It’s been a busy fall full of joyous events all across America.
Wyclef Jean gave an impromptu birthday performance of Maria Maria for his friend Lang Lang while celebrating a 40th birthday that was three months ago, “I could not be with you then, so let’s do it now.”The black-tie evening raised over $1.3 million dollars.
John Paulson chaired the event, offering “I tried to play many instruments in my life but learned that I’m better as an audience. But the work of the foundation is important. Thousands of children will play music and gain confidence because of this foundation and your support.” Lang Lang then joined CEO of his Foundation, Leszek Barwinski Brown, on stage and greeted the audience with, “Thank you for coming tonight to help celebrate the power of music, all I can say to you is Good Job!”
Cavalier Gallery presented never-before-seen works from Harlem-based artist Guy Stanley Philoche’s series “New York, I Still Love You” in September.
(Pictured L to R: Medium Brown Bag, 2022; The $25 Martini, 2022)
The “New York, I Still Love You” series is the artist’s love letter to NYC, a place he has called home for the last 20 years. The collection showcases iconic New York City images from the soft pretzel and the Statue of Liberty to a Yankees baseball hat and a subway stop, framed in the style of a Polaroid picture. Throughout the last few years, Philoche would explore the streets with polaroid camera in hand, finding inspiration in the city’s small unique intricacies.
GLAAD’s Anthony Allen Ramos caught up with drag superstar Shangela and her pro dance partner Gleb Savchenko at rehearsal for an emotional and impactful interview where the duo talk about their history making partnership on “Dancing with the Stars.”
(Photo by GLAAD)
G.H. Mumm and Kwame Onwuachi have teamed up to toast to life’s best moments with seasonal recipe pairings for any elevated holiday party or get-together to celebrate every milestone, no matter how big or small.
(Photo by G.H. Mumm)
On Thursday, September 29th, attendees enjoyed three courses of curated dishes by Top Chef US Judge and James Beard award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi, paired with G.H. Mumm Champagne.
Jacqueline Weld Drake, the chairman of the Casita Maria Center for Arts Education, hosted a cocktail party announcing the return of the Fiesta Gala October 11th. This year’s gala will honor Tony Bechara, Cesar Conde, and Gaby Pacheco with Casita’s Gold Medal of Honor.
Jackie shared “Tony has dedicated his career to the Hispanic community through his art and his philanthropy. Cesar serves as Chairman of the NBCUniversal News Group and is the first Hispanic to lead a major English-language broadcast news organization! Gaby is a courageous advocate for immigrant rights, including the DREAM Act. Their efforts in life tie back to Casita Maria’s mission to create a safe and welcoming community that enriches and uplifts youth and families towards success through shared cultural, art and educational experiences and programs”
(Photo by Annie Watt Agency)
Guests included Afsaneh Akhtari, Dianne and Maurice Batista, Edgar Batista, Liliana Cavendish, Beth Rudin DeWoody, Michele Gerber Klein, Mai Hallingby, William Ivey Long, Christopher Mason, Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas, Victor Roquette, Marc Rosen, Jean Shafiroff, Hunt Slonem, Barbara Tober and many many more.
During the annual New York General Assembly opening at the United Nations, “Forbes” hosted their 2022 Best of Africa Awards. The evening celebrated the work of leaders and their individual efforts to contribute to the growth of the African continent.
(Photo by Deo Kasongo)
On September 20, a reception held at the Museum of Art and Design was sponsored by Invest Africa in partnership with Standard Chartered Bank and Divo International. Four individuals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were revered for their work. The group was identified by “Forbes” as deserving special mention for the progress they have been making to improve the business climate and thereby attract investors.
And, Duke, Bush’s beloved spokes-dog, made his historic debut at the Grand Ole Opry, following in the pawsteps of only one other, Lassie in 2006. To celebrate this momentous partnership, Tennessee-based Bush’s Beans teamed up with multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter and Opry member, Lauren Alaina, who announced Duke’s Opry debut ahead of her performance on Friday, September 30.
“It was an absolute honor to introduce Duke for his Opry debut to kick off Bush’s partnership with the Grand Ole Opry,” said Opry member, Lauren Alaina. “One of my fondest memories growing up were our family dinners with my Pawpaw, who always had to have his side dish of Bush’s Beans.”
(photo courtesy Bush’s)
Through this unique partnership, Bush’s and the Grand Ole Opry are putting the beautiful bean front and center for country music lovers. Visitors can now enjoy a delicious meal, featuring Bush’s Baked Beans, at the Opry Back Porch BBQ Food Truck that’s conveniently located in the Opry Plaza.
Bush’s is also offering bean lovers the chance to experience the best country duo in Tennessee first-hand: Bush’s Beans and the Grand Ole Opry! From October 3 – October 21, fans can enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win a VIP Grand Ole Opry experience for two, including tickets to see the show of their choice with a special call out, a behind-the-beans experience with backstage daytime tour passes (hotel + airfare included), and a delicious meal from the Opry Back Porch BBQ Food Truck. Because we know that nothing pairs better with country music than Bush’s Beans. For official contest rules, visit: https://www.opry.com/bushs-beautiful-opry-sweepstakes/.
