NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/26) + Today’s Featured Pub (Times Square / Theater District)

Posted on 05/26/2018 by

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > SATURDAY/ MAY 26, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

Guillermo Klein y los Guachos (May 22-27)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30, +10:30PM, $35+
Ahead of the curve in the nineteen-nineties, when he initially convened his own large ensembles, this ambitious composer, arranger, pianist, and vocalist continues to thwart big-band conventions. Klein’s music delights in shifting time signatures, rich tonalities, and arresting multicultural influences, attracting some of the most farsighted improvisers around, including Miguel Zenon, Ben Monder, and Taylor Haskins.” (NewYorker)

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7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> BargeMusic
>> Coppélia
>> Sullivan Fortner
>> AMERICAN BALLET THEATER
>> DanceAfrica
>> Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit
>> Tour – Trinity Church Cemetery in Upper Manhattan
Continuing Events
>> Fleet Week 
>> Vision Festival
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

BargeMusic
“Music in Motion” Series — a one hour performance, including a Q & A session with the musicians (no intermission)
Fulton Ferry Landing, near the Brooklyn Bridge in Brooklyn/ 4PM, FREE
(take the A or C train to High Street station, Brooklyn.)
“Concert at the coolest classical music concert location in NYC.
Classical music on a boat with an intimate and romantic setting and beautiful view of New York City. Program and musicians TBA.” (ClubFreeTime)

Coppélia
NYS Theater, Lincoln Center / 2PM, +8PM, $30+
“Most of our enduring three-act ballets are tragedies in which men do bad things and women die. The comic Coppélia, by contrast, is practically a feminist enterprise. A young man steps out on his girlfriend, only to find himself entrapped in a toymaker’s workshop where the plucky title character substitutes her living body for the mechanical doll that has distracted her guy. Originally choreographed in 1870 by Arthur Saint-Léon to a score by Léo Delibes and revived years later for the Imperial Ballet of St. Petersburg by Marius Petipa, it’s been overhauled by the great George Balanchine and Alexandra Danilova for the New York City Ballet, where it runs for the last week of the company’s spring season.” (Elizabeth Zimmer, Village Voice)

Sullivan Fortner (May 24-27)
Jazz Standard, 116 E. 27th St./ 7:30PM, +9:30PM, $30
“When you’re an on-the-rise musician like the promising post-bop pianist Fortner, it never hurts to surround yourself with friends with clout. Adding muscle to his trio, the New Orleans-bred musician welcomes, on successive nights, the trumpeters Roy Hargrove, Ambrose Akinmusire, and Peter Evans and the saxophonist Melissa Aldana. It’s an advance party for “Moments Preserved,” Fortner’s new album, which will be released on June 1.” (NewYorker)

AMERICAN BALLET THEATER (Thru July 7)
at the Metropolitan Opera House / 2PM, +8PM, $35+
“The doubleheader of Alexei Ratmansky’s “Firebird” and Wayne McGregor’s new “AfteRite” receives three more performances between Friday and Saturday. Mr. Ratmansky, a consummate storyteller, brings colorful intrigue to a mystical avian tale, while Mr. McGregor, a British choreographer known for aggressive physical extremes, reconsiders the ubiquitous dance classic “The Rite of Spring.” Both works are set to celebrated Stravinsky scores. Beginning Tuesday, Ballet Theater switches gears and heads to India for the Russia-born epitome of 19th-century exoticism, “La Bayadère.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

DanceAfrica
BAM,  30 Lafayette Ave, Bklyn.
“In honor of the centennial of Nelson Mandela’s birth, the DanceAfrica festival, at BAM this weekend, focusses on South Africa. Ingoma KwaZulu-Natal Dance Company is a kind of supergroup, bundling together just for this occasion four companies whose styles range from Zulu traditions to pantsula, the fleet-footed street dance that originated as a response to apartheid. Siwela Sonke Dance Theatre, from Durban, combines the dance forms of many cultures, a mix representative of its region: Zulu dances and pantsula, plus classical Indian and hip-hop.” (NewYorker-Brian Seibert)

Dance Africa is The Brooklyn Festival That Everyone—You, Your Parents, Your Kids—Should Attend – (whatshouldwedo.com)

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Smart Stuff / Other NYC Events
(Lectures/Discussions, Book Talks, Film, Classes, Food & Drink, Other)

Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit (Sat 26 through Mon 28)
University Place, btw E.13th and Waverly Pl. / 12PM-6PM, FREE
Enjoy looking at (and maybe buying some) oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, mixed media, graphics, photography, sculpture, and crafts including fabric, jewelry, glass, wood, and ceramics.

“This city tradition feels fresh every spring when artists following in the footsteps of Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning set up shop in the park. Hundreds of exhibitors, from NYU students to artists who remember the Village as a creative enclave, display their paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry and woodcraft.” (TONY)

Tour – Trinity Church Cemetery in Upper Manhattan
153rd St. & Broadway / 11AM, $30
Discover the final resting place of some of New York’s top residents on this tour of Trinity Church Cemetery in Upper Manhattan sponsored by The Municipal Art Society of New York.

“Memorial Day Weekend occasions this tour of Trinity Church Cemetery in Upper Manhattan led by Columbia Community Scholar Eric K. Washington, an authority on Gotham’s eventful past buried beneath this verdant landscape. Established in 1842, the 24-acre greensward forms Manhattan’s only still-admitting cemetery. The grounds first laid out by James Renwick, Jr. – and later improved by Calvert Vaux – are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Representing New York City’s wide-ranging contributors to American history, notable permanent residents may include John James Audubon, naturalist; Mayors Cadwallader D. Colden (whose grave Eric rediscovered for Trinity Archives), Fernando Wood, A. Oakey Hall, and Edward I. Koch; Madame Eliza Jumel, adventuress; John Jacob Astor, merchant; Clement Clarke Moore, poet; Philip Ernst, original New York Philharmonic flutist; David Hosack, Hamilton’s last doctor; Mrs. Dita H. Kinney, military officer; Caroline Astor, doyenne of Gilded Age polite society; Rita de Acosta Lydia, American beauty of Belle Epoque Paris; and Mercedes de Acosta, lesbian paramour of some of the most important women of the 20th-century. Please wear sturdy shoes that are suitable for rustic country paths.”

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Continuing Events

Fleet Week (May 23-29)
“If it’s the weekend before Memorial Day, then it must be time for Fleet Week. On Wednesday, the Parade of Ships will take place, with numerous vessels—including the amphibious transport dock USS Arlington, the missile destroyer USS Mitscher, and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Maury—heading up through the New York Harbor and up the Hudson. The ships are docked afterwards for the public to visit. Besides visiting participating ships and concerts, there are marine demos, Navy diver demos, and aviation displays.” (Gothamist)

The best Fleet Week events in NYC (TONY)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

Vision Festival (May 23-28)
Roulette / 509 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn / at various times, $40
“Moving across the river to Brooklyn once again, the Vision Festival remains steadfast in its commitment to exploratory jazz and the still active pioneers of the genre; the wide-ranging roster includes Oliver Lake, Matthew Shipp, Roscoe Mitchell, Mary Halvorson, Fay Victor, and the festival co-organizer William Parker. This year, the intrepid showcase celebrates the pianist and composer Dave Burrell, featured on opening night in various ensembles, including a reunion with another crucial free-jazz cohort, the saxophonist Archie Shepp.” (NewYorker)

“Vision Festival 2018: 8 acts not to miss at the annual jazz showcase” (TONY)

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

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♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

===========================================================
Bonus NYC events– Jazz Clubs:
Many consider NYCity the Jazz capital of the world. My favorite Jazz Clubs, all on Manhattan’s WestSide, feature top talent every night of the week.
Hit the Hot Link and check out who is playing tonight:

Greenwich Village:
(5 are underground, classic jazz joints. all 6 are within walking distance of each other):
Village Vanguard – UG, 178 7th Ave. So., villagevanguard.com, 212-255-4037 (1st 8:30)
Blue Note – 131 W3rd St. nr 6th ave. bluenotejazz.com, 212-475-8592 (1st set 8pm)
55 Bar – basement @55 Christopher St. nr 7th ave.S. 55bar.com, 212-929-9883 (1st 7pm)
Mezzrow – basement @ 163 W10th St. nr 7th Ave. mezzrow.com,646-476-4346 (1st 8)
Smalls – basement @ 183 W10th St. smallslive.com, 646-476-4346 (1st set 7:30pm)
Cornelia Street Cafe – UG, 29 Cornelia St. corneliastreetcafe.com, 212-989-9319 (6pm)

Outside Greenwich Village:
Dizzy’s Club – Broadway @ 60th St. — jazz.org/dizzys / 212-258-9595 (1st set 7:30pm)
Birdland – 315 W44th St.(btw 8/9ave) — birdlandjazz.com / 212-581-3080 (1st 8:30pm)
Smoke Jazz Club – 2751 Broadway nr.106th St. — smokejazz.com/ 212-864-6662 (7pm)

Special Mention:
Caffe Vivaldi – 32 Jones St. nr Bleecker St. — caffevivaldi.com / 212-691-7538 (1st 7pm)
a classic, old jazz club in the Village, Caffe V often surprises with a wonderfully eclectic lineup. It’s my favorite spot for an evening of listening enjoyment and discovery.

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NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):

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A PremierPub

Jimmy’s Corner / 140 W 44th St (btw B’way & 7th ave)

IMG_2083Jimmy’s Corner is right in the heart of Times Square, but you won’t find it on the corner, it’s mid-block. Enter this long narrow bar and you are struck by the walls covered with mostly black-and-white boxing photographs, and memorabilia. Soon enough you learn that “Corner” refers to proprietor Jimmy Glenn’s long career as a corner man for some of boxing greats – Liston, Tyson, even “the greatest,” Ali.

