Author Archive

4 Restaurants Invite Halloween Celebration and Costuming in Manhattan

It’s not too early to put together your Halloween costume for an all-out celebration this month. Four Manhattan locales are celebrating over the weekend ahead in consideration of Halloween’s October 31 work-night date.

Courtesy Alligator Pear

Alligator Pear

New kid in the Garment Center, Alligator Pear just south of Herald Square, offers up a NOLA-inspired Halloween party this year. Taking Creole and New Orleans festivity to their spooky max, the restaurant’s party will be held on Sunday, October 29 starting at 6pm and will include a costume party. Guests will receive complimentary tarot card readings and also enjoy live DJ music. The menu is a NOLA treat, offering the only menu in NYC with an alligator dish. For reservations, visit Resy or call 646-868-7884. (150 W 30th Street at Seventh Avenue)

Courtesy The Ellington

The Ellington

On the Upper West Side, The Ellington will be celebrating Halloween on both October 28 and October 29 with holiday-themed events. On Saturday, guests to the American-inspired restaurant and bar are encouraged to wear costumes for a chance to win prizes from 10am to 3pm. Musical entertainment will be provided by noted DJ Stef Nava, a perfect accompaniment to signature Halloween cocktails including the “Black Widow” (a take on the Bloody Mary with black vodka), “Witches’ Brew” (absinthe and prosecco), “Poisoned Apple Cider” (apple cider with tequila and anise), and non-alcoholic “Grave Digger” (apple cider, lemon juice, ginger beer and rosemary). Adult trick-or-treaters will choose craft goodies while children will receive candy and freshly baked, Halloween-themed cookies. The party continues on Sunday with a special Halloween brunch with live jazz and other musical entertainment from 12 Noon -3pm.

For reservations visit Resy or call (212)-281-3011. (2745 Broadway at 105^th Street)

Courtesy Ellington in the Park

Ellington in the Park

If your preference is for outdoor celebration, sister-establishment Ellington in the Park, invites families to celebrate from 12 Noon to 2pm with free candy, coffee and hot apple cider. The outdoor restaurant and bar are located inside Riverside Park on West 105th Street. For information, call 917-280-4533.

Courtesy Tara Rose

Tara Rose

Popular neighborhood restaurant and bar Tara Rose will be celebrating Halloween with a costume party on Saturday, October 28 starting at 7pm. Prizes will be given for the top two costumes. The party menu features American bar food and craft cocktails. For reservations, visit Resy or call 929-602-5983. (384 Third Avenue at 28^th Street)

New York City Sports Bars

It’s sweltering hot and you may not be thinking football at the moment, but training camp starts before you know it and then it’s time for the Superbowl. Here are eight places to visit to get your fix of sports life and football fandom. And, of course, if football isn’t on your radar yet, you can go to these bars to watch what’s left of baseball season.

Bounce © Poselski Photos

Bounce

Want some DJ music to accompany the triples and touchdowns? Bounce is the place for you. With more of a club feel than a sports bar, Bounce sets a new tone in Chelsea with bottle service to keep the vibe with a mix of music and sport. You might need to dress up a bit for this one, or at least trade your ripped blue jeans for a pair of tailored black ones. Reservations are needed and there’s even a tab on the website to let you know what the wait time is. A curated wings menu complements trendier bites like poke tacos, truffle mushroom flatbread and avocado toast with black kale. https://bouncesportingclub.com/

Courtesy The Supply House

The Supply House

If you find yourself on the Upper East Side, The Supply House is a comfortable favorite for watching the game and enjoying a day or evening with friends. You’re invited to pre-game, too, as The Supply House opens at 10am daily. Lined with brick walls, The Supply House has an industrial-meets-my favorite apartment feel and has large glass windows that are open during warmer months. The beer menu is fiercely local with a variety of unusual craft brews, and the burgers feature Pat LaFrieda’s incomparable blend of brisket, chuck and short rib. https://www.thesupplyhousenyc.com

Courtesy Blondies

Blondies

Upper West Siders have been flocking to Blondies for years for a basic sports bar experience. Reservations are accepted for large groups and are advisable on key game days. The bonus here is that screens actually play the games with volume so diehards don’t have to listen with earbuds on their phone while they watch. Along with typical burgers, tacos and other sports bar fare, the smothered wafer fries topped with cheese, chili, jalapenos, onions and sour cream are a messy standout. Don’t miss their popular chicken wings either. https://www.blondiessports.getsauce.com/

Courtesy Off the Wagon

Off the Wagon

For the past 26 years, Off the Wagon has been the home for NYU students and Greenwich Village locals to watch sports in its bi-level space. Open well past the final touchdown until 4am, the sports bar has 17 TV’s and a giant 100” screen showing games all over the country. There are 29 draft, bottled and canned beers; hard seltzers; and lots of other spirits to keep you animated. Food choices range from tacos and burgers to a variety of wraps. There are also choices for vegetarians. On select nights, DJs amp up the spirit. https://www.offthewagonnyc.com/

