Kathy Griffin is really funny. I love her show MY LIFE ON THE D LIST. She should be an A LIST STAR. She is my favorite TV performer. She is hilarious. Tonight she is trying to get A list photographers to take her picture. I would love to interview her, she is my favorite TV Personality.
I hope she gets all the PR she craves. I am her A List fan.
New York City Clinches Top Spot in Tourism Spending
—Rise in International Visitors Makes City #1 in the United States—
New York City (July 30, 2008) – NYC & Company, New York City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organization, today applauded Global Insight’s recent announcement that New York City jumped two positions from its 2006 standing, overtaking Orlando, Florida and Las Vegas, Nevada to capture the top spot in total tourism spending. The influx of international visitors, who stay longer and spend more than their domestic counterparts, is driving New York City growth. In fact, New York gained about 1.5 million overseas visitors last year and increased its share of total international visitors by 3.3%. In 2007, New York City welcomed a record 46 million visitors who collectively spent $28.85 billion, a gain of 16% since 2006.
“Despite the current national economic downturn, New York City’s tourism industry continues to be the silver lining in the City’s economy, sustaining the trend of positive growth” said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company. “
Over the last two years, NYC & Company has launched several initiatives aimed at growing its tourism sector including the expansion of its overseas presence, bringing the total number of tourism marketing offices to 18 serving 23 countries; launching the first-ever tourist appreciation and welcome campaign, Just Ask the Locals; and advertising in key overseas markets through a new global communications campaign, This is New York City. These initiatives are now beginning to take real effect. Besides the draw of a weak dollar and low crime, New York City’s five boroughs are as vibrant as ever and offer a wealth of experiences that make the destination a favorite among international and domestic tourists. International markets represented 19% of all person trips in 2007 but accounted for 54% of total visitor spending, as more visitors with strong currencies experienced all that NYC had to offer. International spending rose to $15.5 billion (up from $12.37b in 2006), a net gain of 25%, while domestic spending gained 8% and reached $13.3 billion.
New York City’s tourism industry impacts more than 414,000 city jobs. NYC & Company is estimating that tourism will continue to rise this year, with 47.7 million visitors expected to come to the City’s five boroughs in 2008. Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg also recently announced the acceleration of his tourism goal – stating that the City was on track to achieve 50 million visitors annually in 2012, three years earlier than his initial goal of 2015. Over the summer months of June, July and August, the City is expected to welcome 12.5 million visitors, up from 12 million last year
Thanks to Nick Lugo for granting permission on using these adorable photos. (And Rick Lyon's incredible puppets!)
Congratulations to everyone involved with my favorite musical, Avenue Q. Avenue Q, gave me the desire to find my 'PURPOSE' which is doing on camera interviews. Thanks for giving me the inspiration to go out and get it. You have been around for five years and I found my Purpose three years ago.
Love ya, Avenue Q! Everyone involved with this show has found their Purpose!
Now, I just need some funding. Where is my TREKKIE?
Check out the new design from my fabulous webmistress, Christina!
The New York Musical Theatre Festival, Sharon Carr and Richard Winkler present IDAHO! (www.IdahoMusical.com), a new American comedy musical with book, music and lyrics by Buddy Sheffield and music by Keith Thompson. IDAHO! runs September 25th at 8:00pm, September 26th at 5:00pm, September 28th at 5:00pm, September 28th at 9:00 pm, September 30th 9:00pm, and October 4th at 9:00pm at 37 Arts Theatre (450 W. 37th Street).
IDAHO! is a tale of love and sex on the prairie baked to bawdy perfection and set during the "Golden era" of Broadway. From a land where men were men, women were for sale to the highest bidder and the laws of musical comedy were meant to be broken, IDAHO! is an original “high-steppin’” song and dance musical ripped from the earth like a fresh dug spud.
The cast features: Rob Sutton (Mamma Mia! in Las Vegas, Beauty and the Beast), Elena Shaddow (Light In The Piazza tour, Woman In White), Beth Curry (Legally Blonde), Stacy Todd Holt (Cry Baby), Bill Nolte (The Producers), Jennifer Perry (Mamma Mia! In Las Vegas), Jay Rogers (The New Century, When Pig’s Fly), Ramona Keller (Caroline, or Change), James Tabeek (Taboo), Blake Hammond (Hairspray), Robbie Roby (Hairspray), Wendy Fox (RENT), Joe Grandy (Sound of Music, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma), Jessica Hershberg (Beauty and the Beast at MUNY), Holly Holcomb (Of Thee I Sing), Daniel Frank Kelly (Parade tour) and Jessica Sheridan (Les Miserables).
IDAHO! is directed by Matt Lenz (Supervising Associate Director for Hairspray on Broadway) and choreographed by Michele Lynch (Little House on the Prairie, 13, Happy Days) with musical direction by Christopher Littlefield (Angels, Shout!).
The set is designed by Charlie Smith (Associate: Gem of the Ocean, Drowsy Chaperone) and the lighting is designed by Julie Duro (Don Giovanni, Australian Ballet). Costume design is by Linda Fisher (Greater Tuna, Morning’s At Seven) and sound design is by Lew Mead (Urinetown, The King and I).
Tickets for IDAHO! are $20, and the show plays at 37 Arts Theater (450 West 37th Street) from September 25– October 4, 2008. Tickets go on sale September 1st and can be purchased by calling (212) 352-3101 or by visiting www.nymf.org. For more information: www.IdahoMusical.com or www.nymf.org.
