A few months ago, Ticketmaster rolled out the Verified Fan process. In an attempt to outwit the bots and scalpers that are driving up ticket prices, Ticketmaster wanted to create a new process that would make it easier for real fans to buy tickets. For big events, they have ticket buyers sign up weeks in advance for a chance to buy a ticket. Then on the day tickets go on sale, you find out if you've been given that chance. If you're a lucky few that gets a code, you have the chance to go purchase a ticket. Though you're not actually guaranteed a code or a ticket. Even after you go through the whole process, you may not actually get a ticket in the end.
After 3 attempts at this process, I still haven't managed to get past the first step. I signed up twice for Springsteen (2 different blocks of tickets) and once for Harry Potter. All 3 times I was put on stand-by. More over, 2 of my friends also managed to get on stand by. I understand their desire to make ticket buying more fair. But when tickets would sell out in a few minutes, and I wouldn't get any, I at least had the satisfaction of doing something. I had tried but it didn't work out.
Now I can't even try. It feels like I haven't made it into a special club. It's a pain. And the fact that some people have won the code each time, and managed to get tickets each time is even more atrocious. This is only making it harder for regular people to get tickets, instead of easier.
And to top it all off, if this process is supposed to completely eradicate scalpers and bots buying up tickets, why is there a pair of tickets to Harry Potter tickets listed online for $10,000? Do better Ticketmaster! I managed to see Hamilton without a great deal of work. We don't mind waiting months to see the shows, just give us a chance to try.
Showing posts with label Broadway. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Broadway. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Sunday, October 15, 2017
A Weekend of Jennifers
So without further ado, I'm celebrating my weekend of Jennifers. In 3 days I did fun things with 3 friends named Jennifer, and I enjoyed my time immensely On Friday, there was a Tim McGraw and Faith Hill concert which was as usual for them, awesome. That show was shared with 2 friends named Jen.
Then last night, there was an amazing concert by Leslie Odom Jr. This show marked the first for me at the Kennedy Center - which is a gorgeous venue, and was spent with yet another Jennifer. We ate Mexican food and fell in love with Leslie's new version of The Room Where it Happened. Honestly, he's so darn good!
Then today, with that same Jennifer we saw an interesting performance of Sondheim's Company which was new for us since we've never seen that show. But at the moment, we still aren't sure exactly what happened because the sound was so bad. So I'm going to go on record as saying I still haven't technically seen Company.
All in all a pretty perfect weekend was spent. These are the things that make me happy, and these are what I'm going to do my best to write about!
Bring on the happy!
Friday, August 4, 2017
Friday Five
1. I absolutely love these Scenery Bags! They are so darn cute. The idea is that just like Re-Sail bags are made from recycled sails, these are made from recycled backdrops from shows. How great is that!? I'm so pre-ordering one...
2. The news that Indecent will be shown on BroadwayHD makes me so very happy! I wanted to see this show before it closed, but I haven't had the chance. Then they were given a bit of a reprieve, but it still didn't happen. Now that it's being filmed, hopefully lots more people will have the chance to see this important work.
3. I was never a huge fan of Duck Tales, but now that David Tennant is voicing Scrooge McDuck, I might need to watch it. Also, these pictures just make me smile. I just love him.
4. Okay, the model for this month's TimeOut NY is the cutest thing ever!
5. The late night hosts have been on fire this week, thanks to the ridiculousness of the White House. But this monologue by James Corden is my absolute favorite! (Excuse the bit off-color humor there at the end, but the first 3 minutes is amazing!
2. The news that Indecent will be shown on BroadwayHD makes me so very happy! I wanted to see this show before it closed, but I haven't had the chance. Then they were given a bit of a reprieve, but it still didn't happen. Now that it's being filmed, hopefully lots more people will have the chance to see this important work.
3. I was never a huge fan of Duck Tales, but now that David Tennant is voicing Scrooge McDuck, I might need to watch it. Also, these pictures just make me smile. I just love him.
4. Okay, the model for this month's TimeOut NY is the cutest thing ever!
Our @TimeOutNewYork cover star @ChloeTheMini visited our Times Square offices today for some selfies! 🌟🙌🏽 pic.twitter.com/HY9NpgAbYE— Jillian Anthony (@jillathrilla) August 2, 2017
5. The late night hosts have been on fire this week, thanks to the ridiculousness of the White House. But this monologue by James Corden is my absolute favorite! (Excuse the bit off-color humor there at the end, but the first 3 minutes is amazing!
Sunday, July 30, 2017
The Great Comet Kerfuffle of 2017
I saw the Great Comet a few months ago, and at the time, I thought it was the strangest thing I'd ever seen. It was bizarre and I just didn't get it. The staging and theater are beyond gorgeous, but the story was just incomprehensible to me. I sat there completely confused for the entire 2 hours. Also, I was slightly annoyed (yay understudy because you were awesome!) because Josh Groban was out with a cold, and he was the reason I was seeing the strange show in the first place.
Flash forward a few months to the show being touted as the best thing to hit Broadway in years, and everyone and the show being nominated for Tony awards. I was still confused by it, but I really did love everyone involved in the show so I was ok with them getting the accolades. I didn't agree, but I was ok. Then Josh Groban left sadly, and the fabulous Oak Smash stepped in and he got amazing reviews. And for a hot minute, I thought about seeing it again, just to see Oak and figure out if maybe seeing it again would make me like it more.
But then, this week happened. The Great Broadway Kerfuffle of 2017. Somehow Mandy Patinkin saw the show. Then in a matter of hours, Oak was leaving 3 weeks early to make way for Mandy to play a 3 week engagement, and the producers were hopeful that Oak would come back after Mandy left. When I first heard the news I had 2 thoughts. One, how cool that Mandy is making his return to Broadway in such a loved show. And two, what the heck happens to Oak. This is super rude to him. Well, it turns out those were the same thoughts everyone else had.
