Memphis If you like blues and rock n roll combined with a heartbreaking but still funny story, this is exactly the kind of musical you will love. The story is set in Memphis during the 1950s and follows the life of Huey Calhoun (Chad Kimball), a white radio DJ and “the music of his soul” played by black people. This leads to several problems, as due to racial segregation white people don’t approve this kind of music. When Huey falls in love with a black singer, Felicia Farrell (Montego Glover), their struggle for acceptance and whether or not their love will survive in a world full of racial hate become a major topic of this musical. Felicia Farrell and Chad Kimball are so terrific that they will win you over within the first few minutes. But also the rest of the cast is definitely worth mentioning as they deliver a perfect performance that is so powerful it will make you want to sing and dance along. This musical will move you in ways words can’t describe. For more information visit www.memphisthemusical.com Come Fly Away Frank Sinatra himself would have loved this show. Although this show only uses dance to tell the story of four couples and their up and downs, it will make you cry, laugh and dream more than some plays could. Extremely talented dancers and great choreographies make this show unforgettable and will take you to another world full of romance and passion. Come Fly away features some of Sinatra’s most famous songs, including “Summer Wind,” “Fly Me To The Moon,” “My Way,” “New York, New York” and “I’ve Got The World On A String”. American Idiot If you like good rock music and moving stories all performed by a great cast of 19 people and a band of 8, this musical is right for you. All songs of Greenday’s acclaimed American Idiot album, but also some of their new songs from the 21st Century Breakdown album are featured in this amazing musical about the struggle of eight teenagers trying to find a meaning in their life. For more information visit www.americanidiotonbroadway.com Million Dollar Quartet Based on the true first-and-only encounter of rock 'n' roll legends Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins when they came together for a record session at Sun Records in Memphis on December 4, 1956, this musical will take you back to the days of great rock ’n’ roll. The entire cast convinces with an authentically, funny and dramatic performance that will capture you right from the start. Million Dollar Quartet features famous songs such as "Blue Suede Shoes," "Fever," "That's All Right," "Sixteen Tons," "Great Balls of Fire," "Walk the Line," "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On," "Who Do You Love?," "Matchbox," "Folsom Prison Blues," "Hound Dog" and many more. You wont be able to sit still. For more information visit www.milliondollarquartetlive.com Carl Barron Live Hilarious! That’s the first thing there is to say about Carl Baron’s new comedy show. If you like laughing until the point where you are about to cry, you have to see this show. The Australian impresses with his observational style of comedy and you will notice some of the things he talks about are things you’ve seen yourself. It’s amazing how he puts simple daily situations in a funny perspective and throws great punch lines at the audience. This comedy show will make you crack up. For more information on the comedian and his shows visit www.carlbarron.com Written by: Nicole Hofmann

More than 260 restaurants participate in NYC Restaurant Week, making it the City's largest dining program to date since it began in 1992. The two-week event will run from January 25 to February 28. Prices will remain $24.07 for three-course prix-fixe lunches and $35 for three-course prix-fixe dinners (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity) and do not include Saturdays (nor February 14); restaurants have the option to offer the deal on Sundays. Added elements to the dining program this season include exclusive benefits for American Express Cardmembers. Cardmembers who dine out three or more times at any participating restaurants during NYC Restaurant Week and use any registered American Express® Card can receive a $15 statement credit. Food enthusiasts also will be able to enter sweepstakes from Coca-Cola and JetBlue. Returning favorites this winter include The Sea Grill, City Hall Restaurant, db Bistro Moderne, Delmonico’s Steakhouse and Tribeca Grill (an NYC Restaurant Week participant since the program's first year). Newcomers this season include The Breslin Bar & Dining Room, SD26 Restaurant & Wine Bar, Todd English's Olives New York, Zé Café and The Libertine. NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2010 is produced by NYC & Company and supported by Founding Sponsor American Express and Participating Sponsors Coca-Cola and JetBlue Airways. NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2010 also will feature the Coca-Cola® Loves NYC Sweepstakes for a chance to win the grand prize of two tickets to a concert at Madison Square Garden®. Other prizes include dinner for two at the James Beard House and a table for four to see a show at Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola. For the second time, in partnership with NYC & Company, JetBlue Airways will offer a special NYC Restaurant Week promotion, JetBlue More to Love NYC Sweepstakes. Consumers can enter to win an NYC weekend for two: airfare for two, two nights in a luxury hotel and a meal at one of New York City’s fine dining establishments. For more details on how to enter and to view the complete set of rules on these offers from American Express, Coca-Cola and JetBlue Airways, visit nycgo.com/restaurantweek. Visit nycgo.com/restaurantweek to view the complete list of NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2010 participants and make reservations online.