Courtesy BK Backyard Bar

BK Backyard Bar

Brooklynites can replicate their stadium experiences at Williamsburg’s outdoor sports bar. With heated cabanas with personal TVs when the weather finally turns chilly, the shipping containers-turned-bar offers two rustic settings for drinking, eating and cheering, designed during Covid times to avoid a rave-like crush. Bottle service adds a bit of cachet. BK’s Mexican street food menu comes from Brooklyn’s Mr. Taco. Reservations are accepted for parties of four or more. https://www.tailgatebk.com/

Courtesy Smithfield Hall NYC

Smithfield Hall NYC

A hybrid for indoor and outdoor sports watching, Manhattan’s Smithfield Hall is an easy walk from Madison Square Garden. The outdoor covered area has nine heated tables with eight television screens to entertain you even in inclement weather. Indoors there are two bars, 27 tables and 26 TVs, accommodating fans of all teams (the bar conveniently posts a schedule of games on their website). The diverse menu includes vegetarian as well as fan-fave dishes. Wear your team jersey and enjoy the experience. https://smithfieldnyc.com

Courtesy Down the Hatch

Down the Hatch

If the first pitch or kickoff time right, book a table to enjoy Down the Hatch’s Bottomless Basement Brunch on Saturday and Sunday. The popular Greenwich Village college favorite offers unlimited domestic drafts, seltzers and mimosas to wash down wings, waffle fries or tater tots and onion rings for a set price of $40 per person. On other days or evenings, get ready for the game opening with a Ghost Pepper Spicy Margarita, jello shot or creative menu of craft beers. If you’re a Jets fan, you’ll have lots of company here. https://www.downthehatchnyc.com

Courtesy Redemption

Redemption
The haven for Washington fans, Redemption guarantees a solid Midtown East sports bar experience without your needing to shell out big bucks. The brick-walled sports lounge is a blend of sports bar and night club. The beer menu of some 30 draft, bottled and craft choices spans the globe. Not into beer? There are many creative libations including their version of frosé, made with Champagne and strawberry puree. The food menu includes burgers, wings, tacos and finger food. You can also reserve one of their private rooms and bring all your besties together for a spirited evening. https://redemptionnyc.com/

It’s 2023 and Broadway’s Back

New York theatergoers joyfully returned to Broadway in 2022 after a closure of 18 months. 2023 promises to be even more jubilant. With the many openings scheduled for this spring along with continuing and long-running shows, theatergoers have a robust selection of plays and musicals to enjoy.

How to Keep on Top of Broadway News

Some shows have limited runs. Others are still in previews with official openings planned in time for Tony Award consideration. The American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards® on June 11 will take place at Harlem’s historic United Palace Theater. Tickets are available on Telecharge, or watch on CBS, livestream, or on demand at Paramount+.

To keep abreast of theater news, schedules and special deals, sites like The Broadway Collection, The Broadway League, Telecharge, Broadway Box, Playbill and Today Tix are updated regularly.

Download the TKTS app for real-time listings at the Theater Development Organization’s discount, day-of ticket booths at Father Duffy Square just north of Times Square, or at their Lincoln Center location.

Museum of Broadway - HAIR © Darren Cox

For a refresher on everything Broadway, the new Museum of Broadway, just steps from Times Square, is an interactive celebration of the history, behind-the-scenes views and Broadway’s game changers. On display are hundreds of rare costumes, props and artifacts dating from 1732 to today.

Here is the latest roundup of ongoing, new or soon-to-open shows.

Currently Open

A Beautiful Noise, the Neil Diamond Musical © Julieta Cervantes

A Beautiful Noise, the Neil Diamond Musical

A fun jukebox musical for fans of Neil Diamond, A Beautiful Noise follows the singer-songwriter over 50 years from his earliest days in Brooklyn along the path to his astronomical rise as musical superstar. Through the lens of conversations with his therapist, the artist’s trials and successes are illustrated through the Neil Diamond songbook with favorites like “Sweet Caroline,” “America” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.”

Broadhurst Theatre, www.abeautifulnoisethemusical.com

Jessica Chastain from A Dolls House © Giampaolo Sgura

A Doll’s House

The well-known Henrik Ibsen drama, in a new version by Amy Herzog, stars Academy Award ^® winner Jessica Chastain. Shocking when it appeared in the late 1800s, the play is now as relevant as ever. The play’s limited run has been extended through June 4.

Hudson Theatre, www.adollshousebroadway.com

Aladdin - Michael Maliakel & Shoba Narayan © Matthew Murphy

Aladdin

One of two Disney super shows currently on Broadway, Aladdin is celebrating its tenth year. A great introduction to live theater for viewers of all ages, the musical is the consummate tour of adventure mixed with song. You’ll recognize larger-than-life Genie’s “You’ve Never Had a Friend Like Me” and Aladdin’s “I Can Show You The World.”

New Amsterdam Theatre, www.aladdinthemusical.com

& Juliet © Matthew Murphy

& Juliet

Created by the writer of “Schitt’s Creek,” jukebox musical-comedy & Juliet asks the question, what would Juliet do if she reinvented her life without Romeo? Is Romeo totally out of the picture? You’ll have to see this musical to find out. Pop hit after hit (28 in total!) will keep you smiling and rooting for Juliet with anthems like “Since U Been Gone,” “Baby One More Time,” “It’s My Life” and “Roar.” Lorna Courtney is fabulous as the rambunctious Juliet with a fun, unusual pop turn by opera singer Paolo Szot.