Jimmy’s is a sort of time machine, taking you back to a time and place that no longer exists. All around you Times Square has cleaned up, grown up, assumed a new identity. Jimmy’s probably hasn’t changed a bit since it first opened in 1971. Certainly the bar itself looks original and the prices haven’t changed much either. When I brought a friend, who owns her own bar, she was surprised when she got the small tab for a round of drinks. Figured there must be a mistake, that maybe they forgot to charge for all the drinks.

Times Square today is filled with neon glitz and wandering tourists from Dubuque, but not Jimmy’s. You’ll likely find some old timer’s at the bar nursing their drinks, some younger locals at tables in the back, and maybe a few adventuresome tourists clutching their trusty guidebooks. There’s no food served here because this is just a bar, and sometimes that’s all you need.

On nights when no local team is playing, it’s a fine place to sip some drafts and listen to a great old time jukebox, with a great selection of  40s& 50s R&B and soul. On sports nights this very narrow bar can get a bit claustrophobic, filled with excited fans watching their team on the TVs. Either way, Jimmy’s is the place to be if you are looking for an old time bar in the new Times Square.
————————————————————————————————————————
Website: are you kidding !
(although there is a facebook page with lots of photos –
facebook.com/jimmyscornernyc)
Phone #: 212-221-9510
Hours: 11am – 4 am, except Sunday they open 12 noon
Happy Hour: not necessary, low prices all day, every day
Subway: #1,2,3 to TimesSquare 42nd st
walk 2 blks N on 7th ave to 44th st; ½ blk E to Jimmy’s

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“Pub” is used in it’s broadest sense – bars, bar/restaurants, jazz clubs, wine bars, tapas bars, craft beer bars, dive bars, cocktail lounges, and of course, pubs – just about anyplace you can get a drink without a cover charge (except for certain jazz clubs).
If you have a fave premier pub or good eating place on Manhattan’s WestSide let us all know about it – leave a comment.
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NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/25) + GallerySpecialExhibits: Chelsea

Posted on 05/25/2018 by

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > FRIDAY/ MAY 25, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

AMERICAN BALLET THEATER (Thru July 7)
at the Metropolitan Opera House / 7:30PM, $35+
“The doubleheader of Alexei Ratmansky’s “Firebird” and Wayne McGregor’s new “AfteRite” receives three more performances between Friday and Saturday. Mr. Ratmansky, a consummate storyteller, brings colorful intrigue to a mystical avian tale, while Mr. McGregor, a British choreographer known for aggressive physical extremes, reconsiders the ubiquitous dance classic “The Rite of Spring.” Both works are set to celebrated Stravinsky scores. Beginning Tuesday, Ballet Theater switches gears and heads to India for the Russia-born epitome of 19th-century exoticism, “La Bayadère.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Sullivan Fortner
>> Guillermo Klein y los Guachos
>> Coppélia
>> Animaniacs Live!
>> Rene Marie
>> DanceAfrica
Continuing Events
>> Fleet Week 
>> Vision Festival
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Sullivan Fortner (May 24-27)
Jazz Standard, 116 E. 27th St./ 7:30PM, +9:30PM, $30
“When you’re an on-the-rise musician like the promising post-bop pianist Fortner, it never hurts to surround yourself with friends with clout. Adding muscle to his trio, the New Orleans-bred musician welcomes, on successive nights, the trumpeters Roy Hargrove, Ambrose Akinmusire, and Peter Evans and the saxophonist Melissa Aldana. It’s an advance party for “Moments Preserved,” Fortner’s new album, which will be released on June 1.” (NewYorker)

Guillermo Klein y los Guachos (May 22-27)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30, +10:30PM, $35+
Ahead of the curve in the nineteen-nineties, when he initially convened his own large ensembles, this ambitious composer, arranger, pianist, and vocalist continues to thwart big-band conventions. Klein’s music delights in shifting time signatures, rich tonalities, and arresting multicultural influences, attracting some of the most farsighted improvisers around, including Miguel Zenon, Ben Monder, and Taylor Haskins.” (NewYorker)

Coppélia
NYS Theater, Lincoln Center / 8PM, $30+
“Most of our enduring three-act ballets are tragedies in which men do bad things and women die. The comic Coppélia, by contrast, is practically a feminist enterprise. A young man steps out on his girlfriend, only to find himself entrapped in a toymaker’s workshop where the plucky title character substitutes her living body for the mechanical doll that has distracted her guy. Originally choreographed in 1870 by Arthur Saint-Léon to a score by Léo Delibes and revived years later for the Imperial Ballet of St. Petersburg by Marius Petipa, it’s been overhauled by the great George Balanchine and Alexandra Danilova for the New York City Ballet, where it runs for the last week of the company’s spring season.” (Elizabeth Zimmer, Village Voice)

Animaniacs Live! (May 25-27)
Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater / 7PM, +9:30PM, $45
“Rob Paulsen, who voiced Yakko on the 1990s animated hit Animaniacs (and Pinky on Pinky and the Brain), revisits 20 songs from the show in a night of musical mostalgia. Accompanying him on piano is Emmy winner Randy Rogel, who wrote many of the toon tunes in question.” (TONY)

Rene Marie (May 24-26)
Birdland, 315 W. 44th St./ 8:30PM, +11PM, $40
“Feisty and outspoken, Marie is no wallflower of a performer—electrifying a room is all in a night’s work for her. Although her 2013 tribute to an earlier musical and social sparkplug, “I Wanna Be Evil: With Love to Eartha Kitt,” garnered considerable attention, “Sound of Red,” Marie’s most recent recording, is a decidedly personal project offering original songs that confirm her aversion to stylistic pigeonholing.” (NewYorker)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

DanceAfrica
“In honor of the centennial of Nelson Mandela’s birth, the DanceAfrica festival, at BAM this weekend, focusses on South Africa. Ingoma KwaZulu-Natal Dance Company is a kind of supergroup, bundling together just for this occasion four companies whose styles range from Zulu traditions to pantsula, the fleet-footed street dance that originated as a response to apartheid. Siwela Sonke Dance Theatre, from Durban, combines the dance forms of many cultures, a mix representative of its region: Zulu dances and pantsula, plus classical Indian and hip-hop.” (NewYorker-Brian Seibert)

Dance Africa is The Brooklyn Festival That Everyone—You, Your Parents, Your Kids—Should Attend – (whatshouldwedo.com)

=======================================================

Continuing Events

Fleet Week (May 23-29)
“If it’s the weekend before Memorial Day, then it must be time for Fleet Week. On Wednesday, the Parade of Ships will take place, with numerous vessels—including the amphibious transport dock USS Arlington, the missile destroyer USS Mitscher, and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Maury—heading up through the New York Harbor and up the Hudson. The ships are docked afterwards for the public to visit. Besides visiting participating ships and concerts, there are marine demos, Navy diver demos, and aviation displays.” (Gothamist)

The best Fleet Week events in NYC (TONY)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

Vision Festival (May 23-28)
Roulette / 509 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn / at various times, $40
“Moving across the river to Brooklyn once again, the Vision Festival remains steadfast in its commitment to exploratory jazz and the still active pioneers of the genre; the wide-ranging roster includes Oliver Lake, Matthew Shipp, Roscoe Mitchell, Mary Halvorson, Fay Victor, and the festival co-organizer William Parker. This year, the intrepid showcase celebrates the pianist and composer Dave Burrell, featured on opening night in various ensembles, including a reunion with another crucial free-jazz cohort, the saxophonist Archie Shepp.” (NewYorker)

“Vision Festival 2018: 8 acts not to miss at the annual jazz showcase” (TONY)

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

==========================================================================
♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

=====================================================

Bonus NYC Music Venues:
So much fine live music every night in this town. These are my favorite non jazz music venues on Manhattan’s WestSide. Check out who’s playing tonight:

City Winery – 155 Varick St., citywinery.com, 212-608-0555
Joe’s Pub @ Public Theater – 425 Lafayette St., joespub.com, 212-967-7555
Beacon Theatre – 2124 Broadway @ 74th St., beacontheatre.com, 212-465-6500
Town Hall – 123 W43rd St., thetownhall.org, 212-997-6661
B.B. King’s Blues Bar – 237W42nd St., bbkingblues.com, 212-997-2144
Another outrageous rent increase by a rapacious NYC landlord closed BBKing’s as of April 29 – How Sad.
Le Poisson Rouge – 158 Bleecker St., lepoissonrouge.com, 212-505-3474
and one more, not quite WestSide
Bowery Ballroom – 6 Delancey St. boweryballroom.com,

Special Mention:
Caffe Vivaldi – 32 Jones St. nr Bleecker St. caffevivaldi.com, 212-691-7538
a classic, old jazz club in the Village, Caffe V often surprises with a wonderfully eclectic lineup. It’s my favorite spot for an evening of listening discovery and enjoyment.
===========================================================

NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):

================================================================================

Chelsea Art Gallery District*

Chelsea is the heart of the NYCity contemporary art scene. Home to more than 300 art galleries, the Rubin Museum, the Joyce Theater and The Kitchen performance spaces, there is no place like it anywhere in the world. Come here to browse free exhibitions by world-renowned artists and those unknowns waiting to be discovered in an art district that is concentrated between West 18th and West 27th Streets, and 10th and 11th Avenues. Afterwards stop in the Chelsea Market, stroll on the High Line, or rest up at one of the many cafes and bars and discuss the fine art.

Here are two exhibitions the New Yorker likes:

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For a listing of 25 essential galleries in the Chelsea Art Gallery District, organized by street, which enables you to create your own Chelsea Art Gallery crawl, see the Chelsea Gallery Guide (nycgo.com) Or check out TONY magazine’s list of the “Best Chelsea Galleries” and click through to see what’s on view.

*Now plan your own gallery crawl, but better to plan your visits for Tuesday through Saturday; most galleries are closed Sunday and Monday.

