ANDREA MARCOVICCI CELEBRATES HER 25THANNIVERSARY

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Oct 042011

OAK ROOM SEASON NOVEMBER 15-DECEMBER 30

The Queen of Cabaret holds the record for the longest continuous run at the famed Algonquin Oak Room. Our most sophisticated performer is the only female entertainer ever to reach such a milestone in the history of cabaret. The New York Times dubbed her “the high priestess of the American Songbook,” falling “under her spell,” while the Wall Street Journal called an evening with Andrea “the most immersive experience you will ever have.”

Everyone looks forward to getting away from it all. To celebrate Andrea’s unprecedented achievement, her latest show, “No Strings,” does just that! Andrea takes the audience on a wonderful trip around the world. It’s a journey about life on the road—a warm, funny, heartfelt and candid tale of Andrea’s travels from city to city and what that bittersweet journey has meant for her as a singer, an actress, a wife and mother.

Marcovicci looks especially dazzling and her voice is more in control than usual. The big this, as always is her sensational acting ability and impeccable timing. Highlights include “Sunday in New York,” “Two For the Road,” “How Are Things in Glocca Morra?,” “Under Paris Skies” and “A Foggy Day.” In addition, Andrea recreates her celebrated rendition of “These Foolish Things.” It’s an odyssey that flows from the romance of Andrea’s favorite places to unexpected bumps in the road producing some pretty wacky and wonderful stories…a fun, sweet and romantic saga as only Andrea can tell it! A nostalgic look at a quarter century of a singer’s life. Andrea is skillfully accompanied on piano by Shelly Markham with Jered Egan on bass.

“No Strings” will run November 15through December 30, with shows Tuesday through Thursday at 8:30 and Friday and Saturday at 8:30 and 11:00. Holiday shows are Thanksgiving at 7:30, Christmas Eve at 7:30 and Monday December 26 (Boxing Day) at 7:30. There is a $60 cover charge per person Tuesday-Thursday and late Friday-Saturday, and $65 for the 8:30 shows Friday and Saturday, plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or a $60 prix fixe dinner.

Note: The Algonquin will close Jan. 1 for a four-month, $15 million renovation.

Let us hope the The Oak Room will remain virtually unscathed and that the powers that be will have come to their senses and allowed the fabled hotel to re-install the latest feline (Matilda lll), in a beloved chain of ten mascots, dating back to 1933. New York has survived street fairs, bicycles monopolizing our sidewalks and a demoralized Times Square. Let the pussy cats work in peace.

Andrea Marcovicci has created more than thirty nightclub acts, has sold out Carnegie Hall, Town Hall, Lincoln Center, and appeared in concert with numerous orchestras and at the

White House. She has acted in film, television and theatre, on Broadway and regionally. Co-stars include Danny DeVito, Woody Allen, Sir Michael Caine, Sir John Gielgud and Sam Waterston, among others. Most recently she starred in the off-Broadway revival of “Coco” and on TV in “General Hospital.”

Personal PR: Miller Wright 212 977 7800

Nov. 15 – Dec. 30
Musical Director: Shelly Markham
Bass: Jered Egan
Regular Schedule:
Tues. – Sat. at 8:30 PM, plus late shows Fri. & Sat. at 11:00 PM
Holiday schedule:
Thanksgiving, Nov. 24; Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, and Monday, Dec. 26 at 7:30 PM

The Oak Room of the Algonquin Hotel
59 West 44th St.
New York, NY 10036
Reservations: (212) 419-9331 or (212) 840-6800 and ask for Oak Room Reservations
Click here for Oak Room Website

Song List

Miller Wright & Associates, Inc.

Media Relations

Music Director / Piano – Shelly Markham

Bass – Jered Egan

1) Sail Away;

Let’s Get Away From It All

Noel Coward

Tom Adair; Matt Dennis

2) Back at the Algonquin

Enid Futterman; Michael Cohen

3) Sunday In New York

Portia Nelson

4) Two For The Road

Leslie Bricusse ; Henry Mancini

5) How are Things in Glocca Morra? ;
It Never Was You;

My Love Is A Wanderer

Burton Lane / Yip Harburg
Kurt Weill; Maxwell Anderson
Bart Howard

6) As Time Goes By /

When Yuba Plays the Rhumba on the Tuba

Herman Hupfeld
Herman Hupfeld

7) Rainy Night In Rio

Leo Robin

Under Paris Skies

Kim Gannon / Jean Drejac

9) The Night I Fell in Love With Paris

Tom Toce

10) No Strings;
By Myself;
A Foggy Day

Irving Berlin

Arthur Schwartz / Howard Dietz
George Gershwin; Ira Gershwin

11) I Don’t Know

Ronald Jeans / Philip Braham

12) These Foolish Things

Holt Marvell / Jack Strachey

13) You Belong To Me ;

The Sweetest of Nights and the Finest of Days

Chilton Price / Pee Wee King; Redd Stewart
Shelly Markham / Judith Viorst

14) Here’s To Us

Cy Coleman / Carolyn Leigh

1650 Broadway, Suite 1210 New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 977-7800 Fax: (212) 977-7963 www.millerwright.com

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KAREN AKERS EMBRACES “SONDHEIM” IN THE ALGONQUIN HOTEL’S OAK ROOM SEPTEMBER 27-OCTOBER 29

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Oct 032011

Having triumphed these past two years in her Oak Room celebrations of Cole Porter and Rodgers & Hart, beautiful and beguiling Karen Akers now sets her sights on the leading musical theater composer-lyricist of the last half century.

Among her selections from the Stephen Sondheim Songbook are some less familiar offerings such as “More” (Dick Tracy) with its multiplicity of George Gershwin references and “Live, Laugh, Love” (Follies). More to the point,“Send in the Clowns” (A Little Night Music), “Broadway Baby” (Follies), “You Could Drive a Person Crazy (Company), “The Story of Lucy & Jessie” (Follies) and “Moments in the Woods” (Into the Woods) are not just old friends, but warmly welcomed ones. . The show is subtly directed by Eric Michael Gillett with the admirable Don Rebic as Musical Director.

