “Favorite New Song,” “Favorite Breakthrough Performance,” “Favorite Funny Performance” and “Favorite Onstage Pair.” In addition, an award is presented for national tours to encourage the participation of Broadway fans not only in New York but across the country. All awards are decided solely by the voting of theater fans on Broadway.com.

Fans will be able to vote to select this year’s nominees at Broadway.com.

Wednesday, April 23 – Nominee voting opens.

Sunday, April 27 – Nominee voting closes.

Tuesday, Apil 29 – Award voting opens.

Friday, May 9 – Award voting closes.

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In New York

Courtesy of Keith Sherman & Associates 

14) ROLLING STONE PRESENTS: 

AMPLIFIED, THE IMMERSIVE ROCK EXPERIENCE 

at ARTECHOUSE NYC, starting April 30

ARTECHOUSE and Rolling Stone are excited to announce the New York premiere of Rolling Stone Presents: Amplified, The Immersive Rock Experience, this spring at ARTECHOUSE NYC (Chelsea Market, 439 W. 15th Street, NYC). Narrated by actor/musician Kevin Bacon, the unprecedented audio and visual experience transports audiences to the mosh pit, utilizing ARTECHOUSE’s cutting edge, 270-degree, floor to ceiling 18K-resolution digital canvas and state-of-the-art surround sound. Amplified offers a 50-minute immersive journey into the music, history, imagery and culture of rock ‘n’ roll, encompassing over 1,000 photographs, 200 videos, 1,300 Rolling Stone covers, and featuring over 300 iconic artists whose music changed the world. Showings begin April 30. The official opening is May 15. Tickets, starting at $39 (plus fees) are on sale now at artechouse.com.

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15)     Brooklyn Academy Of Music

Upcoming Events

BAM SpringFest

May 3

300 Ashland Place

Brooklyn, NY 

FREE 

Ages 2–11 

Get ready for a burst of springtime joy as BAMkids SpringFest returns, painting Brooklyn with vibrant colors and lively sounds that capture the unique spirit of our borough. This fun-filled day celebrates diverse cultures through exciting performances and interactive experiences. Move to the rhythms of Brazil and explore diverse art forms from the global communities in Brooklyn—all while learning about caring for our planet. Join us to plant seeds of curiosity, nurture friendships, and welcome the season of growth with open arms and big smiles. Co-curated by the BAMkids Parent Advisory Circle. 

For more information visit www.bam.org/springfest

Max Richter 

with the American Contemporary Music Ensemble 

The Blue Notebooks and In A Landscape 

May 3 

BAM Howard Gilman Opera House 

30 Lafayette Ave Brooklyn, NY 

Max Richter reunites with the New York-based American Contemporary Music Ensemble (ACME), his longtime collaborators, to perform two landmark albums: The Blue Notebooks, his stunning 2004 concept album based on writings by Franz Kafka, and In A Landscape, his ninth and newest release, which he describes as “reconciling polarities”: the electronic and the acoustic, the human and the natural world, the big questions of life and the quiet pleasures of living. One of the most prodigious figures on the contemporary music scene, Richter has captivated listeners around the world with his groundbreaking work as a composer, pianist, producer, and collaborator. His creative output encompasses solo performances, ballet and theater work, film and TV scores, orchestral collaborations, and much more.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.bam.org/music/2025/max-richter

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16) BERGEN COUNTY RESIDENT AND AUTHOR DANIELLE SHERMAN-LAZAR TO APPEAR AT
2025 BERGEN WOMEN’S HEALTH EXPERIENCE
 
Sherman-Lazar will be signing copies of her newly released book, Mothers Are Made: How One Mom Overcame Perfectionism, Self-Doubt, Loneliness and Anxiety and Became a Better and Happier Parent.
 
Wednesday, April 30^th  - 5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m
Women’s Health Event
The Terrace at Biaggios
Paramus, N.J.
Tickets: https://events.wainscotmedia.com/2025-bergen-womens-health-experience-tickets

Noted children’s book author and Bergen County resident Danielle Sherman-Lazar will be the special guest at the 2025 Bergen Women’s Health Experience, taking place on Wednesday, April 30, from 5:30–8:30 p.m., at The Terrace at Biaggio’s in Paramus, NJ. Sherman-Lazar will be signing copies of her newly released book, Mothers Are Made: How One Mom Overcame Perfectionism, Self-Doubt, Loneliness and Anxiety and Became a Better and Happier Parent.

The Bergen Women’s Health Experience is an empowering and engaging event focused on women’s health and wellness. Attendees will hear from leading healthcare professionals during a series of informative presentations:

• “Menopausal Health and the Benefits of Integrative Medicine in Providing Relief from Symptoms”
  Madouna Hanna, DO – Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
• “Health and Aging: Conversations from the Heart”
  Tori Weil, MSOL – Christian Health
• “Early Detection: Understanding Breast and Gynecological Cancers”
  Christy Morrissey, MD – Valley Health System

The event also features an interactive exhibit hour with local health, wellness, and fitness businesses, a buffet dinner, a chair yoga demonstration from Fountain Fitness Center in Ramsey, and an exciting raffle. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit four local nonprofits: Spring Lake Hope Foundation, Healing the Children, The Arnold P. Gold Foundation, and the Ridgewood YMCA.

Tickets are $45 in advance and $55 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit:
https://events.wainscotmedia.com/2025-bergen-womens-health-experience-tickets
The Bergen Women’s Health Experience is presented by Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, Christian Health, The Valley Hospital, and Bergen magazine. Bergen magazine is published by Wainscot Media, a leading national creator of consumer and business-to-business magazines, digital media, live events, and custom content.

 

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17) Celebrate Asian American and

Pacific Islander Heritage Month

at Brooklyn Children's Museum!

Throughout May, Brooklyn Children’s Museum will celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with a dynamic series of weekly cultural programs. These special events will take place every Thursday at 3:00 pm during the Museum's free Community Access Thursday hours, offering families an opportunity to explore the rich diversity of AAPI cultures through performances, storytelling, crafts, and culinary experiences.

Children, families, and caregivers of all backgrounds can come honor their Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage or learn about that of their neighbors through engaging performances, stories, arts and crafts, and cooking activities.

Thursday, May 1 @ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Storytime with Michele Wong McSween

Meet author Michele Wong McSween and join this interactive bilingual reading of Gordon & Li Li: All About Me, an adorable bilingual book where little ones discover their heads, shoulder, knees, toes, and more! The playful illustrations encourage little ones to point to or act out their body parts as they read and recite the words in English and Mandarin.