TIP: After your gallery tour, stop in Ovest at 513W27th St. for Aperitivo Italiano (Happy Hour on steroids). Discuss all the great art you have viewed over a drink and a very tasty selection of FREE appetizers (M-F, 5-8pm). OR try the NYT recommendation: “When you’re done, adjourn to the newly renovated Bottino , the Chelsea art world’s unofficial canteen on 10th Avenue (btw 24/25 St.) “

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For other selected Museum and Gallery Special Exhibitions see recent posts in right sidebar dated 05/23 and 05/21.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/24) + Today’s Featured Pub (Tribeca)

Posted on 05/24/2018 by

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > THURSDAY/ MAY 24, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

¡VAYA! 63: Gerardo Contino y Los Habaneros
Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center / 7:30PM, FREE, but get there early for a seat.
“Selected as the “Best Cuban Band” by New York Latin Magazine in 2017 and “Best Band in Manhattan” by WNYC in 2017, the explosive Los Habaneros are a force to behold onstage—and for tonight’s party, on the dance floor. Mixing musical styles from their home in Cuba with the diversity of sounds they encountered when they made New York City their home, Los Habaneros transcend traditional musical genres to create a real fusion that provokes fans into hip-shaking abandon. The band is made up of a young generation of Havana-trained musicians, including director and singer Gerardo Contino, artistic director and pianist Axel Tosca Laugart, and percussionist Yusnier Sanchez Bustamante. The band’s first album, Somos Latinos (2013), was released to very high critical acclaim. It was produced by Latin Grammy-nominated Luisito Quintero, and included five-time Grammy Award–winning bassist John Benitez. Their second album, Los Habaneros, will be released in 2018.”

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Rene Marie
>> JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE
>> Natalie Joy Johnson: The 40th Birthday Show
>> BRIAN MARSELLA, CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE AND ANWAR MARSHALL
>> Guillermo Klein y los Guachos
>> Homicide: Life on the Street | A Reunion
Continuing Events
>> Fleet Week 
>> Vision Festival
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Rene Marie (May 24-26)
Birdland, 315 W. 44th St./ 8:30PM, +11PM, $40
“Feisty and outspoken, Marie is no wallflower of a performer—electrifying a room is all in a night’s work for her. Although her 2013 tribute to an earlier musical and social sparkplug, “I Wanna Be Evil: With Love to Eartha Kitt,” garnered considerable attention, “Sound of Red,” Marie’s most recent recording, is a decidedly personal project offering original songs that confirm her aversion to stylistic pigeonholing.” (NewYorker)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE
at the Music Hall of Williamsburg / 8PM, $25
“This bill features the next generation of two musical families: Mr. Earle is the son of the country troubadour Steve Earle and named in part for the elder Mr. Earle’s mentor Townes Van Zandt. Lilly Hiatt, who will be opening the concert, is the daughter of the singer-songwriter John Hiatt (“Have a Little Faith in Me,” among others). What ties them together is a passion for songs, specifically ones that transcend both genre and time: Even as these scions distinguish themselves musically (Mr. Earle skews traditional country, and Ms. Hiatt’s sound is more grunge rock than Music Row), their work is still grounded in storytelling.” (NYT-NATALIE WEINER)

Natalie Joy Johnson: The 40th Birthday Show
The Green Room 42 / 10;30PM, $20
“Gutsy musical-theater neodiva Johnson (Kinky Boots) had a cabaret breakthrough with 2011’s Relentless at Joe’s Pub, and has been rocking New York City nightlife ever since. Her 40th-birthday extravaganza promises to be a rollicking night of song, sex and showbiz excess.” (TONY)

BRIAN MARSELLA, CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE AND ANWAR MARSHALL
at the Stone / 7PM, $20
“Three excellent Philadelphia musicians, each with his own vantage point, come together to elevate a hometown hero. The pianist Hasaan Ibn Ali, who died in 1980, is widely respected among jazz musicians in Philadelphia for his frayed, locomotive style and his imaginative compositions, but he’s hardly known anywhere else. (He is only thought to have recorded on one album, “The Max Roach Trio Featuring the Legendary Hasaan,” from 1965.) Mr. McBride is a bassist of wide renown; Mr. Marsella, a pianist, and Mr. Marshall, a drummer, are young musicians on the rise.” (NYT-GIOVANNI RUSSONELLO)

Guillermo Klein y los Guachos (May 22-27)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30, +10:30PM, $35+
Ahead of the curve in the nineteen-nineties, when he initially convened his own large ensembles, this ambitious composer, arranger, pianist, and vocalist continues to thwart big-band conventions. Klein’s music delights in shifting time signatures, rich tonalities, and arresting multicultural influences, attracting some of the most farsighted improvisers around, including Miguel Zenon, Ben Monder, and Taylor Haskins.” (NewYorker)

=========================================================

Smart Stuff / Other NYC Events
(Lectures/Discussions, Book Talks, Film, Classes, Food & Drink, Other)

Homicide: Life on the Street | A Reunion
Paley Center for Media, 25 W. 52nd St./ 6:30PM, $32
“Get back together with the cast and creatives behind Homicide: Life on the Street as they reunite at the Paley Center for Media.

Running for seven seasons on NBC, Homicide: Life on the Street was a critically revered cop drama that won an unprecedented three Peabody Awards and an intensely passionate fan base, as it artfully limned an emotionally fraught band of brothers (and sisters). Based on David Simon’s nonfiction book Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets, the series followed homicide detectives adrift in inner-city Baltimore, fittingly named from the anglicized version of the Irish Baile an Tí Mhóir, meaning Town of the Big House. Along with NYPD Blue and Law & Order, it defined the sophisticated police drama for the nineties, but distinguished itself with fearless formal innovation and a predilection for excavating the doubts and vulnerabilities simmering beneath the surface of its characters. Join us as we reunite key members of the cast and creative team of one of the most influential and acclaimed dramas in television history.”

Oh man, I can’t wait to see these guys. What an awesome TV series that was – well written, well acted. They don’t make them like that anymore.

=======================================================

Continuing Events

Fleet Week (May 23-29)
“If it’s the weekend before Memorial Day, then it must be time for Fleet Week. On Wednesday, the Parade of Ships will take place, with numerous vessels—including the amphibious transport dock USS Arlington, the missile destroyer USS Mitscher, and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Maury—heading up through the New York Harbor and up the Hudson. The ships are docked afterwards for the public to visit. Besides visiting participating ships and concerts, there are marine demos, Navy diver demos, and aviation displays.” (Gothamist)

The best Fleet Week events in NYC (TONY)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

Vision Festival (May 23-28)
Roulette / 509 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn / at various times, $40
“Moving across the river to Brooklyn once again, the Vision Festival remains steadfast in its commitment to exploratory jazz and the still active pioneers of the genre; the wide-ranging roster includes Oliver Lake, Matthew Shipp, Roscoe Mitchell, Mary Halvorson, Fay Victor, and the festival co-organizer William Parker. This year, the intrepid showcase celebrates the pianist and composer Dave Burrell, featured on opening night in various ensembles, including a reunion with another crucial free-jazz cohort, the saxophonist Archie Shepp.” (NewYorker)

“Vision Festival 2018: 8 acts not to miss at the annual jazz showcase” (TONY)

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

==========================================================================
♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

=====================================================
Bonus: Nifty 9 – Best Cabarets / Piano Bars NYCity
These are my favorite places for an after dinner night on the town – music and drinks.
Hit the Hot Link and check out what’s happening tonight:

Feinstein’s/54 Below – 254 W 54th St.

The Green Room 42 – 570 Tenth Ave.

Don’t Tell Mama – 343 W 46th St.

Marie’s Crisis – 59 Grove St.

The Rum House, in the Hotel Edison – 228 W. 47th St.

Laurie Beechman Theatre – 407 W 42nd St.

The Duplex – 61 Christopher St.

Sid Gold’s Request Room – 165 W 26th St.

Cafe Carlyle, in the Carlyle Hotel – 35 E. 76th St.
This is the only one not located on Manhattan’s WestSide, and it ain’t cheap, but it has some of the finest singers.

=========================================================

NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):

================================================================================

A PremierPub / Tribeca

B-Flat / 277 Church St. (btw Franklin/White St))

b_flat4There are some places that are tough to find, then add a layer of mystery when you do find them. B-Flat has a nondescript, almost unmarked door at street level – today’s speakeasy vibe. Open this door and you face a dimly lit stairway down to their basement location. It almost takes a leap of faith to follow the stairs down to their interior door.
But open that door and a pleasant surprise awaits you.

It’s a basement jazz spot all right, but not like any traditional jazz joint you may have been to before. This place looks as fresh as today, probably because it’s only been open for 6 years. Even though it hasn’t had a chance to age gracefully, the cherry wood accents and low lighting make this small space very inviting.

There is always jazz, often progressive jazz, playing over their very discrete, stylish bose speakers, setting just the right tone as you find a seat at the bar, or one of the small tables. There is wine and beer available, but this place has some expert mixologists making some very creative cocktails, which I’m told change seasonally, a nice touch.

Come at happy hour and tasty cocktails like the el Diablo or the lychee martini are $8 – not bad. I am a sucker for any drink made with lychee and how can you not try a tequila drink named el Diablo. There is also nice selection of small bites available at happy hour and a food menu that is as innovative as the cocktail menu, so this does not have to be a happy hour only stop.

It wasn’t surprising to find a tasty prosciutto and arugula salad with yuzu dressing, but I did not expect to find such a good version of fried chicken breast on the apps menu. Here it’s called “Tatsuta.” Best bet is to sample happy hour, then dinner on a Monday or Wednesday night, when you can finish with no cover live jazz that starts around 8.

This place is tough to find (look for a small slate sandwich board on the sidewalk out front advertising happy hour) and on some nights when there is no live music it may be a little too quiet for some. But I think it’s worth searching out if you want a place with good music, food, and especially drinks, away from the maddening crowd.