Photo by Radio City Music Hall

As it was my first time to see the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular, I didn’t know what to expect, but had only heard about the marvelous, synchronized Rockettes and, of course, seen posters of their eye-level kicks on the Subway and all over New York City. And indeed, I was stunned by their perfect precision in the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “Let Christmas Shine,” wearing their shimmering showgirl outfits. It must be every girl’s dream to become one of the famous Rockettes, reminding me of a conversation I overheard between a little girl—who wanted to join the troupe on stage—and her mother, who told her that she could not go on stage even though, of course, she was a pretty little princess. Throughout the show, Santa takes you on a magical ride to his workshop at the North Pole and the Rockettes take you on a sightseeing bus trip through the city, including Central Park and its ice skaters as well as Times Square and its bright illuminated signs. Also worth mentioning is the striking reenactment of the first Christmas, telling the tale of the birth of Jesus and the wise men’s journey to Bethlehem; the “Living Nativity” featured real camels, sheep, and even a mule on the stage! Can you believe that? The Christmas Spectacular is a MUST SEE when you’re in the city around Christmas. It made me feel like a child again, giving me goose bumps and putting me in a joyful holiday mood. It’s not only great for families, but for EVERYONE who likes Christmas. “The Radio City Christmas Spectacular” continues through December 30th at Radio City Music Hall. For more information please call (212) 307-1000, or visit www.radiocity.com.Posted by Kathi Hartwecker
Continue reading "NEED SOMETHING TO HARNESS THAT HOLIDAY MOOD?..." »

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Starting November 22nd Tim Burton Art on Exhibit! Museum of Modern Art, 11 West 53rd Street (between 5th & 6th Avenue), 212-708-9400, www.moma.org

 

November 23rd thru Dec. 24th Get you holiday shopping list done at the Grand Central Holiday Gift Fair Grand Central Terminal, 42nd Street & Park Avenue, 212-340-2345, www.grandcentralterminal.com

Starting November 24th MET Annual Christmas Tree & Baroque Crèche Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Avenue @ 82nd Street, 212-535-7710, www.metmuseum.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 27th at 8 PM NYC Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker” Make Your Nutcracker Experience Even Sweeter By Choosing Sweet Seats. There is no sweeter way to enjoy the holidays than with a visit to George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™. This magical production has delighted millions since 1954 and remains the touchstone for celebrating the season in New York City. Once you see it, you will never forget it. Lincoln Center Plaza-NY State Theater, 20 Lincoln Center (62nd &63rd St. on Columbus Ave.), 212-870-5570, www.nycballet.com

 

November 27th at 6 PM South Street Seaport Tree Lighting Attend one of the first major tree lightings of the season and watch the 50-foot Douglas fir light up the cobblestone streets. Then your family can “Deck the Halls” at the docks as the Big Apple Chorus, a group of barbershop doo-woppers, harmonize holiday carols. All ages. Enjoy the Tree from November 27th at 6 PM through Sunday, December 27th. Big Apple Chorus performs every Fri at 6, 7pm; Sat, Sun at 3, 4pm. South Street Seaport, Fulton St at South St (212-732-7678, southstreetseaport.com). Subway: A, C to Broadway–Nassau St; J, M, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Fulton St.

Before going to see this show, I heard that Avenue Q won a Tony Award for “BEST MUSICAL” in 2004. In addition, I also heard that September 13 is the final performance of Avenue Q. Therefore, I was so excited to have the opportunity to see the show. I didn’t know much of what the show would be about so I didn’t have any expectations going into the theater. The show started off with a few puppets with people and they started to sing. I was a bit disappointed at first and thought this was a kid’s show. But I was gradually being absorbed into the storyline of the show. And I was laughing at the humor of the show and started to understand the show more and more. And then I started to remember a children’s program called “Sesame Street” and realized that Avenue Q is just like “Sesame Street” but it was for adults. And the story is meant for adults too and yet, I felt like I went back to my childhood because I was seeing a puppet show and I was laughing.

 

Princeton, the main character in the show, was looking for his purpose in his life. It was not that easy for him to find it, and his neighbors in Avenue Q were trying to help him to find his purpose. In the process of finding it out, he experienced many things. He fell in love with Kate and also broke up with her. After that, he met Lucy and things were going to be complicated as Kate saw her in his room, and he thought about his life again. Besides Princeton, everyone in Avenue Q was a main character. Kate who was looking for a boy friend, Jerry who was the landlord of their house, Gary, Nicky, Christmas Eve and so on, all of them have ambitions and dreams that they want for their life. Each character has their own song and all the songs were great. The music does really relate to everyone and their lifestyle. I will definitely listen to those songs again and reflect about what I want in my life too. Overall, the show was not a disappointment; I really enjoyed every laughing moment of Avenue Q. I am now sad to see that the show will be closing but I am so glad I didn’t miss it.

