EXPERIENCE CLASSICAL MUSIC STARS ONBOARD MS EUROPA’S MUSIC VOYAGES IN 2012

cruise, Entertainment, Music, Restaurants, Travel Comments Off

Jan 122012

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises to Offer Guests Established Talent and Young Stars During the Ocean Sun and Stella Maris Classical Music Festivals at Sea

The highest ranked cruise ship in the world, according to the 2012 Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships[1] Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS EUROPA is offering guests two world-class music festivals in 2012. The “Ocean Sun Festival,” the only classical music festival on the High Seas, will feature internationally acclaimed classical music stars performing on board, as well as exclusive concerts at historical sites ashore. Additionally, the “Stella Maris“ International Vocal Competition will bring together up-and-coming young singers from the most renowned opera houses in the world to perform and compete on board a Middle East and Africa itinerary. These two music cruises are the highlights of a total of nine music cruises aboard the EUROPA in 2012.

Now in its sixth year, the “Ocean Sun Festival” has been compared to the prestigious Festival del Sole in Napa Valley, California and the Tuscan Sun Festival in Italy. For an added dimension to this musical experience, international music critics will offer lectures along the route. On board, “Ocean Sun Festival” guests will experience the breathtaking violinist Janine Jansen, the aspiring pianist Igor Levit and renowned soprano vocalist Marlis Petersen. This musical voyage continues ashore with the soloists joining the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra in Bergen, Norway. While the classical music concerts are the highlights of this itinerary, the EUROPA will glide through the picturesque Norway fjords, with stops in the charming and multifaceted cities of Bergen and Oslo. This 12-day itinerary from August 12-24, 2012, starts at $6,670 per person/based on double occupancy for a suite.

In cooperation with the prestigious international opera houses, the EUROPA will also be hosting their fourth annual classical music competition at sea, “Stella Maris.”
Under the direction of Canadian tenor Michael Schade, a jury of famous personalities in the classical music field will judge the top talent represented by international opera houses. The distinguishing feature of “Stella Maris” is that the audience determines the winner of the cash prize worth €15,000. This prize, generous compared to others in the world of classical music, is provided by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. The jury will decide on the recipients of the additional prizes, which include: a guest engagement at an international opera house, a concert, and a test recording with Deutsche Grammophon. The competition will occur on board an 18-day Middle Eastern and Africa cruise through the Indian Ocean from November 7-25, 2012, making stops in Dubai, Oman, the Seychelles and Madagascar this November. The itinerary starts at $9,150 per person/based on double occupancy for a suite.

For information on these itineraries visit www.hl-cruises.com or call one of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ sales agencies below.

Disclosure

In the USA and Canada:
Air Travel Marketing Services, Inc. 1-800-888-0200
Euro Lloyd Travel Group, Inc. 1-800-782-3924
Kartagener Associates, Inc. 1-877-445-7447

About the EUROPA:
The EUROPA is the first “all-suites” cruise ship, with staterooms that are never less than 290 square feet, 80% of them having their own veranda, assuring privacy and relaxation. The EUROPA offers guests the largest space per passenger, as well as one of the highest staff passenger ratios, with 280 staff members for max. 408 guests. New to the EUROPA, Dieter Mueller became the first award-winning chef to open his own gourmet restaurant onboard. He’s personally on board 70 days a year. Also recently launched, the EUROPA’s “Baby Welcome Package” offering baby care products and baby food for passengers traveling with infants. The EUROPA will be visiting over 20 countries in 2012, as part of her international (German/English) itineraries.
[1] According to the 2012 Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships

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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.”

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.