Stephen Sondheim Theatre, www.andjulietbroadway.com

Bad Cinderella © Emilio Madrid

Bad Cinderella

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new West End musical about a feisty Cinderella has finally arrived on Broadway. Set in Belleville where everyone is beautiful, Cinderella stands out in more than one way.

Imperial Theatre, www.badcinderella.com

Bob Fosse’s Dancin’ © Julieta Cervantes

Bob Fosse’s Dancin’

With Tony Award-winning choreography by Bob Fosse, Dancin’ returns to Broadway after its original 1978 run. Reimagined for the 21^st century, the show is 120 minutes of wall-to-wall dance and songs selected by Fosse.

The Music Box Theatre, https://dancinbway.com

The Book of Mormon © Joan Marcus

The Book of Mormon

Do you love South Park? Then this play-cum-musical is a must for you. A little offensive and a lot crazy, the show irreverently tells the tale of two Mormon missionaries who have been given their first “conversion” assignments far far away from their home towns. It’s hard to believe the show opened over a decade ago – The Book of Mormon won 11 Tony Awards in 2011.

Eugene O’Neill Theatre, www.bookofmormonbroadway.com

Chicago © Jeremy Daniel

Chicago

Kander and Ebb’s utterly contemporary-feeling musical has been running for over 26 years. No matter how many times you see Roxie Hart, Velma Kelly and their murderous cohorts sing about what landed them in jail, the show is as fresh and sexy as ever. If you can, try to imagine Joel Grey, the original Mr. Cellophane, when you watch the razzle dazzle. The choreography by Bob Fosse is legendary. You’ll be singing “All That Jazz” when you leave the theater.

Ambassador Theatre, www.chicagothemusical.com

Funny Girl © Matthew Murphy

Funny Girl

No, it’s not Barbra Streisand on stage in this beloved musical. Tony-nominated actress Lea Michele is perfectly cast as Fanny Brice, marking a return of Funny Girl to Broadway after its debut 60 years ago. The story is an uplifting one: Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side, dreams of life on the stage and succeeds. Tovah Feldshuh plays Fanny’s supportive mother. The book is legendary Broadway, newly revised by Harvey Fierstein. Closes September 3.

August Wilson Theatre, www.funnygirlonbroadway.com

Hadestown with Lillias White © Matthew Murphy

Hadestown

You might want to brush up on your Greek mythology before seeing Hadestown. Winner of the 2019 Tony Award for Best Musical, the unusual, haunting musical by Anaïs Mitchell tells the story of two couples with disparate love themes. Hades rules the underworld from which Persephone escapes each spring to bring forth flowers above. Orpheus is a songwriter in search of the perfect tune who meets Eurydice, a soul lost in other ways. On-stage musicians present a rollicking New Orleans type score perfect for narrator Hermes, currently played by Tony Award winner Lillias White.

Walter Kerr Theatre, www.hadestown.com

Hamilton © Joan Marcus

Hamilton

The show that shattered all records and changed theatrical history is as glorious as ever. Rap, hip hop, ballads, deceit and ambition all mix together in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical about the life of Alexander Hamilton. If you didn’t know much about Hamilton and his relationship with Aaron Burr before this play arrived on Broadway or streamed on the Disney Channel, you certainly will by the end of this show. Creative staging, stunning costumes and rapid-fire lyrics add to the show’s brilliance. Hamilton won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Musical and has been playing to packed houses ever since.

Richard Rodgers Theatre, www.hamiltononbroadway.com

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child © Matthew Murphy

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

The wizardry is back, now in one extended performance, filled with special effects you might have thought possible only in film. In this latest chapter of E. K. Rowland’s Harry Potter series, your favorite characters have grown up with their own children to worry about. The rest of the Hogwarts entourage is there, too, along with some new characters. See it twice – once from an orchestra seat and once from the mezzanine where you’ll be gifted with a different view of the spectacular set changes and magic. The play won the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play and continues to delight children of all ages into its fifth year.

Lyric Theatre, www.harrypotteronstage.com/us.com

Kimberly Akimbo © Joan Marcus

Kimberly Akimbo

A touching, bittersweet story about a teenager with a rare ailment, Kimberly Akimbo tells a tale of teen angst mixed with an unusual premise: Kimberly ages at an accelerated pace and has a limited time to live. Played by Victoria Clark who appears as an “elderly” teenager through brilliant acting and vocals, Kimberly encounters a bevy of issues from making friends to family relations. The rest of the cast is hilarious – from her quirky pregnant mother to the very “Jersey” aunt fixated on committing mischief which sometimes lands her in jail. Despite all, happiness prevails.

Booth Theatre, www.kimberlyakimbothemusical.com

Leopoldstadt © Joan Marcus

Leopoldstadt

Originally produced in London, Tom Stoppard’s semi-autobiographical story follows one extended family from pre-Nazi, lavish life in the Leopoldstadt quarter in Vienna in 1899 through the traumas of the holocaust and the Diaspora that follows. The many characters flow in and out, developing and growing through the 50-year span of the drama’s three sections. The 19^th play by Stoppard on Broadway, this Olivier Award winner is a masterpiece of theater. Closing July 2.