By Kaye Kim (Korea)

Here is the latest information in regards to Macy’s 4^th of July Fireworks on the Hudson, honoring the 400^th Anniversary of the Hudson River.

The fireworks may be viewed from any area with an unobstructed view of the sky above the Hudson River. For the best views, head to 12^th Avenue below 59^th Street at the following access points along 11^th Avenue:

Access Points

· 24^th Street

· 26^th through 30^th Streets

· 34^th Street

· 40^th through 44^th Streets

· 47^th through 52^nd Streets

· 54^th through 57^th Streets

Please note: There is very limited viewing North of 59^th Street on the West Side.

The following areas are NOT viewing areas for the 2009 Fireworks Show:

· East River (site of the 2008 show)

· Battery Park

· Battery Park City

· All Hudson River Piers (Except limited access to Pier 54 and pier 84)

· Hudson River Park promenade between W. Houston and 59^th Street

· Hudson River Park bike path between W. Houston and 59^th Street

Watercraft Viewing

Call our marine hotline after June 1^st at 212-494-5243 for boater viewing and coast guard safety zone information.

For more information, call our fireworks hotline at 212-494-4495 or visit www.macys.com

 

Coney Island

Also, don’t miss out on the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest 2009 at Coney Island on Saturday, July 4^th beginning at noon. Address is 1310 Surf Avenue (Corner of Surf Avenue & Stillwell Avenue). For more information visit www.nathansfamous.com or www.ifoce.com

If the hot dog eating contest isn’t something you like to watch, there’s plenty of things to do on the boardwalk such as Side Show acts, The Wonder Wheel, The Cyclone and other rides, pro Volleyball tournament and the Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus and much more. For more information visit www.coneyisland.com
Continue reading "Happy 4th of July - New Fireworks Location" »

I went to see this musical with my coworker. It was a lot of fun. These three women were incredible. I saw this and six other shows while in NYC and this was one of the best we saw. We saw the musical from orchestra seat and it is a really good view for watching the show. This was a spectacular show from start to finish. We enjoyed every minute of it from the songs to the music and the acting. There were a lot of jokes in the show and it was very funny and in the end this show was very entertaining. I never saw the original movie, but I like the story. The 3 ladies really wanted revenge against their boss and they got away with it. While they are revenging, their actions are really funny but sometime serious. I could feel their sadness about hard working also understand their deep thoughts. Usually, a musical is always funny, I don’t always like that type of story. I think a musical should have a little bit of drama to the story. So that’s why I love this kind of mixed musical. Anyway I had very good time with this musical. Overall, it was just incredible...the most fun I have had in a while!! The three leads are just amazing and the show is hilarious! The songs are great too. You MUST GO! I would love to be able to see it again! The show is awesome!

By Jong Hoon Jhun (Korea)

 

 

 

The March

 

 

Parade Route: Starting on 5^th Avenue and 52^nd Street, the parade will take you downtown along 5^th Avenue via midtown and into the West Village. The parade will then cross over on 8^th street crossing 6^th Avenue and making it’s way to the final destination of this parade, which is on Christopher Street and Greenwich Street. Hot tip: The West Village is the most crowded spots of this parade. Even restaurants will be full. So if you are not into intense crowds, stay further uptown between 23^rd and 34^th street for a lighter crowd and much more visible view of the parade.

 

 

 

Other Pride Events

 

Rapture on the River

 

Can’t make it to the parade? Here is a way to celebrate the night before the big march. Please join us for the official NYC Pride Week Women's Dance. Rapture 2009 is in its sixth year. Located on Pier 54, this has become a staple Pride event for women in New York City.

All proceeds from Rapture on the River benefit New York City's LGBT Pride Week events and community organizations.

Pier 54, 13th St @ the West Side Highway - Hudson River Park

 

Saturday, June 27th, 2009, 6:00 - 11:00 PM

 

Music by DJ Susan Levine

 

 

Tickets will be available May 1 to June 27, 2009

General Admission in advance @ $25

 

General Admission at the door (limited quantity available) @ $35

 

VIP Tickets2 (limited quantity available) @ $45

 

 

Online @ boxofficetickets.com

 

Phone @ 1-800-494-TIXS (8497)

 

 

 

PrideFest

 

Here’s an event to take part in during the parade is you wish to avoid all the craziness.