From September 27^th through October 29^th, “Live, Laugh, Love—Akers Sings Sondheim” plays Tuesdays through Thursdays at 8:30 and Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 and 11 pm. There is a $60 cover charge for all shows except the dinner shows Friday and Saturday, when the cover is $65, plus either a $30 minimum or $60 prix fixe dinner.

Karen Akers, Stephen Sondheim, the incredible Don Rebic all embraced by the magical Oak Room at the world fabled Algonquin Hotel： Need we say more？（Other than to book now）.This is a hot ticket.

Reservations: 212-419-9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com

Disclosure

“Karen Akers has appeared at Carnegie Hall, Café Carlyle, Rainbow & Stars, Hollywood Bowl, Wolf Trap and abroad in France, Russia, London and Barcelona. On Broadway she was one of the original stars of the Tony Award-winning musical, Grand Hotel, and made her Broadway debut in the original production of Nine for which she won a Theatre World Award and Tony nomination. Her current CD, “If We Only Have Love,” is a collection of theater songs. Other recordings include “Feels Like Home,” “Under Paris Skies” and “Simply Styne.” Her film roles include Mike Nichols’ Heartburn, Woody Allen’s The Purple Rose of Cairo and Vibes.

***

Stephen Sondheim first impressed Broadway audiences in 1957 as lyricist for West Side Story (music by Leonard Bernstein) and two years later for Gypsy (music by Jule Styne).. In 1962 he launched his 50-year career as the theater’s pre-eminent composer-lyricist with A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, for which he won the first of his eight Tony Awards. Other honors include six Olivier Awards, seven Drama Desk Awards, eight Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize for Sunday in the Park With George and an Oscar for Best Song (“Sooner or Later”) from Dick Tracy. He was a 1993 Kennedy Center Honors recipient.what is an expansion external drive

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HOWARD MC GILLIN MAKES OAK ROOM DEBUT IN “ISN’T IT ROMANTIC” WITH CHARM AND CONGENIALITY

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Sep 142011

Best known for his record-setting performances as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway, Howard McGillin has enjoyed a varied career on both Broadway and London stages. Mr. McGillin, has a winning way with his audience and a lovely and cultured tenor voice that has made him the quintessential leading man in theatre.

At his eagerly awaited Oak Room debut, (From September 13-24), McGillin presented an evening of love songs that aptly answered the question, “Isn’t It Romantic?” Howard offers a program, with appealing patter, that explores a variety of romantic experiences, highlighted by a rendition of “All The Things You Are,” (Jerome Kern/Oscar Hammerstein II) that was simple and without embellishments, proving that a great song needs nothing more than to be sung with sensitivity to make its point.

A combined arrangement of “A Foggy Day IN LONDON TOWN” (George and Ira Gershwin) and the lovely “A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square” (Eric Maschwitz; Manning Sherwin; Jack Strachey) gives Howard the opportunity to fill us in on his adventures, when living in London, and a neat duo pairing, a rollicking “SHE LOVES ME” (Sheldon Harnick; Jerry Bock) with a subtle version of “Dear Friend” (Sheldon Harnick; Jerry Bock) from the same show, allows Mr. McGillin to demonstrate his dramatic range and vocal finesse.

The high point of the evening was a stunning rendering of “Putting It Together” (Stephen Sondheim) that was eclipsed by the beyond-beautiful “Good Thing Going” (Stephen Sondheim), demonstrating that some of the best theater songs come from shows that are less than memorable.

“Time” (Barry Kleinbort; Joseph Thalken), offered an appealing contemporary touch, while “Two For The Road” (Henry Mancini; Leslie Bricusse) was the perfect encore.

Beautifully accompanied by Joseph Thalken at the piano and Richard Sarpola on bass, Howard McGillin is easy to like, easy to listen to and brings a thoroughly pleasant evening of entertainment to the Algonquin’s legendary Oak Room.

Shows are Tuesday through Thursday at 8:30 pm and Friday and Saturday at 8:30 and 11 pm. There is a $50 cover charge plus either a $60 dinner at 7 or $30 food and beverage minimum. Reservations: 212 419 9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com.

Disclosure

He appeared in Stephen Sondheim’s musical, Bounce, in its world premiere at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago and later in the Kennedy Center run in Washington, D. C. (Helen Hayes Award nomination.) Other leading roles on Broadway have included She Loves Me, The Kiss of the Spider Woman, Anything Goes (Tony and Drama Desk nominations), The Mystery of Edwin Drood (Tony and Drama Desk nominations), Theatre World Award) and Sunday in the Park with George. On London’s West End, Howard starred in Mack and Mabel and Anything Goes.

He was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for his New York theatrical debut in the New York Shakespeare Festival’s production of LaBoheme. He has sung on concert stages around the world from Carnegie Hall to Kennedy Center to the Israel Philharmonic Hall in Tel Aviv. In addition to having recorded many books on tape and narrated numerous episodes of Nature for PBS, Howard has also provided voices for the animated feature films South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut and The Swan Princess. His solo CD, :”Howard McGillin: Where Time Stands Still,” is available online at www.cdbaby.com.