THE TOWN HALL PRESENTS THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED 4th ANNUAL BROADWAY CABARET FESTIVAL OCTOBER 17 - 19 CREATED WRITTEN & HOSTED BY SCOTT SIEGEL
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 AT 8PM - A TRIBUTE TO LERNER & LOEWE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 AT 8PM – COLM WILKINSON: BROADWAY & BEYOND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 AT 3PM - BROADWAY ORIGINALS
(NEW YORK, NY) The Town Hall (123 West 43rd Street) presents the Fourth Annual Broadway Cabaret Festival! All Broadway Music! All Broadway Stars! All Weekend Long! October 17- 19, 2008. The shows feature top Broadway talent in three cabaret concerts over one weekend. From classic favorites to contemporary Broadway, from our newest stars to our venerated icons, this is the festival New York theatre fans have been waiting for. The series is created, written, and hosted for The Town Hall by Scott Siegel.
The festival kicks off on Friday, October 17th at 8pm with A TRIBUTE TO LERNER & LOEWE, starring Brent Barrett (Chicago, Candide, Annie Get Your Gun), Jim Caruso (touring the world with Liza Minneli in concert), Alexander Gemignani (Sunday in the Park With George, Sweeney Todd, Les Miserables), Celia Keenan-Bolger (Tony nominee for ...Spelling Bee), Sarah Jane McMahon (Pirates of Penzance, Metropolitan Opera), Euan Morton (Taboo, Cyrano) Julia Murney (Wicked, Saved), Daniel Reichard (Drama Desk Nominee for Jersey Boys), and Max Von Essen (Les Miserables), among others. The evening is a celebration of Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe, the famed Tony and Oscar Award winning collaborators of such hits as Brigadoon, My Fair Lady, Camelot and Gigi.
COLM WILKINSON, the world’s original John Valjean returns to the New York stage and makes his Town Hall debut on Saturday, October 18th at 8pm with his show BROADWAY AND BEYOND. The celebrated Broadway star has spent years on the stage starring in Les Miserables and The Phantom of the Opera. Mr. Wilkinson will sing an eclectic program ranging from Broadway favorites by Rodgers & Hammerstein and Andrew Lloyd Webber to popular standards by Ray Charles, Leonard Cohen, Muddy Waters and John Lennon. Les Miserables’ Susan Gilmor will reunite with Wilkinson as his special guest star, and he will be backed by a nine-piece orchestra led by music director Steve Hunter.
Like having your musical theatre CD collection come to life is BROADWAY ORIGINALS – on Sunday, October 19th at 3pm, where approximately twenty stars will sing the songs they originated in Broadway productions or revivals. They include Lucie Arnaz (They’re Playing Our Song), Stephen Mo Hanan (Tony nominee for Cats), Karen Morrow (I Had a Ball), and Pam Myers (Company). This is a chance to experience the performances that the original audiences saw and if you were lucky enough to see them the first time, to relive them.
Built in 1921 by a group of suffragettes, The Town Hall began as a lecture hall and public forum for debates. Over the decades, the stage has been graced by Eleanor Roosevelt, Margaret Sanger, Billie Holiday, Igor Stravinsky, Bob Dylan and Miles Davis. Today the hall flourishes as a popular, affordable venue, boasting the hottest acts in rock, pop, folk, cabaret, world music, comedy and dance, including Billy Joel, Blondie, Elvis Costello, Natalie Merchant, Graham Nash, Liza Minnelli, Cyndi Lauper, Norah Jones, Andre Watts, Henry Rollins, Joe Jackson, Pink Martini, Regina Spector, Brian Adams, Aimee Mann and Dawn Upshaw. For over a decade, The Town Hall has hosted live broadcasts of Garrison Keillor’s Prairie Home Companion. Over the past two-and-a-half decades, The Town Hall has produced a number of new and critically acclaimed musical series, which include The Century of Change, Not Just Jazz, Broadway By The Year, The Summer Broadway Festival, and The Broadway Cabaret Festival.
In The Town Hall tradition of affordable entertainment, subscriptions for all three concerts are only $150 and are available through mail order only. Individual tickets are only $55 per show for this all-star weekend and can be purchased through TicketMaster (212) 307-4100 or www.ticketmaster.com and also by visiting The Town Hall Box Office between noon and 6PM (except Sundays) at 123 West 43rd Street, (212) 840-2824 or long on to www.the-townhall-nyc.org.
Corine's Comments: Brent is one of my favorite performers. I can't wait to see this!!!
Joe Bachana Type: Music/Arts - Performance Network: Global Time and Place Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2008 Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm Location: Metropolitan room Street: 34 West 22nd Street City/Town: New York, NY
Mention Code Corine's Corner for a special discount for Corine's Corner readers.
Video shot by Bob Johnson Exclusively for http://www.corinescorner.com shot:http://www.bittenbyazebra.com
After seeing Will Michals incredible performance last night at the ALL SINGIN ALL DANCIN2 at Town Hall I had to put this at the top of my blog. His voice is perfection.
When he sang " SOME ENCHANTED EVENING" I got goosebumps. The song is one of the most breathtaking songs I have ever heard and Will has an outstanding voice. It was a moving theatrical experience. Go get tickets for the week of Sept 9th, but save me a seat as it is my Birthday and I will be officially old.
William Michals and Liz McCarthy Will Michals sang "Some Enchanted Evening"from South Pacific. His singing was the high point of the show. See him the week of September 9th at Lincoln Center. He gives me goosebumps. His voice is perfection and he happens to be very nice. He gave me a very enchanting night at the theatre. Thanks, William!
The very talented and handsome William Michals. See our video from A Night At The Operetta.
Tony Award winner Alli Mauzey
Alli was hysterical in "Cry Baby"
All Singin All Dancin 2 was one of the strongest shows that I have ever seen at Town Hall.