Website: http://http://www.bflat.info/index.html
Phone #: 212-219-2970
Hours: Mo-Wed 5pm-2am; Th-Sat 5pm-3am; no Sun
Happy Hour: 5-7pm every day; $8 cocktails + special prices on apps
Music: Mon/Wed 8pm
Subway: #1 to Franklin; walk E 1 blk to Church; N 1 blk to bFlat

==================================================================================
“Pub” is used in it’s broadest sense – bars, bar/restaurants, jazz clubs, wine bars, tapas bars, craft beer bars, dive bars, cocktail lounges, and of course, pubs – just about anyplace you can get a drink without a cover charge (except for certain jazz clubs).

If you have a fave premier pub or good eating place on Manhattan’s WestSide let us all know about it – leave a comment.
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NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/23) + Museum Special Exhibitions: Manhattan’s 5th Avenue

Posted on 05/23/2018 by

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > WEDNESDAY/ MAY 23, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

Vision Festival (May 23-28)
Roulette / 509 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn / at various times, $40
“Moving across the river to Brooklyn once again, the Vision Festival remains steadfast in its commitment to exploratory jazz and the still active pioneers of the genre; the wide-ranging roster includes Oliver Lake, Matthew Shipp, Roscoe Mitchell, Mary Halvorson, Fay Victor, and the festival co-organizer William Parker. This year, the intrepid showcase celebrates the pianist and composer Dave Burrell, featured on opening night in various ensembles, including a reunion with another crucial free-jazz cohort, the saxophonist Archie Shepp.” (NewYorker)

“Vision Festival 2018: 8 acts not to miss at the annual jazz showcase” (TONY)

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> GALLIM/ANDREA MILLER
>> Guillermo Klein y los Guachos
>> Patrick Terry’s Magic Hour with Andrew Goldenhersh
>> Parsons Dance
>> AMERICAN BALLET THEATER
>> Laurie Anderson in Conversation with Hilton Als
Continuing Events
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

GALLIM/ANDREA MILLER (May 22-24)
at the Met Breuer / at various times).
“In the premiere of “(C)arbon,” Ms. Miller works with the filmmaker Ben Stamper, the composer Will Epstein and the costume designer Jose Solis to create a six-day performance installation. Inspired by the museum’s exhibition “Like Life: Sculpture, Color and the Body (1300-Now),” Ms. Miller uses three gallery spaces to reveal three aspects related to the body: as an individual, as a partner and as part of a collective group. This installation concludes her yearlong residency with the Metropolitan Museum of Art.” (NYT)

Guillermo Klein y los Guachos (May 22-27)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30, +10:30PM, $35+
Ahead of the curve in the nineteen-nineties, when he initially convened his own large ensembles, this ambitious composer, arranger, pianist, and vocalist continues to thwart big-band conventions. Klein’s music delights in shifting time signatures, rich tonalities, and arresting multicultural influences, attracting some of the most farsighted improvisers around, including Miguel Zenon, Ben Monder, and Taylor Haskins.” (NewYorker)

Patrick Terry’s Magic Hour with Andrew Goldenhersh
The Triad / 7PM, $25
“Acclaimed magicians show off their mind-reading and sleight-of-hand prowess at this new Off-Broadway show. This edition features two-time “Parlour Magician of the Year” Andrew Goldenhersh.” (TONY)

Parsons Dance (May 15-27)
Joyce Theater/ 7:30PM, $56+
“David Parsons and his company return to the Joyce with a mixed bill that comprises four pieces by Parsons himself—Wolfgang, Whirlaway, world premiere Microburst and company favorite Caught—as well as the company premiere of Trey McIntyre’s Ma Maison, set to music by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.” (TONY)

AMERICAN BALLET THEATER (Thru July 7)
at the Metropolitan Opera House / 6:30PM, $35+
“This weekend, the company wrapped up its performances of “Giselle,” the first full-length ballet of the season. On Monday night, the spring gala unveils a pièce d’occasion by the tap dancer and choreographer Michelle Dorrance. Set to recorded music by the Brooklyn acoustic ensemble Dawn of Midi, it features 15 dancers. The evening also includes excerpts from Alexei Ratmansky’s “Harlequinade,” with Isabella Boylston as Columbine and James Whiteside as Harlequin. The week continues with a new program pairing Wayne McGregor’s “AfteRite” — his premiere set to Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” — and Mr. Ratmansky’s “Firebird.” (NYT)

=========================================================

Smart Stuff / Other NYC Events
(Lectures/Discussions, Book Talks, Film, Classes, Food & Drink, Other)

Laurie Anderson in Conversation with Hilton Als
All the Things I Lost in the Flood: Essays on Pictures, Language and Code
Paula Cooper Gallery, 521 W. 21st St. btw 10/11 ave./ 7PM, FREE
“A conversation between world-renowned artist and composer Laurie Anderson and Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Hilton Als. The event is on the occasion of Anderson’s recently published book—part meditation, part monograph and heralded as the “most comprehensive collection of [Anderson’s] artwork to date.” (clubfreetime)

=======================================================

Continuing Events

Fleet Week
“If it’s the weekend before Memorial Day, then it must be time for Fleet Week. On Wednesday, the Parade of Ships will take place, with numerous vessels—including the amphibious transport dock USS Arlington, the missile destroyer USS Mitscher, and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Maury—heading up through the New York Harbor and up the Hudson. The ships are docked afterwards for the public to visit. Besides visiting participating ships and concerts, there are marine demos, Navy diver demos, and aviation displays.” (Gothamist)

The best Fleet Week events in NYC (TONY)

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

==========================================================================
♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

===========================================================
Bonus NYC events– Jazz Clubs:
Many consider NYCity the Jazz capital of the world. My favorite Jazz Clubs, all on Manhattan’s WestSide, feature top talent every night of the week.
Hit the Hot Link and check out who is playing tonight:

Greenwich Village:
(5 are underground, classic jazz joints. all 6 are within walking distance of each other):
Village Vanguard – UG, 178 7th Ave. So., villagevanguard.com, 212-255-4037 (1st 8:30)
Blue Note – 131 W3rd St. nr 6th ave. bluenotejazz.com, 212-475-8592 (1st set 8pm)
55 Bar – basement @55 Christopher St. nr 7th ave.S. 55bar.com, 212-929-9883 (1st 7pm)
Mezzrow – basement @ 163 W10th St. nr 7th Ave. mezzrow.com,646-476-4346 (1st 8)
Smalls – basement @ 183 W10th St. smallslive.com, 646-476-4346 (1st set 7:30pm)
Cornelia Street Cafe – UG, 29 Cornelia St. corneliastreetcafe.com, 212-989-9319 (6pm)

Outside Greenwich Village:
Dizzy’s Club – Broadway @ 60th St. — jazz.org/dizzys / 212-258-9595 (1st set 7:30pm)
Birdland – 315 W44th St.(btw 8/9ave) — birdlandjazz.com / 212-581-3080 (1st 8:30pm)
Smoke Jazz Club – 2751 Broadway nr.106th St. — smokejazz.com/ 212-864-6662 (7pm)

Special Mention:
Caffe Vivaldi – 32 Jones St. nr Bleecker St. — caffevivaldi.com / 212-691-7538 (1st 7pm)
a classic, old jazz club in the Village, Caffe V often surprises with a wonderfully eclectic lineup. It’s my favorite spot for an evening of listening enjoyment and discovery.

========================================================

NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):

================================================================================

WHAT’S ON VIEW
These are My Fave Special Exhibitions @ MUSEUMS / Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue
(See the New York Times Arts Section for listings of all museum exhibitions,
and also see the expanded reviews of these exhibitions)

Neue Galerie

‘BEFORE THE FALL: GERMAN AND AUSTRIAN ART OF THE 1930S’  (through May 28). “An exhibition in the form of a chokehold, the third of the Neue Galerie’s recent shows on art and German politics pushes into the years of dictatorship, with paintings, drawings and photographs by artists deemed “degenerate” by the Nazis — as well as by those who joined the party or who thought they could shut out the catastrophe. (You will know the dissidents, like Max Beckmann and Oskar Kokoschka; the fascists and sellouts are less known.) Gazing at ornery still lifes of dolls and dead flowers, or dreamy landscapes in imitation of an earlier German Romanticism, you may ask to what degree artists are responsible for the times in which they work. But then you see “Self-Portrait in the Camp,” by the Jewish German painter Felix Nussbaum — made between his escape from a French internment camp and his deportation to Auschwitz — and you know that there can be no pardon. (NYT -Farago)
212-628-6200, neuegalerie.org

Jewish Museum

‘SCENES FROM THE COLLECTION’  “After a surgical renovation to its grand pile on Fifth Avenue, the Jewish Museum has reopened its third-floor galleries with a rethought and refreshed display of its permanent collection, which intermingles modern and contemporary art, by Jews and gentiles alike — Mark Rothko, Lee Krasner, Nan Goldin, Cindy Sherman, and the excellent young Nigerian draftswoman Ruby Onyinyechi Amanze — with 4,000 years of Judaica. The works are shown in a nimble, non-chronological suite of galleries, and some of its century-spanning juxtapositions are bracing; others feel reductive, even dilletantish. But always, the Jewish Museum conceives of art and religion as interlocking elements of a story of civilization, commendably open to new influences and new interpretations.” (Farago) 212-423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org