Longacre Theatre, www.leopoldstadtplay.com

The Lion King © Brinkhoff Mogenburg

The Lion King

The second of Disney’s gargantuan Broadway hits currently running, The Lion King is a visually striking depiction of the story of the animals living in Pride Land. The characters – Simba, Nala, Timon and Pumba — are familiar from the animated movie of the same name. The show’s standout “Circle of Life” song and procession will stay with you long after you’ve left the theatre. Entering its 26^th year, The Lion King is a musical you should see more than once. Opened in 1997, The Lion King was the winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1998.

Minskoff Theatre, www.lionking.com

MJ © Matthew Murphy

Popular among Michael Jackson fans worldwide, MJ follows the career of the “King of Pop” while focusing on the making of Jackson’s “Dangerous World” tour. The dancing is spectacular and the songs from the Jackson Five through Michael Jackson’s solo days will have you rocking in your seat. Myles Frost, the first actor to play Michael Jackson in the play won the 2022 Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical.

Neil Simon Theatre, www.MJTheMusical.com

Moulin Rouge © Matthew Murphy

Moulin Rouge

An over-the-top, musical interpretation of Baz Luhrmann’s film about decadent literary and nightclub life in Paris, Moulin Rouge is a wondrous romp through the Bohemian lifestyles of its characters. Replete with more than 70 songs that will test your knowledge of pop music, the show rocks with dance, costuming, and superb staging in both the Moulin Rouge and the city beyond. There’s a reason Moulin Rouge won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2020. See it again and again.

Al Hirschfeld Theatre, www.moulinrougemusical.com

Parade © Joan Marcus

Parade

Parade moves to Broadway after last year’s successful run at City Center. The story about a newlywed Jewish couple struggling to make a life in the hills of Georgia turns into a test of faith, humanity, justice and devotion when Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime. Starring Ben Platt. Closes August 6.

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre, www.paradebroadway.com

The Phantom of the Opera © Matthew Murphy

The Phantom of the Opera

No matter if you’ve been mesmerized by this musical once or five times, the chandelier scene will still have you gasping out loud. A thriller about an opera singer and the masked phantom who yearns to be with her, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musically rich Phantom of the Opera has been a perennial favorite since 1988. After several extensions due to popular demand, this is your last chance to see the 1988 Tony winner for Best Musical — it closes April 16.

Majestic Theatre, www.thephantomoftheopera.com

Pictures from Home © Julieta Cervantes

Pictures From Home

Broadway powerhouses Nathan Lane, Danny Burstein and Zoë Wanamaker star in this three-person based on a visual memoir by photographer Larry Sultan. Lane’s son, played by Burstein, documents the life of his parents through ongoing photographic visits much to the annoyance of his curmudgeonly dad. The issues of growing older, evinced by all characters, with doubts and delusions about self-importance or lack of confidence present a haunting portrait of family life and independence. Closes April 30.

Studio 54, www.picturesfromhomebroadway.com

Six © Joan Marcus

Six

Six is a rocking musical-concert telling the stories of the six wives of Henry VIII. The transplant from the West End will have you repeating the show’s “divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived” chorus over and over again. Which glitter-studded wife deserved to be the king’s favorite? You’ll have to judge yourself. The pop musical is the 2022 winner of the Tony for the Best Original Score Written for the Theatre.

Brooks Atkinson Theatre, www.SIXonBroadway.com

Some Like It Hot © Marc J Franklin

Some Like It Hot

Do you remember Tony Randall, Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe in the award-winning movie of the same name? No matter if you don’t. This is a must-see, very current update of the film about two musicians witness to a mob hit in gangster-infested Chicago. Forced to take on a disguises as females to join an all-girl band led by the feisty Sweet Sue, Joe/Josephine and Jerry/Daphne travel cross-country where confusion reigns supreme as unexpected love interests intrude. Christian Borle J. Harrison Ghee are perfect comic foils who tap dance and sing their way through this madcap tale. Adrianna Hicks is superb as Sugar. With sets as vibrant and flawless as the choreography, this musical is a sure-bet for a Tony Award.

Shubert Theatre, https://somelikeithotmusical.com

Wicked © Joan Marcus

Wicked

Who doesn’t love the Wizard of Oz? Wicked takes another look at the Man Behind the Curtain story in a prequel about two school chums who grow up to be Glinda the Good Witch and gloriously green Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. It’s a good time to see the show again and refresh your memory – another retelling of the original story; The Wiz is scheduled for the yellow brick road early next year.

Gershwin Theatre, www.wickedthemusical.com

Coming Soon

March

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street © Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

The newest version of beloved Stephen Sondheim musical about the “demon barber of Fleet Street” stars Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford.

Lunt-Fontanne Theatrehttps://sweeneytoddbroadway.com

Life of PI © Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Life of Pi

Originally from the West End and based on the beloved book (and movie) by Yann Martel, the Olivier Award-winning story of survival tells the saga of a cargo ship sinking in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a boy named Pi left stranded with a tiger.

Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, www.lifeofpibway.com

April

Shucked © Emilio Madrid

Shucked

What do you get when you pair a semi-neurotic, New York comedy writer with two music superstars from Nashville? A hilarious and audacious farm-to-fable musical about the one thing Americans everywhere can’t get enough of: corn.

Nederlander Theatre,www.shuckedmusical.com

CAMELOT © Joan Marcus

CAMELOT

Lincoln Center’s updated take on the beloved Lerner & Lowe classic features your favorite characters, King Arthur, Queen Guenevere and Sir Lancelot. Who will ever forget, “Camelot” or “If Ever I Would Leave You?” If you’re not familiar with them, now’s your chance. Philippa Soo plays Guenevere.

Vivian Beaumont Theater, https://www.lct.org/shows/camelot/

Peter Pan Goes Wrong © Jeremy Daniel

Peter Pan Goes Wrong

The Original Mischief Company arrives for 16 ½ weeks to show off what happens when they try to produce a version of the Wendy and Peter story. From the creators of The Play That Goes Wrong, the show is filled with acrobatics, nonsense, and farce.

Ethel Barrymore Theatre, www.pangoeswrongbway.com

Fat Ham © Joan Marcus

Fat Ham

The Pulitzer Prize winning drama about Black masculinity and queerness is based loosely on Hamlet. Through June 25.

American Airlines Theatre, www.fathambroadway.com

Courtesy The Thanksgiving Play

The Thanksgiving Play

When a troupe of well-meaning theater artists attempt to put on a culturally sensitive Thanksgiving school pageant, things get messy. The Thanksgiving Play skewers everything right, wrong and woke in America.

Helen Hayes Theatre,www.2st.com

New York New York © Paul Kohlnik

New York, New York

Set in 1946, New York, New York follows the lives of artists and dreamers in a resurgent New York, set to a playlist of new songs and big band classics. Music and lyrics by the talented team of Kander and Ebb, with additional lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

St. James Theatre, www.newyorknewyorkbroadway.com

Good Night, Oscar © Liz Lauren

Good Night, Oscar

Jack Paar hosts shockingly funny character actor and pianist Oscar Levant on The Tonight Show. What transpires will provide late-night show fodder for generations to come. The limited engagement stars Sean Hayes through August 27.

Belasco Theatre,www.goodnightoscar.com

Prima Facie - Jodie Comer © Helen-Murray

Prima Facie

The legal drama export from the West End with themes of sexual violence stars Jodie Comer as a defense attorney.

Golden Theatre, https://primafacieplay.com/broadway/

June

Once Upon a One More Time © Emilio Madrid

Once Upon a One More Time

An original musical featuring Britney Spears’ anthems “Oops I Did It Again,” “Toxic” and more. The story “flips the script” on favorite fairytale icons Cinderella, Snow White, Little Mermaid who meet up for their book club.

Marquis Theatre, https://onemoretimemusical.com

July

Here Lies Love

Immersive musical Here Lies Love has guests following actors and dancing through an innovative stage set-up. Based on the rise and fall of Imelda Marcos and the People Power Revolution of the Philippines, Here Lies Love features music by Grammy/Oscar/Tony winner David Byrne and Grammy winner Fatboy Slim. The musical was originally staged at the Public Theater in 2013.

Broadway Theatre, www.herelieslovebroadway.com

TBD

Back to the Future Roger Bart as Doc Brown © Sean Ebsworth Barnes in London production

Back to the Future: The Musical

Playing concurrently in London, Back to the Future: The Musical is the theatrical version of the classic Michael J. Fox film. Teenager Marty McFly is sent back to 1955 in a DeLorean transformed into a time machine by his friend Doc Brown. To return to the present (or the future as it were), Marty must make sure his teenaged parents fall in love.

Winter Garden Theatre, www.backtothefuturemusical.com/newyork.com

Courtesy Summer, 1976

Summer, 1976

Emmy-winner Laura Linney stars in this story of two women living in the time of the Bicentennial. One is an artist and single mother, the other is a housewife with visions of independence. Written by David Auburn, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for the play Proof.

Samuel J. Friedman Theatre, https://www.manhattantheatreclub.com

Merrily We Roll Along

A revival of Stephen Sondheim’s celebrated musical starring Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff and Lindsay Mendez.

Hudson Theatre

Show Your Irish Spirit on St. Patrick’s Day at These New York City Gems

According to Tourism Ireland, forty-four million people in the United States claim Irish heritage. And New York City has a significant percentage of them. In addition to watching the parade, dressing in green, and buying soda bread in advance of this festive day, here are some ideas for best pubs where you can celebrate. Book your reservations now.

On March 17, celebrate the Emerald Isle in New York City with libations, grog, parades and music.

Where to Stay

Courtesy Lotte New York Palace - Jewel Suite

This year, the Lotte New York Palace in Midtown s sharing more than a kiss for St. Patrick’s Day – whether you’re Irish or not. The Palace is offering an exclusive two-night Royal Suites St. Patrick’s Day Experience including a VIP tour of St. Patrick’s and VIP passes to the St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 17^t with seats on the steps of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. You’ll have the Luck of the Irish with this hotel stay – only 100 seats are available, and you must be a “friend of the Cathedral” to sit there. These tickets cannot be purchased elsewhere.