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JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Broadway, Entertainment, Music, New York, theater Comments Off

Aug 042011

The New York Musical Theatre Festival and J&B Productions
present Donna Lynne Champlin (“Billy Elliot,” “Sweeney Todd”) in

JANE AUSTEN'S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, a musical

JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
A story of "First Impressions" and second chances…
Book, Music, and Lyrics by
Lindsay Warren Baker and Amanda Jacobs
Directed by Igor Goldin (“YANK!”)
Presented as part of the 2011 New York Musical Theatre Festival
September 29 – October 11
Signature Theatre’s Peter Norton Space (555 West 42nd St)

The New York Musical Theatre Festival and J&B Productions present the musical JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, a musical – a story of “First Impressions” and second chances – with music, lyrics and book by Lindsay Warren Baker and Amanda Jacobs, directed by Igor Goldin (“YANK!”), and starring, in the title role of Jane Austen, Donna Lynne Champlin (“Sweeney Todd,” “Billy Elliot”). JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, a musical is presented as part of the 2011 New York Musical Theatre Festival and will play at Signature Theatre’s Peter Norton Space (555 West 42nd Street) in Manhattan beginning September 29 – with only 6 performances available.

Disclosure

Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy’s romance comes to life with fresh eyes as Jane Austen revisits her unpublished manuscript, First Impressions. As Austen transforms their story into what will ultimately become her masterpiece, Pride and Prejudice, both the author and her characters struggle to learn the joy of second chances.
Directed by Drama Desk Award nominee Igor Goldin (“YANK!,” “Unlock’d”) JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE will star Donna Lynne Champlin in the title role of Jane Austen, with additional casting TBA.
JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE has book, music and lyrics by Lindsay Warren Baker and Amanda Jacobs, choreography by Lucille Lortel Award nominee Jeffry Denman (“Yank!”), musical direction by Timothy Splain (“Adding Machine”), set design by Josh Zangen, lighting design by Zach Blane, costume design by Colleen Kesterson, and general management La Vie Productions.
Donna Lynne Champlin most recently was seen on Broadway in “Billy Elliot,” her other Broadway credits include “Sweeney Todd,” “By Jeeves,” “James Joyce’s The Dead” and most notably for her portrayal of Older Helen (based on a young Carol Burnett) in “Hollywood Arms” written by Carol Burnett and directed by Harold Prince. Other NYC/Off-Broadway credits include “Master Class” at the MET, “The Dark at the Top of the Stairs” (OBIE Award), “Bury The Dead,” “Flight of the Lawnchair Man” (NYMF award, "Outstanding Performance"), “Love Jerry” (NYMF award, "Outstanding Performance"), “First Lady Suite,” “My Life with Albertine,” City Center Encores! “Bloomer Girl,” and Carnegie Hall’s “Very Warm for May.” A Princess Grace Grant winner and Presidential Scholar in the Arts, Donna Lynne graduated with high honors from CMU and studied at Oxford on scholarship with an emphasis on Shakespeare and Chekhov.
Lindsay Warren Baker began collaborating with Amanda Jacobs in 1997 when they co-authored “Daniel: The Musical.” Additional works by Baker and Jacobs include “Lily, a Musical Portrait,” “All the Buzz” (Winner: Youth Education on Stage 2010 Summer Shorts 5, Williston, ND); “Personal Foul” (Winner: St. John Fisher College & Spotlight Theater Arts 2010 Celebration of One Acts, Rochester, NY); “The Rendez-Vous;” “Blocked” and are currently working on a play for children, “In the Garden.” Baker received her BA in theater and music from St. Olaf College (Northfield, MN), and trained at the O’Neill National Theater Institute (Waterford, CT), Moscow Art Theater (Russia), Geva Theatre Center (Rochester, NY) and spent two months during the summer of 2010 in Ghana, Africa studying West African music and dance. She is also currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree at SUNY Empire State College concentrating on performing arts and cultural studies. Member: Dramatists Guild of America