 

 

Hudson St. between Abingdon Sq. & West 14th St.

 

Sunday, June 28th, 2009, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

 

PrideFest is the annual LGBT street fair. PrideFest seeks to bring together local residents and families, community leaders, and area business owners to celebrate in the street. Additionally, we expect to attract thousands of out-of-state visitors and volunteers.

 

 

This will be the 17th annual PrideFest event. We will continue to combine vendors, entertainers, and community activities for a day of fun celebration of LGBT Pride in the name of equality.

This event is free and open to the public. No tickets are necessary.

 

 

Dance on the Pier

 

 

Here’s an event to take part in after the parade is over and if you still have all that energy to burn.

Please join us for the official NYC LGBT Dance on the Pier. There is no other event quite like ours and no other place than New York City to experience the rhythm of Pride.

 

 

The Dance on the Pier was born out of a time when LGBT persons could not dance openly and proudly together. It is a protest set to music, a celebration set to the western skyline and a reminder of how far we've come.

All proceeds from the Dance on the Pier benefit New York City's LGBT Pride Week events and community organizations.

 

 

Pier 54, 13th St @ the West Side Highway - Hudson River Park

 

Sunday, June 28th, 2009, 4:00 - 10:30 PM, Fireworks

 

Featuring the music of Phillip Kimball, Jack Reina, and Corey Craig

 

Lights by Guy Smith

 

 

General Admission

$50 each when purchased from May 1 - May 31

 

$70 each when purchased from June 1 - June 27

 

$85 each when purchased day of

 

VIP Tickets2

$150 each (limited availability)

 

 

Online @ boxofficetickets.com

 

Phone @ 1-800-494-TIXS (8497)

 

 

 

Purchase Locations

Village Apothecary - 346 Bleecker St, 212-807-7566

 

Wear Me Out - 353 West 47th St, 212-333-3047

 

Ate Ave - 169 8th Avenue, 646-763-8355

 

A limited number of day-of tickets will be sold at the Heritage of Pride booth at PrideFest.

 

Important: Door Policy

No tickets will be sold at the Pier for the 2009 Dance on the Pier event. However, tickets will be available at one ticket outlet for $85 each on the day of the event.

2VIP tickets include free bar, premium viewing platform, fresh fruit, and luxury bathroom.

Heritage of Pride Inc. and affiliated ticket outlets are not responsible for the reimbursement or replacement of lost or stolen tickets. Please be careful with your purchases.

Fore more detailed information and history of this event, visit www.nycpride.org

Whether you are a local New Yorker or a tourists just passing through, it is worth taking the time out for this event. Right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, enjoy a free night of classic movies on the big screen and picnicking among old and new friends. This event does get crowded and it can be difficult to meet up with your party, but it’s worth it. To claim a good blanket spot, arrive at 5pm promptly when the lawn does open up to the public. The featured movie will begin around sunset, which is between the hours of 8pm and 9pm. Across the street from the park, along 42^nd Street, there are many restaurants to choose from, you can also order food from “Wichcraft” that is within the premises of the park or bring your own cooking to the blanket. This year’s movie classic will feature hits such as “The Sting”, “Dog Day Afternoon”, “Harold & Maude”, Kramer vs. Kramer” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” to name a few favorites. I have been going to this event year after year and it’s a great way to spend time with friends or make it an intimate night for two. This is definitely one of the top NYC events to be a part of during the warm summer nights and best of all it’s free. For a full schedule, please visit www.bryantpark.org

Courtesy of NYC Pocket Staff

I had the pleasure of seeing Shrek the Musical last night. Let me first tell you that all the actors and actresses are extremely talented. Lord Farquaad who is absolutely amazing for me, stole the show as king. Every time he appeared on stage, the audience erupted into laughter. Shrek and Fiona did an amazing job as well as Donkey too. They were all great. Pinocchio was funny and you have to be on your toes otherwise you will miss a lot of the great humor including a few jokes about Disney.

The set was absolutely magnificent as well as the music and dancing! Actually, I really loved the music with all actors and actresses. Even though I wouldn't go run out and buy the cd today, the music was great and much better when you see the show live, then you can really appreciate it and catch on to the humor in the songs. The show is close to 2 and half hours long, but it will absolutely keep your interest the whole time. The similarities of Disney’s fairy tale characters were all well represented. The whole cast really made you feel like you were a part of the show.

Aside from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, I feel like this production of Shrek The Musical has a higher quality than some Disney shows (and I do love Disney Shows) and others shows on Broadway. The cast is very energetic, even a very sleepy eyed young Fiona did a great job playing her part. I think I was the only one in the theater that noticed the tiny actress was half asleep. The only negative experience I had was that the seats are the smallest seats you will ever sit in, so pray that you have nice neighbors next to you.