Museum of the City of New York

NY AT ITS CORE (ongoing)
“Ten years in the making, New York at Its Core tells the compelling story of New York’s rise from a striving Dutch village to today’s “Capital of the World.” The exhibition captures the human energy that drove New York to become a city like no other and a subject of fascination the world over. Entertaining, inspiring, important, and at times bemusing, New York City “big personalities,” including Alexander Hamilton, Walt Whitman, Boss Tweed, Emma Goldman, JP Morgan, Fiorello La Guardia, Jane Jacobs, Jay-Z, and dozens more, parade through the exhibition. Visitors will also learn the stories of lesser-known New York personalities, like Lenape chieftain Penhawitz and Italian immigrant Susie Rocco. Even animals like the horse, the pig, the beaver, and the oyster, which played pivotal roles in the economy and daily life of New York, get their moment in the historical spotlight. Occupying the entire first floor in three interactive galleries (Port City, 1609-1898, World City, 1898-2012, and Future City Lab) New York at Its Core is shaped by four themes: money, density, diversity, and creativity. Together, they provide a lens for examining the character of the city, and underlie the modern global metropolis we know today. mcny.org” (NYCity Guide)

and you should be sure to check out these special exhibitions at that little museum on Fifth Ave., The Metropolitan Museum of Art
(open 7 days /week, AND always Pay What You Wish for NewYorkers)

‘THE FACE OF DYNASTY: ROYAL CRESTS FROM WESTERN CAMEROON’ (through Sept. 3). “Upstairs, the Michelangelos continue to knock ‘em dead; downstairs, in the African wing, a show of just four commanding wooden crowns constitutes a blockbuster of its own. These massive wooden crests — in the form of stylized human faces with vast vertical brows — served as markers of royal power among the Bamileke peoples of the Cameroonian grasslands, and the Met’s recent acquisition of an 18th-century specimen is joined here by three later examples, each featuring sharply protruding cheeks, broadly smiling mouths, and brows incised with involute geometric patterns. Ritual objects like these were decisive for the development of western modernist painting, and a Cameroonian crest was even shown at MoMA in the 1930s, as a “sculpture” divorced from ethnography. But these crests had legal and diplomatic significance as well as aesthetic appeal, and their anonymous African creators had a political understanding of art not so far from our own.” (Farago)

===========================================================
Museum Mile is a section of Fifth Avenue which contains one of the densest displays of culture in the world. Eight museums can be found along this section of Fifth Avenue:
• 105th Street – El Museo del Barrio (closed Sun-Mon)*
• 103rd Street – Museum of the City of New York (open 7 days /week)
•  92nd Street – The Jewish Museum (closed Wed) (Sat FREE) (Thu 5-8 PWYW)
•  91st Street  –  Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum (open 7 days /week)
•  89th Street –  National Academy Museum (closed Mon-Tue)
•  88th Street –  Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (closed Thu) (Sat 6-8 PWYW)
•  86th Street –  Neue Galerie New York (closed Tue-Wed) (Fri 6-8 FREE)
Last, but certainly not least, America’s premier museum
•  82nd Street – The Metropolitan Museum of Art (open 7 days /week)*
*always Pay What You Wish (PWYW) for NewYorkers

Although technically not part of the Museum Mile, the Frick Collection (closed Mon) (Wed 2-6pm PWYW; First Friday each month (exc Jan+Sep) 6-9pm FREE) on the corner of 70th St. and Fifth Avenue and the The Morgan Library & Museum (closed Mon) (Fri 7-9 FREE) on Madison Ave and 37th St are also located near Fifth Ave.
Now plan your own museum crawl (info on hours & admission updated June 2, 2015).
==============================================================
For other selected Museum and Gallery Special Exhibitions see Recent Posts in right Sidebar dated 05/21 and 05/19.
=============================================================

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/22) + Today’s Featured Pub (Greenwich Village)

Posted on 05/22/2018 by

Today’s Sweet 6 NYC Events > TUESDAY/ MAY 22, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

Guillermo Klein y los Guachos (May 22-27)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30, +10:30PM, $35+
Ahead of the curve in the nineteen-nineties, when he initially convened his own large ensembles, this ambitious composer, arranger, pianist, and vocalist continues to thwart big-band conventions. Klein’s music delights in shifting time signatures, rich tonalities, and arresting multicultural influences, attracting some of the most farsighted improvisers around, including Miguel Zenon, Ben Monder, and Taylor Haskins.” (NewYorker)

=========================================================
5 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> AMERICAN BALLET THEATER
>> GALLIM/ANDREA MILLER
>> Parsons Dance
>> Oneohtrix Point Never
>> Dine Around Downtown
Continuing Events
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

GALLIM/ANDREA MILLER (May 22-24)
at the Met Breuer / at various times).
“In the premiere of “(C)arbon,” Ms. Miller works with the filmmaker Ben Stamper, the composer Will Epstein and the costume designer Jose Solis to create a six-day performance installation. Inspired by the museum’s exhibition “Like Life: Sculpture, Color and the Body (1300-Now),” Ms. Miller uses three gallery spaces to reveal three aspects related to the body: as an individual, as a partner and as part of a collective group. This installation concludes her yearlong residency with the Metropolitan Museum of Art.” (NYT)

Parsons Dance (May 15-27)
Joyce Theater/ 7:30PM, $56+
“David Parsons and his company return to the Joyce with a mixed bill that comprises four pieces by Parsons himself—Wolfgang, Whirlaway, world premiere Microburst and company favorite Caught—as well as the company premiere of Trey McIntyre’s Ma Maison, set to music by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.” (TONY)

Oneohtrix Point Never
Park Avenue Armory, Wade Thompson Drill Hall / 9PM, $40
“Daniel Lopatin claims that the acronymic title of his new site-specific Oneohtrix Point Never project, MYRIAD, which has its world premiere Tuesday, signifies “My Record = Internet Addiction Disorder.” A multimedia spectacle, or “hyperstitial ‘concertscape,’ ” that also involves aspects of François Rabelais’s sixteenth-century Gargantua and Pantagruel novels, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and the Cybernetic Culture Research Unit, MYRIAD will use the armory’s Wade Thompson Drill Hall in its entirety and feature music from a new album: Age Of evokes our apocalyptic Anthropocene amid arrangements of harpsichords, Kelsey Lu’s cello, OPN’s signature blurry sonic smears, and the occasional Bruce Cockburn–ish vocal.

While Age Of doesn’t pack quite the lysergic punch of Lopatin’s Cannes-winning score for last year’s terrific Safdie brothers film Good Time, MYRIAD might well be the best bad time you enjoy all year.” (Richard Gehr, Village Voice)

AMERICAN BALLET THEATER (Thru July 7)
at the Metropolitan Opera House / 6:30PM, $35+
“This weekend, the company wrapped up its performances of “Giselle,” the first full-length ballet of the season. On Monday night, the spring gala unveils a pièce d’occasion by the tap dancer and choreographer Michelle Dorrance. Set to recorded music by the Brooklyn acoustic ensemble Dawn of Midi, it features 15 dancers. The evening also includes excerpts from Alexei Ratmansky’s “Harlequinade,” with Isabella Boylston as Columbine and James Whiteside as Harlequin. The week continues with a new program pairing Wayne McGregor’s “AfteRite” — his premiere set to Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” — and Mr. Ratmansky’s “Firebird.” (NYT)

=========================================================

Smart Stuff / Other NYC Events
(Lectures/Discussions, Book Talks, Film, Classes, Food & Drink, Other)

Dine Around Downtown
“Food festivals are a dime a dozen in New York City, and Dine Around Downtown is no exception. The lunchtime fest will host 40 downtown restaurants purveying their goods in 28 Liberty from 11am—3pm on Tuesday, May 22. Although you can sample dishes from big names like Brushstroke, Blue Ribbon Bakery and Delmonico’s, the vendor with the longest line will most definitely be Manhatta, Danny Meyer’s newly announced but not-quite-open-yet restaurant.

In case you haven’t heard about the Walt Whitman-inspired spot, the first thing you should know is that it will be on the freakin’ 60th floor of that very same 28 Liberty building, lending the space some pretty delicious views (we’re sure the food will be alright, too). Although we don’t know what will be on the menu yet, we do know that the kitchen will be helmed by chef Jason Pfeifer, who has worked at spots like Noma and Per Se. The restaurant is expected to open this summer. “ (TONY)

=======================================================

Continuing Events

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

==========================================================================
♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

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Bonus NYC Events – Music Venues:
So much fine live music every night in this town. These are my favorite non jazz music venues on Manhattan’s WestSide. Hit the Hot Link and check out who’s playing tonight:

City Winery – 155 Varick St., citywinery.com, 212-608-0555
Joe’s Pub @ Public Theater – 425 Lafayette St., joespub.com, 212-967-7555
Beacon Theatre – 2124 Broadway @ 74th St., beacontheatre.com, 212-465-6500
Town Hall – 123 W43rd St., thetownhall.org, 212-997-6661
B.B. King’s Blues Bar – 237W42nd St., bbkingblues.com, 212-997-2144
Another outrageous rent increase by a rapacious NYC landlord closed BBKing’s as of April 29 – How Sad.
Le Poisson Rouge – 158 Bleecker St., lepoissonrouge.com, 212-505-3474
and one more, not exactly WestSide
Bowery Ballroom – 6 Delancey St. boweryballroom.com,

Special Mention:
Caffe Vivaldi – 32 Jones St. nr Bleecker St. caffevivaldi.com, 212-691-7538
a classic, old jazz club in the Village, Caffe V often surprises with a wonderfully eclectic lineup. It’s my favorite spot for an evening of listening discovery and enjoyment.
See Below.

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NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):
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A PremierPub and 3 Good Eating Places – Greenwich Village

Caffe Vivaldi / 32 Jones Street (btw. Bleecker St./W4th St.)

Café Vivaldi is a classic, intimate club located in Greenwich Village on Jones Street, the street featured on the cover of Bob Dylan’s second album, “Freewheelin’. ”

maxresdefaultEach night Ishrat, the long time proprietor and impresario, carefully curates and schedules an eclectic series of musicians. You can often see him at his table in the corner, hard at work reviewing music videos and listening to cd demos on his laptop, scouting out future bookings. Musicians come from all over to play and sing in a club in Greenwich Village. Some are local New Yorkers, others are just passing through, in town for a few days.