___________________________________________________________________

Howard McGillin

Oak Room Song List

September 13, 2011

I Love To Sing-A (Harold Arlen/ Yip Harburg)

All The Things You Are/ Isn’t It Romantic

Jerome Kern/Oscar Hammerstein II * Richard Rodgers/Lorenz Hart)

The Big Time! (Jerry Herman)

The Not-So Big Time

Che gelida manina (Giacomo Puccini)

Putting It Together (Stephen Sondheim)

Good Thing Going (Stephen Sondheim)

A Foggy Day IN LONDON TOWN (George and Ira Gershwin)

A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square (Eric Maschwitz; Manning Sherwin; Jack Strachey)

Laura, Laura (Amanda Green;Tom Kitt)

ISN’T THIS A LOVELY DAY TO BE CAUGHT IN THE RAIN? (Irving Berlin)

Time (Barry Kleinbort; Joseph Thalken)

SHE LOVES ME (Sheldon Harnick; Jerry Bock)

Dear Friend (Sheldon Harnick; Jerry Bock)

HAVEN’T MET YOU YET

(Michael Bublé; Alan Chang; Amy Foster-Gillies)

How ‘Ya Gonna Keep ‘Em Down On The Farm?

(Walter Donaldson; Sam Lewis; Joe Young)

Two For The Road (Henry Mancini; Leslie Bricusse)

(Encore):

Secret O’ Life (James Taylor)

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EMILY BERGL OPENS OAK ROOM SEASON WITH A BANG IN “KIDDING ON THE SQUARE”

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Sep 042011

In her Oak Room debut August 30, brilliant young actress singer Emily Bergl, star of Broadway (Nora Ephron’s "Love, Loss and What I Wore,"), film (“The Rage: Carrie 2”) and TV’s Royal Pains and Desperate Housewives, roars into the Oak Room with more gusto than Hurricane Irene in the her exhilarating act: ”Kidding on the Square.”

A theatrical cabaret-act that transports the audience on a fast-paced ride through love, heartbreak and everything in between, ”Kidding on the Square” is told from the perspective of a modern girl and the eccentric characters she inhabits,

Something old (the Boswell Sisters “We Just Couldn’t Say Goodbye”; something new (Peter Brown & Robert Rans “Material Girl" by way of Madonna); something borrowed ( "Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart" as an evolving Judy Garland); and something blue (as in Bergl’s deliciously compelling version of “Billy Barnes jazz classic Something Cool,”); the show features a rich array of songs that include Roy Orbison’s “Cryin’,” Fats Waller’s “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” a poignant characterization of Rodgers & Hart’s “Ten Cents a Dance as a down-and-out hostess,” Dietz & Schwartz’ Confession” and an unexpected opening number, interpreting Noel Coward’s “Mad About the Boy” with a serious bent: the lady gets truly angry.

In ”Kidding on the Square,” Bergl does what she does best, which in the case of this hour and fifteen minutes appears to be everything. It comes as no surprise that her acting, where, comedic, dramatic or character is a paragon of perfection, but she looks terrific is a slinky gray “pull apart” gown, that becomes a sexy dress and finally morphs into leotards and tights. Her movement is as controlled as possible in these small quarters. But the big kicker is the voice: A luscious lyric soprano that can go into a metallic chest, when the material demands, as in an hilarious rendition of the vintage Andrews Sisters“Bei Mir Bist Du Schön” that is worth the price of admission.

High points test Ms. Bergl’s. comedic, dramatic and vocal abilities, which she passes with grade “A” marks. Memorable Moments: Pink Martini’s song "Sympathique" from the 1997 album Sympathique, and you needn’t speak French to get the nuanced meaning.”

Kidding on the Square” is beautifully directed by Sarna Lapine with G. Scott Lacy as musical director and receives outstanding backup from pianist Jonathan Mastro (Musical director of the hit revival of "Our Town,)" with the talented Ritt Henn on bass and ukulele.

After a fun closing (“Dream a Little Dream of Me,”) Ms. Bergl encores with a heart-wrenching version of the Peggy Lee hit “Is That All There Is.“ And indeed, this is one of the few times in recent memory, we felt that way too about a cabaret act: Absolutely electrifying and not to be missed. Reserve now! The show will run through Saturday September 10th.

Shows are Tuesday through Thursday at 8:30 and Friday and Saturday at 8:30 and 11 pm. The cover charge is $50 per person plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or a $60 prix fixe dinner. Reservations: 212 419 9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com

Note: The new menu features an amazingly tender and moist Berkshire pork chop that is in step with making the Algonquin kitchen on a par with the atmosphere, entertainment and service one encounters in this truly great New York institution.

Click Here To Visit Emily Bergl’s Official Website

Click Here To Visit Website of Oak Room Supper Club

Disclosure

Emily Bergl, whose musical studies include classical and contemporary singing, piano and harp, is a rare breed of actress who is at home on the Broadway stage, Hollywood films and television. She was chosen from a nationwide casting call to play the lead in MGM’s The Rage: Carrie 2, and leads in such independent films as Fur, Chasing Sleep and Happy Campers. She has appeared on Broadway opposite Laurence Fishburne, Stockard Channing and Gabriel Byrne, and off-Broadway she originated roles in plays by Wendy Wasserstein, Steven Dietz and Christopher Shinn. On television, she has starred in Stephen Spielberg’s Taken, and has guest-starred on Grey’s Anatomy, The Good Wife, CSI:Miami, two seasons on The Gilmore Girls and as the eccentric Annie on the ABC comedy Men in Trees.

G. Scott Lacey is a highly sought after musical director, vocal coach and performer, having worked with countless Tony, Emmy, Grammy Award and Golden Globe winning companies and performers. He has recorded 11 albums, including the inspirational “A Quiet Place.”