In another manner of hours, Oak would release a gracious statement thanking the show, and saying he wouldn't be back after Mandy left. Mandy would realize he was to replace Oak and bow out, because he thought it was handled badly. And the producers would take to Twitter to apologize for the "optics" and tell everyone that there's a chance the show wouldn't be running much longer because the sales were dismal. Whoa.
Talk about a lot to handle in a manner in 12 hours. It's a lot to take in, but I, like a lot of people, think that Oak was slighted. The producers apologized for the optics. But not exactly what happened. If they take color completely out of it - even though it's hard not to see an African American actor replaced by an Older White actor - you have a relatively new actor replaced by a bigger name, just because that bigger name is a bigger name. Oak was brilliant in the role. No one was saying he needed replacing. He spent months preparing. The man even learned to play the accordion. Replacing him with Mandy Patinkin is just rude, especially when it doesn't even look like you spoke to Oak first about it.
In the end, like I said I didn't like the show. But I don't want them to close. The actors are incredibly talented and deserve to continue to get the accolades. But I do believe the producers messed up royally, and need to apologize to Oak and Mandy alike - Oak for obvious reasons, and Mandy, because I'm pretty sure he was a bit slighted in this whole situation, and didn't realize what he walked into. He was gracious in stepping down though, when he learned what had happened. I hope the show finds a way to make it through, but I also hope the producers learn that numbers aren't everything. Treating these actors like people instead of dollar signs is a much better way to run the business of show business.
Flash forward a few months to the show being touted as the best thing to hit Broadway in years, and everyone and the show being nominated for Tony awards. I was still confused by it, but I really did love everyone involved in the show so I was ok with them getting the accolades. I didn't agree, but I was ok. Then Josh Groban left sadly, and the fabulous Oak Smash stepped in and he got amazing reviews. And for a hot minute, I thought about seeing it again, just to see Oak and figure out if maybe seeing it again would make me like it more.
But then, this week happened. The Great Broadway Kerfuffle of 2017. Somehow Mandy Patinkin saw the show. Then in a matter of hours, Oak was leaving 3 weeks early to make way for Mandy to play a 3 week engagement, and the producers were hopeful that Oak would come back after Mandy left. When I first heard the news I had 2 thoughts. One, how cool that Mandy is making his return to Broadway in such a loved show. And two, what the heck happens to Oak. This is super rude to him. Well, it turns out those were the same thoughts everyone else had.
In another manner of hours, Oak would release a gracious statement thanking the show, and saying he wouldn't be back after Mandy left. Mandy would realize he was to replace Oak and bow out, because he thought it was handled badly. And the producers would take to Twitter to apologize for the "optics" and tell everyone that there's a chance the show wouldn't be running much longer because the sales were dismal. Whoa.
Talk about a lot to handle in a manner in 12 hours. It's a lot to take in, but I, like a lot of people, think that Oak was slighted. The producers apologized for the optics. But not exactly what happened. If they take color completely out of it - even though it's hard not to see an African American actor replaced by an Older White actor - you have a relatively new actor replaced by a bigger name, just because that bigger name is a bigger name. Oak was brilliant in the role. No one was saying he needed replacing. He spent months preparing. The man even learned to play the accordion. Replacing him with Mandy Patinkin is just rude, especially when it doesn't even look like you spoke to Oak first about it.
In the end, like I said I didn't like the show. But I don't want them to close. The actors are incredibly talented and deserve to continue to get the accolades. But I do believe the producers messed up royally, and need to apologize to Oak and Mandy alike - Oak for obvious reasons, and Mandy, because I'm pretty sure he was a bit slighted in this whole situation, and didn't realize what he walked into. He was gracious in stepping down though, when he learned what had happened. I hope the show finds a way to make it through, but I also hope the producers learn that numbers aren't everything. Treating these actors like people instead of dollar signs is a much better way to run the business of show business.
Sunday, July 16, 2017
Theatre Weekend
So this weekend's 5 show weekend turned into a 4 show weekend. However, that wasn't a terrible thing. I really wanted to see Godspell Friday night, but after a long week, it just wasn't in the cards. However, the next 2 days totally made up for it in terms of quality.
Yesterday was Off-Center's City Center's Production of Assassins. I'd never seen this show before and I'm still not sure I understand what I saw, but I admit to loving it. It was weird, and sarcastic, and a little in poor taste, but the cast was outstanding. I came for Steven Pasquale, who was brilliant as always. That man's voice is pretty perfect, and he's great with the annoyance and sarcasm on stage. So he was a perfect choice for a snarky John Wilkes Booth. But the rest of the company was also amazing.
My favorite part was a line sung by the balladeer "Every now and again the world goes wrong, every now and again a mad man comes along..." At which point the crowd went wild. It's the perfect description of where the US finds itself right now. Nice lyrics, Sondheim - who was apparently at the evening performance along with Josh Groban. I missed them both by going to the matinee - boo!
And the last show of the weekend, was an olf favorite of mine "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Now, even though it's a favorite, I had no desire to go whatsoever. It was to be performed outside (it was 89 today) and it was going to be in a sketchy (or so I thought) part of town, and I would be going by myself (everyone else realized it was too hot and too far...) However, I'm so glad I went. The show was fantastic! The Baltimore Shakespeare Company put on a great production.
I know exactly how hot I was, so I can't imagine how hot the performers were, but they never let it show. They seemed to be having so much fun, which is always a good mark of a great show. In the end I'm so happy I went, and I can't wait to attend another one of their productions!
Yesterday was Off-Center's City Center's Production of Assassins. I'd never seen this show before and I'm still not sure I understand what I saw, but I admit to loving it. It was weird, and sarcastic, and a little in poor taste, but the cast was outstanding. I came for Steven Pasquale, who was brilliant as always. That man's voice is pretty perfect, and he's great with the annoyance and sarcasm on stage. So he was a perfect choice for a snarky John Wilkes Booth. But the rest of the company was also amazing.