Thursday, May 8 @ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Storytime with Ran Wei

Join author Ran Wei Baker of Boba Bear Bilingual Books for a bilingual, English-Chinese storytime! Enjoy a reading of 123 NYC with Boba Bear (123 八包熊去纽约玩), sing along to bilingual songs, and create a fun craft inspired by Boba Bear’s own NYC adventure.

Thursday, May 15 @ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Dance with Ajna Dance Company
Explore Indian classical dance and learn expressive hand gestures with Ajna Dance Company. Try out movements that tell stories without using words, play games that teach unity and kindness, and discover how dance can share powerful messages.

Thursday, May 22 @ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Dumpling Making with Christine Wong
Join author and plant-based chef Christine Wong for an East Asian-style dumpling making workshop. Participants will learn how to roll the dumpling wrappers and fold them in different ways using dough. Then, get a taste of Chef Wong’s own delicious handmade veggie dumplings right after!

Thursday, May 29 @ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Mulan with New York Chinese Cultural Center

Watch (and join!) performers from the New York Chinese Cultural Center as they bring the story of Mulan to life. Enjoy exciting dance and kung fu demonstrations, then participate in a hands-on movement lesson after the show.

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18) The Holi Celebration Continues at Brooklyn Children’s Museum on Saturday, May 3!

NYC’s largest family Holi event returns with dance, color powder, food, and family fun 

On Saturday, May 3, Brooklyn Children’s Museum (BCM) invites families to continue the celebration of Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival of color, with a full day of dance, art, food, and play. Co-presented with Ajna Dance Company and The Culture Tree, this annual tradition has become BCM’s most popular event, attracting thousands of visitors across the Tri-state area each year.

Also known as the “Color Festival,” Holi originated in India and is now celebrated around the world as a joyful expression of spring, renewal, love, and the triumph of good over evil. At BCM, Celebrate Holi brings these traditions to life through hands-on cultural activities and spectacular color powder play in neighboring Brower Park.

Celebrate Holi will take place across three timed sessions:

• 10:00 am – 12:30 pm

• 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm

• 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Each session features the same line-up of activities and culminates in an exhilarating color powder celebration. Families are encouraged to wear white for maximum color-powder impact and to purchase powder in advance.

This year’s festival highlights include:

• Live Bollywood performances by Ajna Dance Company, plus interactive workshops that give visitors the chance to learn some moves of their own.

• Food workshops with The Culture Tree where children can make and taste thandai, a traditional Indian cold drink.
  
  

• Interactive puppet shows by WonderSpark Puppets, bringing the story of Holi to life with humor and imagination.
  
  

• Delicious bites from beloved NYC food vendors, including:
  • Malai Ice Cream – small-batch South Asian-inspired treats
  • TAGMO – modern Indian sweets and savory bites
  • Veeray da Dhaba – traditional Punjabi street food
  
  

• Shopping from vendors such as Desai Designs and Kulture Khazana, offering artful crafts and goods inspired by Indian heritage.
  
  

• Creative workshops in BCM’s ColorLab art studio and Nature’s Engineers STEM makerspace:
  • Design your own pichkari (a playful paper water blaster)!
  • Explore the science of plant-based pigments and make your own natural paint.

Celebrate Holi will take place on Saturday, May 3 starting at 10:00 am. Tickets are $15 for general admission and grant access to all of the day’s programs. Tickets are free for children under one year-old. To purchase tickets, visit: www.brooklynkids.org/holi.

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19) EMURSIVE

                                                               ANNOUNCES                                                                     

FIVE NEW SPRING EVENTS

AT CONWELL TOWER

IN THE HEART OF THE FINANCIAL DISTRICT

 

WITH GUEST SPEAKERS INCLUDING

ARCHITECT BJARKE INGELS

INTERNATIONAL DANCER INGRID KAPTEYN

CHOREOGRAPHER TONY BORDONARO

TONY AWARD® NOMINATED JEFF AND RICK KUPERMAN

AND ARTIST AND WRITER CHLOÉ VALDARY

Emursive, the producers behind Sleep No More, are pleased to announce five new Spring events, including two new Unlocked Speaker Series, Artist Talks, and the inaugural Life and Trust Book Club on Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. All events are held in Conwell Tower at the home of Life And Trust, a world of money, sex, and power unfolding in the heart of New York’s Financial District.

 

Continuing the popular free-to-the-public Unlocked Speaker Series, artist, writer, and founder Chloé Valdary and architect, founder and creative director Bjakre Ingels will join Emursive’s Chief Storyteller Ilana Gilovich on Tuesday, May 6 and Tuesday, May 27, respectively. To RSVP for these free events, are available at www.lifeandtrustnyc.com/about/#unlocked-speaker-series.

Held within the evocative atmosphere of Conwell Coffee Hall— home to Life And Trust‘s many subterranean vaults— Unlocked is a series of intimate conversations about creators and the passions that power them. Since starting in September 2024, the Unlocked Speaker Series has offered intimate conversations at Conwell Tower with renowed artists in their fields, including New York Times-bestselling author Roxane Gay, documentarian Jon Ronson, film and television director Nanette Burstein and film and television producer and writer Jameel Saleem.

 

In a new series, titled Artist Talks, Conwell Coffee Hall will welcome fifteen guests to participate in an intimate discussion with Ilana Gilovich. On Tuesday, April 15, two veteran Emursive performers Ingrid Kapteyn (Sleep No More New York, Sleep No More Shanghai, The Burnt City) and Tony Bordonaro (Sleep No More New York, Sleep No More Shanghai, Life And Trust) will discuss their new piece, SUBJECT, called “a terrifying, magnificently executed sci-fi with humanity at its deepest core” (Bodies Never Lie), that begs the question: what would you give up for a new beginning?

On Tuesday, May 13, fifteen guests will be invited into Conwell Tower to participate in a facilitated book discussion on Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray. In the Life and Trust Book Club, guests will explore a canonical piece of literature, draw connections to the world of Life And Trust, and share elements of their journeys inside Conwell Tower. Those who purchase tickets will receive complimentary drinks and snacks during the discussion.

 

Tickets and more details on these events can be found at www.lifeandtrustnyc.com.

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

20) CUNY Dance Initiative

Announces May Performances

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 May 2025.

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 run through June 30, 2025, with public performances in May by Michael Greenberg, Juan Usera y La Tribu del Juey Sambuco, and Dancers Unlimited (details below).

Michael Greenberg

Intuitive Imprints: an exploration of sense and memory

Saturday, May 3 at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Cohen Library at City College of New York (West Harlem)

Free with RSVP

Citycollegecenterforthearts.org

Choreographer and dancer Michael Greenberg creates a site-specific work for City College’s soaring Cohen Library. Intuitive Imprints delves into the subconscious pathways between physical sensation and recollection. Dancers embody fleeting impressions—both personal and collective—creating a layered landscape of touch, presence, and resonance.