The dancing was inspiring, interesting and sexy. The singing was enchanting thanks to William Michals who made me realize that a gorgeous voice is something special. You can catch him at Lincoln center starting September 9th, please save me a seat as it is my birthday and I can't think of a better way to spend an enchanting evening. Michals, is enchanting.
Ignore my bad hair, my hair did not get done at this years Drama Desk Awards someone took my appointment so ignore the bad hair day! But hope you like my hysterical interview with Dixie Longgate, a great interview with Stew at the Drama Desk Nominations party and an interview with two of the cast members of the 39 STEPS.
Hope you are having a wonderful weekend. I went to Trader Joe's on Friday and I have to admit that TRADER JOE'S is my favorite food store on the planet. So, if anyone from TRADER JOE'S reads this, please contact me. I adore the stores.
IF ONLY THEY COULD OPEN MORE THAN 1 IN NYC.
They need to open one on the UPPER WEST SIDE SAY MID 60's-70's. Today, I made an incredibly healthy gourmet meal from TJ.
I bought the skinless boneless chicken breasts and marinated them in hoisin sauce for three hours. After, I cooked them and cut the breast in bite size pieces and served it over sauteed string beans and brown rice. I then served it with a dab of mango chutney sauce.
Delish!
For dinner I am having Trader Joe's mini crabcakes and a salad.
According to AOL and Star Magazine, Producers star Matthew Broderick is having an affair with a 25 year old redhead. Say it isn't so!!!!! If a nice family guy like Broderick can cheat, then there is no reason to ever take the plunge.
Broderick known as a nice, jewish boy next door type is the last person I would ever imagine as a cheat.
If he has cheated, I hope Sarah Jessica Parker will relaunch her fabulous tv show instead of "SEX AND THE CITY" they should call it "NO SEX IN THE CITY, WHY ALL MEN ARE PIGS!"
My heart is with Sarah and I hope the rumors are not true.
Hello. I just wanted to share. I had a dream yesterday that Kathy Griffin asked me to do a show with her from F LIST TO D LIST. It was funny. We had a song and dance routine written by Bruce Vilanch and she said it was time I got off the F' LIST and get F'ED. I agree.
F LIST. Very interesting. I guess I need to get off my f list. Why don't we bump Kathy to the A LIST as she is hysterical and move me to the D LIST.
Hope you like this video as much as I liked doing it. I wanted to thank my new fabulous video editor Bob Johnson for shooting and editing this video. It means so much Bob and thank you!
Catch this video with interviews with Gerard Alessandrini, Valerie Fagan, Sam Norkin and Joe Machota from the original cast of MAMMA MIA on Broadway. It was a blast.
GURLAND & FARLEY SING RODGERS and HAMMERSTEIN Laurie Beechman Theatre June 24 and 31, 2008 Reviewed by Sandi Durell
One of cabaret’s favorite tenors, David Gurland, has teamed up with Brian Farley, another tenor, for a romp through the R & H songbook. The show is witty, filled with panache and fills the parameters for an evening of great all-around entertainment. Not only does this pair please our ears with beautiful harmonies and falsetto offerings, but they also dance!
When “Mary Martin” and “Gertrude Lawrence” (as they refer to themselves at the onset) open with The Sound of Music’s “Morning Hymn and Alleluia,” followed by “Do re mi o ra ma” and the counterpoint atop counterpoint, the stage is set for a formidable experience.
Rodgers and Hammerstein are acknowledged to be the greatest songwriting team in history. Singers are forever challenged how to present what’s been heard thousands of times so it’s new and creative to perk the ears of the savvy cabaret-seeker. Enter Tracy Stark, Musical Director/Arranger and David and Brian! Featuring songs from the extensive catalog of shows such as South Pacific’s “A Wonderful Guy” and King and I medley with intertwining arrangement of “Hello Young Lovers,” “I Have Dreamed” and “Something Wonderful,” along with Carousel’s “June Is Bustin’ Out All Over” (part of the Dance Break segment – a laugh a minute part of the show), the challenge is more than met with humor, talent and a new excitement.
The voices are masterful, the tongue-in-cheek presentation a riot. Brian’s rendition of “Something Good” is filled with nostalgic memory of his youth; David’s “What’s The Use of Wondrin?” a slow bluesy offering, is a real highlight.
We hope this pair will find additional dates to offer up this top notch revue!
, Valerie Smaldone, Mario Lopez and Bruce Dimpflmaier, who is one of the owners of Tony's Di Napoli and the two of them produce a wonderful event.
Mario Lopez and his portrait.
"VOGUE!"
Mario thanks Bruce for the incredible food and party!
The food was the best ever. They served ravioli, chicken parm, pasta, caesar salad, shrimp, calamari. It was the best food I have ever eaten at Tony's!
Photos by Maryann Lopinto
Comments: Corine Dana Cohen
If you love italian food Tony's knows how to make incredible italian food. My new favorite is the chicken parm and the shrimp scampi and don't forget the incredible calamari. I am in love with his caesar. Tony's food is a Corine's pick and if you are on 43rd street and are looking for a great place for a pre theater dinner, Tony's is my pick. Don't forget to get my favorite sweet drink the frozen bellini which was invented by Bruce! Thanks for an incredible evening, Bruce!
Mario and his portrait. The best one I have seen! It is almost as handsome as Mario Lopez!
Mario Lopez, currently in A "CHORUS LINE" and soon will be starring as host of a show on EXTRA. It was a pleasure speaking to the very handsome and sweet star. He loves being on Broadway in A "CHORUS LINE" and is very excited about his Salsa dance show and his upcoming show on EXTRA! Congratulations, Mario! I bet Screetch is a bit jealous!
Forbidden Broadway star of six years and a member of the Award winning version Rude Awakening. Valerie Fagan who can project Merman as far as Kansas from the Upper West Side. Watch for our upcoming interview which will only be on the corner. It was a longtime dream to interview Val! She does a Merman impersonation, kids!