My favorite part was a line sung by the balladeer "Every now and again the world goes wrong, every now and again a mad man comes along..." At which point the crowd went wild. It's the perfect description of where the US finds itself right now. Nice lyrics, Sondheim - who was apparently at the evening performance along with Josh Groban. I missed them both by going to the matinee - boo!
And the last show of the weekend, was an olf favorite of mine "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Now, even though it's a favorite, I had no desire to go whatsoever. It was to be performed outside (it was 89 today) and it was going to be in a sketchy (or so I thought) part of town, and I would be going by myself (everyone else realized it was too hot and too far...) However, I'm so glad I went. The show was fantastic! The Baltimore Shakespeare Company put on a great production.
I know exactly how hot I was, so I can't imagine how hot the performers were, but they never let it show. They seemed to be having so much fun, which is always a good mark of a great show. In the end I'm so happy I went, and I can't wait to attend another one of their productions!
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Post-Tony Thoughts
After they had the technical issues fixed, the rest of the evening - telecast wise - was smooth sailing. The food on the other hand was less than stellar. But at least my margarita was yummy. And speaking of margaritas, if you paid the $100 like a lot of people did (we did not), you were treated to an open bar all evening. This meant, that as the evening went on, most people got drunker and louder. Even lovely theatre people are annoying when drunk.
Then there were the Tony's themselves. Not a single thing that I predicted to win, won. No one I loved won, and no show I loved won. Well that's not true. Bette Midler and Hello Dolly both won, but Hello Dolly stole the show from Falsettos so I was super sad about that. On the upside the performances by Falsettos, Hello Dolly, and Come From Away were stellar. All of the performances were stellar. It's just that the host was less so. Don't get me wrong, I love Kevin Spacey. But James Corden seemed to set the bar so high last year, that I think anyone would have had a hard time hitting it.
In the end, we decided that we loved the idea of a viewing party, but maybe next year we need to find a crowd that's slightly older and less likely to get ugly-drunk. But we also decided that a night in New York City was definitely more of an experience to remember than any night just sitting at home on the couch and watching it. At least we have a story to tell now and some fun memories.
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Tony Predictions
Here are my predictions for tomorrow night. I'm sure they'll be all wrong, because my predictions are mostly based on what I want to happen, not exactly what I actually think will happen. Hey, a girl can hope, right?
Best Musical: If Come From Away doesn't win (afterall they won the Drama Desk), I predict that Dear Evan Hansen runs away with the award. But I honestly think my Come From Away-ers have a really great chance.
Best Actor in a Musical: As much as I'd like to see Christian Borle win, even he's willing to admit this award belongs to Ben Platt. There's no way anyone but him wins it.
Best Actress in a Musical: This one has Bette Midler's name all over it. And honestly, after seeing Hello, Dolly, she totally deserves it.
Best Featured Actor in a Musical: I'm predicting what I want to happen, which is a 2-way tie for Andrew Rannells and Brandon Uranowitz. They were both spectacular and deserve the award so much. But the buzz is on Lucas Steele, and Gavin Creel won the Drama Desk so it's anyone's game. But my fingers and toes are crossed!
Best Featured Actress in a Musical: I want another 2-way tie on this one - Jenn Colella and Stephanie J. Block. Both are unbelievable in their roles. They blew the roof off the joint each night. I watched Stephanie get a standing ovation mid-show, twice for her rendition of "I'm Breaking Down." I actually thinks she deserves it a bit more than Jenn does, however Jenn won the Drama Desk, so I'm taking that into account.
Best Revival: I fear this is going to Hello, Dolly. But I'm hoping for a last minute reprieve for my well-loved Falsettos. This is its first revival and the material today means so much more to so many people. And critics and audiences loved it, so it might have a shot. Again, fingers and toes crossed.
As for plays, the only one I saw was Present Laughter - which was very, very funny! However, I'm not sure it has a chance up against Sweat by Pulitzer winner Lynn Nottage.
So there we have it, this time tomorrow I'll be at a viewing party in New York cheering on the lovely theatre community and loving every minute of it. Enjoy Tony day!
Best Musical: If Come From Away doesn't win (afterall they won the Drama Desk), I predict that Dear Evan Hansen runs away with the award. But I honestly think my Come From Away-ers have a really great chance.
Best Actor in a Musical: As much as I'd like to see Christian Borle win, even he's willing to admit this award belongs to Ben Platt. There's no way anyone but him wins it.
Best Actress in a Musical: This one has Bette Midler's name all over it. And honestly, after seeing Hello, Dolly, she totally deserves it.
Best Featured Actor in a Musical: I'm predicting what I want to happen, which is a 2-way tie for Andrew Rannells and Brandon Uranowitz. They were both spectacular and deserve the award so much. But the buzz is on Lucas Steele, and Gavin Creel won the Drama Desk so it's anyone's game. But my fingers and toes are crossed!
Best Featured Actress in a Musical: I want another 2-way tie on this one - Jenn Colella and Stephanie J. Block. Both are unbelievable in their roles. They blew the roof off the joint each night. I watched Stephanie get a standing ovation mid-show, twice for her rendition of "I'm Breaking Down." I actually thinks she deserves it a bit more than Jenn does, however Jenn won the Drama Desk, so I'm taking that into account.
Best Revival: I fear this is going to Hello, Dolly. But I'm hoping for a last minute reprieve for my well-loved Falsettos. This is its first revival and the material today means so much more to so many people. And critics and audiences loved it, so it might have a shot. Again, fingers and toes crossed.
As for plays, the only one I saw was Present Laughter - which was very, very funny! However, I'm not sure it has a chance up against Sweat by Pulitzer winner Lynn Nottage.
So there we have it, this time tomorrow I'll be at a viewing party in New York cheering on the lovely theatre community and loving every minute of it. Enjoy Tony day!
Friday, June 9, 2017
Friday Five
Warning: It's Tony's week, so there's a very good chance that everything I like this week, will in fact be Broadway-related. Just give me this week, and I'll promise to go back to having other non-geeky (probably not.) interests next week!