Juan Usera y La Tribu del Juey Sambuco (The Sambuco Tribe)

Caribeando

Saturday, May 10 at 2:00 p.m.

Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture (Bronx)

$12 general / $10 senior / $5 youth

hostos.cuny.edu/culturearts/

Juan Usera y La Tribu del Juey (The Sambuco Tribe) celebrate the Caribbean in an all-ages show that combines music, dance, and storytelling. Caribeando features traditional Caribbean rhythms and dances such as bomba, plena, guaracha, jazz, and changüí, including present-day variations like bomba-reggaeton, all of which trace their origins back to West Africa. The event will showcase choreographed dances as well as traditional solo and couple performances, offering a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture and its rich artistic heritage.

Dancers Unlimited

REST (studio showing)

Saturday, May 17 at 2:00 p.m.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden (Staten Island)

$10 general / $8 members

snug-harbor.org/event/pass-edible-tales-rest-by-dancers-unlimited/

Dancers Unlimited concludes their month-long CUNY Dance Initiative residency at Snug Harbor with a studio showing of Edible Tales: REST. Inspired by Tricia Hersey’s Rest is Resistance, Dancers Unlimited explores ideas centering rest as a radical act of liberation. Dancers Unlimited centers community engagement as a key part of their creative process, and this interactive work offers rest through sound, movement, and collective care. This residency is a collaboration between the College of Staten Island and Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden.

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Courtesy of Alton PR

21) Emerging Artists Theatre Now Accepting Submissions for their Fall Spark Theatre Festival NYC

Fall Festival Will Now Feature Two Categories of Workshopped Productions and Fully Produced New Work

Application deadline is June 2, 2025

Emerging Artists Theatre (EAT) is seeking submissions for their Fall Spark Theatre Festival NYC. The festival is scheduled to run from September 8 through September 28, 2024, at 312 West 36th Street, in midtown Manhattan. EAT is excited to announce that the upcoming festival will now be broken into two categories: workshop productions and fully developed new work. Additionally, some productions may be given more than one performance slot.

Submissions of short plays, musicals, solo performances, dance, cabaret, sketch comedy, jazz, burlesque, monologues, storytelling, and subway musicians/acts are now being accepted. If you have an artistic discipline that isn’t mentioned or is “out of the box,” please feel free to submit. 

Spark Theatre Festival NYC showcases polished works-in-progress. Many of the pieces showcased at the festival are being presented to an audience for the first time. Each participant is given the option to conduct a talkback following their performance, during which they may ask the audience for feedback on their work.

Artists showcase their works-in-progress, whether as a staged reading or an off-book presentation. Shows run nightly Monday through Friday at 7 pm, and Saturday and Sundays at 2 pm, 5 pm and 7 pm. If you are submitting a short piece, you will be paired with another play or dance piece to create a 60-minute show slot.

Submissions must be a minimum of 5 minutes for dance pieces and monologues. Productions may not be performed 3 months prior to or a month after the Spark Theatre Festival NYC.

To submit a new work, please visit https://emergingartiststheatre.org/spark

The deadline for submissions is midnight (EST) June  2, 2025. Participants will be notified on a rolling basis starting in mid-January. There are no submission or festival fees, and participants receive a 50/50 box-office split when the required audience guarantee of 1 ticket per minute of performance is met. Past artists who have packed the house have earned between $300 and $900 for a 30-minute to 1-hour presentation. 

Application and submission guidelines are available at https://emergingartiststheatre.org/submissions

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22) In Scena! Italian Theater Festival NY Announces Venues and Performance Schedule for 2025 Festival

 

May 5-19 in All Five Boroughs of NYC 

The New York City-based Kairos Italy Theater along with the Italy-based KIT Italia and Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò at NYU will present the 12th season of the In Scena! Italian Theater Festival NY, New York City’s premiere festival of Italian theater taking place in all five boroughs of NYC, May 5-19. Venues for the 2025 festival include Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU (24 W 12th St, New York, NY 10011), The Rat NYC (68-117 Jay St, Brooklyn, NY 11201), BAAD (2474 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10461), Culture Lab LIC (5-25 46th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101), Calandra Institute (25 W 43rd St Suite 1700, New York, NY 10036), NOoSPHERE Arts (520 Kingsland Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222), WOW Cafe Theater (59-61 E 4th St #4, New York, NY 10003), Casa Belvedere (79 Howard Ave, Staten Island, NY 10301), The Atelier at Theaterlab (357 W 36th St. 4th floor, New York, NY 10018), The Tank (312 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018) and the Italian Cultural Institute NY (686 Park Ave, NY, NY 10065). Admission to all shows and events in the festival is FREE, unless otherwise noted. All shows will be performed in Italian with English supertitles, unless otherwise noted. For more information and to reserve seats please visit www.inscenany.com.

In Scena also proudly announces playwright Marco de Simone as the winner of the 2025 In Scena! Playwright Award (formerly the Mario Fratti Award) with the play La Regola dei Terzi, the first edition of the Emerging Directors’ Mentorship in collaboration with the Tank NYC with emerging director Emma Denson, mentored by director Debora Balardini, and the 3rd edition of In Scena’s translation and adaptation mentorship in collaboration with Hystrio Scritture di Scena with playwright Chiara Arrigoni, mentored by playwright and actress Antoinette LaVecchia and translator Giulia Cowie. 

Each year In Scena! showcases some of the best Italian theater from Italy, in New York City. The festival features productions that have already toured in Italy as well as readings of Italian plays in translation, lectures, and exchanges between Italian and International artists. The goal is to promote greater awareness of Italian theater and Italian artists among New York City theatergoers, and to build a bridge between the artistic scenes in Italy and the US.

MATER FAMILIAS by Pier Lorenzo Pisano (2015 Mario Fratti Award-winner)

Translated by Carlotta Brentan, Directed by Emma Denson

First edition of the Emerging Directors’ Mentorship

Over the years, In Scena! Italian Theater Festival NY has proudly presented the staged production of plays that have won the Mario Fratti Award, now known as the In Scena! Playwright Award. As part of the commitment to fostering artistic growth, In Scena!, in collaboration with The Tank, inaugurates a Mentorship in Directing offered to an emerging director. The selected director will have the opportunity to direct a play chosen from among the winners of the In Scena! Playwright Award, while receiving mentorship from a seasoned director and an experienced producer/stage manager. Mater Familias is the story of three generations through increasingly difficult times, as they sometimes help each other, and sometimes clash in order to survive. A powerful drama with exact dialogue and sharply drawn relationships, it begins with a mother and son’s desperate need to commit a crime. 