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Lair Restaurant & Lounge is Hip, Hot, User Friendly and Yes Mom, You’ll Like The Food:)

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Jul 292011

Restaurant | Lounge

Established: October 2010

Location: 201 Lafayette Street | Btwn Broome & Kenmare Streets (Nolita)

New York City

Telephone: (212) 334-5247

Fax: (212) 334-5248

Email: info@lairnyc.com

Website: www.lairnyc.com

Managing Partners/

Owners: Michael Levin

Illarion Parmit

Executive Chef: Chris Cheung

Venue Size: 2000 sq. – ft

Capacity: Den – 50

Bar/Standing – 100

VIP – 100

Total – 250

Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday

5:00PM to 2:00AM

Thursday – Saturday

5:00PM to 4:00AM

____________________________________________________________________

Specialty Drinks: Mamma Mule Feel Good

Absolut vodka, cinnamon five spice syrup, apricot & ginger beer

Flame de Milo

Saffron infused Bombay dry gin, liquor 43, cava, flamed orange peel

Pass the Grapes

Barsol pisco/Appleton reserve, agave, red bell pepper puree, mescal ringe, red wine float

Mr Hot Pants

Herradura reposado, mescal, campari, passionfruit, thai chilli pepper agave

Maid in the Cave

Hibiki 12 year Japanese Whiskey, ginger infused agave, cucumbers muddled, club soda

____________________________________________________________________

Specialty Dishes:

Chicken ‘Pillows,’ Crispy Chicken Skin,

Johnny Blue Sauce

v Roasted Bone Marrow, x/o Marmalade,

Scallion Pancakes

v Oysters On The Half Shell, Seared Scallop, Truffle Essence (Above)

v Lobster, Bacon, Avocado Salad in Crispy

Wonton Rolls

v Eggplant and Mushroom Sui Mai

v 28 Dry Aged Black Angus Beef Dumplings

Sweet Plate Menu:

v Shanghai Walnut Crusted Marshmallows

v Scoop Caramel Apples, ‘Crispy Plum’

____________________________________________________________________

Lair Restaurant & Lounge

Safari meets urban glamour at this nighttime haunt where a chicly rustic interior of exposed brick, distressed wood, hand-painted ethic art work are accented by the earth tone color palette and lavish throw pillows. With a collective mix of music and a hip downtown crowd, Lair has all the settings for any night out. Located in New York City’s Soho/Nolita area, Lair is a bar, lounge, restaurant and private event space, all in one! With plush banquettes and the glow of glittering chandeliers and candlelight, this stylish venue features low table tops, an extensive bar, delicious modern Dim Sum plates and cozy seating arrangements. Lair is the ideal location for an after-work drink and appetizer or post-drink and small bite recap!

Conveniently located downtown in the Soho/Nolita area this dynamic newcomer embodies a chic lounge, restaurant and private event space, all in one. Lair is intentionally designed to be just that. The distinct rustic metal work is innovatively crafted, resembling to some a Paris train station and to others a private chamber. Socialize with fashionistas, models, celebs and the corporate clientele in front of the cleverly designed and ever-changing lighting that exudes from the 30 foot bar or burrow into a dimly lit corner under the hand drawn ancient cave murals for an intimate encounter.

We are always surprised by the excellence of the cuisine in clubs and Lair is no exception. Experience the succulent dishes created by the renowned Chef Chris Cheung (a veteran of Nobu, Ruby Foos and Monkey Bar), while sipping on specialty cocktails. Our favorite libations being Mr Hot Pants, a sexy blend of Herradura reposado, mescal, campari, passionfruit, thai chilli pepper and agave. For something more potent and with a bit more kick, go for Maid in the Cave, where Hibiki 12 year Japanese Whiskey, ginger infused agave, and cucumbers are muddled,in club soda.. Average price is $15.

While there is an expensive bottle list, wine by the glass ranges from $8 to $11 and The Stella is always dependable and just $7. We appreciated the friendly service and lack of attitude, making Lair a perfect spot for first dates and corporate or holiday parties, product launches, cocktail or fashion events, dinner parties, birthdays and more. The staff is professional and knowledgeable to facilitate your event needs. Lair provides a quality of visual, edible and audible sensory appeal that makes you want to come back again and again. The music is not too loud and if you hit it right, there may be live entertainment as well.

The Inventive Cuisine: is Modern, Kosher and might be described as global Dim Sum. Two appetizers per person provide a copious meal and range from about $9 to $13. Favorites include delicious Chicken ‘pillows’, with crispy chicken skin, Johnny Blue sauce; and unusually delicious Roasted bone marrow with X/O Marmalade; a classy rendition of Oysters on the half shell, seared scallop and truffle essence;
Mango ‘noodles’ salad, rock shrimp, chili lime; Coconut bao bread, 5 spice local honey hoisin butter; and Lobster, bacon, avocado salad in crispy wonton rolls. Don’t miss the Dry aged black angus beef dumplings or the light Chicken and foie gras san jin dumplings. We loved the Eggplant and mushroom sui mai. For dessert nut crusted marshmallows arrive beautifully scorched with a delightful brittle and real chantilly cream (worth a visit on its own).

Lair is the go-to for hosting and catering any event! and will help plan any soirée including: corporate and holiday events, fashion shows, dinner parties and luncheons, birthdays, meetings, product launches, wedding receptions, album release events, film/photo shoots and more! They will even design and accent the event with decorations and entertainment including: balloons, flowers, banners, logo branding, customized themes, DJs, comedians, dancers, live bands, drummers, video games, casino tables, Tarot card readers, Champagne Ice or Martini Bar, flat screen TVs and more! and the Celebrity Clientele include Adam Lambert Ally Hilfiger Craig Robinson, Richard Branson, Tika Sumpter and Tommy London.

But you needn’t be a celeb to get behind the velvet ropes and enjoy one of the most pleasant club experiences around, a local feel of being wanted and some really good vittles.