1. This interview with the cast of Falsettos and Jenn Colella made my week. I love all of these people and I just want to be their friends. I'll join them for dinner the next time, if they need a 6th. Though, I have this pesky habit of being starstruck, so it would be a quiet dinner for me I'm sure...
2. Oops, I forgot about this, and hey look at that! Not Broadway : ) Anyway, I don't usually watch John Oliver, but as a British citizen, I wanted to see what he had to say in light of the attack in London last weekend. His response was beautiful and perfect - just excuse a little of the language. He said, what many of the Brits were feeling about the sometimes insulting American press coverage of the attack.
3. Now, back to Broadway : ) I may be gushing but the theater community as a whole this week has made me smile bigger than many things have. They all seem to support each other so much. My favorite thing has been the Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress and the writers have all gone out to dinner with each other. Each category has had a meal together to celebrate their nominations. Now seriously, can you ever imagine Oscar or Emmy nominees doing that? It's really beautiful the support and love this community has for each other. It makes my heart happy - and since most of the news of today is full of awful things by our administration, my heart could really use a smile!
4. Thanks to BroadwayWorld my Broadway buddy and I were able to find a place to watch the Tony's in the city on Sunday while eating yummy food and drinking. They provided an all inclusive list of all of the places in the city that were doing viewing parties, and luckily one still had seats available. Woohoo! Watching them alone on my sofa is pretty great, but watching them with other Broadway lovers should be pretty fund too!
5. I finally, finally, finally figured out the hows and whys of Instagram Story. It's only taken me months and months. Apparently I just touch a little picture, and up a "story" pops. This is fabulous because Broadway people seem to love this feature, as evidenced by all of the Instagram story takeovers I've watched in the last week. It's awesome. Thanks to ridiculous advances in social media - which I usually whine about - Tony week has gotten so much more fun!
Friday, June 2, 2017
Friday Five
1. I love Brandon Uranowitz. I love his personality and his talent. I even wrote about how much I love him (even though I'm a starstruck weirdo). He's super talented and I think he's been my favorite discovery of this season. So I was pretty happy when this video came out this week of him singing his 3 bucket list songs. His Marriage Proposal is always fabulous, and I've never heard Parade before, so while that was lovely, I wasn't fascinated. What I adored was his take on the song from Company. He absolutely nailed it. I have no idea how he sang it so well and so quickly. I'd be tongue tied after the first few notes. Amazing! (If you just want to see that song, it starts about 2:30)
2. This is the best possible news! I am hooked on Miranda. It's about the funniest show I've ever seen, and it may have everything to do with the fact Miranda reminds me a lot of me - without the adorable Gary to fall in love with. I'd love for it to come back. I'd even take a 15 minute Children in Need special!
3. I don't tend to share a lot of the hometown love. But this program in conjunction with the Orioles and BARCS, is truly awesome! Teaching kids to read and promoting animal adoption - what's not to love!?
4. I love scrapbooking freebies - especially when they involve National Donut Day! Speaking of, Happy National Donut Day. If you're ever in Maryland and need the best donut ever, head over to the Donut Shack in Severna Park. So yummy!!!
2. This is the best possible news! I am hooked on Miranda. It's about the funniest show I've ever seen, and it may have everything to do with the fact Miranda reminds me a lot of me - without the adorable Gary to fall in love with. I'd love for it to come back. I'd even take a 15 minute Children in Need special!
3. I don't tend to share a lot of the hometown love. But this program in conjunction with the Orioles and BARCS, is truly awesome! Teaching kids to read and promoting animal adoption - what's not to love!?
4. I love scrapbooking freebies - especially when they involve National Donut Day! Speaking of, Happy National Donut Day. If you're ever in Maryland and need the best donut ever, head over to the Donut Shack in Severna Park. So yummy!!!
5. I discovered the show The New Normal this week. I mean, I knew about it 5 years ago when it was on, but I finally started to watch it courtesy of iTunes this week and I loved it! It's sweet and funny and the leads were amazing. I can't believe it only lasted a season. Based on the story line and the current times, it would be a perfect fit these days. If you need something to binge and make you smile, I'd definitely recommend it!Happy #NationalDonutDay - celebrating with a free donut printable for newsletter subscribers. Sign up to receive it: https://t.co/zeuLe0Pzgc pic.twitter.com/09uOtjnJeS— Kelly Purkey (@kellypurkey) June 2, 2017
Friday, May 26, 2017
Friday Five
1. It's been a rough week full of not feeling very well and lots of work stuff, but I'm hoping to get back on track now that we have a 3 day weekend. The fact that an 8 week course that we've been working on at work is finally over, and that Monday is Memorial Day and work is closed, makes me a very happy girl in deed! Bring on some relaxation and fun!
2. I love, love, love the idea of a Pretty Woman musical. I knew it was coming, but I didn't realize they were this far in the process. Hopefully, they'll cast it with amazing people though for the life of me I don't know who they should get. Based on their description of the Richard Gere part, I'd say David Tennant. Who else do you know that is quite so instantly likable? : )
3. This week in Tony coverage saw the Featured Actresses out for a group lunch at a lovely Midtown restaurant, and the Featured Actors posing for an epic selfie together at the luncheon. At what other award show do you ever see the nominees all pulling for each other like they do in the theatre? It's ridiculously fabulous and uplifting to see!
4. Yes I do know that the Keepers on Netflix is unbelievably disturbing, but I also know that it was ridiculously compelling. I was hooked after the first episode. I'm not sure I buy some of the things that were said, but the researchers really did their homework on this case. And since it doesn't look like the police are investigating, it's a good thing they've invested so much time into finding justice.
5. The fact that vacation is just about a month a way, is giving me everything I need to power through the next month. It's so close I can taste it, however there's so much to do between now and then. I'm just gonna put my head down and get things done, because London is definitely calling...