Sun May 4 at 3pm; Sun May 4 at 9:30pm; Thu May 8 at 7pm; Sun May 11 at 7pm; Thu May 15 at 9:30pm; Sun May 18 at 7pm @ The Tank Tickets: $20-$30

OPENING NIGHT

Mon May 5 at 6:30pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU 

Presentation of the 2025 festival including a performance of Lampedusa Beach.

LAMPEDUSA BEACH
Written & Directed by Lina Prosa, Performed by Nadia Kibout and Daniele Onorati
Shauba, a young African woman, recounts her difficult experience: the dreams and hopes that led her to face a long and dangerous journey that were shattered off the coast of Lampedusa. Nadia Kibout presents a solo show on migration accompanied by the soundscapes of Maestro Daniele Onorati and his oodoo, very special ceramic musical instruments. 

Mon May 5 at 7:15pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU; Tue May 6 at 6pm @ Calandra Institute Running Time: 50 min

ALFREDINO, ITALY IN A DEEP WELL 

(ALFREDINO. L'ITALIA IN FONDO A UN POZZO)

Written & Performed by Fabio Banfo, Directed by Serena Piazza

Presented by Centro Teatrale MaMiMò

On the evening of June 10, 1981 six year old Alfredo (Alfredino) Rampi fell 36 meters deep into a well in Vermicino, a village near Rome. In the next 35 hours, Italy was glued to the TV watching the first non-stop live broadcast to cover the attempt to save him. It was a turning point in the history of Italian TV, which is still studied in journalism schools and where the modern sensationalist way of dealing with news was born.  Best Direction Fersen Award 2021, Best Show and Best Dramaturgy Doit Festival Rome 2017. Tue May 6 at 6pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU; Thu May 8 at 7:30pm @ The Rat NYC Running Time: 60 min

IN THE NAME OF MARY (NEL NOME DI MARIA)

Written and Directed by Chiara Gambino, Original Music Domenico Gargano

Performed by Chiara Gambino and Alba Sofia Vella

The show is inspired by and rewrites a mafia story that occurred in Palermo on November 14 1982 and which led to the death of the young Sicilian policeman Calogero Zucchetto,  who in that period was working with the Palermo Mobile Squad in the search for mafia affiliates. The point of view of the show is the one of his girlfriend Maria Lo Bello, tormented in the years following the loss by the question: “Could it have gone differently?". For the entire duration of the show, the protagonist responds unaware to this question, with a true and ironic, fragile and disenchanted stream of consciousness, recounting the meeting and pursuing the love that led her to get engaged to Calogero (Lillo for his friends) Zucchetto. Mauro Rostagno Award 2021 for Best Script and Best Actress - DaSud special award for the fight against mafias, Last Summer Moon Festival 2021, Special Mention Città Laboratorio 2021, Franco Delivery Official Selection 2020, Official Selection Catania Fringe 2022.

Tue May 6 at 8pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU; Sun May 11 at 7pm @ Culture Lab LIC Running Time: 55 min

Reading of PELLE 

Written by Chiara Arrigoni, translated by Giulia Cowie

Mentored by Antoinette La Vecchia

A secret passed down through generations binds a mother and her daughters in a visceral way.

Pelle is part of the 3rd edition of In Scena’s translation and adaptation mentorship, presented in collaboration with Hystrio Scritture di Scena. Since 2023, In Scena! Italian Theater Festival  had collaborated with the Hystrio Award – Scritture di Scena, one of the most prestigious theater awards in Italy, to mentor a playwright on the play’s translation and adaptation. The winning playwright travels to New York to work with a local playwright and a translator on the English adaptation of their play.

May 9 at 5:30pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo

THE POPESS: INSTRUCTIONS FOR FREEDOM
Written & Performed by Elena Mazzon, Directed by Colin Watkeys

Italy 13th Century – the Guglielmites heretical sect causes havoc in Milan. Their leader, Guglielma of Bohemia, believed to be the second coming of the Holy Spirit, appoints Sister Maifreda, as her Popess. and together heralds a new female-led era, where only women could save humanity from eternal suffering. It did not take long for the inquisition to find out about the congregation and its beliefs. The Popess is a dark comedy solo-show, which unravels the mystery of a true early feminist movement in the Italian misogynistic religious history, investigating the discrepancies between religion, faith and power and, ultimately, the meaning of freedom. Official Selection 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 

Fri May 9 at 8pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU; Sat May 10 at 7pm @ Culture Lab LIC Performed in English Running Time: 55 min

MY MAMA NOTARIZES & ALSO MAKES RISOTTO

(MIA MAMMA FA IL NOTAIO, MA ANCHE IL RISOTTO)

Written & Performed by Filippo Capobianco

Produced by Teatro Pubblico Ligure

Presented in collaboration with Dominio Pubblico

"Mia mamma fa il notaio, ma anche il risotto" is the first show by the 2023 Poetry Slam world champion Filippo Capobianco. The performance combines the languages ​​of Teatro Canzone (an expressive genre related to theatricality, speech and music, consisting of alternating songs and monologues or, more precisely, sung and acted parts) and performance poetry in a narrative that tells the coming-of-age story of a Generation Z boy in search of his own voice in a world that he will only gradually understand. Moscerino doesn't know how to talk to his mother and there's no way his mother, an important and always busy notary, would talk to him. The desire to communicate, in every way and by every means, accompanies him over the years, from story to story. Poetry is the last key to allow Moscerino and his mother to finally look each other in the eyes. Winner of the FringeMi Festival 2024. 

Sun May 11 at 3pm @ Culture Lab LIC; Mon May 12 at 8pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU Performed in English and Italian Running time: 50 min

THE PERKY THERESAS (LE VISPE TERESE)

Written & Performed by Alessio Piazza

The author retraces his childhood through the stories of three aunts, conversing with them in the places and with the words that emerge from memories, and which merge with the personal memories of the spectators. A story of a family told with modesty by one of the family’s members where places, facts and people are a mixture of reality and fantasy, between personal anecdotes and others told or heard from other family stories. Inspired by the literary atmospheres of the book "Family Lexicon (Lessico Famigliare)" by Natalia Ginzburg and the cinematographic atmospheres of the iconic movie "The Family (La Famiglia)" by Ettore Scola.  Mon May 12 at 6pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU; Tue May 13 at 7pm @ Casa Belvedere Running Time: 60 min

SIX CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF AN AUTHOR
by Luigi Pirandello, Adapted and Directed by Nick Gabriel, Stage Manager Kevin Wang

Performed by Meridian Anastasia, Sophia Chacon, Feras Halabi, Finn Mackimmie, Isabella Kaplan, Michael Reese Shald, Sam Trott, Kevin Wang 

This original adaptation of Luigi Pirandello’s Six Characters in Search of an Author was conceived by author and director Nick Gabriel at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and further developed in response to the #metoo movement. Gabriel has recreated a version of this metatheatrical, Existentialist classic that is faithful to Pirandello’s original vision, while contemporizing the circumstances to reflect the current cultural zeitgeist. 