Rob Ashford
Rob Ashford- I can't wait to see his newest work in Brigadoon!
Winner Rob Ashford who also was nominated for Throughly Marvelous Millie! He won a Tony for that show and a Drama Desk for "Cry Baby"
Drama Desk winner Rob Ashford for "Cry Baby"
Rob is working on the upcoming "Brigadoon" which I am looking forward to seeing next season. Rob is a pro and was a great interview. Watch our backstage interview at the Drama Desk Awards. It can be found on my homepage.
Gerard Alessandrini and John Freedson of the mega hit and longtime running Off Broadway institution Forbidden Broadway Rude Awakening. Rude Awakening won a 2007-2008 Drama Desk Award for best Revue.
Gerard Alessandrini and Producer John Freedson
Forbidden Broadway's Gerard Alessandrini who has been making me laugh for over 26 years. Thank you, Gerard!
Drama Desk winner Gerard Alessandrini poses for Corine's Corner.
PHOTO FLASH. EXTRA. EXTRA.
This past Tuesday, Tony's Di Napoli hosted an incredible buffet dinner with the works for the winners of the Drama Desk Awards. It was a blast and I had an incredible time. We wanted to thank Bruce for being a great host and supporter of theater events. I also enjoyed two frozen bellini's my favorite sweet frozen drink in NYC. Thank you, Bruce!
Gerard Alessandrini (Writer of Forbidden Broadway) Valerie Fagan who has been on and off in Forbidden Broadway over the last six years. It was a pleasure interviewing both Valerie Fagan and Gerard in person on video. The video should be up in a little over a week. Photo by Bob Johnson
Artist Sam Norkin and Corine Dana Cohen Photo by Bob Johnson
Tonight at the Drama Desk Trophy awards party, I got to interview Sam Norkin. It was a thrill doing a video interview with Sam. Sam is like a Father to me and I adore him and since I lost my Father many years ago, I have decided to adopt him and Fran his adorable wife. Can a woman adopt people they love? I love them.
I got the chance to interview William Michals who is currently the standby in South Pacific. He will be in South Pacific the week of September 9th and I hope I will get the chance to see him as he is marvelous.
Corine Cohen Video shot and edited by Bob Johnson.
New York City web: www.BittenByAZebra.com photo blog: www.BittenByAZebraPhotography.com vlog: www.NewYorkHotFlashes.com blog: www.BobInTheMiddleEast.com
(Photo from Madison Square Garden's site) The one and only George Michael. Gay rock icon. Sexy, artistic and sensual.
Back in the late 80's George Michael would play at the summer job I had on columbus Avenue. I worked for a funky shoe store on the Upper Westside and my boss would play YAZ, SQUEEZE, GEORGE MICHAEL, DEVO and he was madly in love with George Michael. (I was madly in love with George's voice and for the first time I saw him in concert.
Sigh. The man is still an incredible performer and even from my nosebleed seats I danced in my seat trying to see the voice from my youth. He sang all my favorites from the "FAITH" record and I was impressed with the amount of music he sang. His concert had incredible beams of light and a few times he danced on a beam of light with old film stars..
If you are a fan of George you need to see his concert. Over 40 and fabulous and making political commentary about our government, his old record company issue and Hilary. George is a true gay icon. (He mentioned he was gay as if you all didn't know that! His voice is better than I remembered.
THE FRIARS CLUB PRESENTS… SO YOU THINK YOU CAN ROAST!?
A National Online Talent Search for the Next Big Roast Master
Winner to Roast Today Show Co-Host Matt Lauer
New York, July 21, 2008– The Friars Club announced today the launch of So You Think You Can Roast!? (www.friarsroast.com) a national online talent contest for the next big Roast Master. The winner will get a chance to skewer Today Show co-host, Matt Lauer at his roast on October 24th. The Friars Club held preliminary auditions at Gotham Comedy Club and chose eighteen top contenders for So You Think You Can Roast!?
The competition will be broken down into a series of in-house celebrity roasts where these up-and-coming comedians will test their roasting chops in front of a panel of established experts in comedy. The series is set to kick-off on Tuesday, July 29th with the roast of Vincent “Big Pussy” Pastore. "It's a lifelong dream of mine to be roasted by the Friars. Ever since the days of Dean Martin and the early roasts at the Friars Club, I have always wanted to be a part of the party. I am ready for whatever my roasters fish out," Pastore said.
The “roasts” will continue once a month leading up to the final event where the winner will be chosen from the previous outstanding contestants, plus one wild card chosen by the public.
Other expected roastees include George Takai, “Start Trek’s” Sulu (August 19th), who said, "Being roasted by the Friars is the equivalent of being knighted by the Queen of England. I'll be beaming like Scotty never had me beaming." “Apprentice” diva Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth (September 22nd) who noted, “What an honor to be recognized by the prestigious Friar's Club. If you want to be a beacon of light–you gotta be able to take the heat." And Gary Dell’Abate, producer for the Howard Stern Show.
The Friars Club has created an exclusive website where the general public will be able to view candid moments and unabashed comedy of the auditions and roasts online at www.friarsroast.com. The public will also be able to vote for their favorite contestants.
The Friars Club is considered one of the most prestigious fraternal orders in the world and rated among the top clubs in the nation. Since 1904, the Friars Club has been combining the outstanding qualities of show business and the humanities, and its many functions and events covering these areas attract international media coverage. From their infamous Roasts to their Testimonial Dinners, Friars Frolics encompass the building blocks of happiness, through music, laughter and brotherhood. As head of the Friars, Abbot Jerry Lewis, says, “Good fellowship, friendship and fraternity form the basis that makes the Friars Club what it is.”