2. I love, love, love the idea of a Pretty Woman musical. I knew it was coming, but I didn't realize they were this far in the process. Hopefully, they'll cast it with amazing people though for the life of me I don't know who they should get. Based on their description of the Richard Gere part, I'd say David Tennant. Who else do you know that is quite so instantly likable? : )
3. This week in Tony coverage saw the Featured Actresses out for a group lunch at a lovely Midtown restaurant, and the Featured Actors posing for an epic selfie together at the luncheon. At what other award show do you ever see the nominees all pulling for each other like they do in the theatre? It's ridiculously fabulous and uplifting to see!
4. Yes I do know that the Keepers on Netflix is unbelievably disturbing, but I also know that it was ridiculously compelling. I was hooked after the first episode. I'm not sure I buy some of the things that were said, but the researchers really did their homework on this case. And since it doesn't look like the police are investigating, it's a good thing they've invested so much time into finding justice.
5. The fact that vacation is just about a month a way, is giving me everything I need to power through the next month. It's so close I can taste it, however there's so much to do between now and then. I'm just gonna put my head down and get things done, because London is definitely calling...
Monday, May 8, 2017
NYC Lessons Learned
~ The Amtrak train service is just so much more civilized than taking the bus. I had my own seat, with leg room, a table to lean on, and my own personal plug to charge my phone. I also had another seat empty next to me for most of the trip. It was so darn lovely. Of course, coming home, the train was late, delayed by about 35 minutes, and some crazy lady was having a fight with her boyfriend on her phone for about 3 hours. However, based on my last few experiences on MegaBus, it was still more civilized...
~ Story, the curated store I love so much in Chelsea, takes at least 2.5 weeks to turn over their store design. Because it was still not open this time around, even after I walked blocks and blocks to visit it.
~ It is quite possible to completely miss the actual restaurant part of Eataly in WTC. However, if you follow the signs that say Restaurant -> you may just discover it. Also, you'll be quite happy you did, because their Cacio y Pepe is to die for!
~ When dropping things in your wallet, pay attention to where you're going. The door you think you're walking through just may be a glass window.
~ Defiant Girl is still a super busy tourist attraction. However, she's surrounded by awesome ladies to chat with who are all striking the same pose as she is for photos, so the wait seems a bit easier.
~ Sitting in a coffee shop in the New York Times building for 2 hours isn't as enjoyable as one might think.
~ Sitting at a table by your self, on the same side as the famous people at 54 Below is so intimidating. So much so that you just might have a mini panic attack, and act thoroughly unhuman for the entire evening.
~ New York on a bright, sunshiny spring day is still pretty darn special!
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Tony Nomination Feelings
So the Tony Award nominations were announced today and I have to say, I have loads of feelings. I've been anxiously awaiting this day for a while, because there was a chance that lots of shows I've seen would be nominated. And that was definitely the case. All in all I've seen 4 of the shows nominated for some type of award, and I have tickets for this month to see a 5th and 6th. So I know personally just how wonderfully deserving these creatives are.
But there were 2 shows that I cared about so much more than the others so I've been keeping my fingers crossed that they'd receive the most love. And, as it turns out, I needn't have worried. Come From Away received 7 nominations and Falsettos received 5. Woohoo! These were the 2 shows that touched my heart more than any other in this season. I collectively love the cast (and really would like to be their friend) and adore the music. I listen to their cast albums on repeat constantly, and I tell everyone I meet to see each of them. In my eyes they deserved all of the awards, but I'll settle for the 12 nominations they received.
What's even more fun to watch than the nominations is the reactions from these people that are so deserving of the attention. It's been a non-stop love fest all day. I love that the nominees are throwing hugs and congrats to their fellow nominees. It seems everyone in the Broadway community is friends with everyone else in the Broadway community. So it seems each nominee is rooting for a friend who's also nominated. This is how award season should be done. The heck with that cutthroat bashing of competitors - love and fun all around!
The only part I didn't enjoy about today was the price of tickets to the show. I foolishly thought tickets wouldn't be too expensive so I was going to try to buy 2 for my friend and me. However the lowest price ticket was $381. That's insanity! So it looks like I'll be watching - what should be an awesome show - from the comfort of my cozy couch. There are worse ways to watch the Tonys...
But there were 2 shows that I cared about so much more than the others so I've been keeping my fingers crossed that they'd receive the most love. And, as it turns out, I needn't have worried. Come From Away received 7 nominations and Falsettos received 5. Woohoo! These were the 2 shows that touched my heart more than any other in this season. I collectively love the cast (and really would like to be their friend) and adore the music. I listen to their cast albums on repeat constantly, and I tell everyone I meet to see each of them. In my eyes they deserved all of the awards, but I'll settle for the 12 nominations they received.
What's even more fun to watch than the nominations is the reactions from these people that are so deserving of the attention. It's been a non-stop love fest all day. I love that the nominees are throwing hugs and congrats to their fellow nominees. It seems everyone in the Broadway community is friends with everyone else in the Broadway community. So it seems each nominee is rooting for a friend who's also nominated. This is how award season should be done. The heck with that cutthroat bashing of competitors - love and fun all around!
The only part I didn't enjoy about today was the price of tickets to the show. I foolishly thought tickets wouldn't be too expensive so I was going to try to buy 2 for my friend and me. However the lowest price ticket was $381. That's insanity! So it looks like I'll be watching - what should be an awesome show - from the comfort of my cozy couch. There are worse ways to watch the Tonys...
Saturday, April 29, 2017
Friday Five
1. Broadway Bakes for BC/EFA - I'm not a huge fan of Schmackary's cookies but I'm hooked on this fabulous idea! What a great way to raise money for charity and support a bakery that everyone in the community frequents. Also, I will actually be in the city that week - woohoo! Additionally, I promise I'm mentioning this because I in fact love the idea and not just the amazing people that are participating...
2. I went to see a show I knew nothing about this evening with a great friend. Not only were we seeing a new show, but we were also discovering a brand new theatre. The theatre itself was lovely - minus the ridiculous lack of parking. However, the show was awesome! I only wish it was still playing on Broadway so I could see it professionally. Super cool if not just a wee bit confusing.