Amanda Jacobs earned her BMus degree in Piano Performance from Wesleyan College (Macon, GA) and completed graduate studies in piano pedagogy, voice, jazz theory and organ. After moving to Rochester, NY in 1996, she discovered her talent for composition when inspired to compose “Daniel: The Musical” and began working with Lindsay Warren Baker. While working on “Daniel,” she learned orchestral composition and arranging. In 2005, within a two-week period, she composed original orchestrations for a revival of Sigmund Romberg’s “Maytime” for the Ohio Light Opera (Wooster, OH) and now arranges and scores all of her collaborative work with Baker. In June 2010, Jacobs’ “Mass for the Living” won an Honorable Mention from the Foundation for the Sacred Arts and received its world premiere with the NIH Philharmonic Orchestra (Washington D.C.) in December 2010. Other accomplishments include the 2009 First Prize Winner of the 6th Annual Long Island Arts Council Composition Competition for her “Garden Verses,” the 2010 Honorable Mention in the “Celebrating Grace” Composition Competition for an SA Choral Arrangement, and First Prize for the Marin Lutheran Church composition competition for her original SATB anthem "Peace, Be Still.” Member: Dramatists Guild of America
Igor Goldin’s credits include: Off-Broadway: “With Glee” (Prospect Theater Company at Theatre Row), YANK! (York Theatre Company – Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Director of a Musical). Previous productions of “YANK!;” Diversionary Theatre, San Diego (Outstanding Achievement in Direction of a Musical, StageScene L.A.) The Gallery Players (2008 New York Innovative Theatre Award) and the New York Musical Theatre Festival (2005 Talkin’ Broadway Outstanding New Summer Musical). Other productions for NYMF: “The Tenth Floor” (2010 Talkin’ Broadway Outstanding New Summer Musical); “Sing, But Don’t Tell;” “Liberty;” “Main-Travelled Roads” (2008 Richard Rodgers Award staged reading); “Unlock’d” (2007 Best in Fest Award); “Common Grounds” (NYMF 2006 Award for Excellence in Direction). Other credits: “Liberty” (Workshop), “Like You Like It,” (2009 New York Innovative Theatre Award). Tours: Associate Director, “Seussical” directed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge (Theatreworks USA). Regional: “…And Then I Wrote A Song About It” (Luna Stage, NJ and Diversionary, San Diego), “The Mystery of Irma Vep,” “The New Century,” “A Little Night Music,” “I Love You Because” (NH Theatre Award nomination for Best Direction of a Musical), “Romance Romance,” “The Complete History of America (abridged),” “Blithe Spirit,” “Dracula,” “Violet,” “The Spitfire Grill” and “The Full Monty.” Igor was nominated by his peers as a top 5 finalist for the 2010 SDC Joe A. Callaway Award for Distinguished Direction. Member: Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC).
Now in its eighth year, the New York Musical Theatre Festival (NYMF) is the largest annual musical theatre event in America and is widely regarded as the essential source for new material and talent discovery. NYMF provides a launching pad for the next generation of musicals and ensuring their creators the continued vitality of one of America’s greatest art forms. Hailed as the "Sundance of Musical Theatre," NYMF discovers, nurtures, and promotes promising musical theatre artists and producers at all stages of development, and inspires a diverse audience through vibrant, accessible, powerful new work.
NYMF is the flagship program of National Music Theater Network, Inc., a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization. NYMF 2011 is presented in association with BroadwayWorld.com, Production Resource Group and TheaterMania.com. Major supporters include The ASCAP Foundation, BMI Foundation, Inc., The Broadway League, The BWF Foundation, The Nathan Cummings Foundation with the support and encouragement of Jamie Ariel Phinney, The Charlie & Jane Fink Charitable Fund, The Rodgers & Hammerstein Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, and The Theater League. NYMF is supported, in part, by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. NYMF is supported, in part, by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, and by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and from the New York State Council on the Arts, a state agency.
NYMF Memberships, which combine charitable contributions with valuable, flexible ticket packages and perks like early seating, and tickets to individual events are currently available for purchase at (212) 352-3101 or www.nymf.org. Single tickets for Festival events will go on sale September 1.
Performances of JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE will run Thursday, September 29 at 8:00pm; Saturday, October 1 at 9:00pm; Sunday, October 2 at 1:00pm; Sunday, October 2 at 5:00pm; Friday, October 7 at 1:00pm; and Tuesday, October 11 at 5:00pm at Signature Theatre’s Peter Norton Space (555 West 42nd Street) in Manhattan.
For additional information on JANE AUSTEN’S PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, please www.pride-prejudice-musical.com or www.nymf.org

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

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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.

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.