Disclosure

LAIR: 201 Lafayette Street (between Broome St & Kenmare St).
201 Lafayette Street
New York, NY 10012
t. 212.334.5247 (LAIR)
f. 212.334.5248

Sample Menu & Prices Subject To Change

Pickled local root vegetables, roasted peanuts, grape “ice”
Chinese chips, housemade duck sauce
Chicken ‘pillows’, crispy chicken skin, Johnny Blue sauce
Roasted bone marrow, X/O Marmalade, scallion pancakes
Oysters on the half shell, seared scallop, truffle essence
Mango ‘noodles’ salad, rock shrimp, chili lime
Coconut bao bread, 5 spice local honey hoisin butter
Lobster, bacon, avocado salad in crispy wonton rolls
House salad, ginger dressing
Dry aged black angus beef dumplings
Chicken and foie gras san jin dumplings
Eggplant and mushroom sui mai

nut crusted marshmallows
Ice cream/sorbet selection
Caramel apples, ’crispy plum’

Sample Bottles
Jack Daniels
Jameson
Makers Mark

Veuve Cliquot
Taittinger Rose
Dom Perignon
Cristal
Cristal Rose

___________________________________________________________________

About Michael Levin: With seven years of bartending experience under his belt, a finance background with companies such as Chase, bar management skills in Brooklyn and a knowledge of New York’s nightlife scene, Michael determination to open his own restaurant and bar is undeniable. Collaborating with a high school friend that shared the same dream (Illarion Parmit), Michael brought on board Celebrity Chef Chris Cheung. With an unique vision of crafting a modern Dim Sum menu and specialty cocktails, Lair, his first endeavor, opened in mid-October 2010.

About Illarion Parmit: Growing up in Russia and having a background in finance, Illarion’s passion for food led him to study the culinary arts at the French Culinary Institute in New York City. With his passion for business and gourmet cuisine, Illarion found himself interning at the prestigious Jean Georges Restaurant. Learning the ins-and-outs of the business, along with his ten year experience in the nightlife industry, Illarion pursued his desire to open up his own space. Going into business with a high school friend (Michael Levin), Illarion opened up Lair with celebrity Chef Chris Cheung.

About Chef Chris Cheung: Chris Cheung grew up in New York City and graduated with honors from the New York Restaurant School in 1992. Working at various locations throughout culinary school, Cheung began to develop a plan to open his own restaurant and successful launched Little Bistro in Brooklyn and Almond Flower Bistro in Chinatown. His past career highlights include crafting dishes at Nobu, working as an Executive Chef at Ruby Foo’s and China Grill and cooking with several esteemed chefs such as Wylie Dufresne, Didier Virot and Jehangir Mehta. In October 2010, Cheung became the executive chef of Lair and has crafted an one-of-a-kind contemporary Dim Sum menu

201 Lafayette Street
Btwn Broome & Kenmare Streets
New York City
www.lairnyc.com

Filed under: bar, club, New York, Restaurants Tagged: Club, Cocktails, dim sum, downtown, Entertainment, Food, food restaurant, New York, Nolita

ANDREA MARCOVICCI GREETS THE HOLIDAY SEASON

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Oct 282010

ANDREA MARCOVICCI GREETS THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A“BLUE CHAMPAGNE” TOAST

NOVEMBER 16-DECEMBER 30

“The greatest cabaret star of her generation.”

…International Herald Tribune.

For her record-breaking 24^th year at the famed Oak Room Supper Club of the

legendary Algonquin Hotel, the “Queen of Cabaret,” Andrea Marcovicci, returns to her first love—the torch song! “Blue Champagne: The History of the Torch Song” runs November 16^th -December 30^th, with Shelly Markham on piano and Jered Egan on bass. To honor the occasion, the Algonquin has created the “Blue Champagne Cocktail,” its newest signature drink (combining Blue Curacao and Veuve Clicquot Champagne).

“Blue Champagne: The History of the Torch Song” not only revels in the heartbreak inherent in this most vulnerable genre of music, but the show is carefully balanced with zany numbers in a quest for comic relief from unrequited love songs, as well as wonderful stories of the legendary ladies of torch…Helen Morgan, Ruth Etting and Libby Holman, among others. With her latest show, Andrea brings her unique insight to this tale of longing, losing and gunplay! Highlights: “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Love Me or Leave Me,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” “Body and Soul,” “Just Like A Man” and “Shakin’ the Blues Away.”

Shows are Tuesdays through Thursdays at 8:30 and Friday and Saturday at 8:30 and 11, with a $60 cover charge weeknights and late weekend shows and $65 for early weekend shows, plus either a $30 minimum or $60 prix fixe dinner. Reservations: (212) 419 9331 or bmgurn@algonquinhotel.com

There will be special holiday shows Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas at 7:30 pm, matinees at 2:00 pm December 22^nd and 29^th, and Monday December 27^th at 7:30 pm. The Algonquin is inaugurating “New Year’s Eve Eve” December 30^th at 8:30, an end of the year annual festive evening featuring camaraderie, great food and matchless entertainment, with Andrea hosting another Algonquin First.

Dubbed “a heartbreaker” by PEOPLE magazine, while the San Francisco Chronicle was “seduced by a temptress.” The New York Times stated, “She has a masterly balance between poignancy and wit,” and to the New Orleans Times-Picayune “she sings so beautifully that you find tears stinging your eyes.” Andrea Marcovicci has sold out Carnegie Hall and appeared in concert with numerous orchestras and at the White House. She has acted in films, television and theatre. Costars include Danny DeVito, Woody Allen, Sir Michael Caine, Sir John Gielgud and Sam Waterston. Her latest film, Irene in Time, has recently been released on DVD, and she has created more than 30 nightclub acts.

http://www.andreamarcovicci.com/

JACK JONES RETURNS TO THE OAK ROOM OCTOBER 26TH FROM WORLDWIDE “GREATEST HITS” TOUR

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Oct 242010

The legendary Algonquin is delighted to welcome back double Grammy Award winner Jack Jones for his annual exclusive three-week Oak Room engagement. From October 26^th through November 13^th, Jack will offer classic renditions of the timeless standards that have made him an international superstar in an age of rock and hip-hop.