3. Last weekend I found the coolest bookstore ever. It's called Books of Wonder and it's a Children's book store in Chelsea. I swear they had every book known to man. They had such a great selection that I purchased 3 books even though I had promised myself I'd be good. Anyway, I can't wait to go back and wander some more. Such a fun space for kids and adults alike. Also, right across the street is Paper Presentation which is the coolest stationary store ever, so there's that too. : )
4. I'm not sure why this tickled me so much, but I laughed a lot. Too funny!
2. I went to see a show I knew nothing about this evening with a great friend. Not only were we seeing a new show, but we were also discovering a brand new theatre. The theatre itself was lovely - minus the ridiculous lack of parking. However, the show was awesome! I only wish it was still playing on Broadway so I could see it professionally. Super cool if not just a wee bit confusing.
3. Last weekend I found the coolest bookstore ever. It's called Books of Wonder and it's a Children's book store in Chelsea. I swear they had every book known to man. They had such a great selection that I purchased 3 books even though I had promised myself I'd be good. Anyway, I can't wait to go back and wander some more. Such a fun space for kids and adults alike. Also, right across the street is Paper Presentation which is the coolest stationary store ever, so there's that too. : )
4. I'm not sure why this tickled me so much, but I laughed a lot. Too funny!
5. And this one, falls into the category - True but if you don't laugh, you'l cry.Both of these grew on Dyckman Street— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel) April 28, 2017
But I think one of them got more sunlight and water#UptownLove pic.twitter.com/uvBjKlK8TD
…He’s been president for HOW long?! pic.twitter.com/JctEY7CUqf— Late Night (@LateNightSeth) April 27, 2017
Friday, April 21, 2017
Friday Five
1. The rave reviews that Hello Dolly! is getting is making my wait until next month seem that much longer. It sounds like Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce are positively delightful - and really, was there ever any doubt? I cannot wait to see it in all its glory!
2. This guy has some serious determination. Andy Karl is a Maryland guy which makes me love him even more than I already did. And his work in Groundhog day is gaining some rave reviews as well. But when he hurt his knee 2 days before opening, everyone thought he'd never make opening night. But somehow - knee brace, torn ACL and all - he managed to sing and dance his way to a standing ovation when the curtain came up. Love it!
3. Saw someone post a quote on Twitter this week that perfectly sums up my very existence: "I'm sorry for the things I said when it was Winter!" : )
4. Ok, I've been holding on to this one for the last few weeks. I'm sure everyone's seen it by now, but at the time it premiered, I may have gushed just a little too much and thought that blogging about it would be overkill. Andrew Rannells singing Smash on Girls. Seriously. The song is fabulous. However, what I loved about this episode was the 10 minutes after this when he had to prove that he could not only dance (he can) but dance with basketballs (he can't). I've honestly never laughed so hard at 3 minutes of television in my life, but I can't seem to find it anywhere online. So if you have HBO, do yourself a favor and watch it (Excuse the language though, it is HBO not CBS...). If not, this 40 second snippet of his beautiful voice will just have to tide you over.
5. I sort of love having the chance to learn way cool things about Social Media. There's something in the works that's pushed me to learn, and I've been having a lot of fun with it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not Lin Manuel Miranda yet but I'm at least getting a wee bit better!
2. This guy has some serious determination. Andy Karl is a Maryland guy which makes me love him even more than I already did. And his work in Groundhog day is gaining some rave reviews as well. But when he hurt his knee 2 days before opening, everyone thought he'd never make opening night. But somehow - knee brace, torn ACL and all - he managed to sing and dance his way to a standing ovation when the curtain came up. Love it!
3. Saw someone post a quote on Twitter this week that perfectly sums up my very existence: "I'm sorry for the things I said when it was Winter!" : )
4. Ok, I've been holding on to this one for the last few weeks. I'm sure everyone's seen it by now, but at the time it premiered, I may have gushed just a little too much and thought that blogging about it would be overkill. Andrew Rannells singing Smash on Girls. Seriously. The song is fabulous. However, what I loved about this episode was the 10 minutes after this when he had to prove that he could not only dance (he can) but dance with basketballs (he can't). I've honestly never laughed so hard at 3 minutes of television in my life, but I can't seem to find it anywhere online. So if you have HBO, do yourself a favor and watch it (Excuse the language though, it is HBO not CBS...). If not, this 40 second snippet of his beautiful voice will just have to tide you over.
5. I sort of love having the chance to learn way cool things about Social Media. There's something in the works that's pushed me to learn, and I've been having a lot of fun with it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not Lin Manuel Miranda yet but I'm at least getting a wee bit better!
Friday, April 14, 2017
Friday Five
1. Since the show Waitress opened on Broadway, a friend and I have been trying to get tickets. However, the price has always been just a bit too high and there have been other shows that have taken priority. However, when we heard Sara Bareilles was taking over, we knew we had to bite the bullet and purchase. That finally happened tonight! The second of my 4 trips this May, is finally set. Of course, I was ok to wait until Betsy Wolfe took over in June, but I think my friend would have killed me if I waited any longer!
2. I happened upon this site after In a Creative Bubble mentioned using her stamps, and I'm so glad I did. Every single stamp set she has is absolutely adorable! Not to mention, she also has Hamilton!!!! stamps. Seriously? How perfect are they?!
3. After seeing the horrendousness of what Sean Spicer said during his Press Briefing on Tuesday regarding Syria and Hitler, I needed a serious laugh. I mean, honestly - his entire job is to not say stupid things and he goes up to the podium and says that? Anyway, this made me laugh - probably more than it should have.
4. With the return of the original King George to Hamilton, this video along with the Coro-re-knee-tion of Brian made me so very happy. Of course, I'd be much happier if I had tickets to see his return!