________________________________________________________________

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

SD26 Sets A New Standard For Contemporary Italian Fine Dining. Rating: A Major

Italian, Music, New York, Restaurants, Wine No Responses »

Jun 212010

19 East 26^th Street

Madison Square Park North

New York, NY 10010

Telephone 212.265.5959

Fax 212.399.5672

Email SD26NY@SD26NY.com

Website www.SD26NY.com

Hours SD26 Wine Bar & Lounge

11:30am – midnight Monday through Sunday

Dining Room

Lunch 11:30am – 2:30 pm Monday through Friday

Dinner 5:30 – 11:00 pm Monday through Saturday

Dinner 5:00 – 10:00 pm Sunday

Owners / Operators Tony May & Marisa May (Photo Credit Robert Caplin)

Cuisine Contemporary Italian cuisine

Wine List More than 10,000 bottles with an emphasis on Italian selections

Credit Cards Visa, Mastercard & American Express

Restaurant Overview Total seating capacity: 299+

On three levels

Ground Floor

70-seat Wine Bar and Lounge

138-seat Main Dining Room

Exhibition Kitchen with 8-seat Chef’s Table

Salumi and Cheese Display

Upper Level

60/120-seat, Private Dining Rooms

Lower Level and Wine Cellar

Connoisseur Wine Room for private dining

Executive Chef Matteo Bergamini (Photo credit Beatriz Cifuentes)

SD26 REINVENTS ITSELF AT MADISON SQUARE PARK

Interior Photo Credit Beatriz Cifuentes

After a 20 year run, Tony May and his daughter Marisa have moved and morphed their celebrated restaurant-icon to a stunning location on East 26th Street at Madison Square Park, fusing authentic Italian flavors with a striking, modern setting.

SD26 is the first American restaurant created by internationally-acclaimed Italian designer Massimo Vignelli, who took the 14,000 square foot raw space and created a tri-level restaurant featuring rich colors of gold and red, artwork from renowned fiber artist Sheila Hicks, and secluded alcoves for guests and VIPs to gather. Offering guests multiple dining and drinking settings, SD26 features a 70-seat wine bar and lounge; a 138-seat dining room with imported prosciutto and cheese, hand-cut to order; an exhibition kitchen, and Chef’s Table for up to 8 guests. Upstairs, a 65-seat private dining mezzanine overlooks the dining room. A 14-seat private wine cellar downstairs features an esteemed collection of vintage and special format bottles from Italy’s top producers.Upon entering SD26, guests are greeted by a 24-bottle enomatic system offering 1, 2 or 4 ounce pours of red and white selections, ensuring that every glass tastes as fresh as the first poured, while surrounded by sweeping views of Madison Square Park.

Interior Photo Credit Beatriz Cifuentes

Executive Chef Matteo Bergamini features a menu of contemporary Italian cuisine. Rather than focusing on one particular region of Italy and sticking to the rigid format of appetizer, pasta, entree, dessert, the menu invites diners to eat as they wish with all dishes served in small or large portions. Knockouts include, perfectly timed Imported White Asparagus topped with a Baby Egg and Summer Truffles (a special), a variety of incredible Artesian Hams and Cold Meats (favorites include Pata Negra from Spain, Culatello, Center Cut Of Prosciutto, Aged 18 Months from Emiglia Romagna and Guanciale pork cheeks cured with spices, rosemary and garlic and Lard, thick pork fat cured with herbs, salt and pepper). All House-Made Breads are to die for.

A Selection Of Hand Cut Gems (Signature dishes photo credit Joshua Bright)

Other options offer the best Veal Sweetbreads in Coffee Essence Olive Oil And Baby Turnips imaginable, melt in your mouth Beef Cheeks ,Braised In Red Wine, with Onion Marmalade and San Domenico classics like Soft Egg-Yolk filled Ravioli with Truffled Butter and Pappardelle with wild boar ragu.

Lovers of the offal will adore splendid renditions of Tuscan Tripe with cannellini beans and tomato (from the bar menu) and a Thursday lunch special: bollito misto, the ultimate boiled dinner.

At lunch, SD26 offers an Il Quadrifoglio menu for guests to enjoy a nutritionally balanced, one-course meal of four individual dishes designed to provide an optimal balance of ingredients.

We chose an early Saturday night dinner to experience SD26 and loved the look, which managed to woo and wow, while retaining a warm intimate feeling. We had a wonderfully comfortable banquette with a full view of the striking open kitchen. Despite the high ceilings, the sound level was gentle on the ear. (Some nights there is live music).