There are special eats as well at the Gold Room bar from a holiday menu of fish and chips, local sausages, Irish baked oysters and , of course, a foamy Guinness to wash it all down .

Courtesy Gold Room

Where to Party

Courtesy Somewhere Nowhere - atop the Renaissance NYC Chelsea Hotel

If you’re traveling with a group, Somewhere Nowhere atop the Renaissance NYC Chelsea Hotel offers a festive post-parade evening. From 4pm-10pm on St. Patrick’s Day, you can enjoy table service for up to 10 guests at their St. Patrick’s Day Sunset Party high above Manhattan. Celebrate and soak up the city skyline as you dance to music by Bouge Group Hospitality. Tickets can be purchased here.

Where to Eat and Drink

McSorley’s Old Ale House (c) Meryl Pearlstein

McSorley’s Old Ale House

A New York City icon, McSorley’s Old Ale House is likely the name on everyone’s lips when you ask where to go for a special Irish pub experience. Set in the East Village, McSorley’s has a storied history dating from 1854, surviving all kinds of controversy from not allowing entry to women (with no women’s restrooms for many, many years) to operating during Prohibition, avoiding closure by offering “food.” This menu item, actually a snack of saltines with mustard, onions and cheese, survives to this day and pretty much everyone orders it. Similarly, the pub’s two original libations are your only choices when it comes to beverages. Order a lager or an ale, and there you have it — that’s McSorley’s in a nutshell. Plan for lines to get in – you won’t be disappointed.

Courtesy The Perfect Pint Public House

The Perfect Pint Public House

With two locations so you’ll never get closed out by crowds enjoying St. Paddy’s Day, the twin Midtown East and Times Square Perfect Pints are standouts out for their conviviality, happy staff, and exceptionally wide range of beer and whiskeys. Food goes beyond standard Irish pub grub like bangers and mash, beef stew, Shepherd’s Pie and burgers, adding other sinful comfort food like decadent Irish Cream cheesecake. Start your evening with a “mandatory” perfectly poured Guinness pint, then experiment with one of the 30 international brews on tap. If the weather cooperates, you can enjoy the rooftop at both locations.

Courtesy The Dead Rabbit

The Dead Rabbit

This pub is so popular that you can book it on Resy! Founded by two talented Irish bartenders looking for a place to show off their cocktail wizardry, The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog in the Seaport is more than a bar. It’s a place to dive into everything Irish with live music, merchandise, beers, cocktails and great Irish food. Décor in the 19th-century townhouse sets the mood– it’s classic Irish with wood ceilings and floors and green walls. An Irish-inspired menu of bangers and mash, fish and chips, and Irish lamb stew will make sure you have something to soak up all that Irish brew. And don’t forget to have one of the pub’s special Irish Coffees – it’s legendary.

Courtesy Donovan’s Pub

Donovan’s Pub

Craving a perfect pint of Guinness? Donovan’s Pub has welcomed Irish ex-pats and Irish wannabes to Woodside, Queens for nearly 60 years. Listed on many New York City “best burger” lists as well, Donovan’s offers up a menu of Irish plus Shepherd’s Pie, sandwiches and steaks.

Courtesy The Galway Hooker Irish Pub

The Galway Hooker Irish Pub

In the heart of the West Village, The Galway Hooker is known locally as The Hooker. But it’s not what you might think: the name actually comes from an Irish sailboat of the type typically found off the coast of Ireland in Galway Bay. A great spot to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, The Hooker also offers the usual Irish pub grub like chicken sandwiches and burgers and the boozy, don’t-miss Jameson fries.

Courtesy The Late Late Bar & Spirit Grocer

The Late Late Bar & Spirit Grocer

Ex-pats will immediately understand why this pub is named The Late Late. Named for the world’s oldest late-night talk show, the “Late Late” is a Lower East Side staple for drinks and food. The pub is modeled after an Irish residence and is notable for its menu of more than 100 Irish whiskeys, The Late Late brings a special Irish touch to its food dishes as well. Bangers and mash or a burger topped with a choice of Jameson habañero, malt mayo or Guinness barbecue sauce will help you soak up all that liquid goodness.

Courtesy The Smith - Reuben

The Smith

Popular The Smith is offering two specials just for the day that will make the perfect St. Patty’s meal. Start with a Reuben Sandwich and add a sweet finish with an Irish coffee at their Nomad, Lincoln Square, Midtown, and East Village locations. Happily, no matter where you end up, there’s usually a Smith nearby, and they stay open late.

A British Comedy Festival Comes to New York City

Three stellar comedians from the UK will have New York City audiences in stitches thanks to the new “Crossing the Pond” comedy festival taking place this winter and spring at Town Hall. The British standup stars will take the stage in January, February and June.

Netflix and BBC star Romesh Ranganathan led off this weekend with his uproarious brand of misanthropic comedic commentary, leaving no stone unturned. Romesh’s jibes ranged from a prepared, yet flawlessly delivered routine to spontaneous digressions keyed off of interactions from the audience. The title of his memoir, “Straight Outta Crawley: The Memoirs of a Distinctly Average Human Being” hinted at what was to come in his monologue.