Believe me besides everyone doing an amazing job at the end of the show you will be raving about Lord Farquaad. The actor who plays him is on his knees the whole time using stuffed, small legs making him look real short. Even if I could unfortunately see his real legs, it was funny and effective. All the characters play up their roles so well you will feel like you are in the movie. Princess Fiona is a lot funnier in the show than in the movie. She is so good. You leave the show with the song "I'm a believer" playing in the background concluding your night of Shrek on Broadway. I would recommend orchestra seats for this show and all the kids in the audience were very well entertained. Finally this great musical became one of the best musical that I have ever seen. So now I can express this great musical as one word, which is “awesome”. GO SEE SHREK!

By Jong Hoon Jhun (Korea)

If you saw Shrek on the movie screen, then you will like Shrek on Broadway, which was very funny and interesting. Their expression was amazing, especially Donkey and Lord Farquaad, who was the lord of the theater. I didn’t expect Shrek to be interesting because I’ve never heard about Shrek The Musical and I have seen more famous musicals than Shrek. But I was wrong. It was enough to make me laugh throughout the entire show.

Actually, I was curious about how the actors would play Donkey and Lord Farquaad because their characters are essential in the movie. In the movie, the characters are a lot of fun so I thought they couldn’t re-create the characters for the Broadway show and be as fun as the movie. But it was not a problem. The actor who played Donkey was the real deal. He was the Donkey as I saw in Shrek the movie. His act was so funny, but I think Lord Farquaad was even funnier than Donkey. I guess it depends on the person, but when I asked my friends, some people said Donkey was funnier and the other people said Lord Farquaad funnier. In this show, even though Shrek and Fiona were main character, it was more interesting because of Donkey and Lord Farquaad. My friends and I debated on which character was funnier.

Some people say this musical is for kids, but I don’t think it is childish because I was impressed when I saw Shrek The Musical and I think many people was impressed too. They clapped continually until actors were off the stage. I recommend this musical strongly and I want to watch again if I have a chance.

By Byeung Soo Kim (Korea)

Do you know the green, ugly but cutest ogre that has nowadays become one of the most popular freaks in the world? His name is “SHREK”, who gets an unseemly figure since he was born. Even so, his likable character let him make a lot of good friends, such as an optimistic Donkey and a bunch of misfit fairy tales.

Shrek, The Musical is such a lovely and one of the funniest musical that I’ve ever seen. The musical is based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks film “Shrek”. Even if you have not seen the movie, there is no doubt that you can enjoy the musical with the fascinating storyline and the outstanding characters that cannot stop grabbing the audience’s hearts, young to old alike. In addition, I would like to say that I am definitely one of the people who got a big impression by the fairy tale characters.

After the brilliant musical, I was feeling as if I’d just gone back to my childhood. To be honest, it’s because the musical was far more enjoyable than I’d expected. If you want to have a good time with your friends or children or sweep away your daily stress, nothing seems to be better than watching Shrek, The Musical. Take time out to enjoy the brand-new Broadway show “Shrek”, and laugh a lot with the funniest characters you’ll ever see.

By Ami Liyama (Japan)

The Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus elephants and other animals will march across 34th St sometime after midnight on Monday night (3/23).

When the circus comes to town after a long train ride, about 10 elephants, a few horses and ponies are then transported onto the isle of Manhattan by walking the elephants from the train yard in Queens through the Midtown Tunnel and across 34th St to Madison Square Garden. Because of the spectacle of half a dozen giant land mammals marching through Manhattan city streets, a large number of people gather to watch in awe or protest the alleged abuse. Either way it’s a circus appearance of a lifetime within the chaotic circus of New York City.

What you can expect out of this rare event tonight is big crowds, cold temperatures, standing for a long time, and before you know it…it’s over in a few seconds. But that's not to say it can't be fun or worth the wait.

Here are some Recommendations:

 

- Dress very warmly. You'll be standing there for a loooong time.

 

- Bring fun friends. Lots of them, no whiners. There's no telling when the elephants will come through the tunnel, and they do move a lot faster than we think. The "show" will be over in seconds, so you'll need to entertain yourselves for the 1-2 hour waiting period.

 

- BYO elevation. Light folding chairs or step ladders to sit/stand on. Unless you plan to stake-out a front-row spot several hours in advance you'll be behind a throng of people. If you decide to run with the beasts (and you'll have to run) you'll want something easy to carry.