5. Spending Good Friday in my usual way - not at work, shopping with my mama. Great Friday indeed!
2. I happened upon this site after In a Creative Bubble mentioned using her stamps, and I'm so glad I did. Every single stamp set she has is absolutely adorable! Not to mention, she also has Hamilton!!!! stamps. Seriously? How perfect are they?!
3. After seeing the horrendousness of what Sean Spicer said during his Press Briefing on Tuesday regarding Syria and Hitler, I needed a serious laugh. I mean, honestly - his entire job is to not say stupid things and he goes up to the podium and says that? Anyway, this made me laugh - probably more than it should have.
Josh Lyman's secret plan to fight inflation doesn't look so bad now... pic.twitter.com/R9hya8B3r8— Kristen (@ScrappyTravels) April 11, 2017
4. With the return of the original King George to Hamilton, this video along with the Coro-re-knee-tion of Brian made me so very happy. Of course, I'd be much happier if I had tickets to see his return!
Thank you @HamiltonMusical Th King has returned. pic.twitter.com/hTiRhqh4Ch— Taran Killam (@TaranKillam) April 14, 2017
5. Spending Good Friday in my usual way - not at work, shopping with my mama. Great Friday indeed!
Monday, March 20, 2017
Monday: A Play in Three Parts
Part One: Morning
Monday morning was rough, because well, Monday mornings are always rough, aren't they? I hit the snooze button on my alarm a few more times than I had meant to, and was therefore behind before I even started the day. Then I got to my car and there was ice on my windshield - never mind that it was the first day of spring... - that needed to be defrosted and my darn tire light was on which means I eventually need to get air in the flipping tire that loses air if you just look at it funny. And all of this was before 6:30 am...
Part Two: Mid-Day
By mid-day, the frustrations had escalated to me yelling at Microsoft Word because it wouldn't do what I wanted it to. That was pretty much the low point. From there, things started looking up. I heard about the FBI investigation that was breaking news all day. That definitely made me at least a little optimistic. I also learned that BroadwayWorld was looking for someone to cover the upcoming RENT tour at the Hippodrome, and since I was the quickest email in the bunch, I got the free tickets and the assignment to write about one of my all time favorite shows. The Monday "blahs"started to disappear at that point.
Part Three: Evening
By the late afternoon, I learned that not only would I get one ticket, but I would get 2 so I could take the bestie with me - something she'd been hinting at all day. I also learned that Andrew Rannells would be performing at 54 Below in May which may or may not have prompted me to buy yet another ticket to see a show there. I mean, how could I not? I was getting free tickets to RENT - tickets that are currently going for $200. Who was I not to spend $40 on a ticket to see someone lovely?
Anyway, there you have my Monday. It sure sounds page-turning exciting doesn't it? Here's hoping Tuesday is much calmer and contains a few of the happy surprises that this Monday did...
Monday morning was rough, because well, Monday mornings are always rough, aren't they? I hit the snooze button on my alarm a few more times than I had meant to, and was therefore behind before I even started the day. Then I got to my car and there was ice on my windshield - never mind that it was the first day of spring... - that needed to be defrosted and my darn tire light was on which means I eventually need to get air in the flipping tire that loses air if you just look at it funny. And all of this was before 6:30 am...
Part Two: Mid-Day
By mid-day, the frustrations had escalated to me yelling at Microsoft Word because it wouldn't do what I wanted it to. That was pretty much the low point. From there, things started looking up. I heard about the FBI investigation that was breaking news all day. That definitely made me at least a little optimistic. I also learned that BroadwayWorld was looking for someone to cover the upcoming RENT tour at the Hippodrome, and since I was the quickest email in the bunch, I got the free tickets and the assignment to write about one of my all time favorite shows. The Monday "blahs"started to disappear at that point.
Part Three: Evening
By the late afternoon, I learned that not only would I get one ticket, but I would get 2 so I could take the bestie with me - something she'd been hinting at all day. I also learned that Andrew Rannells would be performing at 54 Below in May which may or may not have prompted me to buy yet another ticket to see a show there. I mean, how could I not? I was getting free tickets to RENT - tickets that are currently going for $200. Who was I not to spend $40 on a ticket to see someone lovely?
Anyway, there you have my Monday. It sure sounds page-turning exciting doesn't it? Here's hoping Tuesday is much calmer and contains a few of the happy surprises that this Monday did...
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Came From Away Again
So this planned trip was planned so I could show off Come From Away to my travel friend, Jennifer. She's always up for theater and we plan lots of trips to NY but she never saw Come From Away when it was here at Ford's. So all of the love I've been sending it for the last six months, she didn't understand. After seeing it last September, I've pretty much talked of nothing else. I love everything about this show, and I'm so happy to say that it seems the critics and audiences do too.
This story of Gander New Foundland on September 11, 2001 is beautiful, and uplifting and just makes me happy every single time I talk about it. At the time I said I liked it more than Hamilton, and that still holds true. It's amazing and the cast is too! So what was Jennifer's verdict, you ask. While she didn't think it was better than Hamilton she agreed that it was something special. I even caught her crying - something I did this time around, but not the first time. Strange!
 |
| The First Female American Captain in History - Beverly Bass |
What was even cooler was Beverly Bass - the real life pilot portrayed in the show so masterfully by Jenn Collella, was in the audience yesterday, as well as the real Nick and Diane - a couple that met, and fell in love during that week in Gander and ultimately were married. It's so fun to see the real people this show portrays fully embracing this production. And it's also fun to see these people getting the credit and attention they deserve.
After falling madly back in love with the tiny show that could - we headed to dinner and then decided to try to win tickets to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. You see, there's a contest on Twitter to upload pictures of yourself in front of the "factory" and each week they pick the best picture, and give that person tickets. And as you can see, we're totally going to win with the sheer amazingness of our photos, right? ; )
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Nice York City
New York City gets a bad rap. When people talk about it, they speak of New Yorkers who are so self involved that they plow right over you in the street and are constantly angry at you for daring to ruin their day. After the last few trips, I'd like to say that that is most definitely not the case. Those are the not the New Yorkers I come in contact with. It's most often the tourists that are self-involved and rude.