No subject is taboo for Mr. Ranganathan. His Sri Lankan-British background is fodder for a “fish out of water” dialogue, repeatedly self-deprecating, noting his brown skin as a contrast to those he grew up with. A discussion about bathroom hygiene was far more ribald than that sounds – I’ll leave it to your imagination. He, at times, skewered his British counterparts, detailing the differences between their responses and the American reaction to his shows. As he strode across the stage, changing gears and tempos, talking intermittently about his wife, his kids, the world, his love of hip hop music, and his own appearance in contrast to those around him, he would pause to seemingly take a breath, regroup, and “read” those sitting in the front row.

Hilarious, risqué and a pure treat on an unusually balmy Saturday night in New York City, the show was a marvel reminding us to take a look at the pandemic that we have survived and turn it into memories that could be tinged with laughter. It would be a pleasure to welcome Romesh back for more comedic skewering. If you missed him in person, you can get a sense of his brand of humor by googlinge his appearances on James Corden’s Late Late Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. His standup special “The Cynic” is available on Netflix.

Joanne McNally Courtesy of Off the Kerb Productions

On February 3, Joanne McNally brings her “Prosecco Express” routine to Town Hall. With appearances on the BBC Festival of Funny, Comedy Central and others, the comedienne has a brand of comedy that can only be labelled “joyously nuts.” Audiences in Ireland and the UK also know her for her stand-up show The Wine Tamer presented at major venues including the London Palladium and Vicar Street in Dublin. For more of her humor, you can listen to her podcast “My Therapist Ghosted Me.” Her shows with insightful titles such as “Baby Hater” and “Bite Me” have been viewed on Comedy Central as well.

Alan Carr Courtesy of Off the Kerb Productions

The final performance in the series, BAFTA-winning comedian Alan Carr makes his US debut on Friday, June 2. He is known to audiences in the UK form his 16 series of Channel 4’s Chatty Man and has been a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Carr also has a popular podcast, “Life’s a Beach” so you can have a taste of his routines prior to the US show.

Tickets for all shows are available at www.thetownhall.org in Manhattan. The festival is in conjunction with Off the Kerb Productions, representing the finest in comedy in the UK.

Ways to Honor Black History Month in New York State

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the African diaspora and the contributions and achievements of African Americans. Also known as African American History Month, each February gives us a starting point during which we can recognize the importance of the community in U.S. history. Here are some ways to commemorate in New York City and New York State.

Honor the Path to Freedom

New York State’s Path through History initiative offers an opportunity to learn about and visit the hundreds of museums, parks, galleries and other destinations that tell the important story of African-Americans in New York and the role they played in US history. Within its interactive website, the Underground Railroad shares information about abolitionists who aided thousands of enslaved people to freedom and includes key locations from Brooklyn to Buffalo where history was made.

Suggested stops are New York’s newest state park Sojourner Truth State Park in Kingston, the Travel with Tubman Trail or the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center where historic struggles and achievements come to life.

For more information about New York’s Black history, visit https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/path-through-history/.

Celebrate the Artistic Achievements of the Community

Presented in collaboration with the Metropolitan Opera at Alice Tully House at Lincoln Center, operatic baritone Will Liverman will perform selected songs from his Grammy-nominated album Drams of a New Day showcasing renowned Black composers across generations. The performance is on February 15 with tickets starting at $30. Liverman will be accompanied by pianist Paul Sánchez with a special performance by Lady Jess on violin.

Lady Jess Courtesy Lincoln Center Presents

The concert is part of the acclaimed “Lincoln Center Presents” program.

Courtesy The Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum

For a different kind of immersive musical experience, music lovers should visit The Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum in Buffalo. Slated to get a multi-million dollar facelift this spring, the museum will add rooms for music lessons and visiting musicians. Created in 1918, the club is a designated national preservation site and is the only remaining African American Musicians Club in the country.

Join Grammy Award-winning rock star Lenny Kravitz and photographer David Hindley with GQ’s Mark Anthony Green in a conversation about the legendary early years of Kravitz’s life in music and his new book, Lenny Kravitz: The Formative Years 1989-1993. As Kravitz recorded and toured for his first three albums — Let Love Rule, Mama Said, and Are You Gonna Go My Way — Hindley was charged with capturing the international star as he was coming into his own. The program is online through the 92^nd Street Y on February 16.

Or, take in a show at the famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, the home of Black cultural performance in New York City.

Courtesy Harlem Fine Arts Show

Harlem Fine Arts Show (HFAS) will celebrate its 15th year of being the largest traveling arts show featuring artists from the African Diaspora. The 15th Anniversary Celebration: Celebrating Art and Culture in America will show the works of more than 60 artists of African, Caribbean, and Black descent over a three-day cultural experience and festival from February 24-26 in New York City. Curator for the show is Debra Vanderburg Spencer, the award-winning and museum-trained curator and art historian who has worked with the National Endowment for the Arts, the William J. Clinton Foundation and institutions such as Harlem’s 125th Street Improvement District, New York Foundation for the Arts and the Harlem Arts Alliance.