David Gurland and Brian Farley sing the Music and Lyrics of Rodgers and Hammerstein THURSDAYJuly 24th at 7 PM Award winning vocalists Brian Farley and David Gurland team up for their first full show together.- An evening of RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN, accented by edgy humor, great stage presence, medley's galore and gorgeous harmonies. Already great interpreters of the American Popular songbook, this will be the pair's first foray into the catalog of arguably the greatest songwriting team in history. Featuring songs from Carousel, The Sound of Music, The King and I, this years' biggest Broadway hit South Pacific, and many more. Musically directed by Tracy Stark.
http://www.westbankcafe.com/ 407 West 42nd Street at 9th Avenue $16 cover$15 food/drink minimum212-695-6909Credit cards accepted Reservations recommended
North America's Largest Arts Fest ReturnsNEW YORK INTERNATIONAL FRINGE FESTIVAL ** 12th Annual Festival runs August 8- 24 ** New York International Fringe Festival (FringeNYC), the largest multi-arts festival in North America, will present the 12th annual festival from August 8th - 24th, 2008.
This year, the festival will offer performances by 202 of the world's best emerging theatre troupes and dance companies. The festival will present works covering a wide range of disciplines including theater, dance, performance art, children's theater, spoken word, puppetry, comedy, improv and multimedia. This year, 20 of New York City's most prominent downtown performance venues will host productions from around the globe as part of FringeNYC 2008. Participating venues, ranging in size from 50 to 700 seats, include Pace University's Schimmel Center & Schaberle Studio, Soho Playhouse, Theatre 80, The Deluxe at Spiegelworld, Cherry Lane Theatre, Players Theater, The Connelly Theater, The Theatres at 45 Bleecker Street, Barrow Street Theatre and The CSV Cultural and Educational Center.
FringeNYC is a production of The Present Company, under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Elena K. Holy. In November 2007, Michael Bloomberg presented FringeNYC with the prestigious Mayor's Award for Arts and Culture.Highlights of FringeNYC 2008 include: Perez Hilton Saves the Universe (or at least the greater Los Angeles area): The Musical; Lucasville: The Untold Story of a Prison Uprising; Thoroughly Stupid Things, a sequel to Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest; Nudists in Love: A New Musical; shows about Britney Spears, Anna Nicole Smith and Tim Gunn's Podcast (a reality chamber opera); Woodhull: A Play About the First Woman Who Ran for President; Down Around Brown Town, a celebration of the music of James Brown; shows based on the works of Shakespeare, Chekhov and Euripides; Blanche Survives Katrina in a FEMA Trailer Named Desire; China: The Whole Enchilada, the entire history of China in two hours (opening 08-08-08 along with the Beijing Olympics); plus, shows by and/or about literary icons including Dorothy Parker, Poe, Dostoyevsky, Ray Bradbury, Faulkner, Shel Silverstein, Jacqueline Susann, Susan Sontag, Joyce Carol Oates; and much, much more. In 1997, New York City became the seventh US city to host a fringe festival, joining Seattle, Chicago, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Houston, Orlando and San Francisco. In its first eleven years, FringeNYC has presented over 2000 performing groups from the U.K., Canada, Poland, Ireland, Japan, Singapore, Germany, the Czech Republic and across the U.S., prompting Switzerland's national daily, The New Zurich Zeitung, to declare, "FringeNYC has become the premiere meeting ground for alternative artists." The festival has also been the launching pad for numerous Off-Broadway and Broadway transfers, long-running downtown hits, and regional theater productions including Urinetown, Never Swim Alone, Debbie Does Dallas, Dog Sees God, 21 Dog Years, Joys of Sex, Dixie's Tupperware Party, Matt & Ben, Walmartopia, Bash'd and Tom Crean: Antarctic Explorer. Tickets go on sale July 18th and are $15 each, available at www.fringenyc.org or 866-468-7619.
Discount passes for multiple shows are also available. Tickets and additional information on the Festival are available in-person at FringeCENTRAL beginning July 25th. FringeCENTRAL is located at Openhouse (201 Mulberry Street between Spring and Kenmare Streets) and is open from noon - 8pm daily. For more information visit www.FringeNYC.org.
Ever have a day from hell? Yesterday was one of those days. My blackberry pearl broke before I could download all of the photos of Broadway In Bryant Park last Thursday. So, now I am without my prize camera and phone. To quote "Avenue Q" it sucks to be me (C!)
Also, I melt in the heat so I have not left my air conditioned apartment since Friday evening.
Say goodbye to my adorable firework entry page as it is blocking search engines but you can enjoy it for a few more days until Christina removes it.
PS If anyone out there wants to reach affluent, smart and cultured individuals they can contact me. Sponsorships are available and would make me very happy. Ads start at only $100 so please come by and sponsor the site if you like it. (Times are tough at the Corner and I do like covering all those events for you!!!)
Interviewing Kate Monster and Carey Anderson (The new Kate Monster and Lucy T Slut in Avenue Q was a dream come true. Carey, played Sophie in the hit Broadway show Mamma Mia on Broadway and started playing Kate Monster and Lucy in the hit Broadway musical AVENUE Q last week.
Carey is a very nice person and I really enjoyed interviewing her and Christian Anderson (Nicky/Trekkie) More photos later.