The service staff is young, enthusiastic, beautifully trained and guiding. With a well constructed cocktail, we delighted in navigating the hi-tech wine selection. (leave your iPhone apps at home). The expansive SD26 wine list of more than 10,000 bottles is presented using the state-of-the-art Smartcellar system and wireless digital menu. The list features hand-selected, well-known and newly discovered wines
with a strong influence from Italy and selectio
ns from France and California.

An interesting compensation arrived in the person of the inspired wine director, Maurizio Antolini, who honored our requests: Italian, red, offbeat grape, full body, soft tannins and compatible acid. Although we enjoy Super Tuscans and Barolos, we requested he look for the wines he considered the most interesting and offering the best value.

He returned with three bottles and was keen on the Sagrantino di Montefalco Taccalite Tiburzi, 2006 from Umbria. In the $100 range (about double its retail price), it was a glorious specimen, with a deep purple color, earthy tannins and medium-full body. 15 minutes in the glass and it was heaven. (Highly recommended).

The Miraculous Uovo di Raviolo Above (Signature dishes photo credit Joshua Bright)

Desserts and cheese dazzle. We adored a crunchy Chocolate hazelnut bar with orange emulsion and the lightest Pannacotta with balsamic vinegar reduction and strawberries. But I am a cheese freak and chose a selection of cheese as well.They were superb; served room temperature and in perfect condition. Cookies and espresso made the ideal finish.

SD26 shimmers with a youthful crowd enjoying the fabulous food, warm greeting and NY-style international atmosphere. Tony May was the first to introduce New Yorker’s to genuine Italian cuisine. As the the definition of Italian food has grown, so has May’s awareness of retaining integrity, while keeping up with global gastronomic evolution. That, above all, is why SD26 is New York’s best Italian restaurant.

The Not-To-Be-Missed Chitarra (Signature dishes photo credit Joshua Bright)

Copyright 2010 By Punch In International. All Rights Reserved.

Disclosure

ROUNDABOUT THEATRE COMPANY presents SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM

Broadway, Music, New York, theater, time share No Responses »

Apr 262010

Technorati Tags: entertainment,Broadway

Barbara Cook Vanessa Williams Tom Wopat In the new original Broadway musical

SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM

with

Leslie Kritzer Norm Lewis Euan Morton ErinMackey Matthew Scott

Music & Lyrics

Stephen Sondheim

Conceived & Directed

James Lapine

____________________________________________________________

“Rating A Major”

Punch In International

_______________________________________________________________

As long as there is a ROUNDABOUT THEATRE COMPANY, there will be a vibrant and meaningful Broadway. Sondheim’s lyrics and music soar, as a world class ensemble cast lights up the stage. A brilliant conception, this production is strikingly staged by James Lapine. The Great White way is alive and well at Studio 54. Not to be missed!

N. Walman

_____________________________________________________________ ____

Roundabout Theatre Company’s Broadway production of Sondheim on Sondheim stars Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams, Tom Wopat, Leslie Kritzer, Norm Lewis, Euan Morton, Erin Mackey & Matthew Scott. Music & lyrics are by Stephen Sondheim and the production is conceived & directed by James Lapine.

Sondheim brought us Into The Woods, Company, Sweeney Todd, A Little Night Music, Sunday in the Park with George, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, West Side Story and Gypsy (to name a few). By writing songs that reflect the complexity of his characters, he has changed the way we define a great musical. But even though millions of fans know his songs by heart, few know much about Stephen Sondheim himself. Until now. Roundabout presents Sondheim On Sondheim, an intimate portrait of the famed composer in his own words… and music. Through the use of exclusive interview footage, you’ll get an inside look at Sondheim’s personal life and artistic process. An world-class ensemble cast performs sparkling-new arrangements of over two dozen Sondheim tunes, ranging from the celebrated to the obscure. Brilliantly directed by frequent Sondheim collaborator James Lapine, Sondheim on Sondheim is a unique theatrical experience that will carry you to emotional highs and leave you with a sense of fulfillment rarely experienced in today’s theatrical universe. Rating:A Major

The Sondheim on Sondheim creative team includes David Loud (Music Direction & Arrangements) and Dan Knechtges (Musical Staging). The design team includes Beowulf Boritt (Sets), Susan Hilferty (Costumes), Ken Billington (Lights), Dan Moses Schreier (Sound) and Peter Flaherty (Projections).