Cover art by Gradienta on Unsplash
The New York Film Festival is proud to welcome back Cinephile for a second year of Cinephile Game Night events during the festival at the EBM Amphitheater.
Featuring a mix of movie trivia and other popular Cinephile games like Six Degrees, Filmography, and Inglorious Basterd, Cinephile Game Night is a trivia night like no other. Featuring Cinephile: A Card Game creator Cory Everett and Cinephile Game Night co-hosts Jordan Raup and Conor O’Donnell, along with other special guests to be announced, the events will feature multiple trivia rounds including NYFF history and beyond, with chances to win tickets to this year’s edition and more prizes. Come meet and mingle with your fellow movie buffs for an evening of festival fun. There’s no need to bring Cinephile to participate––only your movie-loving brain is required. And all is free!
Cinephile Game Night is the ultimate trivia night for film nerds, movie geeks, and cinephiles. Since 2019, Cinephile has brought their one-of-a-kind live events to the Academy Museum, New York Film Festival, Fantastic Fest, Museum of the Moving Image, Alamo Drafthouse, and more. Cinephile: A Card Game will also available for purchase at the Alice Tully Hall merch booth during the festival.
An unforgettable evening of creativity, camaraderie, and relaxation was found this week at 33 Seaport Hotel. Guided painting was hosted along with a lovely paint-by-numbers kit. Ticket included two drinks of your choice from a curated selection of fine wines, crafted cocktails, and refreshing beers. The event will take place again in November ($65/person).
33 Seaport Hotel, a new boutique property managed by Crescent Hotels & Resorts, has opened in the heart of New York City’s Seaport District amidst the revitalization of the historic Lower Manhattan neighborhood. The 66-room hotel will be operated under the Latitudes: Lifestyles by Crescent brand of luxury hotels and joins more than 100 hotels and resorts in its U.S. and Canada portfolio. 
Featuring lavishly appointed rooms in an intimate, cozy atmosphere, 33 Seaport Hotel is designed for the modern, experienced traveler seeking a departure from the saturation and bustle of Manhattan’s more well-trodden neighborhoods.
“The Seaport District has a completely unique character that you won’t find in any other part of the city. It is rooted in the earliest period of Manhattan’s history and yet is constantly changing and being reborn.” said Michael George, President and CEO of Crescent Hotels & Resorts. “For visitors who are familiar with New York and are looking for a fresh, more authentic experience enhanced by personalized service, luxurious comfort and elegant style, 33 Seaport Hotel is a welcoming escape”
While the hotel’s name is derived from its address, the number 33 is rich in symbolism befitting both the hotel’s and the neighborhood’s sense of renewal. The number is said to signify new beginnings, creative talents, growth, and abundance.
33 Seaport Hotel’s guest rooms are adorned with thoughtfully curated, European-influenced design elements inspired by the history of the surrounding community that reflect the youthful energy of the neighborhood’s rejuvenated spirit. Design details include handcrafted teak millwork, white marble, rain showers and handcrafted Italian furnishings. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, along with an array of amenities including a 24/7 fitness center, concierge services and signature amenities such as locally made chocolates and welcome drinks.
Yesterday we told you how the cast and creative’s met the press
The cast and creatives
In today’s edition hear director Warren Carlyle, Barry Manilow and Bruce Sussman describe their show.
The it was a treat as the cast sang 5 songs from the show. Including “Harmony,” Hungarian Rhapsody,” “Where You Go’ and “Stars in the Night.”
Hear The Harmonists Sean Bell, Danny Kornfeld, Zal Owen, Eric Peters, Blake Roman and Steven Telsey, along with Chip Zien, Sierra Boggess and Julie Benko.
The hit song of the show will be the gorgeous ballad “Every Single Day” sung by Danny Kornfeld.
Harmony begins previews at the Barrymore Theatre on Wednesday, October 18, ahead of a Monday, November 13 official opening night.
Photo’s by Genevieve Rafter Keddy
G.H. Harding
JESSE L MARTIN — We caught the debut of Jesse L. Martin’s The Irrational Monday night and really enjoyed it. I’ve been aware of Jesse since his role in Broadway’s Rent and he’s really tremendous. He was great on Law & Order as Ed Green (10 years and 9 seasons); and his role on the CW’s The Flash (as Joe West) was simply terrific.
The show, based on the book by Dan Ariely and created by Arika Mittman, certainly reminds one of The Mentalist or Instinct. This first case isn’t wondrous by any means, but Martin’s charisma carries it all through.
Lauren Holly (NCIS) is in it too, thought her one-scene was over and out in a flash.
I hear the third episode of the show is magnificent, so stay tuned. Don Johnson said many years ago that Don Johnson was made for TV … so is Martin!
