Category: OTHER

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Harry Potter: A History of Magic

I usually write about dance and theatre, but flying on a broomstick is just like dancing and is equally theatrical, right?

“Harry Potter: A History of Magic” at New-York History Soceity is eye opening, mind boggling, and outright incredible!!!

Did you know that there is a *REAL* recipe for the Philosopher’s Stone? You can see the instructions, originally created circa 1570, inscribed on a scroll that unfurls over 20 feet, and is the only one of 22 known to exist, at the exhibit. (Sorcerer’s Stone if you read the American version of the Harry Potter books.)

Did you know Nicholas Flamel, rumored to have discovered the Philosopher’s Stone, is a *REAL* person? He died in 1418, but you can also see his tombstone from the church of Saint-Jacques-de-la Boucherie in Paris at the exhibit, too.

What else is on display?

J. K. Rowling’s handwritten drafts of the Harry Potter books, including an alternate opening chapter.

A specimen of the mandrake except in the real world it doesn’t actually scream; it’s just poisonous.

… and many many more fascinating facts about the magical world.

Thanks Shana Fung for inviting me to the show!

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The Artist Co-op

Anniversary Party at the Artist Co-op. May 15th.

Rachel Berger has a vision for a unique co-working space where artists can connect, work together, and build multidisciplinary art projects — and the Artist Co-op was born!

In 2017, the non-profit opened its door in Hell’s Kitchen. Back in May, we celebrated its first birthday!

The co-op members now comprise of musicians, dancers, playwrights, directors, actors/actresses, designers, and many more. Whether you’re looking for affordable rehearsal space, a work desk without having to pay for coffee every day, or even just a nice printer — make sure you go and check out what the Artist Co-op has to offer!

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Wonder Woman

Yesssss, Wonder Woman!!!

“I expected to like Wonder Woman. I didn’t expect it to be such a relief.” wrote Caroline Framke in Vox. Well put, Caroline. I couldn’t have phrased my reactions any better.

I am so glad (and so relieved) to finally see a heroine who is proud, strong, and intelligent… who carves out a story of her own without being limited by the society’s (or entertainment industry’s) gender stereotypes… and to see other male characters react in ways that real men should do (or any real men with a secure sense of self should do): Show our superhero respect, admire her strength, and let her take the reins.

Now that I’ve got my jitters out of the way, I will definitely be going back again soon. Re-watch the movie knowing I can kick back, relax, and enjoy dazzling fight scenes without having to take a break from being a feminist.

Caroline Framke: Wonder Woman isn’t just the superhero Hollywood needs. She’s the one exhausted feminists deserve.

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Restless Creature: Wendy Whelan

Wow!!! An incredible documentary about ballerina extraordinaire, Wendy Whelan, as she approaches her 30th year with the New York City Ballet.

First and foremost, it’s a story about the extraordinary strength and the unimaginable perseverance of dancers. The film opens with Wendy undergoing a gruesome surgery, as we discover that Wendy has been dancing for nearly a year despite a completely torn cartilage in her hip joint. Wendy recovers, rebuilds, and drives herself right back to the dance floor. Dancers are some of the world’s strongest athletes. If anyone ever has any doubt, ask them to watch this opening sequence.

Second, it’s a story about love. Not just the love of ballet but the love of chasing after a life-long dream: To be always dancing. To want to dance more than to live. And to give 200% of what you have, in order to live that dream.

Finally, it’s about the friendship, kinship among dancers. Cultivating in one touching beautiful final performance on the stage of Lincoln Center.

Wendy Whelan took on one of the most demanding jobs in the world, both physically and emotionally. She’s doing it. Living it. Loving it. And she continues to learn and reinvent herself even after 30 years. Go see the film. You will be inspired!

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Both Sides Now

Saw the talented Andy Rice in his first cabaret show tonight.

Fun times with his rendition of some of my favorite musical scores from “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Into the Woods”.