TICKET INFORMATION:

Tickets will be available exclusively to American Express® Cardmembers beginning Monday, January 4th at www.roundabouttheatre.org, by phone at (212) 719-1300, or at the Studio 54 Box Office (254 West 54th Street). http://www.roundabouttheatre.org
blic on-sale begins Sunday, January 10th, by calling Roundabout Ticket Services at (212)719-1300, online at www.roundabouttheatre.org or at the Studio 54 Box Office (254 West 54th Street). To become a Roundabout subscriber visit www.roundabouttheatre.org or call Roundabout Ticket Services (212)719-1300. Ticket prices range from $36.50-$126.50.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:

Sondheim on Sondheim will play Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8:00PM with a Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matinee at 2:00PM.

MAUDE MAGGART’S “THREE LITTLE WORDS”

bar, Cabaret, Entertainment, Hotels, Music, Restaurants No Responses »

Mar 282010

SWEEPS SPRING LOVE INTO THE OAK ROOM APRIL 13-MAY 8

Technorati Tags: cabaret,Algonquin,Oak Room Maude Maggart,jazz,music,entertainment,New York

Cabaret’s “it” girl, the beautiful and bewitching Maude Maggart, returns to the Oak Room with a new show celebrating love as interpreted by Cole Porter, Noel Coward, Stephen Sondheim, Harry Warren, Rodgers & Hart and Marshall Barer…and as youthfully reinterpreted by Maude with a voice, according to The New York Post, that “radiates beauty.” John Boswell is musical director and accompanist.

The engagement runs from Tuesday April 13^th through Saturday May 8^th. Shows are Tuesday-Thursday at 8:30 and Friday-Saturday at 8:30 and 11 pm. Cover charge is $50 per person plus either a $30 food and beverage minimum or $60 prix fixe dinner, with dinner seating at 7 pm. Reservations: 221 419 9331 or bmcgurn@algonquinhotel.com

WATER’S EDGE RESTAURANT

Holidays, Music, New York, Restaurants No Responses »

Nov 012009

Technorati Tags: restaurants,holidays,music,bar,water,events

Originally Opened: 1981

Re-Opening Date: 2009

Location: The East River at 44^th Drive

Long Island City, NY 11101

Telephone: (718) 482-0033

Fax: (718) 937-8817

Email: info@WatersEdgeNYC.com

Website: www.WatersEdgeNYC.com

Owner: Singh Hospitality Group

Managing Director: Jay Jadeja

Director of Sales & Marketing: Raquel Wolf-Jadeja

Executive Chef: Rory O’Farrell

Corporate Chef: David Salony

Sommelier: Halim A.

Wine Director: Jay Jadeja

Cuisine: Eclectic American

Click Here For Reservations on Open Table

Specialty Dishes: Lunch

Crispy Calamari Salad

Frisee, Wontons Chips, Roasted Pepper- Lemon Vinaigrette

Grilled Chicken and Pear Sandwich

With Goat Cheese & Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Prime 12oz NY Strip Steak

Au Poivre, Béarnaise Sauce, or Cabernet Demi Glace

Dinner

Mushroom-Miso Crusted Rack of Lamb (Above)

Panko Crusted Oysters

Guacamole, Red Pepper Reduction

Kung Pao Calamari

Chillis, Peanuts, Hoisin Glaze

Autumn Salad

Pears, Gorgonzola, Candied Walnuts, Cinder Vinaigrette

Mushroom-Miso Crusted Rack of Lamb

Braised Bok Choy, Whipped Potatoes

Kurobuta Pork Chop

Sweet Potato Hash, Sun Dried Cranberry Apricot Compote

Specialty Drinks: Water’s Edge Sunset

Grey Goose, Grand Marnier, Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Sour

Mix & Grenadine

Royal Cosmo

Grey Goose, Champagne, Splash of Cranberry, Mint, Lime

Seating: Total (582)