TALE OF TWO CITIES” Jill Santoriello’s sweeping musical epic
OPENING: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18th
PREVIEWS: TUESDAY, AUGUST 19th – WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17th
THEATRE: AL HIRSCHFELD THEATRE 302 West 45th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues)
PRODUCED BY: Barbra Russell and Ron Sharpe (Executive Producers), Bernard Brogan, Sharon A. Fordham, Theatre Associates / David Sonnenberg / Rami Evar, The Monagle Group, Fanok Entertainment, Mary E. Laminack, Jim Barry, Gasperino Entertainment, Vincent Russell, William M. Broderick, Alex Santoriello, (Producers) and David Bryant, Harry Casey (Associate Producers)
BOOK / MUSIC / LYRICS: JILL SANTORIELLO
BASED ON A NOVEL BY: CHARLES DICKENS
DIRECTOR / CHOREOGRAPHER: WARREN CARLYLE
FEATURING: JAMES BARBOUR as Sydney Carton CRAIG BENNETT as Jerry Cruncher BRANDI BURKHARDT as Lucie Manette KEVIN EARLEY as Ernest Defarge GREGG EDELMAN as Dr. Alexandre Manette MICHAEL HAYWARD-JONES as Jarvis Lorry AARON LAZAR as Charles Darnay MACKENZIE MAUZY as The Seamstress KATHERINE McGRATH as Miss Pross LES MINSKI as Marquis St. Evremonde NATALIE TORO as Madame Therese Defarge NICK WYMAN as John Barsad
SCENIC DESIGN: TONY WALTON COSTUME DESIGN: DAVID ZINN LIGHTING DESIGN: RICHARD PILBROW SOUND DESIGN: DOMONIC SACK & CARL CASELLA HAIR DESIGN: TOM WATSON
ORCHESTRATIONS: EDWARD B. KESSEL, WENDY BOBBITT CAVETT, KEVIN STITES & BOB KROGSTAD
MUSIC DIRECTION & SUPERVISION: KEVIN STITES
TICKETS: $59 - $120
RESERVATIONS: Tickets are available by calling TELECHARGE at 212-239-6200 or 800-432-7250 or by visiting www.TELECHARGE.com
THE STORY Set against the epic backdrop of the French Revolution and based on the classic Dickens novel, "A TALE OF TWO CITIES" is a musical about injustice, vengeance and the redemptive power of love. When Dr. Manette is released from the French Bastille after 17 years, he must be resurrected from the brink of madness by his daughter, Lucie. In England they meet two very different men: the exiled French aristocrat, Charles Darnay, whom Lucie marries, and the drunken cynic, Sydney Carton. Soon family secrets and political intrigue combine to draw Lucie and her family back to Paris. At the height of the Reign of Terror, the musical finds an unlikely hero in Carton.
THE HISTORY In the history of fictional literature, "A TALE OF TWO CITIES" is arguably the most famous book title on earth. Since its inaugural publication on April 30th, 1859, "A TALE OF TWO CITIES" has sold over 200 million copies in several languages. It is the recounting of one of the most electrifying love stories ever written told against the backdrop of one of the most terrifying eras in human history. Originally produced in an out-of-town tryout at the Asolo Repertory Theatre where it played to standing-room-only audiences, "A TALE OF TWO CITIES" is a musical whose time has come. It is the best of times.
Click the "play" arrow to watch interviews with the stars of "A Night at the Opera" (videotaped Monday, July 14th at Town Hall).
Hi,
I wanted to thank Bob Johnson, my new video expert for editing and taping the event. He will be shooting another event for my site on Tuesday and I can't thank him enough for his friendship and talent. Also, check out Bob's sites:
One of my favorite singers who sings deep and should be cast as a "Prince"
You will understand the joke when you see my video.
Devin is very talented and should be cast as a lead in my opinion.
Look for his one man show at the Metropolitan in November.
James Barber Set
Sketches of the costumes Gregg Edelman
Aaron Lazar and Craig Bennett Kevin Earley, Natalie Toro and James Barber
Kevin Earley
Gregg Edelman
I got to interview Aaron Lazar and it was a thrill. He happens to have one of the greatest voices currently on Broadway and he is a very sweet person. I can't wait to see him in the show. The incredibly handsome Kevin Earley. I really enjoyed interviewing him.
Maryann Lopinto got these shots at "TALE OF TWO CITIES" press preview. Staytuned for a video coming in the next few days. I interviewed: Aaron Lazar, Kevin Earley, Nick Wyman, and
CAROL HALL & STEVEN LUTVAKTHE YALE CONCERT(“They Write The Songs”)JULY 31stTHE NEW THEATER / YALE UNIVERSITY
On THURSDAY, JULY 31st CAROL HALL and STEVEN LUTVAK, two members of the award-winning faculty at the Cabaret Conference at Yale University, will perform in concert at Yale University’s NEW THEATRE (1156 Chapel Street – between York Street and Park Street. The concert, which is entitled “They Write The Songs” will be presented for one night only. Curtain is at 7:30pm. Both Ms. Hall and Mr. Lutvak have been generously honored with critical acclaim for their individual and collaborative work as both songwriters and performers. Mr. Lutvak appears on Ms. Hall’s most recent and highly acclaimed CD HALLWAYS, The Songs of Carol Hall that was released last March on the LML Music label where it is in its third printing. In addition to her formidable talents, Ms. Hall will be bringing several Guest Stars to the stage; Sally Mayes, Laurel Massé, Sharon McNight and Rita Gardner. The evening’s program will include several songs from Ms. Hall’s cannon of work including Hard Candy Christmas, Tattooed Boy In Memphis, Jenny Rebecca, This Is My Birthday, Doatsy Mae, It’s Only A Broken Heart, My Circle Of Friends, Lover of High Wire, It’s Alright To Cry and I’ll Imagine You a Song which she wrote with Mr. Lutvak.