 

- Have a good camera. Elephants are apparently light sponges. With spectators' reflective apparel and other visual "noise", if you have a basic P&S cam you'll likely end up with a big black nothing where you're expecting an elephant! So you will have to make light adjustments or edit in photoshop accordingly, etc.

 

 

Good luck, have fun and be kind to the beautiful animals as their long journey comes to an end.

 

New York’s annual flamenco celebration, now in its 9^th year, features mesmerizing performances with renowned dancers and musicians direct from Andalusia, Spain. This weekend see the Antonio Gades Company and Los Farruco light up the stage at City Center.

 

Antonio Gades Company

Carmen

The acclaimed Antonio Gades Company, established to perform the great dancer/choreographer’s masterpieces, will present a powerful re-staging of Gades’ classic Carmen. The show, which began life as Carlos Saura’s award-winning film, is touring around the world in commemoration of its 25th anniversary. Carmen stars the earthy and sensuous Stella Arauzo, who appeared in many of Gades’ productions, and the formidable Adrian Galia, who has worked with many celebrated companies and artists, including the National Ballet of Spain, Cristina Hoyos, and Enrique Morente.

 

Los Farruco

Los Farruco – the first family of flamenco dance – is a famous flamenco dynasty known for its electrifying performances of Spanish Gypsy art. Conceived and directed by Farruquito, grandson of the legendary patriarch El Farruco, this program features La Farruca, daughter of El Farruco, noted for her passionate dancing; her son, Farruco, a rising star in flamenco known for his remarkable footwork; La Faraona, dubbed “the mother of buleria” by her father El Farruco; Barullo, grandson of El Farruco, who maintains the elegance of traditional flamenco dance; two guitarists; and three singers.

 

Also check out the Andalicia Lounge:

 

About 90 minutes before the show there is a special free pre-concert dance class for City Center ticket holders only in the mezzanine lobby at City Center. Tapas and Spanish wine will be available at the concession stands.

 

New York City Center

 

131 W. 55th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues, NYC

 

$35, $45, $65, $80

 

Tickets: CityTix® (212) 581-1212 or nycitycenter.org

I was under the impression that everyone loves art, especially teenagers.  You know, trying to find themselves, adapting to new things and such.  Art is very interesting and personally, I love it.  If you’re an art lover and you are between the ages of 10 and 18 or you know someone that may be interested that is within that age range, please pass this along.

Image provided by: www.lgreyhot.com

Event: Art Classes for Teenagers (Ages 10-18)

Date: Starting February 25th, 2008  (10 after school or weekend classes)

Organization: Educational Alliance

Location: 197 East Broadway between Jefferson & Clinton Streets.

Contact: 212-782-2300 ext 378 or educationalalliance

- think24seven

Pal Joey is a musical that showcased humanism in a comical, yet dramatic story line. Joey is a very charming and positive character, and there are diverse characters that surround the main character and the various situations that happen to him. Joey calls himself as an entertainer. He loves singing and dancing, and is very ambitious about having his own club, to a point that he chooses money, fame, entertainment over love. However he lose everything.

 

I overheard someone in the audience say that this show was a strong awakening for American theater audiences back in 1940, because everyone was accustomed to musicals that had love and a happy ending. I think that’s the reason why the first production at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on Dec 25 1940 was successful. I also like the fact that the audience can feel a sense of the Chicago during the 1940’s. Everything is usually about New York, that’s why this musical is different from other revivals.

 

There were lots of conversation with rhythm and wit that made this show highly entertaining for audiences of all ages. The dialect of the 1940’s was exact and their ability of expression was so great. So, for someone who’s looking for a Broadway show to take their parents and/or grandparents to, then this is definitely a show they can relate to, reminisce on the time era and fully appreciate it.

 

In a musical aspect, some of the music was so soft and quiet like a still lake, for instance, in the scene of Vera’s bedroom, Vera sang a song “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered”, as listening the music we could sense that she was afraid in her heart, and her voice was prettier, sweeter and softer than usual. Where as some of the other music was so active and swinging rhythm such as “Chicago” and “ The Flower Garden of My Heart”.

 

As I am listening to the music, and watching the magnificent and energetic dancing, I am also admiring the costuming and the elegant style. Especially the dancing girls wearing sparkling costumes, it is hard for me to imagine they are just background singers for Joey. The gorgeous splendor can also be a spectacle for the audience. Classic literary, sexy and elegant or even a comic atmosphere, we can translate all of those scenes within this highly entertaining show. Definitely do not miss this limited show that will play on until March 1^st.