Wed May 14 at 7:30pm @ Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimo’ at NYU; Sat May 17 at 5:30pm @  NOoSPHERE Arts Performed in English Running time: 75 min.

AMARA SAPIENZA To my mother

Written & Directed by Giulia Bocciero

Performed by Giulia Bocciero & Alice Camoriano

A performance that explores the work and life of Italian writer and actress Goliarda Sapienza starting from the mother-daughter relationship. The scene is a paper corridor inhabited by two women: while one performer embodies real and fictitious figures from the Sicilian author's universe, the other transcribes Sapienza’s poem To my mother by hand. Daughter of anarchists, Goliarda Sapienza (1924-1996) lived intensely without ever aligning herself with the culture of her time. Her childhood in Sicily, the exile, the theater and cinematographic career, fascism, psychoanalysis, imprisonment, homosexual love, the oblivion caused by the lack of recognition of her works in life are pieces that fit into the discourse and, intermittently, appear as if evoked, bringing with them encounters, thoughts and sensations. Finalist at the International LGBTQ+ Dramaturgy Award Carlo Annoni 2024. Thu May 15 at 7pm @ The Atelier at Theaterlab; Fri May 16 at 7:30pm @ BAAD Running Time: 50 min

LIKE AN OCTOPUS IN A GUITAR (COME UN POLPO NELLA CHITARRA)

Written by Marco Ziello, Directed by Licia Amarante and Marco Ziello

Performed by Annachiara Castorino, Gerardo D'Amato, Francesco Del Gaudio, Sabrina La Regina, Paola Santamaria & Marco Ziello

Presented by ON Teatro Formazione Cultura

When the protagonist of "Like an Octopus in a Guitar" decides he no longer wants to leave the house, he develops an obsession with Death and begins to spend his days imagining his funeral. A funny and absurd journey inside the mind of an individual who is slowly losing his memories, where the actors' bodies become a metaphor and instrument for remembering. In this suspended world, in which even the names of the characters have been forgotten, dream and reality merge to tell the story of a man's internal battle. A battle between the desire to heal and the temptation to remain, forever, playing with Death. Best Drama 2024 at Roma Comic OFF. Sat May 17 at 8pm @ NOoSPHERE Arts; Sun May 18 at 4pm @ WOW Cafe Theater Running Time: 70 min

CLOSING NIGHT AND IN SCENA! PLAYWRIGHT 2025 AWARD CEREMONY 

Mon May 19 at 6pm @ Italian Institute of Culture of New York 

With a reading of the English translation of La regola dei Terzi by Marco de Simone, translated by Caterina Nonis, winner of the 2025 In Scena! Playwright Award (formerly the Mario Fratti Award). 

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

23) EPIC Players Theatre

presents

Lights, Camera, Cabaret: A Neuro Inclusive Celebration of Hollywood’s Hit Music

at Dynasty Typewriter

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

EPIC Players Theatre, LA’s Premiere Neurodiverse Theater Company, presents Lights, Camera, Cabaret: A Neuro Inclusive Celebration of Hollywood’s Hit Music on April 30, 2025 at 7:30pm (Doors at 6:45pm) at Dynasty Typewriter, 2511 Wilshire Blvd, LA. Tickets are $35 / $50 for VIP which includes front row seating and complimentary popcorn. Come in your best red carpet attire! Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.squadup.com/events/lights-camera-cabaret-a-neuro-inclusive-celebration-of-hollywoods-hit-music.

Join the EPIC Players as they take the stage at Dynasty Typewriter for a neuro-inclusive celebration of legendary Hollywood songs. From iconic movie musicals to timeless soundtracks, this cabaret will honor the music that has defined and shaped the movies we love. Our EPIC performers will share the stage with incredible guest artists, including Barry Pearl (Grease & Broadway veteran) and Trent Mills (The Play That Goes Wrong, Little America, Tower of God), bringing you an unforgettable night filled with incredible talent and pure movie magic.

EPIC Players Cast: Kennedy Areffi, Bowe Avery, Nayeli Benitez, Amanda Castrillo, Dovia Charles, Luna Floerke, Michelle Jace, Jacki Jing, Garrett Lees, Lex Levy, Bella Zoe Martinez, Devin Morrissey, Rebecca Faith Quinn, Abbey Romeo, Harry Schantz, Abe Shapiro, Ana Sharp, Nikolay Sharp, George Steeves, Alexandra Tamplin, Verity Van Dams, Phineas Wilder

“EPIC is an incredibly supportive environment to work in, not only because EPIC is dedicated to accommodating the access needs of their company members, but also because of the community EPIC has fostered. It is really powerful to be in a rehearsal room with castmates and creatives who have genuine respect for one another’s artistry and needs for equitable access to [participate] in rehearsal.”- EPIC Player Sydney Kurland, as told to The Hollywood Reporter

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Courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

24) THE JACKIE FACTORY PRESENTS

NIGHT OF 1000 STEVIES 33

DANCES OF RHIANNON

IRVING PLAZA NYC

TICKETS $50 +TKT FEE

SATURDAY May 3, 2025

DOORS 8 PM, SHOWS BEGIN 9 PM

1000stevies.com/nots-33-dances-of-rhiannon

NIGHT OF 1000 STEVIES – the largest and most beloved STEVIE NICKS fan event in the world – returns for its 33rd annual edition on May 3. NIGHT OF 1000 STEVIES 33 is produced by show founders CHI CHI VALENTI and JOHNNY DYNELL and their creative krewe at THE JACKIE FACTORY. Neither a contest nor a karaoke show, NOTS is the ultimate Stevie Nicks celebration – a riot of shawls, lace, baby’s breath, twirling, tambourines and great performance.

This year's theme DANCES OF RHIANNON highlights Stevie's lifelong passion for dance and her signature stage moves. She was dubbed the "rock and roll ballerina" when she appeared in toe shoes and ballet poses on her early record covers like Fleetwood Mac's Rumours. Her love of movement birthed Nicksian classics like the "Stevie Twirl", marching high kick and interpretive "Gold Dust" dance that fans adore.