Musical director/pianist Mike Renzi will be ably assisted by Chris Colangelo on bass and Kendall Kay on drums. Shows are Tuesday through Saturday at 8:30 with no late shows. There is a $75 cover charge per person Tuesday through Thursday and $100 Friday and Saturday, plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or $60 prix fixe dinner, with dinner seating at 7 pm. Reservations: 212 419 9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com.

Born in Hollywood to singer and film star Allan Jones (“A Night at the Opera,” etc.) and actress Irene Hervey, Jack Jones made his professional debut at 19 with his father in Las Vegas and soon thereafter signed a recording contract which produced his fist hit, “This Could Be The Start of Something Big.” His two Grammys were for the singles “Lollipops and Roses” and “Wives and Lovers,” which was also nominated for Song of the Year. With more than 50 recorded albums (17 of which made Billboard’s Top 20), Jack Jones continues to charm audiences worldwide with his wit, sensitivity and amazing vocal power. Jack’s credits include guest performances at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center and the White House. He recorded the theme songs for the film Love With a Proper Stranger and the hit TV show, “The Love Boat.” A recent release, Jack Jones Paints a Tribute to Tony Bennett, pays homage to a friend and influence, a group that also includes Mel Tormé (who called Jack ‘the greatest pure singer in the world), Billy Eckstine and Frank Sinatra. His latest release is Love Makes the Changes: The Lyrics of Alan and Marilyn Bergman.

JACK JONES RETURNS TO THE OAK ROOM OCTOBER 26TH FROM WORLDWIDE “GREATEST HITS” TOUR

bar, Cabaret, cocktails, Entertainment, Luxury, Music, New York, Restaurants, Travel, Wine Comments Off

Oct 182010

The legendary Algonquin welcomes back double Grammy Award winner Jack Jones for his annual exclusive three-week Oak Room engagement. From October 26^th through November 13^th, Jones offers classic renditions of the timeless standards that have made him an international superstar in an age of rock and hip-hop with panache.

His voice has matured over the years and displays a vast range and impeccable breath control. Mr. Jones uses has an appealing huskiness in the lower register that soars to a clear head voice, whether in full throttle or in falsetto. His stage presence and acting shine through clearly in such renderings as the easy opening (and closing reprise), “Friends”“ and “I Am A Singer.” “Love Makes the Changes,” an obscure Michel Legrand and Alan and Marilyn Bergman song that with an understated rendition of “The Impossible Dream” are theatrical highlights and a striking interplay and riffing with the incredible Musical director/pianist Mike Renzi and the agile Chris Colangelo on bass. Kendall Kay on drums adds the perfect musical balance.

With 52 years in show business going for him, Jack Jones presents a youthful demeanor and at 72 and is without question the best act in town.

Shows are Tuesday through Saturday at 8:30 with no late shows. There is a $75 cover charge per person Tuesday through Thursday and $100 Friday and Saturday, plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or $60 prix fixe dinner, with dinner seating at 7 pm. Reservations: 212 419 9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com.

The Algonquin Oak Room reigns as the best cabaret venue in New York with its inspired roster of entertainers, ever improving restaurant, benevolent service and aura of bygone civility.

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SONGLIST

(subject to revision)

FRIENDS

I AM A SINGER

DON’T QUIT NOW

PEOPLE

JUST ONE OF THOSE THINGS

GOD ONLY KNOWS

FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE

SHE

FLY ME TO THE MOON

I’M GONNA SIT RIGHT DOWN AND WRITE MYSELF A LETTER

SOMEWHERE

LOVE BOAT

LOLLIPOPS & ROSES

WIVES AND LOVERS

LADY

CALL ME IRRESPONSIBLE

I CAN’T WAIT TO MISS YOU

IF YOU GO AWAY

BY MYSELF

WHAT’S NEW?

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A FOOL

THE LORELEI

ALL OR NOTHING AT ALL

DIO COMO TIAMO

ON MY WAY TO YOU

RIGHT AS THE RAIN

LOVE MAKES THE CHANGES

IMPOSSIBLE DREAM

WE’LL BE TOGETHER (or) THE SINGER

REPRISE FRIENDS

The Parlour Midtown

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Oct 032010

The Parlour Midtown

247 W 30th St,. Btwn 7th & 8th Ave

(212) 967-1070

Mon – Fri 11:30am – 11pm
Saturday 5pm – 11pm
(closed on weekends in the summer except for private functions)

Click For Reservations: http://www.theparlour.com/midtown/reservations.php

The tradition of Irish hospitality dates back to medieval times. Grace O’Malley, The Pirate Queen, was refused at The Castle of Howth. She took offense and kidnapped the heir to the estate. She would only give him back if, from then on, a spare plate be laid at every meal. Brehon Law demanded that every village have a Parlour ready for passing travelers so that they may be shown hospitality.

The Parlour Midtown opened its doors in April 2010, revealing the next generation of the "Irish Bar". New York City’s first Irish-style gastro-steakhouse, The attractive space offers several choices of dining options, an abundance of flat-screen TVs, oversized comfortable booths and walls hung with colorful artwork.

The Parlour Midtown offers traditional Irish cuisine, such as Shepherd’s Pie and Colcannon croquettes transformed elegantly, alongside American-influenced dishes that are popular in Irish pubs both in the US and Ireland, today. On tap, Guinness is served beside local IPA’s from New York breweries and renowned wine expert Andre Compeyre, pairs the pub’s menu with a great selection of wine, for those who may not be sipping Jameson. Executive chef, David “Ammo” Amorelli, has a strong background, working for such top rated New York venues as Alan Stillman’s Park Avenue Café Smith & Wollensky’s and Cité, His food is solid and professional, with a contemporary bent. Chef “Ammo’s” grilling skills are topnotch.