Over the last few days,
~ A nice man at the coffee counter didn't charge me for my tea because he didn't have the tea I ordered. So he gave me an Earl Grey for free.
~ Two lovely gentlemen chatted with me at Broadway Backwards all evening and gave me all the goods on BC/EFA events that I should attend.
~ A waitress at the restaurant was manning the bar full of neighborhood guys, chatting with every single one like they were old friends. While also attending to the few of us at the tables and being just as kind.
~ Ushers at the St. James working during a blizzard, being super helpful and giving everyone better seats because they weren't sold out.
These are the New Yorkers that I see and the reason I love the city so much! If all cities could be so open and inviting, the world would be a much happier place!
Over the last few days,
~ A nice man at the coffee counter didn't charge me for my tea because he didn't have the tea I ordered. So he gave me an Earl Grey for free.
~ Two lovely gentlemen chatted with me at Broadway Backwards all evening and gave me all the goods on BC/EFA events that I should attend.
~ A waitress at the restaurant was manning the bar full of neighborhood guys, chatting with every single one like they were old friends. While also attending to the few of us at the tables and being just as kind.
~ Ushers at the St. James working during a blizzard, being super helpful and giving everyone better seats because they weren't sold out.
These are the New Yorkers that I see and the reason I love the city so much! If all cities could be so open and inviting, the world would be a much happier place!
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Presently Laughing
When it comes to seeing Broadway shows, I'm more of a musical girl than a play girl. I see plays, but most definitely not as often as I see musicals. However, on a snow day when the cheapest ticket is a play and when that play stars Kevin Kline, you take the ticket and roll with it.
Present Laughter written by Noel Coward is basically a British farce, which are generally the types of plays I manage to see. Apparently, I have a type. Kevin Kline plays an aging actor in London in 1939, whose life - including an ex-ish wife, a secretary, a one night stand, a butler, a maid, 2 friends and another woman - is sort of happening all around him. He thinks he's in charge of the situation, when in fact it's the women that are solving the problems and making him think that he is. In other words, it's the perfect character for Kevin Kline to play.
He was hilarious! He just seemed frazzled and slightly full of himself the entire show - which is perfect to play a Hollywood actor that is a little confused much of the time. Kate Burton and Cobie Smulders were also very, very good as his ex-ish wife and new possible girlfriend. Both were funny and played the hate for each other perfectly!
The part I loved best was the set decoration and costuming. Everything totally sold 1939 London. I would have loved to take a stroll around the apartment set - and then set up shop in it. Gorgeous!
Present Laughter is only a limited run, so I'm super happy to say I had the chance. It wasn't my favorite, but on a snow day - there's no better way to pass the hours than cheap Broadway!
Present Laughter written by Noel Coward is basically a British farce, which are generally the types of plays I manage to see. Apparently, I have a type. Kevin Kline plays an aging actor in London in 1939, whose life - including an ex-ish wife, a secretary, a one night stand, a butler, a maid, 2 friends and another woman - is sort of happening all around him. He thinks he's in charge of the situation, when in fact it's the women that are solving the problems and making him think that he is. In other words, it's the perfect character for Kevin Kline to play.
He was hilarious! He just seemed frazzled and slightly full of himself the entire show - which is perfect to play a Hollywood actor that is a little confused much of the time. Kate Burton and Cobie Smulders were also very, very good as his ex-ish wife and new possible girlfriend. Both were funny and played the hate for each other perfectly!
The part I loved best was the set decoration and costuming. Everything totally sold 1939 London. I would have loved to take a stroll around the apartment set - and then set up shop in it. Gorgeous!
Present Laughter is only a limited run, so I'm super happy to say I had the chance. It wasn't my favorite, but on a snow day - there's no better way to pass the hours than cheap Broadway!
Monday, March 13, 2017
Theatre People are Way Cooler than Ordinary People
The concept for Broadway Backwards is an easy one - Men sing Women's songs and vice versa, and all the money from the tickets goes to the LGBTQ center of NYC and Broadway Cares Equity Fights Aids. However, when you put these amazing voices together, it becomes so much more than a concert. It definitely becomes a movement. The audience was made up of all types of people - young and old, gay and straight, and everyone was there to do some good and raise money and awareness for basic human rights.
I personally sat next to a gay couple that have seemingly been together forever. Both introduced themselves to me immediately, and we chatted all evening. They were kind and hilarious and made me feel at ease instantly. You see going to shows by myself isn't a thing I'm super comfortable with just yet. I usually sit awkwardly and stare at my phone until the show starts, but I didn't have to do that this evening, I had instant friends. (This is also why the unwritten subtitle to this post is "If Straight Guys were as Easy to Talk to as Gay Guys, I'd be Long Married by Now...")
Then of course, there were the entertainers, and oh my goodness did they entertain! The big draw for me was Andrew Rannells who sang Wherever He Ain't which was amazing - as usual. Another fabulous standout was Josh Groban making his first appearance at the event. He sang a song I recognized from Chess the musical - most songs that were sung tonight were not on my radar at all, so it was fun to recognize one or two. Elizabeth Stanley - the woman I discovered last week in that amazing Inspiration video I posted for Women's Day - sang a fall-over funny song from "Cops: The Musical." Who knew that was a thing?! Jay Armstrong Johnson and Andrew Keenan Bolger singing "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" was also super fun! Lastly, John Glover and Carolee Carmello tore everyone's hearts out with "Hello in there" and "Pity the Child." Those are just my favorites - but every single person was absolute perfection.
Between the performers and the audience, you could definitely feel an energy that you don't get anywhere else. We were all sort of connected in the moment and feeling the power of being creative and doing good. And that right there is just so much better than any drug! Before the show began, my new friends and seatmates told me that once I saw the show, I would definitely return year after year. And I'm not sure they've ever been so right about anything in their lives. Such an awesome night!
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