Dining Room (110)

Bar (12)

Private Event Space (400)

Outdoor Patio (60)

Opening Hours: Lunch

Monday thru Friday: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Dinner

Monday thru Saturday: 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM

*All Major Credit Cards Accepted *

By Nancy Walman

Rating: A Major

Contemporary design meets tradition under a warm, inviting atmosphere at Water’s Edge. Featuring panoramic views of the majestic New York City skyline, Queensborough Bridge and Roosevelt Island, the bar and dining room possess a clean, classic aesthetic, as white-linen covered tables are complemented by chic, modern-designed chairs. The lounge, which holds a baby grand piano, plush banquettes and flickering fireplace, is the ideal site for a quiet evening.

The Water’s Edge dining experience begins at the start of the evening— departing from Manhattan’s East 23^rd Street Pier/Skyport Marina, Water’s Edge diners are invited to step aboard the Water’s Edge Ferry for a thirty-minute sail across the East River, sure to be a unique and memorable experience. The Water’s Edge Ferry departs from Manhattan Wednesdays through Saturdays, every hour on the hour, from 6:00PM to 10:00PM. The Ferry makes return trips on the half hour, from 6:30PM to 10:30PM.

Executive Chef: Rory O’Farrell has a deft hand and the food is not second to the view. There is a “Chef’s Seven Course Tasting Menu” for $70 per person offering an intense Lobster Bisque, crispy Duck Confit Spring Roll, a light handed Hand Made Goat Cheese Ravioli,
a palate cleanser of Sorbet, Asian influenced Pan Seared Ahi Tuna, a lovely Mushroom- Miso Crusted Rack of Lamb and (leave room)
The Dessert Sampler, a selection of the pastry chef’s specialties.

Some of the Luscious Desserts

Other memorable dishes include such knockout appetizers as Kung Pao Calamari. A welcome relief from the ubiquitous fried calamari, here it is sauced Asian style, with loads of taste and tenderness. The addition of Chillis, Peanuts and Hoisin Glaze are the secret ingredients. Panko Crusted Oysters are another minor miracle. The oysters are crisp but not dry, the shell-filled with Guacamole is a player in its own right while a pleasant Red Pepper Reduction garnish holds the whole thing together.

All entrees are recommended: favorites include a huge Short Bone Prime Rib Steak (22oz) and a Kurobuta Pork Chop with Sweet Potato Hash and Sundried Cranberry Apricot Compote. The creamed spinach may not be classic, but it is perfectly cooked and delicious, as are the roasted wild mushrooms.

The wine list is a winner and deserves careful study. If you’re feeling lazy, there’s good Roederer Champagne by the glass. And let’s not neglect the pleasant, attentive service.

The private event space boasts pristine, white walls, accented by rich wood detailing. Glittering crystal chandeliers hang overhead, producing a soft glow within the room, as floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony offer a breathtaking view of New York City.

An iconic dining experience, spanning three decades, has been recently re-awakened under the leadership of the Singh Hospitality Group, introducing a newly-transformed New York City landmark— Water’s Edge Restaurant. Sitting alongside the East River, the venue offers awe-inspiring views of New York’s impressive cityscape, second only to the exceptional personalized service, delectable cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere that surrounds the venue.

A popular venue for weddings, as well as private social and corporate events, Water’s Edge offers fine dishes and drinks in the romantically-lit dining room, at the bar, on the outdoor veranda or within the private event space, complemented by a number of on-site amenities, including a bride’s room.

Arrive to the iconic eatery in style, aboard the Water’s Edge Ferry. Additionally, a selection of party boats is also available for private cocktail hours, after-hours parties and other private events.

Each month, Water’s Edge hosts a special wine dinner, which features a hand-picked selection of wines, paired with a carefully-crafted five-course meal. Also, on Mondays and Tuesdays, guests are invited to indulge in a five-course wine dinner for only $50 (price subject to availability and gratuity).

With a rich history that spans twenty-eight years, Water’s Edge has become a landmark establishment, producing private events and serving Lunch, Dinner and Cocktails to New York City and its visitors.

A really unique New York dining experience, the only thing Water’s Edge overlooks is Manhattan.