 

 

Written by Hae-Soo Han (Korea)

It is finally the end of 2008. End of the political elections, stock markets near crashing, new Olympic records, the fight for gay marriages and much more that set the tone for 2009. So to properly ring in the new year of 2009, there are many parties throughout NYC that are being offered and will cost you a lot of money. But none of them can match the fame of the one that's viewed worldwide and that is to watch the ball drop on New Years Eve in Times Square. So here are some Tips, Q's & A's and Info on attending this yearly historic event courtesy of The Times Square Alliance:

 

 

Where is the Ball lowered?

 

The Times Square New Year's Eve Ball descends from a flagpole at the top of One Times Square. It can best be seen along Broadway, from 43rd Street to 50th Street, and along Seventh Avenue, as far north as 59th Street.

 

What streets will be closed for the celebrations?

 

The New York Police Department will begin closing down access to Times Square starting at 43rd Street and Broadway and moving north as revelers arrive. The exact times that these blocks close to pedestrian and vehicular traffic will depend on when the revelers begin arriving. It is likely that there will be no vehicular traffic on either Broadway or Seventh Avenue as of approximately 4:00 p.m. Vehicles will most likely have difficulty traveling across town after 6:00 p.m. above 42nd Street as far north as 59th Street. If you are planning to come to Times Square and join in the festivities, you are advised to enter from Sixth or Eighth Avenue. Your chance of getting a viewing spot near the Ball (at Broadway & 43rd Street) increases the earlier you arrive. The blocks will be closed off as they fill up northward, street-by-street, as the police deem necessary.

 

 

Will there be areas in Times Square designated for the disabled?

 

Yes. The police will set aside a viewing area for the disabled, located on the northwest corner of 43rd Street. However, this area will fill up quickly, and it is advised that disabled visitors arrive early in the day. For a listing of the access points from which you can enter Times Square, please click here.

 

 

Where is the best view?

 

The earlier you arrive, the better your view and the closer you will be to the action. The sound system is set up in the Bowtie area (where Broadway and Seventh Avenue cross), and the video screens on One Times Square (where the Ball is lowered) are easily visible. There are additional screens set up at Broadway and 50th Street, Broadway and 52nd Street, Broadway and 54th Street and Broadway and 58th Street.

 

What is the best way to come to Times Square?

 

The best way to come to Times Square is via public transportation. To get to Times Square, the # 1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, N, Q, R, W, V and S shuttle trains all service the Times Square area. Please note that the MTA has advised revelers not to use the 42nd Street Subway Station on New Year's Eve due to crowding conditions - you are advised to exit at one of the surrounding stations and enter Times Square on foot. It is expected that the MTA will keep all subway stations open on New Year's Eve. Some entrances and exits may be closed as crowd conditions require. After 7 p.m. on December 31st, the N and R train station at 49th Street and Seventh Avenue may be closed until after midnight. Trains may also bypass some stations, depending on how the crowds build. For further information nearer the date of the event, please call or visit the MTA at (718) 330-1234 or www.mta.info.

 

Other useful sources of information:

 

Port Authority Bus Terminal (212) 564-8484?New York City Transit Authority (Local Bus Service) (718) 330-1234?Amtrak (800) 523-8720?Metro North (212) 532-4900?Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) (718) 217- LIRR

 

For questions on New Year's Eve about access, please contact the NYPD sub-station at (212)-239-9803 or the Times Square Alliance Dispatch Office at (212)-452-5218. Please call ONLY on New Year's Eve.

 

 

How do I enter Times Square on New Year's Eve?

 

Please click here for a list of all access points.

 

When should I get there?

 

Revelers begin to gather in the late afternoon on New Year's Eve, December 31st. The best advice we can give is to get there as early as possible. We cannot predict how quickly the viewing areas will fill up. Prime viewing areas may fill up early in the afternoon.

 

At approximately 6:00 p.m. EST the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball will be raised to the top of the 77-foot flagpole at One Times Square (Broadway at 43rd Street) and lit. At exactly 11:59 p.m. EST, the Ball will make its 60-second descent down the flagpole to signal the start of the New Year.

 

Please Note: Revelers who arrive very early in the day, before the police have established viewing areas, may be moved by the NYPD when barricades are put in place.

 

Here is the timeline for last year's street closures and viewing areas. This information may be helpful for planning your trip to this year's event:

 

3:45pm - 7th Avenue & Broadway closed to vehicular traffic from 43rd Street to 49th Street (cross streets were closed at 3:30pm).

 

5pm - All cross streets closed to vehicular traffic except 57th Street, 58th Street & 59th Street. 42nd Street closed to vehicular traffic.

 

5:30pm - Viewing areas filled north to 48th Street, south to 40th - 41st Street.

 

6pm - Viewing areas filled to 52nd Street.