THE SIXTH ANNUAL CABARET CONFERENCE The Sixth Annual Cabaret Conference At Yale University will be held July 25-August 3, 2008. It is an internationally focused, nine-day teaching program that offers an intensive look at the art of cabaret. The Great American Songbook will be addressed in its entirety, from its origins in the late 19th century through the classic pop standards of the 1930s and 40s to today’s contemporary cabaret, musical theater, jazz and pop music. The award-winning faculty will guide thirty-six students through classes and lectures covering cabaret performance technique, acting for singers, lyric interpretation, focus, concentration, act structure, act writing, material research, comedic development, musical director relations, maintenance of the vocal instrument, and image consultation.
CAROL HALL – BIO The first person ever to record one of Carol Hall’s songs was the young Barbra Streisand. Subsequently, her songs were performed by such extraordinary singers as Tony Bennett, Barbara Cook, Margaret Whiting, Julie Wilson, Chita Rivera, Michael Feinstein, Mabel Mercer, Amanda McBroom, Lari White, Olivia Newton-John, Maureen McGovern, Miriam Makeba, RuPaul, David Campbell, Frederica von Stade, Kermit the Frog and Big Bird. Among others. She’s also one of the few songwriters to have a hit Broadway show. Her classic musical THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS entertained Broadway audiences for almost five years, received a Grammy nomination for its cast album, and became a popular film starring Burt Reynolds and Dolly Parton. Dolly’s recording of Carol’s song “Hard Candy Christmas” won an ASCAP Most Performed Country Song Award, and the film generated an OSCAR nomination for Charles Durning, singing “The Sidestep” as the slippery Governor of Texas. A recent national tour of WHOREHOUSE starring the entertainment legend Ann-Margret, enjoyed a run for over a year and a half. Carol also does a lot of writing for children, (Her “It’s All Right To Cry,” and “Parents Are People” continue to be favorites of generations of children). Recently she created the score to the theatrical version of the popular children's series MAX AND RUBY. Four tours of the show are presently playing across the country, after a successful debut opening Off-Broadway in December 2007. But her recent delight has been the making of her CD “Hallways,” which features many of her most loved and wonderful songs – both old and brand new — such as the hit “Hard Candy Christmas,” as well as the timeless classic “Jenny Rebecca” — and a number of premier performances. As Carol says in the CD’s booklet, “a song is not a song until somebody sings it…” And what an array of singers she has here! In addition to Carol, performing on the CD are Amanda McBroom, Johnny Rodgers, Scott Coulter, Tim Dipasqua, Tom Andersen, Lesley Gore, Susannah Blinkoff, Farah Alvin, Steven Lutvak, Laurel Massé, Bobby Gosh, Rick Jensen, Carol Woods and the Broadway Inspirational Voices. “Hallways” was also co-produced by Tex Arnold, who was its musical director, responsible for the exquisite arrangements. And it was spectacularly engineered by Bill Moss at the famous NOLA Recording Studios, NYC.
STEVEN LUTVAK - BIO Steven Lutvak has had a remarkable two years. He and his principal collaborator, Robert Freedman, won the Kleban Award, the premiere prize for lyric writing in Musical Theater; their musical KIND HEARTS AND CORONETS was presented as part of the Breaking Ground Series at the Huntington Theater in Boston; KIND HEARTS was invited to be the only musical developed at the Sundance Theater Lab; and Steven received a rave review in the New York Times for his cabaret act of his own songs. MAD HOT BALLROOM, the film for which Steven wrote the title song, became the 9th most successful documentary of all time. The debut of Shoulder to Shoulder, a new song commissioned for the opening ceremonies of the Gay Games in Chicago, which was sung by Billy Porter, and a 250-voice choir. His musical, CAMPAIGN OF THE CENTRY, was originally commissioned by the American Musical Theater of San Jose, and was more recently presented in New York as part of the New York Music Theater Festival, and, in a concert version, was the closing event of 2004’s Chicago Humanities Festival, both starring Tony Award winner Michael Rupert. Lutvak scored Off-Broadway’s HANNAH SENESH, which was nominated for a Drama Desk Award, and was later produced at the Zephyr Theatre in Los Angeles, the Philadelphia Theatre Company, the Baltimore Center Stage, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, and most recently at Penguin Repertory Theatre. The production also toured throughout Canada and Israel. The release of his solo CD, THE TIME IT TAKES was celebrated with a sold-out run at New York’s hottest venue, Joe’s Pub. Other awards include the first Johnny Mercer Foundation Emerging American Songwriter Award, two Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Grant and two Bistro Awards. Mr. Lutvak has received the MAC Award three times and has been the recipient of the ASCAP Award annually since 1984. Seniors
Hey all! Just a note to let you know my first new solo show in five years, BEST OF MY LOVE, will have its final performance Tuesday, July 29, @ 7:00 PM Performance and show info are below. I hope you'll be able to make it out to see this new show. Also, I'll be appearing this Tuesday, July 15 @ 6:30 PM, at Don't Tell Mama as part of the popular GRACENOTES cabaret singers soiree. Appearing with me on the bill are Anna Bergman, Adam Alexander, the vocal group Mama Said, and a host of others. One final note: On July 16 @ 6:30 PM, I'll be making a special appearance in connection with my family CD recording, SING A RAINBOW, as part of the popular Barnes & Noble Any Wednesday series.