After a teaser of creamy Deviled eggs topped with grilled Irish bacon, enjoy inventive appetizers: Cockles and Sweet Corn Chowder is as good as it gets, “Dublin Toast” (Hot Buttered Prawns and Garlic on Parker House Toast) is delicious and chopped Hearts of Romaine in a Caesar Dressing with White Anchovies, Parmesan and Brown Bread Croutons is terrific. Entrees like a huge, succulent Cowboy Rib Eye and juicy Double Cut Pork Chop are equally good. Delicious sides include Creamed Spinach, homemade Baked Beans, Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese and Sautéed Mushrooms.

NY Style Cheesecake with fresh Berries, Warm Apple Cobbler, served in a Black Skillet with Vanilla Ice Cream and Crème Brulée makes sweet conclusions and The Parlour Midtown offers one of the best casual dining options in The Madison Square Garden Area and is a pleasant discovery.

Disclosure

Appetizers
Cockles and Sweet Corn Chowder Leeks and Smoked Bacon 9
Field Green Salad Aged Balsamic Vinaigrette 7
Scottish Smoked Salmon on Brown Bread Pickles, Lemon and Kerry Gold Butter 11
“Dublin Toast” Hot Buttered Prawns and Garlic on Parker House Toast 13
Maryland Crab and Spinach Bake Olde Bay, Focaccia Toast and White Cheddar Cheese 7
Tiger Shrimp Cocktail Spicy Horseradish Cocktail and Colemanaise 12
Hearts of Romaine Caesar Dressing, White Anchovies, Parmesan and Brown Bread Croutons 8
Char Broiled Irish Bacon Beefsteak Tomato and Onion Salad 12
Entrees
Shepherd’s Pie Lamb, Carrots, Sweet Peas and Potato Purée 16
Fish and Chips Sweet Tartar Sauce and Malt Vinegar 18
Pappardelle Smoked Bacon, Garlic, Sweet Peas, Mint, Parmesan and Cream 14
Fareo Island Salmon Braised Green Cabbage, Irish Bacon and Whiskey Butter Sauce 24
From the Grill
Filet Mignon 35
Cowboy Rib Eye Copper Ridge Farms 37
Porterhouse Copper Ridge Farms 39
Lamb Chops New Zealand 30
Double Cut Pork Chop Iowa Reserve 24
Yellow Fin Tuna 25
Lemon Chicken Whiskey Hill Farms 19
Sides
Creamed Spinach 7 • Baked Beans 7 • Cabbage and Irish Bacon 7
Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese 7 • Sautéed Mushrooms 7
Champ 7 • Boiled Yukon Potatoes 7 • Chips 7

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Shellfish Castles

Kilkenny Castle Serves Two 30
1 Lobster (1 lb) • 4 East Coast Oysters • 4 West Coast Oysters
4 Jumbo Shrimp • 4 Little Neck Clams
Dublin Castle Serves Four 55
2 Lobsters (1 lb) • 8 East Coast Oysters • 8 West Coast Oysters
8 Jumbo Shrimp • 8 Little Neck Clams
Build Your Own Castle
Shellfish by the Piece
Lobster (1 lb) 17
East Coast Oysters 2
West Coast Oysters 2
Jumbo Shrimp 2.50
Little Neck Clams 1.50
Jumbo Lump (4 oz) 12
Served with Fresh Lemon and Three Sauces :
Spicy Cocktail, Colemanaise and Malt Mignonette
247 W. 30th Street New York, NY 10001
212.967.1070 www.theparlour.com
SHELLFISH CASTLES

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Pub Grub

Slider Trio’s Beef and Caramelized Onion 10
Lamb and Tzatziki Sauce 11
“Bacon and Eggs” Deviled Eggs and Char Broiled Bacon 5
“Dublin Toast” Hot-Buttered Prawns and Garlic on Toast 12
Spicy Wings Phroncias and Blue Cheese Sauces 8
Maryland Crab and Spinach Bake
White Cheddar Cheese 12
McCann’s Crispy Chicken Sticks
Country Honey Mustard 8
Cheddar Chips Cheese Fries 7
247 W. 30th Street New York, NY 10001
212.967.1070 www.theparlour.com
PUB GRUB