There is a small bar, seating maybe 10. It’s close to the stage and I find it’s a perfect spot to sip a glass of red wine while listening to the music. The room itself has the performance area at one end and a cozy fireplace at the other. The performance area here is small, dominated by a large black Yamaha Grand piano. Tables are bunched together and most people at the tables are eating lite meals or sampling the wonderful desserts.

There is also a good selection of fairly priced wines,  but you are here because of the music. You can never be quite sure what you’re going to find, and that’s half the charm of this place. It’s not a home run every night, but many nights it’s pretty special.

I remember the night I saw the most talented bossa nova group, just in from San Paulo. As I listened, I wondered if there was any better music playing anywhere else in New York City that night. And at Caffé Vivaldi there is never a cover charge. Their recently redesigned web site does give you a better idea of the type of music playing each night.

At one time Greenwich Village was filled with clubs just like this, but times change. Real estate interests have impacted the village, and not for the better. Even Caffé Vivaldi had a rough time recently, when a new landlord raised the rent exorbitantly. Fortunately, Ishrat has built a loyal following over the years, and a fund raiser and slightly more reasonable rent has kept Café Vivaldi in business.

When Woody Allen and Al Pacino wanted to make movies featuring the timeless quality of Greenwich Village they came to Vivaldi. It’s important that we keep this special place alive, for if we lose Cafe Vivaldi, NYCity will have lost a piece of it’s soul.

Website: http://caffevivaldi.com/
Phone #: (212) 691-7538
Hours: Music generally 7:30PM – 11PM, but varies
Lunch/Dinner 11AM-on
Subway: #1 to Christopher St.
Walk 1 blk S. on 7th ave S. to Bleecker St., 1 blk left on Bleecker to Jones St., 50 yards left on Jones St. to Caffe V.
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“Pub” is used in it’s broadest sense – bars, bar/restaurants, jazz clubs, wine bars, tapas bars, craft beer bars, dive bars, cocktail lounges, and of course, pubs – just about anyplace you can get a drink without a cover charge.

If you have a fave premier pub or good eating place on Manhattan’s WestSide let us all know about it – leave a comment.
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3 Good Eating places

It’s not difficult to find a place to eat in Manhattan.
Finding a good, inexpensive place to eat is a bit harder.
Here are a few of my faves in this neighborhood:

Fish – 280 Bleecker St. (just a bit S. of 7th ave South)
This was an easy pick – the best raw bar special in town. $9 gets you 6 of the freshest oysters or clams + a glass of wine or beer. Don’t know how they can do it, but I tell everyone I know about this place. And it’s located right in the heart of some of the best no cover music in town.

Bleecker Street Pizza – 69 7th ave S. (corner of Bleecker St.)
The place is tiny and not much to look at, but this is one good slice. They like to brag that they have been voted “Best pizza in NY” 3 years in a row by the Food Network. I believe them. I would have voted for them.

Num Pang – 21 E 12th St. (btw. University Place/5th ave.)
This is a Cambodian banh mi sandwich shop that kept me well fed while I was in class nearby recently. It’s cramped, even for NYCity, but usually there is room up the spiral staircase to sit down and eat. In good weather carry your sandwich a few blocks to Union Square park. You may have to wait a few minutes, because everything is freshly made, but it’s worth it. Can you believe – an unheard of 26 food rating by Zagat.

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“3 Good Eating places” focuses on a quick bite, what I call “Fine Fast Food – NYCity Style”
No reservations needed.
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NYCity is the most diverse and interesting place to find a meal anywhere in the world. With more than 24,000 eating establishments you might welcome some advice.

◊ For all my picks of 54 Good Eating places, and essays on my favorite 18 PremierPubs in 9 Neighborhoods on Manhattan’s WestSide, order a copy of my e-book:
“Eating and Drinking on NYCity’s WestSide” ($4.99, available FALL 2018).
◊ Order before NOV.30, 2018 and receive a bonus – 27 of my favorite casual dining places with free Wi-Fi.

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NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/21) + Museum Special Exhibitions: Manhattan’s WestSide

Posted on 05/21/2018 by

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > MONDAY/ MAY 21, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

Broadway by the Year
The Town Hall / 8PM, $57+
“Scott Siegel’s valuable concert series opens time capsules to some of the Great White Way’s most memorable seasons. The May edition devotes its first act to shows from 1956 (such as My Fair Lady, Brigadoon and Candide) and its second act to shows from 1975 (such as The Wiz, Chicago and A Chorus Line). The cast includes Carolee Carmello, John Easterlin, Cheryl Freeman, Luke Grooms, Douglas Ladnier, Maxine Linehan, Kyle Selig, Oakley Boycott and Joshua Israel.” (TONY)

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6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> AMERICAN BALLET THEATER
>> Jim Caruso’s Cast Party
>> Pop-Up Magazine
>> Obie Awards
>> BILL CHATS: WYNTON MARSALIS
>> Tip of the Iceberg: My 3,000-Mile Journey Around Wild Alaska, the Last Great American Frontier”
Continuing Events
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

AMERICAN BALLET THEATER (Thru July 7)
at the Metropolitan Opera House / 6:30PM, $35+
“This weekend, the company wrapped up its performances of “Giselle,” the first full-length ballet of the season. On Monday night, the spring gala unveils a pièce d’occasion by the tap dancer and choreographer Michelle Dorrance. Set to recorded music by the Brooklyn acoustic ensemble Dawn of Midi, it features 15 dancers. The evening also includes excerpts from Alexei Ratmansky’s “Harlequinade,” with Isabella Boylston as Columbine and James Whiteside as Harlequin. The week continues with a new program pairing Wayne McGregor’s “AfteRite” — his premiere set to Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” — and Mr. Ratmansky’s “Firebird.” (NYT)

Jim Caruso’s Cast Party
Birdland, / 9:30PM, $30
“Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is a wildly popular weekly soiree that brings a sprinkling of Broadway glitz and urbane wit to the legendary Birdland in New York City every Monday night. It’s a cool cabaret night-out enlivened by a hilariously impromptu variety show. Showbiz superstars, backed by Steve Doyle on bass, Billy Stritch on piano and Daniel Glass on drums, hit the stage alongside up-and-comers, serving up jaw-dropping music and general razzle-dazzle.” (broadwayworld)

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Smart Stuff / Other NYC Events
(Lectures/Discussions, Book Talks, Film, Classes, Food & Drink, Other)

Pop-Up Magazine
GEFFEN HALL AT LINCOLN CENTER / 7:30PM, $36+
“These days, there’s a news medium for everyone: newspapers, podcasts, video, and more. Pop-Up Magazine, a project founded by Douglas McGray and Chas Edwards of the California Sunday Magazine, combines them all for an unforgettable night free from the onslaught of tweets and push notifications. Join a talented coterie of writers, filmmakers, radio producers, and photographers as they present a multimedia-enhanced “live magazine” detailing stories about pop culture, social issues, politics, and more. The roster of “contributors” to this upcoming edition includes the actress Joy Bryant (Parenthood), the New York Times staff editor Jenée Desmond-Harris, and the New Yorker food correspondent Helen Rosner.” (Tatiana Craine, Village Voice)

Obie Awards
Terminal 5 / 6PM, $20+
“John Leguizamo, celebrated actor of both stage and screen, will host the 63rd annual Obie awards on May 21. The event, a co-production of the American Theatre Wing and the Village Voice honoring New York’s Off- and Off-Off-Broadway stages, will take place this year at Terminal 5. The panel that selects the 2018 crop of Obie victors will once again be chaired by Voice theater critic Michael Feingold. “I am thrilled to take part in celebrating this year’s crop of Obie winners,” Leguizamo said in a statement about his appointment as host. “It’s not just a great honor; it brings my career full circle.” (Village Voice)

BILL CHATS: WYNTON MARSALIS
at New York Live Arts / 7PM, $10
“The choreographer Bill T. Jones and the jazz composer Mr. Marsalis talk about their work, both as artists and as leaders of arts organizations. Mr. Jones is the artistic director of New York Live Arts, while Mr. Marsalis oversees Jazz at Lincoln Center. For this presentation, they discuss their challenges, experiences and careers as they ponder topics like tradition versus experimentation, what it’s like to mature with an art form and the role of the artist today.” (NYT)

Mark Adams: “Tip of the Iceberg: My 3,000-Mile Journey Around Wild Alaska, the Last Great American Frontier”
The Half King, 505 W. 23rd St./ 7PM, FREE
“From the acclaimed, bestselling author of Turn Right at Machu Picchu, a fascinating and funny journey into Alaska, America’s last frontier, retracing the historic 1899 Harriman Expedition.
In 1899, railroad magnate Edward H. Harriman organized a most unusual summer voyage to the wilds of Alaska: He converted a steamship into a luxury “floating university,” populated by some of America’s best and brightest scientists and writers, including the anti-capitalist eco-prophet John Muir. Those aboard encountered a land of immeasurable beauty and impending environmental calamity.

More than a hundred years later, Alaska is still America’s most sublime wilderness, both the lure that draws a million tourists annually on Inside Passage cruises and a natural resources larder waiting to be raided. As ever, it remains a magnet for weirdos and dreamers.

Armed with Dramamine and an industrial-strength mosquito net, Mark Adams sets out to retrace the 1899 expedition. Using the state’s intricate public ferry system, the Alaska Marine Highway System, Adams travels three thousand miles, following the George W. Elder‘s itinerary north through Wrangell, Juneau, and Glacier Bay, then continuing west into the colder and stranger regions of the Aleutians and the Arctic Circle. Along the way, he encounters dozens of unusual characters (and a couple of very hungry bears) and investigates how lessons learned in 1899 might relate to Alaska’s current struggles in adapting to climate change.”

=======================================================

Continuing Events

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

==========================================================================
♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

=====================================================
Bonus: Nifty 9 – Best Cabarets / Piano Bars NYCity
These are my favorite places for an after dinner night on the town – music and drinks.
Hit the Hot Link and check out what’s happening tonight:

Feinstein’s/54 Below – 254 W 54th St.