Admission is free; doors open at 6:00 PM. ERIC MICHAEL GILLETTBEST OF MY LOVEMetropolitan Room34 W. 22nd StreetReservations: 212.206.04400A$20 Music Charge/2 Drink MinimumMusical Director: Don RebicBass: Steve DoyleTuesday-July 29 @ 7:00 PM ERIC MICHAEL GILLETT’S FIRST NEW SOLO SHOW IN FIVE YEARS RETURNS HIM TO THE STAGE OF THE METROPOLITAN FOLLOWING HIS ENCORE PRESENTATIONS OF THE ACCLAIMED “HOOK, LINE & SINGER”. IN “BEST OF MY LOVE”, THE MAC AND BISTRO AWARD WINNING VOCALIST TAKES A WRY AND MOVING LOOK AT THE INTRICATE WAYS OF THE HEART AND THE UNIVERSAL PATHS WE ALL TREAD AS WE STUMBLE OUR WAY TOWARD TRUE ROMANCE. FINAL PERFORMANCE OF "BEST OF MY LOVE" WILL BE TUESDAY, JULY 29, @ 7:00 PM. CABARET SCENES RECENTLY REVIEWED THE SHOW AND SAID, "SEE THIS SHOW; IT'S A GIFT TO YOURSELF." http://www.ericmichaelgillett.com/
Hi guys,
I saw this show at the METROPOLITAN ROOM last night and I loved it. It is a Corine's Pick so don't miss it! It is very romantic. The sad part was watching it with a table of women friends. If you have a boyfriend or husband this is the perfect romantic date night.
Corine Cohen(PS I am taking applications for this spot as I am not attached!)
Steve Klein, Stew, Spike Lee, Heidi and Annie Dorsen.
Interviewing Spike, Daniel and Heidi was a very fabulous experience!
Feel the real. Go and see this fabulous theatrical event. (Love the music!!!)
Yesterday, Spike Lee announced that he will be making the fabulous happening "PASSING STRANGE" into a film. Sadly, I could not make it but Brad Balfour attended and got some good photos.
Photo by Brad Balfour.
More photos will be added later!
Corine Cohen
I am looking forward to the film as I love Stew and Heidi's music. Feel the real and go to the Broadway show. It is a must see for people that love Stew's sound. I am one of those people.
In addition I also interviewed Stew, Daniel Breaker and Heidi at the Drama Desk awards and I hope my video editor will put it up on my site soon.
I loved "Passing Strange" and hope you see it soon!
David Gurland and Brian Farley sing the Music and Lyrics of Rodgers and Hammerstein THURSDAY'SJuly 24th and July 31st at 7 PM
Award winning vocalists Brian Farley and David Gurland team up for their first full show together.- An evening of RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN, accented by edgy humor, great stage presence, medley's galore and gorgeous harmonies. Already great interpreters of the American Popular songbook, this will be the pair's first foray into the catalog of arguably the greatest songwriting team in history. Featuring songs from Carousel, The Sound of Music, The King and I, this years' biggest Broadway hit South Pacific, and many more. Musically directed by Tracy Stark.
www.westbankcafe.com 407 West 42nd Street at 9th Avenue $16 cover$15 food/drink minimum 212-695-6909 Credit cards accepted Reservations recommended
PSST. I have a secret. I saw the MAMMA MIA movie tonight.
When I saw the preview at "SEX AND THE CITY" I turned to my friend and said wow that looks awful. Well, I was wrong...
If you love the music of ABBA and the adorable Broadway show you can't stop from having a great time with the catchy showtunes and the kitschy and campy feel. (I AM A DANCING QUEEN AND I LOVED IT!!!!)
The Good:
Christine Baranski. She shows her acting chops in this film. Yeah, she is typecast as her own fabulous self which was perfection. As perfect as a chilled Cosmo. She looks fit, fabulous and yes she has style but she is not the NANNY. She always cracks me up so the film was worth the price of admission just to see her. (Also catch her in BOEING BOEING, the woman is a pro.)
The Bad: Pierce Brosnan is hot, a great actor but he is not a singer. He did do a great job regardless but a few times when he sang I wanted to crawl under a table.
The sets were beautiful and I think the movie will make people want to go back and see the show. I did like the film more than the show. The acting is great. I mean the show is not deep, but it is a very entertaining show and the movie was even more entertaining to me. The one thing the movie does not have on the show. YOU CAN'T GET UP AND DANCE IN THE AISLE.
I LOVE ABBA and I think the film is adorable and a good, light, happy and entertaining film. If you love the music of ABBA you are in for a treat. I really had a great time.
3.5 stars out of five.
MAMMA MIA- HERE I GO AGAIN (It has been five years since I saw it on Broadway) I missed it. It will make you cheer. PS. I only saw the show once when it first opened and this film made me want to make a second trip to the Broadway show. I loved it, I just wish they had someone else sing for Pierce.
I wanted to thank Christina for the incredible redesign. It looks amazing. If you need a website, Christina is the best. You can write to her at the bottom of my homepage. She is the greatest!
Hope you like the new look. I love it and stay tuned for exciting new additions to the site that only Christina knows about.
Christina is the best web designer and I can't thank her enough for the glorious new look.
I love Regis and Kelly and watch it often. This morning they are having a race where women can race in 3 inch heels. The winner will take home $25,000. Who wants to run in three inch heels?
I think the event is silly. Why can't they have a different contest?
My dream contest for REGIS AND KELLY:
Contest:
Win a day to anchor REGIS AND KELLI and THE VIEW.
The best guest host will win a contract for their own TV SHOW ON ABC.
This should be open only to women and I would apply for that. I like the sound of the Corinescorner hour.
High Heel a-thon? Not so much. Women should not run in 4 inch heels. It is bad for their back, ankles and feet. It is sort of sexist and upsetting to me. A way to fix this issue, win your own tv contract on ABC. Sign me up.
I am looking for a video editor who is passionate about:
1. Film
2. Theatre (Off Broadway, Off Off Broadway and Broadway musicals and plays)
3. Food coverage (Wine tasting, food events)
I am searching for an entry level film student or video student who would like exposure, free tickets and a small stipend to film interviews for my site.
Photo credit and tickets to a list events. Must be able to shoot video and edit it and put it on my site within 4 days max. (Pay $10 per video and a free ad on my site promoting your business)