NOTS 33 will feature performances by iconic show stars and new discoveries in three Acts. Well known to our audiences are Irish songbird VIKKI MARTIN of Dublin’s STANDBACK Stevie tribute, “Rock and Realness” favorites MARYANNE PICCOLO and MIKE GREKO, butoh dance pioneer VANGELINE, Boston area chanteuse and tribute producer NIKI LUPARELLI, dancer/choreographer DANIELLE MARIE FUSCO "The American Strega", Welsh-born singer and songwriter BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT and choreographer/ dance star JMV (JUST MY VIBE.)

This year's NOTS debuts have just been announced: "Disco Witch" LEXXE, Scottish actor and singer ANTONY CHERRIE, Stevie Tribute artist RHIANNON UK from Wales, dramatic classically trained singer KRYSTOFER MAISON and the NYC debut of silk artist and burlesque producer EDDIE LOCKWOOD (New Orleans). The audience is invited to hone their moves before and between sets to the all Stevie/Fleetwood dance floor with DJ SAMMY JO and TOMMIE SUNSHINE.

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Courtesy of Nicholas & Lence

25) Mamma Mia/ABBA Themed 

Special Brunch Event on Mother's Day

Hosted by Ellen's Stardust Diner

Sunday, May 11 from 11am to 1pm

In anticipation for Mamma Mia! The Musical returning to Broadway this summer, this special event will be located at The Iridium (1650 Broadway – right underneath the Diner) and will feature live, show-stopping ABBA performances from Ellen’s Stardust Diner’s world-famous singing waitstaff (aka “Stardusters”), many of whom have been on Broadway, Off Broadway and TV, and two hours of brunch bliss, featuring your choice of an entrée and bottomless mimosas.

 

The brunch menu includes themed dishes such as Gimme Gimme Chicken & Waffles, Voulez Vous Vegan Parfait, Super Trouper Short Stack, among others. Themed cocktails include Our Last Summer Sangria, Mamma Mia Mimosa, Lay All Your Love On Me Bellini, and Take a Chance on Me Bloody Mary. The full “Mamma Mia Mother’s Day Brunch” menu is included below my signature for more.  

 

This ticketed event starts at $50 per person (which includes entry, entrée, and soda/juice/tea/coffee) – plus tax and tip. Or $75 per person (which includes everything above plus unlimited mimosas for up to two hours), plus tax and tip.

 

To purchase tickets, visit here.

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26) Margaret Mead Film Festival

at

American Museum of Natural History

Central Park W. & 79th St.

Friday, May 2 – Sunday, May 4
The 2025 Margaret Mead Film Festival—a showcase for thoughtful contemporary cultural storytelling—will return to the Museum this spring, screening an outstanding lineup of international documentaries from Friday, May 2, through Sunday, May 4. The weekend-long, cinematic celebration of diverse voices and perspectives from around the world invites participants to explore the rich, vibrant tapestry that is our shared human experience. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.amnh.org/explore/margaret-mead-festival

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27) MASTERVOICES VOICES presents

Bach Reframed: The B Minor Mass, with New Texts and Visuals by Commissioned Artists Bach Reframed: The B Minor Mass (Preview Performance) Monday, May 5, 2025, 7:30 pm The Great Hall at The Cooper Union, located in The Foundation Building. 7 East 7th Street MasterVoices Chorus Ted Sperling, director and conductor Tickets, available on a Choose-What-You-Pay basis, may be purchased online at mastervoices.org.    Since the original setting of the B Minor Mass comprises very short Latin text snippets that repeat many times, Mr. Sperling’s vision is for a new approach to support Bach’s unparalleled music: using those repeated-text passages as opportunities to explore what the underlying sentiment (e.g., Lord, have mercy) might mean today. Have mercy on whom? Who might be asking this today?  In those passages, rather than repeating the snippets of the same text, the idea will be to bloom into either existing, current poems or writings and/or commission new writing that will expand on that mass text passage and scan perfectly with Bach’s music.

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28) Queens Theatre’s Latin Culture & Dance Fiesta Returns in May 2025 

Beloved Celebration of Latin Music, Dance, and Culture Returns with Performances by CEIBO, Señor Bolero, and Family-Friendly Film Screenings

Queens Theatre has announced the return of its highly anticipated Latin Culture & Dance Fiesta, a dynamic festival celebrating the rich heritage and artistic traditions of Latin America. This year’s exciting lineup brings together vibrant music, heartfelt storytelling, and cultural celebration through concerts, theater, and film screenings, offering something for everyone—from families to devoted fans of Latin arts.

The 2025 Latin Culture & Dance Fiesta will take place at Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park from Friday, May 2nd through Sunday, May 4th, featuring acclaimed Argentinean folkloric band CEIBO, the award-winning musical Señor Bolero, and Spanish-language screenings of two classic tales for children and families: The Emperor’s New Clothes and Rumpelstiltskin.

Tickets for the Latin Dance & Culture Festival start at $17, with discounts for senior citizens and students. To purchase, visit www.QueensTheatre.org.

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In Pennsylvania

Courtesy of Bucks County Playhouse

29) Bucks County Playhouse Launches Book Club Series:

PLAYHOUSE BOOKS IN THE BARN

Books Selections Are Themed With The 2025 Mainstage Productions

Bucks County Playhouse announced it will continue its new book club series, “Playhouse Books in the Barn,” with five additional meetings scheduled throughout 2025.

The series blends literature and theater, connecting selected books with productions in the Playhouse’s 2025 mainstage season. Held in the Playhouse barn, the events are designed to spark engaging conversation and build community around the arts.

Tickets are $20 per session and include light refreshments. A cash bar will also be available. Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

Book selections are curated in partnership with Playhouse staff and the Doylestown and Lahaska Bookshops. The goal is to inspire discussion related to the Playhouse’s current productions.

Books are not included in the ticket price. Participants may obtain their own copies or receive a 20% discount at the Lahaska Bookshop, 162A Route 263, Peddler’s Village, Lahaska.

The series kicked off March 5 with a sold-out discussion of “Run, Rose, Run” by James Patterson and Dolly Parton. The event featured special guest Marty Dodson, a Nashville-based songwriter and co-writer of the score for “Hard Road to Heaven,” the Playhouse’s season opener. Dodson has written 10 No. 1 hits, including Kenny Chesney’s “Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven” and Billy Currington’s “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right.” His songs have been recorded by more than 150 artists, including Blake Shelton, George Strait, Rascal Flatts and Carrie Underwood.

Upcoming book selections include:

• May 7 – “At the Edge of the Orchard” by Tracy Chevalier, paired with “The Apple Boys”

• June 25 – “But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” by Laura Flam, paired with “Leader of the Pack”

Tickets can be purchased by calling the Bucks County Playhouse box office at 215-862-2121 or visiting buckscountyplayhouse.org.