Will Swenson and Neil Diamond
SWENSON OUT — (per Deadline) Will Swenson will play his final performance as Neil Diamond in Broadway’s A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical on Sunday, Oct. 29, producers announced today.
A replacement for the starring role will be announced at a future date.
“It’s been the thrill of a lifetime to get to stand in Neil’s shoes,” Swenson said in a statement. “It’s been such an incredible honor to get to know Neil, to tell his powerful story, and bring his amazing songs to Broadway audiences every night. I’m immensely proud of the moving, beautiful show we made. I will miss it very much.”
A reason for Swenson’s departure was not disclosed, but his planned departure date suggests a year-long contract coming to a close: He and the bio-musical began previews at the Broadhurst Theatre last Nov. 2 (official opening was Dec. 4).
“Making A Beautiful Noise with Will Swenson was a deep and wonderful experience,” said director Michael Mayer. “The true affection he has for Neil’s work and life is palpable in every aspect of his tremendous performance. I will miss him terribly, of course, but will always treasure our time together, and very much look forward to the next show we do.”
Swenson has been one of Broadway’s go-to leading men since his breakthrough performance in 2009’s Hair, and he has since starred on the New York stage in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Little Miss Sunshine, Waitress and Assassins, among many other shows.
In addition to Swenson, the cast of A Beautiful Noise features a principal cast of Mark Jacoby as the aged Neil Diamond, Robyn Hurder and Shirine Babb.
The musical includes a score of Diamond’s hits, a book by Anthony McCarten, direction by Mayer, and choreography by Steven Hoggett.
He’s pretty tremendous as Diamond. I didn’t see the show straight away, but absolutely loved it when I did. His exit of kind of short notice … but let’s see what happens.
SHORT TAKES — How about those snappy new graphics for NBC’s Today Show. Introduced a week ago, they certainly look more relevant and certainly more fun. They did the same for Nightly News a week ago. Per TVNewser:The network said the decision to unveil a new logo and graphics for Nightly was made as a way of appealing to younger viewers who primarily consume news using digital media. It’s safe to assume is true for Today, the youngest-skewing of the linear morning shows that boasts a robust digital presence. Here’s their whole story:
The Rolling Stones
The next Rolling Stones single, “Sweet Sounds of Heaven,” is tremendous. Mick hasn’t sounded this good in years and Lady Gaga is an added treat. Magnificent! Take a listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEJd5xtbEPY …
Donnie Kehr
Donnie Kehr and Cori Gardner’s Rockers On Broadway (their 30th edition) is coming up on Monday, October 16 at SONY Hall.
Debbie Gibson
Joining honoree Melissa Etheridge will be KT Tunstall and Debbie Gibson, Simon Kirke, Dan Finnerty and Ty Taylor … Happy Bday Chuck Taylor!
NAMES IN THE NEWS –— Anthony Noto; Tom & Lisa Cuddy; Paul Lester; Ian Harrison; Magda Katz; Pete Townshend; Miko Blanco; Brad LeBeau; Mal Evans; Derek Taylor; Andrew Sandoval; Rick Rubin; Bill Adler; Cory Robbins; Manny Bella; Race Taylor; Scott Shannon; Buddy Blanch; Steve Walter; Benny Harrison; and BELLA!
Harmony, has been in rehearsals for 3 weeks and yesterday morning, they meet the press.
Barry Manilow
Barry Manilow
Barry Manilow
Barry Manilow, wrote the original music.
Bruce Sussman
Bruce Sussman, who wrote the book and lyrics
Warren Carlyle
Warren Carlyle
director/choreographer Warren Carlyle
Ken Davenport
and producer Ken Davenport started the show off to a harmonious roll. Harmony begins previews Wednesday, October 18, ahead of a Monday, November 13 official opening night.
Many of the cast are making their Broadway debuts with Harmony, including 5 of the 6 actors playing the Harmonists.
The Harmonists, along with Chip Zien finished out the morning with a performance of the song “Stars in the Night.”
Chip Zien
The production also stars performers Sierra Boggess and Julie Benko.
Sierra Boggess
Julie Benko
Tomorrow meet the men of Harmony
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Broadway3 days agoBarry Manilow’s and Bruce Sussman’s Harmony Meets The Press
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Broadway2 days ago
Barry Manilow’s and Bruce Sussman’s Harmony Meets The Press Part 2
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Entertainment3 days ago
The Mayor of Times Square Interviews Billionaire John Catsimatidis on The Motivation Show Podcast
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Broadway2 days ago
Theatre News: Here We Are, Some Like It Hot, A Beautiful Noise, All The Devils Are Here: How Shakespeare Invented The Villain and The Laramie Project
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Food and Drink4 days ago
Ubah Hassan and Serafina Launch the Sizzling Hot Pizza of the Season
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Cabaret3 days ago
My View: Barrington Stage Co. on 42nd Street Oct. 30 For Its Gala at Green Room 42
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Off Broadway3 days ago
Meet Michel Wallerstein and Spencer Aste of Chasing Happy
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Celebrity4 days agoThe Glorious Corner