The Green Room 42 – 570 Tenth Ave.

Don’t Tell Mama – 343 W 46th St.

Marie’s Crisis – 59 Grove St.

The Rum House, in the Hotel Edison – 228 W. 47th St.

Laurie Beechman Theatre – 407 W 42nd St.

The Duplex – 61 Christopher St.

Sid Gold’s Request Room – 165 W 26th St.

Cafe Carlyle, in the Carlyle Hotel – 35 E. 76th St.
This is the only one not located on Manhattan’s WestSide, and it ain’t cheap, but it has some of the finest singers.

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NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):

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WHAT’S ON VIEW
My Fave Special Exhibitions – MUSEUMS / Manhattan’s WestSide
(See the New York Times Arts Section for listings of all museums,
and also to see their expanded reviews of exhibitions)

Museum of Modern Art:

A special pat on the back to MOMA, who is now displaying art from the seven countries affected by Trump’s travel ban.

“Trump’s ban against refugees from seven Muslim-majority nations has sparked acts of defiance in NYC, from demonstrations across town, to striking taxicab drivers at JFK to Middle Eastern bodega owners closing their shops in protest. Recently, the Museum Of Modern added its two cents by bringing out artworks it owns from the affected countries, and hanging them prominently within the galleries usually reserved for 19th- and 20th-century artworks from Europe and the United States. Paintings by Picasso and Matisse, for example, were removed to make way for pieces by Tala Madani (from Iran), Ibrahim El-Salahi (from Sudan) and architect Zaha Hadid (from Iraq). The rehanging, which was unannounced, aims to create a symbolic welcome that repudiates Trump by creating a visual dialog between the newly added works and the more familiar objects from MoMA’s permanent collection.” (TONY)

Stephen Shore (thru May 28)

“This immersive and staggeringly charming retrospective is devoted to one of the best American photographers of the past half century. Shore has peers—Joel Meyerowitz, Joel Sternfeld, Richard Misrach, and, especially, William Eggleston—in a generation that, in the nineteen-seventies, stormed to eminence with color film, which art photographers had long disdained. His best-known series, “American Surfaces” and “Uncommon Places,” are both from the seventies and were mostly made in rugged Western states. The pictures in these series share a quality of surprise: appearances surely unappreciated if even really noticed by anyone before—in rural Arizona, a phone booth next to a tall cactus, on which a crude sign (“GARAGE”) is mounted, and, on a small-city street in Wisconsin, a movie marquee’s neon wanly aglow, at twilight. A search for fresh astonishments has kept Shore peripatetic, on productive sojourns in Mexico, Scotland, Italy, Ukraine, and Israel. He has remained a vestigial Romantic, stopping in space and 
time to frame views that exert a peculiar tug on him. This framing is resolutely formalist: subjects composed laterally, from edge to edge, and in depth. There’s never a “background.” The most distant element is as considered as the nearest. But only when looking for it are you conscious of Shore’s formal discipline, because it is as fluent as a language learned from birth. His best pictures at once arouse feelings and leave us alone to make what we will of them. He delivers truths, whether hard or easy, with something very like mercy.” (NewYorker)

Tarsila do Amaral (thru June 3)

Introducing New York to the First Brazilian Modernist
“Forty-five years after Tarsila do Amaral’s death, MOMA presents her first-ever museum exhibition in the U.S. Some artists are so iconic, they’re known by only one name: Brancusi, Léger, Tarsila. Wait, who? The painter Tarsila do Amaral is so famous in her native Brazil that forty-three years after her death she helped close out the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, when a projected pattern of red-orange-yellow arcs graced the stadium floor, an homage to her 1929 painting “Setting Sun.” That chimerical landscape—stylized sunset above tubular cacti and a herd of capybaras that shape-shift into boulders—hangs now at MOMA, in the artist’s first-ever museum exhibition in the U.S., “Tarsila do Amaral: Inventing Modern Art in Brazil.” (NewYorker)

‘TARSILA DO AMARAL: INVENTING MODERN ART IN BRAZIL’ (through June 3). “The subtitle is no overstatement: In the early 1920s, first in Paris and then back home in São Paulo, Brazil, this painter really did lay the groundwork for the coming of modernism in Latin America’s most populous nation. Tired of the European pretenders in Brazil’s art academies, Tarsila (who was always called by her first name) began to intermingle Western, African and indigenous motifs into flowing, biomorphic paintings, and to theorize a new national culture fueled by the principle of antropofagia, or “cannibalism.” Along with spare, assured drawings of Rio and the Brazilian countryside, this belated but very welcome show assembles Tarsila’s three most important paintings, including the classic “Abaporu” (1928): a semi-human nude with a spindly nose and a comically swollen foot. (Jason Farago)” (NYT)

Whitney Museum of American Art

‘GRANT WOOD: AMERICAN GOTHIC AND OTHER FABLES’ (through June 10). This well-done survey begins with the American Regionalist’s little-known efforts as an Arts and Crafts designer and touches just about every base. It includes his mural studies, book illustrations and most of his best-known paintings — including “American Gothic” and “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere.” Best of all are Wood’s smooth undulant landscapes with their plowmen and spongy trees and infectious serenity. (Smith, NYT)

‘ZOE LEONARD: SURVEY’  (through June 10).
Some shows cast a spell. Zoe Leonard’s reverberant retrospective does. Physically ultra-austere, all white walls with a fiercely edited selection of objects — photographs of clouds taken from airplane windows; a mural collaged from vintage postcards; a scattering of empty fruit skins, each stitched closed with needle and thread — it’s an extended essay about travel, time passing, political passion and the ineffable daily beauty of the world. (Cotter, NYT)
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For other selected Museum and Gallery Special Exhibitions see Recent Posts in right Sidebar dated 05/19 and 05/17.
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NYC Events,”Only the Best” (05/20) + Today’s Featured Pub (Upper West Side)

Posted on 05/20/2018 by

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > SUNDAY/ MAY 20, 2018

“We search the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you don’t have to.” We make it as easy as 1-2-3.

For future NYC Events, better check the tab above: “NYC Events-MAY”
It’s the most comprehensive list of top events this month that you will find anywhere.
Carefully curated from “Only the Best” NYC event info on the the web, it’s a simply superb resource that will help you plan your NYC visit all over town, all through the month.

==========================================================

Have time for only one NYC Event today? Do this:

Frances Ruffelle Live(S) in New York
The Green Room 42 / 7PM, $30
“Ruffelle has a place of her own in the hearts of musical-theater fans for her performance as sacrificial waif Éponine in the original London and Broadway casts of Les Misérables. Having recently relocated to New York City, she returns to the nightclub stage with a charmingly game and gamine monthly set at the Green Room 42.” (TONY)

Eponine has all grown up and she puts on one hot show – don’t miss it.

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7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> John Zorn
>> Dave Liebman Group
>> AMERICAN BALLET THEATER
>> VIJAY IYER SEXTET
>> Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana 
>> SEAN JONES QUINTET
>> Harlem EatUp!
Continuing Events
>> Jerome Robbins Centennial
>> Mad. Sq. Eats
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

John Zorn
Village Vanguard / 3PM, $35
Between the successful relocation of the Stone to the New School; the release of an excellent new LP called Insurrection; and the reuniting of Mike Patton and Trey Spruance in San Francisco this March, John Zorn is having one hell of a 2018. It gets better: The sax great is doing a matinee appearance at the Village Vanguard on Sunday, where he will introduce new works for an exciting ensemble: vibraphonist Sae Hashimoto, pianist Steve Gosling, and a jazz rhythm section of electric bassist Shanir Blumenkranz and Tyshawn Sorey on drums. The group will perform secret premieres of two compositions: “Auto-Da-Fe,” which means “act of faith” in Portuguese, and the vibe-heavy “The Conqueror Worm,” from Zorn’s 2013 LP Dreamachines. Fall into the YouTube rabbit hole by searching the names of all four musicians to get an idea of what can be expected on the Vanguard stage this weekend.” (Ron Hart, VillageVoice)

Dave Liebman Group
Smoke, 2751 Broadway, btw 105th/106th Sts. / 7, 9, 10:30PM, $40
“Dave Liebman doesn’t think small. Completing his “Elements” tetralogy, the champion saxophonist presents “Earth,” an ambitious linked piece that strives to drape iconic locales (the Grand Canyon, Mt. Everest, etc.) in musical garb. Joining him are such committed cohorts as the pianist Bobby Avey and the reed player Matt Vashlishan.” (NewYorker)

AMERICAN BALLET THEATER (Thru July 7)
at the Metropolitan Opera House / 7:30PM, $22+
“This weekend, the company wraps up its performances of “Giselle,” the first full-length ballet of the season. On Monday night, the spring gala unveils a pièce d’occasion by the tap dancer and choreographer Michelle Dorrance. Set to recorded music by the Brooklyn acoustic ensemble Dawn of Midi, it features 15 dancers. The evening also includes excerpts from Alexei Ratmansky’s “Harlequinade,” with Isabella Boylston as Columbine and James Whiteside as Harlequin. The week continues with a new program pairing Wayne McGregor’s “AfteRite” — his premiere set to Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” — and Mr. Ratmansky’s “Firebird.” (NYT)

VIJAY IYER SEXTET (LAST DAY)
at the Village Vanguard / 8:30 and 10:30PM, $ hot tkt may need to look for Sunday show.
“Mr. Iyer’s sextet provides a resonant vessel for his heady, hot-blooded compositions; the group’s debut album, “Far From Over,” was one of last year’s best. The band includes the trumpeter Graham Haynes, the alto saxophonist Steve Lehman, the tenor saxophonist Mark Shim, the bassist Stephan Crump and the drummer Tyshawn Sorey. For the first four nights of this run, Jeremy Dutton replaces Mr. Sorey.” (NYT-GIOVANNI RUSSONELLO)