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Courtesy of Aversa PR

30) THE 8TH ANNUAL JIM THORPE INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH 90 WORLD CLASS FILMS, SUNDANCE AND SXSW PREMIERES, LIVE MUSIC, PARTIES, SURPRISE GUESTS AND MORE

2025 Theme, Jim Thorpe Loves Philly, highlights the raw talent and cultural richness of the region while showcasing feature films of national significance 

The 8th Annual Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival (JTIFF) returns May 1-4, 2025 with four unforgettable days of groundbreaking cinema, electrifying live music and unforgettable parties to the historic Victorian town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. This year's festival will feature 10 first-run feature films and 80 short films from across the globe - plus live performances, surprise guests, filmmaker Q&As and immersive art experiences. For marquee features, audiences will experience three 2025 SXSW world premieres, including a Special Jury Award winner. All three directors will travel from Los Angeles to present their films in person. For 2025, JTIFF leads with heart: the theme “Jim Thorpe Loves Philly” celebrates Pennsylvania’s largest city with a curated spotlight on the raw talent and cultural richness of the Greater Philadelphia region - from visionary filmmakers and beatmakers to ambient composers and visual artists - alongside feature films of national significance. This year’s program includes powerful new work from emerging and established filmmakers whose voices are reshaping the indie landscape. All events will be held at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, located at 14 West Broadway in downtown Jim Thorpe. Jim Thorpe is a short drive from major cities and regions including Philadelphia, New York City, the Lehigh Valley, the Poconos, and North Jersey - making it the perfect day trip destination full of small-town charm, indie spirit, mountain views, and artsy vibes. For tickets, festival passes, film descriptions, full schedule, lodging, and more, visit jimthorpeindiefilmfest dot com.

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Courtesy of Aversa PR

31) LINCOLN MILL HAUNTED HOUSE IS BACK WITH A BRAND NEW STAR WARS INSPIRED HAUNTED HOUSE - DARKNESS RISING DEBUTS ON MAY THE 4TH EVE 

This event is intended to be scary and features live scare-actors, production quality sets, animatronics, and special effects.

Philadelphia's scariest new story-driven haunted attraction is reopening its doors for a one-night only pop-up event on Saturday, May 3rd - the eve of National May the 4th Star Wars Day. Lincoln Mill Haunted House presents Darkness Rising, a Star Wars Inspired Haunted House. Galactic travellers who enter will experience a fusion of sci-fi and horror in an event intended to be scary with dozens of live scare-actors, production quality sets, animatronics and special effects. A long time ago, in a town not so far away, there was a textile mill with a hidden chamber below, sealed for over a century. When the seal was broken an unnatural presence spread through the mill, unleashing spirits that have long been trapped. The mill owner, Darth Kane, has risen and is searching for new souls to claim. All who dare to enter must navigate the hidden chamber, avoiding his vengeful workers and resist the suffocating pull of the Dark Side. Will you escape, or be consumed by the Dark Side? Star Wars fans are invited from across the Galaxy to 4100 Main Street in Manayunk for this all new experience at Lincoln Mill. Tours leave between 7:00pm and 9:00pm, with tickets only $32 per person or $47 for VIP. Tickets are on sale now at www dot lincolnmillhaun dot com.

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32) BRAUHAUS SCHMITZ PRESENTS THE 12TH ANNUAL MAIFEST SPRING FESTIVAL ON SOUTH STREET WITH GERMAN FOOD, BEER, MUSIC, DANCING AND FAMILY FUN

Brauhaus Schmitz presents the 12th Annual Maifest spring festival and block party on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11:00am to 8:00pm. Philadelphia's premiere German restaurant and beer hall will close down South Street at the 700 block for an all day, all ages celebration that will feature authentic German culture, live music, delicious food, and of course, plenty of beer! The festivities will include Pennsylvania's largest Maypole, performances by Die Heimatklange Band and United German Hungarian Dance group, Liter Lift Competition, Pig Roast, face painting, flower crowns, keg tapping, games and fun for the whole family. The all-day outdoor block party is no charge to attend, with food and drink pay as you go.  VIP tickets are also available for $100 and include food, drink and access to the Brauer Bund where you will find seating, private bathroom, an extensive German Food Buffet and TVs to catch sporting events of the day and the Kentucky Derby. For more information, visit www dot brauhausschmitz dot com or follow Brauhaus Schmitz on social media for event updates and announcements.

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Courtesy of Aversa PR

33) PHILADELPHIA MARKETPLACE KICKS OFF SPRING AT DILWORTH PARK WITH SIX WEEKS OF POP-UP MAKERS MARKETS - PLUS BRAND NEW VINTAGE MARKET 

Philadelphia Marketplace returns to Dilworth Park for the spring and early summer with a six week ultimate artist showcase. Come out and support a revolving line-up of small businesses from the Greater Philadelphia and tri-state region. Look for top artists and makers from May 2 to June 28, 2025, every Friday and Saturday, from Noon to 6:00pm. Look for handmade artwork, home goods, jewelry, and more. Alongside the lively fountains and the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink, this seasonal shopping experience offers something for everyone - whether you're searching for a unique gift or treating yourself to something special. Fan-favorite vendors like Fairy Greens, Cracked Bell, Harleysville Beekeeper and Kurious Stitches will return, plus many new vendors to introduce to shoppers. Organized by the team behind Christmas Village in Philadelphia in partnership with Center City District, this marketplace brings together a diverse mix of vendors, ensuring a fresh shopping experience each week. New this year, Philadelphia Marketplace will introduce a special "Vintage Marketplace" takeover on May 30-31 and June 27-28. These weekends will feature vendors specializing in vintage clothing, jewelry, trinkets, and more, alongside the usual Marketplace activities. Expect a curated selection of timeless treasures, complemented by the lively atmosphere of Dilworth Park. Philadelphia Marketplace and Vintage Marketplace are open to all with no charge to attend, with shopping pay-as-you-go. 

Spring means the return of the largest weekly outdoor marketplace in Center City. Philadelphia Marketplace consists of up to 20 vendors set up at Dilworth Park next to City Hall every weekend. Shoppers will experience a wide variety of unique craft vendors selling all kinds of crafts, wares, artworks, and more each week. See the list below for a sneak peak of vendors at Philadelphia Marketplace 2025 - with more to be announced: 

* 16 Hours Jewelry – fine jewelry with unique designs
* Art by Melanie – Art prints, tote bags, greeting cards and shirts with my art on them
* BK Ceramics – Handmade local ceramics
* Cracked Bell – Merchandise for Philadelphia
* Fairy Greens – Lavender bouquets, handcrafted candles, soaps, sprays and more
* Harleysville Beekeeper – Locally sourced honey from Harleysville Pa.
* Lily Fish Paintings and Prints – Paintings of portraits and small prints
* LuvOnFire Candle Co – Home fragrances and candles
* Petal to The Metal Decor – Art made with pressed fruit and flowers
* Serendipity Vintage – Womens clothing and accessories with a focus on 70s and 90s era pieces
* Shottiz by Lex – Unique sunglasses and eyeglasses for women, men, and children
* Unique Payne's Candle Creations – soy wax candles, jar candles, wax melts and gift sets
* B-Bop Vintage – Vintage clothing for women and men
* Blk Lotus Luv LLC – Non-toxic soy wax Energy Replenishing Candles with stones/crystals.
* Cutie Pies Jewelry – Handmade and vintage jewelry
* Delectable Cookies – Freshly baked New York style cookies.
* Kurious Stitches – Crocheted plushies
* Mintandbeige,LLC – Handmade jewelry, crochet hair accessories and handbags
* MohrDoesArt – Portraits of animals and pets, stickers, prints, keychains, and magnets
* Morgan Bloom Print Studio – Hand drawn, carved and printed prints, stickers, and tote bags.
* MrSpinner Inc – High quality 3D-printed toys & decor made in Bucks County PA
* Onsemiro Inc – Black garlic bulbs, sauce, powder, honey and puree, Black ginseng honey
* StayClassik – Varsity jackets, beanies/hats, socks, patches, tees and hoodies
* The Crochet Chick – Crochet bags, clutches, flowers, book and laptop covers, baskets etc.
* The Nail Fyles – Press on nails
* Uncle Dave's Cookies – Oversized, stuffed gourmet cookies, prepackaged.

Philadelphia Marketplace introduces the first-ever Vintage Marketplace: the weekends of May 30-31 and June 27-28 will spotlight vintage vendors featuring retro fashion, timeless jewelry, unique trinkets, and more. This special takeover will be part of the Philadelphia Marketplace experience, alongside the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink. Visitors can look forward to discovering treasures from vendors such as GARDEN Vintage, B-Bop Vintage, Oxy Bath and Cotton and Serendipity Vintage.

Stroll the vendors' individual shops and then take a spin on the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink. Dozens of businesses will set up their displays alongside the many wonderful activations and events organized by the Center City District. 

The Center City District is putting on a plethora of exciting events throughout the spring and summer season. From skating at the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink to zumba or boxing with Center City Fit to splashing around in the fountains, there is fun to be had for all members of the family! For more information regarding Center City District sponsored events and activities at Dilworth Park, visit centercityphila dot org/parks/events

GENERAL INFORMATION AND CONNECT 

Philadelphia Marketplace weekends will continue to take place on Friday and Saturdays. This schedule allows downtown workers to stop by after work and gives weekend visitors the perfect opportunity to explore a rotating selection of local vendors.  

Philadelphia Marketplace is a perfect weekend activity in the heart of the City of Brotherly Love for groups and individuals of all ages. Get your shopping on and let the summer festivities begin! Save the date to celebrate the first warm spring days in Philadelphia. Visit www dot madeinphila dot com to get more information and connect on social media (@philaholidays on Instagram and @madeinphila on Facebook).

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION 

May 2 to June 28, 2025
First Weekend in May: Friday, May 2, 2025 and Saturday, May 3, 2025
Last Weekend in June: Friday, June 27, 2025 and Saturday, June 28, 2025
Fridays and Saturdays: 12:00pm to 6:00pm

Dilworth Park at the West Side of City Hall Philadelphia
1 S 15th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19102

Admission to the Philadelphia Marketplace is no charge. This event is family and fido friendly. Food, drink and gifts are pay-as-you-go. Vendors looking to join Philadelphia Marketplace can fill out the “Interested in Becoming a Vendor” form on madeinphila.com.

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Courtesy of Aversa PR

34) First Critically Endangered Galapagos Tortoises to Ever Hatch at Philadelphia Zoo Make Highly-Anticipated Public Debut, Invites Public to Help Choose Names

The four hatchlings, the first of the Zoo’s oldest residents Mommy and Abrazzo, are part of the Species Survival Plan to protect endangered species

Philadelphia Zoo is thrilled to share that its four critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings have made their public debut inside the Reptile and Amphibian House as excited guests, Zoo members, staff and volunteers witnessed the historic moment. The females, each about the size of a tennis ball, are thriving, exploring their new habitat, and growing appropriately. The hatchlings’ parents, female Mommy and male Abrazzo, are the Zoo’s two oldest animals, each estimated to be around 100 years old. Their debut comes on the same day Mommy arrived at the Zoo 93 years ago on April 23, 1932.

To celebrate this conservation achievement, the Zoo is asking for the public’s help to choose names for the babies. The groups of names, chosen by Zoo staff, feature different themes from conservation to Philadelphia and pop culture, include:

·        Prominent female herpetologists: Mary, Joan, Grace and Hellen (Mary Cynthia Dickerson, Joan Beauchamp Proctor, Grace Olive Wiley, Helen Thompson Gaige)
·        Celebrating Philadelphia: Liberty, Independence (Indy for short), Betsy and Belle
·        For these future Golden Girls: Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sophia
·        “In West Philadelphia born and raised” for The Fresh Prince of Bel Air: Aunt Viv, Willie, Jazz and Avery

Fans are encouraged to choose their favorite group of names at philadelphiazoo dot org/babytortoises. Voting opens Wednesday, April 23 and will remain open through 11:59pm Sunday, April 27. The winner will be announced on the Zoo’s social media channels on Monday, April 28.

In addition to choosing names, the Zoo is also auctioning off a one-of-a-kind painting made by the hatchlings. To create it, the babies walked across a canvas with non-toxic paint on their feet. Every dollar donated is an entry to win. The money raised in this auction will go toward the Zoo’s conservation fund. The auction begins Wednesday, April 23 and closes at 11:59pm on Sunday, April 27. Visit philadelphiazoo.org/babytortoises for more.

Also in celebration of the hatchlings’ debut, the Zoo has designed t-shirts to support their care. The three designs are based off of photos taken of the baby tortoises and Mommy. Slogans include “Never Too Late,” “Saving Species Since 1859,” and “Live Long and Grow a Thick Shell.” Part of the proceeds will go to the Zoo’s animal care fund. T-shirts can be purchased at philadelphiazoo.org/babytortoises.

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

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