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Wine List

Sparkling Wine and Champagne
310 NV Chardonnay / Pinots Mumm Cordon Rouge, Champagne, France 375mL … 37
021 2008 Moscato d’Asti Bel Sit, Tuscana, Italie … 43
025 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon / Petit Mansenq Mas de Daumas Gassac,
Vdp de l’Hérault Frizant Rosé, France … 55
White Wine – France
115 2005 Chardonnay “Véro”, Domaine Drouhin, Bourgogne … 53
156 2008 Chardonnay “La Source”, VdP d’Oc … 38
White Wine – United States
200 2007 Riesling Dr Konstantin Frank, Finger Lakes … 43
210 2008 Chardonnay Au Bon Climat, Santa Barbara … 47
215 2006 Chardonnay “Vine Hill”, Kistler, Sonoma Valley … 116
235 2008 Pinot Grigio Benessere Winery, Carneros … 40
White Wine – Spain
250 2007 Verdejo Santamaria Valdrinal, Rueda … 49
White Wine – New Zealand
280 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Brancott Reserve, Marlborough … 50
White Wine – Australia
290 2007 Chardonnay Pipers Brook Vineyard, Tasmania … 57
White Wine – Chile
295 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Viu Manent, Colchagua Valley … 44
Rosé Wine
305 2008 Cinsault / Grenache / Syrah “Pink Floyd Rosé”, Château Miraval,
Côtes de Provence, France … 51
Sweet Wine
310 NV Muscat de Saint Jean de Minervois Languedoc-Roussillon, France 375mL … 28
Red Wine – United States
610 2006 Cabernets / Merlot / Syrah TrainWreck Cellars, Napa Valley … 51
611 2008 Pinot Noir Walnut City Wineworks, Yamhill County … 65
612 2003 Zinfandel Sapphire Hill Vineyards, Russian River Valley … 68
615 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Joseph Phelps, Napa Valley … 110
640 2006 Pinot Noir Domaine Drouhin, Willamette Valley, Oregon … 82
750 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot / Cabernet Franc New World Red Kluge Estate,
Albemarle County, Virginia 375mL… 25
WINES
Red Wine – France
505 2006 Pinot Noir François Feuillet, Bourgogne … 53
510 2007 Pinot Noir "Cuvée Amandine Poinsot" Domaine Demangeot,
Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune … 64
525 2007 Grenache / Syrah / Carignan Mas des Roches, Côtes du Rhône … 37
530 2006 Syrah Domaine Laurent Habrard, Crozes-Hermitage … 64
539 2005 Syrah / Grenache Domaine du Galet des Papes, <<VV>> Châteauneuf-du-Pape … 90
550 2008 Grenache / Syrah “Les Terres Blanches”, Borie la Vitarelle, St. Chinian … 49
555 2005 Syrah / Grenache L’Ostal Cazes, Minervois … 50
560 2004 Tannat / Cabernet Sauvignon Château Montus, Madiran … 68
570 2004 Cabernet / Merlot Château Cordeillan-Bages, Pauillac, Bordeaux … 112
590 2005 Cabernet Franc Château du Hureau, Saumur-Champigny … 54
Red Wine – Italy
650 2007 Le Volte Tenuta dell Ornellaia, Bolgheri … 64
Red Wine – Spain
660 2004 Tempranillo Reserva Ysios, Rioja … 75
Red Wine – New Zealand
680 2008 Pinot Noir Stoneleigh Vineyards, Marlborough … 41
Red Wine – Australia
690 2006 Pinot Noir Pipers Brook Vineyard, Tasmania … 70
694 2005 Shiraz Reserve Wyndham Founders, Hunter Valley … 50
695 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Cover Drive … 49
Red Wine – Chile
710 2008 Carménère Viu Manent, Colchagua Valley … 34
715 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Chévère, Laurel Glenn, Valle Central … 37
720 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Viu Manent, Colchagua Valley … 42
Red Wine – Argentina
730 2009 Malbec Grand Reserve Gragna, San Juan … 53
e Parlour Midtown is proud to recommend Wine Makers and Winery Owners with Irish origin
WINES

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KAREN AKERS HOSTS AN EVENING WITH RODGERS & HART IN HER NEW OAK ROOM SHOW SEPTEMBER 14-OCTOBER 23

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Sep 102010

Having eclipsed recent Oak Room records with her acclaimed Cole Porter show

In A Nutshell:

Elegance personified in a clinging blue gown, accented by a knotted strand of pearls, her Iconic hair style and striking bone structure, this is perhaps the finest Akers performance in recent memory.

Highlights include a haunting rendition of “Where or When,” a provocative rendering of “Isn’t It Romantic,” a poignant "It Never Entered My Mind" (saving the familiar lyric for the reprise) and a playful version of “Dancing on the Ceiling” “The Lady is a Tramp,” while well executed, didn’t require the updates in the lyrics (but what Hart lyric does?)

Less familiar songs such as “This Funny World” and “A Lady Must Live” were a welcome addition. A striking take on "I Wish I Were In Love" was a show-within-a-show while “I Could Write a Book”, "Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered" and a glorious interpretation of"My Funny Valentine" were give simple treatments and proved that less is indeed more.

intelligently directed by Eric Michael Gillett with Don Rebic’s brilliant musical direction and the remarkable Dick Sarpola on bass, “Dancing on the Ceiling” is a must see!

Rating: A Major

last year, beautiful Karen Akers turns her attention and her beguiling voice to the songs of supreme melodist Richard Rodgers and bittersweet lyricist Lorenz Hart in her new show, “Dancing on the Ceiling.” From September 14^th through October 23^rd, Karen will offer her vivid interpretations of the songs of a pair of native New Yorkers who found astonishing success on Broadway, London’s West End and Hollywood.

“Dancing on the Ceiling” will play Tuesday thru Thursday at 8:30 and Friday and Saturday at 8:30 and 11. There is a $60 cover per person weeknights and late shows and $65 for the early weekend shows, plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or $60 prix fixe dinner. Reservations: 212 419 9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com

Disclosure

Karen Akers has appeared in such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall, Café Carlyle, Rainbow & Stars, Hollywood Bowl, Wolf Trap and abroad in France, Russia, London and Barcelona, with a career encompassing theatre, television, film and recording. On Broadway she was one of the original stars of the Tony Award-winning musical Grand Hotel and made her Broadway debut in the original production of Nine, for which she won a Theatre World Award and a Tony nomination. Her current CD, “If We Only Have Love,” is a collection of theatre songs. Other recordings include “Feels Like Home,” “Under Paris Skies,” “Just Imagine…” and “Unchained Melodies.” Her film roles include Mike Nichols’ Heartburn, Woody Allen’s The Purple Rose of Cairo and Vibes.

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Dark paneled walls, white tablecloths, and a gleaming piano let you know you’re in for a treat at Algonquin’s famous supper club. Come inside and slip back in time to a more glamorous era. Enjoy dinner, then a show. The Oak Room was a launching pad for Harry Connick Jr., Michael Feinstein, Andrea Marcovicci, Diana Krall, Jane Monheit, Peter Cincotti, and Jamie Cullum. Learn more about the entertainment at The Algonquin or view the performance schedule. <br />Dinner and performances are offered seasonally Tuesday through Saturday, by reservation only. Dinner seating begins at 6:30 p.m. with an 8:30 p.m. curtain time. There is a second performance on Friday and Saturday evenings at 11 p.m. Guests may enjoy an á la carte menu at 10 p.m., prior to the second show

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