Elsewhere, saw them Wednesday night and for fans of Flamenco this is worth the detour:

Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana (LAST DAY)
BAM Fisher / 7:30PM, $25+
“This U.S.-based Spanish dance troupe celebrates its 35th anniversary with new dances by Belén Maya — including Mujeres Valientes, for six dancers, which represents Latin American women (Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, Manuela Saénz) who have challenged authorities and fought against ignorance and injustice. Gaspar Rodriguez’s score for five musicians will be performed live. The program, enacted by a cast of eight dancers and five musicians, also includes new solos by José Maldonado and Guadalupe Torres, both of Spain; special lectures; and chats. Belén Maya is the New York–born daughter of two great flamenco dancers, Carmen Mora and Mario Maya; her performance in Carlos Saura’s 1995 film, Flamenco, opened new avenues for female interpretations of flamenco dance.” (Elizabeth Zimmer, VillageVoice)

SEAN JONES QUINTET (LAST DAY)
at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola / 7:30 and 9:30PM, $40
“Intrepid and smoky toned and nearly always convincing, Mr. Jones held the first trumpet chair in the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for many years. Now he leads his own small ensembles and is preparing to begin his first year as head of the Peabody Institute’s jazz program. This weekend Mr. Jones returns to Columbus Circle for three nights in a stellar quintet with the alto saxophonist Brian Hogans, the pianist Orrin Evans, the bassist Luques Curtis and the drummer Mark Whitfield Jr.” (NYT-GIOVANNI RUSSONELLO)

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Smart Stuff / Other NYC Events
(Lectures/Discussions, Book Talks, Film, Classes, Food & Drink, Other)

Harlem EatUp!
“This weekend rounds out the Harlem EatUp! festival, with free and paid events. Dine in Harlem restaurants with guest chefs like Stephanie Izard and Geoffrey Zakarian; stroll through the Grand Tasting (ticketed) on Saturday for unlimited tastings and collaborations, like cookie tarts by Make My Cake and Jacques Torres; buy a Rao’s meatball in the Marketplace (free admission) to benefit the Harlem EatUp! Foundation; or catch free musical performances and culinary demonstrations. Net proceeds will be donated to foundations benefiting the Harlem community. When you’re full, dance it off at FELA-Bration! a celebration of West African culture at the West Harlem waterfront park, presented by Sweet Spot Music & Arts. Admission is free.” (NYMag)

=======================================================

Continuing Events

Jerome Robbins Centennial (LAST DAY)
NYS Theater, Lincoln Center / Various times, $30+
“A child of immigrants born in Manhattan in 1918, Jerome Robbins — in his tour across the forms of dance, theater, and cinema — probably left as many enduring monuments as anyone. (These include the brilliant jazz ballet Fancy Free; the musicals West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof, and Gypsy; and a clutch of incomparable lyrical and dramatic ballets made for his home team, the New York City Ballet.) He also made many enemies, his eighty-year jaunt on this planet inspiring several full-length, tell-all biographies. You’ll have forever to contemplate this raft of accomplishments, but you have three weeks this May to savor 22 ballets at Lincoln Center, including his legendary Afternoon of a Faun on one of five all-Robbins bills. A sixth program — a tribute — opens the season and features two world premieres: NYCB resident choreographer Justin Peck honors Robbins to a score by Leonard Bernstein, another child of immigrants also celebrating a centennial in 2018; and Tony-winning director Warren Carlyle creates a medley of Robbins’s dances from Broadway hits and other sources.” (Elizabeth Zimmer, Village Voice)

Mad. Sq. Eats (May 07-31)
General Worth Square (5th Ave btw 25/26 St.) / near Madison Square Park
11AM-9PM; FREE
“Twice a year, this outdoor food fest brings buzzworthy bites from the city’s best restaurants to Worth Square in the Flatiron District. Highlights include Roberta’s sensational pizza, MeltKraft grilled cheese sandwiches and cheesesteaks by the Truffleist.” (TONY)

“Mad. Sq. Eats brings the diverse flavors of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs to Worth Square, a prime location in the heart of New York’s historic Flatiron District. The highly anticipated bi-annual event draws hungry crowds of neighborhood residents, workers, and tourists who enjoy this unique opportunity to savor offerings from buzzworthy eateries.”

2018 Vendor List
Burger & Lobster / Jicama / Renegade Lemonade /
the Truffleist / Mayhem Sandwiches / Gotham Poke & Hawaiian Kitchen / Bao by Kaya / La Sonrisa / Frida’s Favorites / Roberta’s /
Duck Season / Daa! Dumplings / Mr. Bing / Baked Cheese Haus / Chick’NCone / Arancini Bros / Top Hops Beer Shop / CousCous /
Melt Ice cream Sandwiches / Ice & Vice / Palenque Arepas /
Coney Shack / Korilla / Casa Toscana / Enfes NYC

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♦ Before making final plans, we suggest you call the venue to confirm ticket availability, plus dates and times, as schedules are subject to change.
♦ NYCity, with a population of  8.6 million, had a record 63 million visitors last year and was TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Top U.S. Destination for 2018 – awesome! BUT quality shows draw crowds. Try to reserve seats for these top NYC events in advance, even if just earlier on the day of performance.

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Bonus NYC events– Jazz Clubs:
Many consider NYCity the Jazz capital of the world. My favorite Jazz Clubs, all on Manhattan’s WestSide, feature top talent every night of the week.
Hit the Hot Link and check out who is playing tonight:

Greenwich Village:
(5 are underground, classic jazz joints. all 6 are within walking distance of each other):
Village Vanguard – UG, 178 7th Ave. So., villagevanguard.com, 212-255-4037 (1st 8:30)
Blue Note – 131 W3rd St. nr 6th ave. bluenotejazz.com, 212-475-8592 (1st set 8pm)
55 Bar – basement @55 Christopher St. nr 7th ave.S. 55bar.com, 212-929-9883 (1st 7pm)
Mezzrow – basement @ 163 W10th St. nr 7th Ave. mezzrow.com,646-476-4346 (1st 8)
Smalls – basement @ 183 W10th St. smallslive.com, 646-476-4346 (1st set 7:30pm)
Cornelia Street Cafe – UG, 29 Cornelia St. corneliastreetcafe.com, 212-989-9319 (6pm)

Outside Greenwich Village:
Dizzy’s Club – Broadway @ 60th St. — jazz.org/dizzys / 212-258-9595 (1st set 7:30pm)
Birdland – 315 W44th St.(btw 8/9ave) — birdlandjazz.com / 212-581-3080 (1st 8:30pm)
Smoke Jazz Club – 2751 Broadway nr.106th St. — smokejazz.com/ 212-864-6662 (7pm)

Special Mention:
Caffe Vivaldi – 32 Jones St. nr Bleecker St. — caffevivaldi.com / 212-691-7538 (1st 7pm)
a classic, old jazz club in the Village, Caffe V often surprises with a wonderfully eclectic lineup. It’s my favorite spot for an evening of listening enjoyment and discovery.

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NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):
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A PremierPub / Upper West Side

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que / 700 W125th St. @ 12th ave.

Walk only five minutes from the 125th St. station on the #1 line to find this authentic honky-tonk barbecue joint. Some folks think Dinosaur is just a place to eat ribs. Au contraire. With 24 carefully selected taps, this is a place to drink beer, and eat ribs.

HarlHostStandNo food goes better with American craft ales than American barbecue. Dinosaur may be the best combo of good beer drinking and hearty eating in town, which makes the trip uptown to West Harlem totally worthwhile.

This second incarnation of Dinosaur in Harlem is in a two story, old brick warehouse near the Hudson River. Don’t let that run down exterior fool you. Inside it’s a large space with huge, rough wooden columns and unfinished wooden floors and brick walls – just right for a bbq joint. As soon as you open the front door you are hit with that tantalizing aroma of barbecue coming from the large open kitchen. Reminds me of those great rib joints I frequented when stationed in North Carolina all those years ago. If your stomach wasn’t grumbling before, it is now.

Head to the bar, sit down and try to decide on a beer. It’s not an easy decision – a good problem to have. This is a pretty damn good beer list to choose from, one that most beer bars should be jealous of. I love that they feature NY craft beers. You may want to try the four beer sampler, which is always fun, and in this place may be necessary.

The blues music playing in the background will get you in the mood for their North Carolina style barbecue, and even when it’s a full house your order shouldn’t take too long (assuming you snagged a table). The food is all slow smoked, so it’s already mostly done and ready to go. I always start with an order of their giant, spice rubbed wings, so good they may make you give up Buffalo wings.

Unfortunately, a place this good does not fly under the radar. There can be some long waits for a table at dinnertime. So you need a strategy – avoid prime time, and try not to arrive with your entire posse, which will limit your seating options.

A seat at the bar, a small table in the bar area, or in the summer, an outside table underneath what’s left of the elevated West Side Highway, all may open before a table inside the main dining room. Otherwise, try Dinosaur for lunch, or come very late for dinner, maybe after a show at the nearby Cotton Club nightclub.

Website: http://www.dinosaurbarbque.com/
Phone #: 212-694-1777
Hours: Mo-Th 11:30am-11:00pm; Fr-Sa 11:30am-12:00am;
Su 12:00pm-10:00pm
Happy Hour: 4-7pm every day; $1 off all drinks
Music: Fri / Sat 10:30pm
Subway: #1 to 125th St.
Walk 2 blk W on 125th St. to Dinosaur Bar-B-Q,
just past the elevated highway.
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“Pub” is used in it’s broadest sense – bars, bar/restaurants, jazz clubs, wine bars, tapas bars, craft beer bars, dive bars, cocktail lounges, and of course, pubs – just about anyplace you can get a drink without a cover charge (except for certain jazz clubs).

If you have a fave premier pub or good eating place on Manhattan’s WestSide let us all know about it – leave a  comment. 
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