 

10pm - Viewing areas filled to 58th Street, south to 38th Street.

 

10:30pm - Viewing areas filled to 59th Street.

 

 

Will there be portable public restrooms available?

 

No.

 

 

Is alcohol or champagne allowed?

 

No. Public drinking is illegal in New York City. Police will confiscate alcohol.

 

 

Will there be food and drink vendors in the square?

 

No. There will be no licensed food and beverage vendors in Times Square. However, there are hundreds of restaurants in and around Times Square (see below).

 

 

Will there be restaurants open in the area? Can revelers return to the same viewing areas after dining?

 

Many restaurants located in the Times Square area will be open on New Year's Eve - be sure to consult our Interactive Map and Guide to locate a restaurant - and make your reservations well in advance. Please remember that if you dine at a local restaurant, you will not simply be able to come out and watch the Ball lowering at midnight. Revelers will arrive in Times Square early in the day, and while you are dining, designated viewing areas will fill up on a "first come, first served" basis. Furthermore, no one is allowed to stand in the emergency lanes or on sidewalks. Please remember that if you leave your viewing area to dine in a restaurant, you will not be able to return to your spot in a viewing area.

 

 

Are theaters, stores and restaurants going to be open?

 

Some Broadway theaters will be open on New Year's Eve. The TKTS booth will open at 10 a.m. on New Year's Eve. You can check the schedules for Broadway and some Off Broadway shows at www.telecharge.com or www.ticketmaster.com, and check out our Interactive Map and Guides. Stores and restaurants will be open at their own discretion, so please call them ahead of time. Please remember that if you leave your viewing area to dine in a restaurant, you will not be able to return to your spot in a viewing area.

 

 

Which Times Square restaurants and hotels have a view of the Ball?

 

Renaissance New York

 

DoubleTree Guest Suites

 

Marriott Marquis

 

TGI Fridays

 

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

 

Sbarro Pizza

 

Olive Garden

 

2 Times Square

 

Please check out our Interactive Map & Guides for contact information for the above venues.

 

 

What security procedures are in place?

 

The New York Police Department will control all access points to Times Square. No bags or backpacks are permitted. Emergency Service squads, drug and bomb sniffing canine units and counter-terrorism personnel will be present in Times Square on New Year's Eve.

 

 

Where can I find information on Times Square New Year's Eve parties?

 

There's no more electrifying place on the planet than Time Square on New Year's Eve. Check this page for details on New Year's Eve parties you can attend at the Crossroads of the World. More >>

 

 

What is the history of the Times Square New Year's Eve event?

 

Revelers have been celebrating New Year's Eve in Times Square since 1904. To learn more about the celebration's history, check out our History of New Year's Eve in Times Square.

 

 

What can you tell me about the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball?

 

Plenty. Check out this page: About the New Year's Eve Ball.

 

 

What should I wear and what should I bring?

 

Dress warmly. Remember that you could be spending an extended period outdoors in potentially below-freezing conditions. You should be well-prepared and well-insulated. Many layers, synthetics (such as Goretex and polypropylene), wind-resistant and water-repellant outerwear and a good hat are the keys to staying warm.

 

Finally, remember to drink lots of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Not only is public drinking illegal in New York City, but both caffeine and alcohol will dehydrate you. Dehydration is very common and can sneak up on you in cold weather.

 

 

Are tickets needed for this event?

 

No. This event is open to everyone. However, to get the best view, arrive early in the afternoon.

 

 

Will there be a Webcast?

 

TBD - check back for more info.

 

 

Are there still hotel rooms available in the Times Square area?

 

There are more than 16,000 hotel rooms in the Times Square neighborhood - ranging from large hotel chains, to small quiet retreats or suite hotels for extended stays. There are also several youth hostels situated in and around the Times Square area. Book your stay now to avoid disappointment. For a complete listing of hotels in the area visit our Interactive Map and Guides. You can contact the hotels directly about rates and availability, or contact your travel agent for more information and reservations.

 

 

How much confetti is dropped in Times Square on New Year's Eve?

 

More than 1 ton of confetti.

 

 

Can I volunteer to help prepare for New Year's Eve?

 

Absolutely. There are many opportunities to help the Times Square Alliance prepare for New Year’s Eve. Once you’ve signed on, you will be contacted with specific information about the various volunteer projects that you can participate in. Projects include helping with mailings, putting together gift bags, general office support, and much more. There will be weekday, evening and weekend volunteer dates throughout November and December. If you would like to help out, please email us at volunteers@timessquarealliance.org. Please be sure to include your name, phone number, email address, and general availability (evenings, weekends, or weekdays.)