Dine at a Black-Owned Restaurant

Jasmine's Caribbean Cuisine courtesy Times Square Alliance

Opened during the pandemic and still going strong, Jasmine’s Caribbean Cuisine on Restaurant Row is a tropical-themed oasis co-owned by Jasmine Gerald. The restaurant honors a variety of Caribbean cultures and serves a menu inspired by the cuisines of Dominica, Antigua, St. Thomas, Trinidad and Jamaica with recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation.

Courtesy Jasmine’s Caribbean Cuisine

The restaurant was awarded the Black Plate Award for the best in Black culinary excellence. The restaurant serves two of my favorite Jamaican dishes, ackee and saltfish, and Jerk chicken.

Chef Marcus Samuelsson and the Hav & Mar team will offer a distinctive prix fixe menu every Monday in February. Ingredients from the menu at the Chelsea, NYC restaurant will be sourced from Black-owned or managed companies. Purveyors and their resulting dishes include appetizers Beef Tartare with top round from Prince Abou’s Butchery, Queens, NY and Swediopian, a salmon dish cured with spices from Workinesh Spice’s from Burnsville, Minnesota. Mains are Addis York with purveyor Café’s, Queens, NY, an exciting dish with injero, fried chicken and soft boiled egg; and Umi’s Udon with ingredients from Workinesh Spice’s. For dessert, diners will be treated to the unusual combinations found in Corn Husk Chocolate Pudding or Apple Persimmon Crisp, both thanks to Striped Lion Rum’s from Woodbury, New Jersey. The cocktail menu continues the theme using Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey’s 1884 Tennessee Whiskey, Jack From Brooklyn’s Sorel Liqueur, Uncle Waithley’s Ginger Beer and a float of Equiano Rum, the world’s first African and Caribbean rum..

To add to the festivities, the restaurant will invite guest hosts for each dinner including Klancy Miller, author of For the Culture: Phenomenal Black Women and Femmes in Food (February 6); Thelma Golden, Director and Chief Curator of The Studio Museum in Harlem (February 13); Harlem fashion icon Dapper Dan (February 20); and visual artist and creator of the restaurant’s We Are From the Water installation, Derrick Adams (February 27).

Indulge in a Sweet Tradition

Courtesy Make My Cake

Aliyyah Baylor has set the baking world on fire, growing Make My Cake into a global sensation, which draws tens of thousands of worldwide visitors. Her third- generation family-owned business is celebrating 27 years with a thriving shop at the flagship West 139th Street and second Upper West Side locations in Manhattan. She also is also a generous philanthropist who is committed to improving the lives of New York City’s seniors and children. Ms. Baylor sits on the board of City Meals-on-Wheels and Black Women for Black Girls Giving Circle. She also received a Distinguished Business Woman of the Year Award from The Harlem Arts Council for her dedication to community service across New York City. Make My Cake bases its creations on the recipes of family matriarch Josephine Smith, combining traditions of Mississippi and Alabama with “Harlem soul.” Make My Cake serves pies, cobblers, cakes, cupcakes and cookies with the ability to customize everything. Signature creations include German Chocolate Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and local favorite, the Sweet Potato Cheesecake.

Support Black Entrepreneurs

From hoteliers and restaurant owners to artists and artisan spirit makers, Black entrepreneurs are charting new paths.

Courtesy The Lorca

Book a stay for an unusual vacation at The Lorca a collection of contemporary mountain retreats in the Catskills and Adirondacks from sisters Corianna and Brianna Dotson

Courtesy Seasoned Delicious Foods

Hudson Valley’s Seasoned Delicious Foods in Lake Katrine is a line of Caribbean-inflected seasonings to create Caribbean island dishes using gluten free, vegan, and non-GMO food products. Their café incorporates these products as well as ingredients sourced locally.

Courtesy BLACK MONARCHY

Founded by Phylicia Dove, Buffalo-based BLACK MONARCHY is a boutique that curates the vividness of globally cultural clothing and jewelry made of raw authentic materials and authentic fabrics. Their pieces, largely African-inspired, have diverse origins that also include India, America, Mexico, Indonesia and Thailand and are designed to be one-of-a-kind.

Courtesy Harlem Hops

Harlem Hops is Manhattan’s first 100% African-American owned NYC local craft beer bar. The bar has just been nominated for a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar.

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4 Restaurants Invite Halloween Celebration and Costuming in Manhattan

New York City Sports Bars

It’s 2023 and Broadway’s Back

Show Your Irish Spirit on St. Patrick’s Day at These New York City Gems

A British Comedy Festival Comes to New York City

Ways to Honor Black History Month in New York State

Harlem Hops is Manhattan’s first 100% African-American owned NYC local craft beer bar. The bar has just been nominated for a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar.

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Recent Posts

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About the author

Author Archive

4 Restaurants Invite Halloween Celebration and Costuming in Manhattan

New York City Sports Bars

It’s 2023 and Broadway’s Back

Show Your Irish Spirit on St. Patrick’s Day at These New York City Gems

A British Comedy Festival Comes to New York City

Ways to Honor Black History Month in New York State

Harlem Hops is Manhattan’s first 100% African-American owned NYC local craft beer bar. The bar has just been nominated for a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar.