NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/21) + GallerySpecialExhibits: Chelsea

Posted on 11/21/2018 by GregD

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > WEDNESDAY/ NOVEMBER 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

DIZZY GILLESPIE ALL-STARS (Nov.20-25)
at the Blue Note / 8 and 10:30PM, $30-$45
“This annual engagement celebrates the birthday of Dizzy Gillespie, the co-inventor of bebop and a champion of Latin jazz, who died in 1993. The All-Stars’ ever-evolving lineup now stands at nine and boasts some of today’s finest straight-ahead talent (the trumpeters Terell Stafford and Freddie Hendrix, the drummer Willie Jones III), including a few who played with Gillespie himself (the pianist Cyrus Chestnut and the bassist John Lee). This year’s proceedings may have an elegiac air: The trumpeter Roy Hargrove, a longtime member of the group, died earlier this month at 49.” (NYT -GIOVANNI RUSSONELLO)

OR because tomorrow is going to be too darn cold to go to the parade, try this instead:

Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Inflation
American Museum of Natural History area / 1-8PM, FREE
“For nearly a century, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has brought huge crowds of people to Manhattan to celebrate the holiday and gawk at the giant balloons on display. It’s the world’s largest parade—roughly 3.5 million people are expected to attend this year’s parade, and other 50 million folks will watch the event on their TV sets.

But if you want to check out the giant balloons in all their glory without cutting into your Thanksgiving festivities, head to the American Museum of Natural History on Wednesday. From 1pm to 8pm, the balloons will be inflated for any and all to see. The crowds can get pretty dense at the pre-Thanksgiving ritual, but it’s pretty captivating to watch SpongeBob turn from a flattened piece of polyurethane into a larger-than-life structure.” (TONY)

“The balloons slowly take shape outside of the American Museum of Natural History starting at 1 p.m., but there’s a special route: You enter West 73rd Street at Columbus Avenue and walk to Central Park West and head north to West 77th Street and walk around the museum on West 77th, Columbus and West 81st, finally exiting at West 81st and Central Park West.” (Gothamist)

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> David Ostwald’s Louis Armstrong Eternity Band
>> Carol Sloane
>> Jason Moran and the Bandwagon
>> Maria Schneider Orchestra
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE 
>> Marilyn Maye Gives Thanks
Continuing Events
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

David Ostwald’s Louis Armstrong Eternity Band
Birdland / 5:30PM, $30
“Inspired by the noble jazz pioneers Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton and their colleagues, David Ostwald’s Louis Armstrong Eternity Band breathes life and passion into America’s own great art form. Legendary record producer George Avakian describes the band in this way:

“There has never been a band quite like this one. Most groups, past and present, stick to one style. Some current groups attempt to recreate early recordings in their entirety. These guys do neither. Inspired by divergent bands of the 1920s and 30s, you’ll hear them swing a variety of styles in music by a wide range of composers, always true to the joy and heart of the music.”

Now in its 17th year of residency at Birdland, the weekly post-workday engagement is the city’s best musical bargain! Tuba player David Ostwald leads a rotating lineup that features talents such as clarinetist Anat Cohen, trombonist/vocalist Wycliffe Gordon, pianist Ehud Asherie, drummer Marion Felder and more!”

Jason Moran and the Bandwagon (Nov.20-25)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St. / 8:30PM, +10:30PM, $35
“The bandleader and composer James Reese Europe is as important as he is unsung. In 1912, he organized the first concert at Carnegie Hall to feature African-American composers exclusively. His death, in 1919, at the hands of a disgruntled bandmate, was followed by a quick slide into regrettable posthumous obscurity. The simultaneously adventurous and historically aware pianist Jason Moran, fronting his avidly attuned trio, addresses Europe’s legacy.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

Carol Sloane (Nov. 21-24.)
Birdland, 315 W. 44th St./ 7PM, $30
“There was once a time when you couldn’t stroll from Greenwich Village to the Upper East Side without stumbling upon a trove of terrific singers, ever ready to polish American-songbook chestnuts and jazz standards into dazzling gems. The vocalist Carol Sloane was among this honored bunch, and now, hale and welcoming with a program promisingly titled “Still Autumn in New York,” she proudly carries on the tradition.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

Maria Schneider Orchestra (Nov.20-21; Nov.23-25)
Jazz Standard,116 E. 27th St./ 7:30PM, +9:30PM, $40 – looks like a tough ticket, may need to try the secondary market.
“Maria Schneider has a handsome collection of Grammys, and the accolades are well deserved: This protégée of the late bandleading/arranging genius Gil Evans fronts the most polished modern jazz orchestra on the planet, a vehicle for her lush, intricate and refreshingly accessible works. Catch her at this annual Thanksgiving engagement.” (TONY)

TWYLA THARP DANCE  (thru Dec.09)
at the Joyce Theater / 7:30PM; $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Marilyn Maye Gives Thanks (Nov.19-24)
Feinstein’s/54 Below / 7PM, $70+
“Maye’s stellar past includes a string of classy RCA albums in the ’60s and a nearly unequaled number of Tonight Show appearances, but this husky-voiced, earthy belter has never sounded better than she does now. In her latest engagement at F/54, the newly nonagenarian singer shares Great American Songbook favorites, including a medley from My Fair Lady and a smattering of holiday songs. Beyond her remarkable energy and musical acuity, the astonishing Maye has a bone-deep comfort that imbues familiar songs with fresh simplicity, truthfulness and power.” (TONY)

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

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

More Smart Stuff coming soon.

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

Continuing Events

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

============================================================================
♦ 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
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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.
===========================================================

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 is one exhibition the New Yorker likes:

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 this 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.) “

=======================================================
For other selected Museum and Gallery Special Exhibitions see recent posts in right sidebar dated 11/19 and 11/17.

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

NYC Events, “Only the Best” (11/20) + Today’s Featured Pub (Tribeca)

Posted on 11/20/2018 by GregD

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > TUESDAY/ NOVEMBER 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

Olga Cerpa y Mestisay
Atrium at Lincoln Center / 7:30PM, FREE
“Considered one of the most important contemporary vocalists from the Canary Islands, Olga Cerpa and her six-piece band Mestisay (led by guitarist and composer Pancho Delgado) brings a show full of light, good energy, and Atlantic colors to Lincoln Center. The show features songs from their latest album Jallos, which takes its name from the island word for objects the sea throws to the Canary shores. In this case, the jallos are songs from the Americas and Africa, mixed with the folk-roots music of the Canarian Archipelago.”

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Jason Moran and the Bandwagon
>> Les Pêcheurs de Perles
>> Maria Schneider Orchestra
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE 
>> Marilyn Maye Gives Thanks
>> The Pixies
Continuing Events
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Jason Moran and the Bandwagon (Nov.20-25)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St. / 8:30PM, +10:30PM, $35
“The bandleader and composer James Reese Europe is as important as he is unsung. In 1912, he organized the first concert at Carnegie Hall to feature African-American composers exclusively. His death, in 1919, at the hands of a disgruntled bandmate, was followed by a quick slide into regrettable posthumous obscurity. The simultaneously adventurous and historically aware pianist Jason Moran, fronting his avidly attuned trio, addresses Europe’s legacy.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

Les Pêcheurs de Perles (The Pearl Fishers) (next Nov.24, 1PM)
Metropolitan Opera House / 8PM, $20+
“Penny Woolcock’s breathtaking production, a highlight of the 2015–16 season, makes its much awaited return with an all-star cast. Soprano Pretty Yende is the beautiful priestess Leïla, with tenor Javier Camarena and baritone Mariusz Kwiecien as rivals for her forbidden love. Emmanuel Villaume conducts Bizet’s sensual score.”

Maria Schneider Orchestra (Nov.20-21; Nov.23-25)
Jazz Standard,116 E. 27th St./ 7:30PM, +9:30PM, $40 – looks like a tough ticket, may need to try the secondary market.
“Maria Schneider has a handsome collection of Grammys, and the accolades are well deserved: This protégée of the late bandleading/arranging genius Gil Evans fronts the most polished modern jazz orchestra on the planet, a vehicle for her lush, intricate and refreshingly accessible works. Catch her at this annual Thanksgiving engagement.” (TONY)

TWYLA THARP DANCE  (thru Dec.09)
at the Joyce Theater / 7:30PM; $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Marilyn Maye Gives Thanks (Nov.19-24)
Feinstein’s/54 Below / 7PM, $70+
“Maye’s stellar past includes a string of classy RCA albums in the ’60s and a nearly unequaled number of Tonight Show appearances, but this husky-voiced, earthy belter has never sounded better than she does now. In her latest engagement at F/54, the newly nonagenarian singer shares Great American Songbook favorites, including a medley from My Fair Lady and a smattering of holiday songs. Beyond her remarkable energy and musical acuity, the astonishing Maye has a bone-deep comfort that imbues familiar songs with fresh simplicity, truthfulness and power.” (TONY)

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

The Pixies (Nov.18-20)
Brooklyn Steel / 8PM, $70
“Kurt Cobain famously wrote “Smells Like Teen Spirit” under the spell of the Pixies. But what if the band’s more durable influence actually came years later? Specifically, in 2004, the Pixies embarked on a reunion tour that opened the floodgates for the legion of Generation X idols currently reviving their careers in music venues around the world. The quartet—now with the magnetic bassist Paz Lenchantin in a role originated by Kim Deal—recently issued a boxed set devoted to its explosive first albums, “Come on Pilgrim” and “Surfer Rosa.” The musicians perform those records front to back in a production featuring visuals that accentuate the lurid imagery of the songs.” (Jay Ruttenberg, NewYorker)

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

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

More Smart Stuff coming soon.

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

Continuing Events

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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.

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

Laurie Beechman Theatre – 407 W 42nd St.

Marie’s Crisis – 59 Grove 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.
============================================================

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

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/19) + Museum Special Exhibitions: Manhattan’s 5th Avenue

Posted on 11/19/2018 by GregD

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > MONDAY/ NOVEMBER 19, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

Marilyn Maye Gives Thanks (Nov.19-24)
Feinstein’s/54 Below / 7PM, $70+
“Maye’s stellar past includes a string of classy RCA albums in the ’60s and a nearly unequaled number of Tonight Show appearances, but this husky-voiced, earthy belter has never sounded better than she does now. In her latest engagement at F/54, the newly nonagenarian singer shares Great American Songbook favorites, including a medley from My Fair Lady and a smattering of holiday songs. Beyond her remarkable energy and musical acuity, the astonishing Maye has a bone-deep comfort that imbues familiar songs with fresh simplicity, truthfulness and power.” (TONY)

=========================================================
7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Mefistofele
>> Bob Weir & Wolf Bros.
>> Faculty Recital: Juilliard String Quartet
>> The Pixies
>> Broadway to Main Street: How Show Tunes Enchanted America
>> Wit’s End: What Wit Is, How It Works, and Why We Need It”
>> The Final Months of World War I: 100 Years Later
Continuing Events
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Mefistofele (next Nov.24, 8PM)
Metropolitan Opera House / 7:30PM, $20+
“The spectacular Robert Carsen production returns to the Met for the first time since 2000, with bass-baritone Christian Van Horn as the diabolical title character, tenor Michael Fabiano as Faust, and soprano Angela Meade as Margherita. Mefistofele is the celebrated and only opera by Arrigo Boito—who famously collaborated with Verdi on the libretti for Otello and Falstaff.”

Bob Weir & Wolf Bros.
Beacon Theatre / 8PM, $60+
“Recently, between tours co-fronting Dead & Company with John Mayer, the Grateful Dead founding member has performed stripped-down sets, like last spring’s Bobby & Phil. He visits again with this trio (bassist Don Was and drummer Jay Lane) to play Dead classics for the faithful.” (TONY)

Faculty Recital: Juilliard String Quartet
The Juilliard School, Alice Tully Hall / 7:30PM, $30
BEETHOVEN Quartet No. 3 in D Major, Op. 18, No. 3 BEECHER One Hundred Years Grows Shorter Over Time (2018) DVORAK Quartet No. 12 in F Major, Op. 96 “American”

Elsewhere, but this looks worth the detour:

The Pixies (Nov.18-20)
Brooklyn Steel / 8PM, $70
“Kurt Cobain famously wrote “Smells Like Teen Spirit” under the spell of the Pixies. But what if the band’s more durable influence actually came years later? Specifically, in 2004, the Pixies embarked on a reunion tour that opened the floodgates for the legion of Generation X idols currently reviving their careers in music venues around the world. The quartet—now with the magnetic bassist Paz Lenchantin in a role originated by Kim Deal—recently issued a boxed set devoted to its explosive first albums, “Come on Pilgrim” and “Surfer Rosa.” The musicians perform those records front to back in a production featuring visuals that accentuate the lurid imagery of the songs.” (Jay Ruttenberg, NewYorker)

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

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

Skirball Talks | Broadway to Main Street: How Show Tunes Enchanted America
NYU Skirball Center, 566 LaGuardia Pl./ 6:30PM, FREE
“In conjunction with the publication of Broadway to Main Street: How Show Tunes Enchanted America (Oxford University Press), this talk will investigate the immense appeal of the Broadway song book as heard by millions of Americans through original cast albums, pop recordings, radio, and television. The panel represents more than a half-century of experience recording the greatest Broadway scores. An unique event, of interest to anyone who loves Broadway music and loves to listen to it.”

James Geary: “Wit’s End: What Wit Is, How It Works, and Why We Need It”
The Half King, 505 W. 23rd St./ 7PM, FREE
“A witty book about wit that steers an elegant path between waggishness and wisdom.” —Stephen Fry

Much more than a knack for snappy comebacks, wit is the quick, instinctive intelligence that allows us to think, say, or do the right thing at the right time in the right place. In this whimsical book, James Geary explores every facet of wittiness, from its role in innovation to why puns are the highest form of wit. Geary reasons that wit is both visual and verbal, physical and intellectual: there’s the serendipitous wit of scientists, the crafty wit of inventors, the optical wit of artists, and the metaphysical wit of philosophers.”

The Final Months of World War I: 100 Years Later
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West / 6:30PM, $38
“In commemoration of the centennial of the World War I Armistice, signed in November 1918, discover the major battles—and the stories of those who fought in them—leading up to the Great War’s end.”

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

Continuing Events

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.

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

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)

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Hilma af Klint : Paintings for the Future (thru 02/03/19)

“Convinced that the world was not ready for her artistry in 1906, particularly as an underrepresented female in her field, af Klint of Sweden kept her work private. Her paintings anticipated by years “breakthroughs” by Kandinsky, Mondrian and others and were unseen before 1986. The Guggenheim rediscovers her.”

“Recognized as one of the art world’s earliest abstract painters, Hilma af Klint was a steadfast believer that her work was inspired by the spiritual. The new Guggenheim exhibition, “Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future,” showcases the work of this groundbreaking Swedish artist (1862-1944), whose work was rarely seen until the 1980s.” (Newsday)

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)

Delacroix  (Now-1/6/19)
“This is the first comprehensive U.S. retrospective of the work of French artist Eugene Delacroix (1798-1863). The Met has teamed up with The Louvre, showcasing in chronological order some 150 pieces, including paintings, drawings, manuscripts, and prints.” (cityguideny)

‘CROWNS OF THE VAJRA MASTERS: RITUAL ART OF NEPAL’ (through Dec. 16). “Up a narrow staircase, above the Met’s galleries of South and Southeast Asian art, are three small rooms of art from the Himalayas. The space, a bit like a treehouse, is a capsule of spiritual energy, which is especially potent these days thanks to this exhibition. The crowns of the title look like antique versions of astronaut headgear: gilded copper helmets, studded with gems, encrusted with repoussé plaques and topped by five-pronged antennas — the vajra, or thunderbolt of wisdom. Such crowns were believed to turn their wearers into perfected beings who are willing and able to bestow blessings on the world. This show is the first to focus on these crowns, and it does so with a wealth of compressed historical information, as well as several resplendent related sculptures and paintings from Nepal and Tibet. But it’s the crowns themselves, the real ones, the wisdom generators, set in mandala formation in the center of the gallery, that are the fascinators.” (NYT-Holland Cotter)

===========================================================
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 11/17 and 11/15.
=============================================================

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

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/18) + Today’s Featured Pub (Greenwich Village)

Posted on 11/18/2018 by GregD

Today’s Sweet 6 NYC Events > SUNDAY/ NOVEMBER 18, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

Not Manhattan’s WestSide, but this definitely looks worth the detour:

Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk
Book Launch with Massimo Pigliucci |
The Brooklyn Commons: 388 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn / 2PM, FREE
“From vaccine misinformation to climate change denial, it seems there’s more bunk than ever. Join a celebration for the release of the second edition of Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk, where philosopher Massimo Pigliucci questions the root causes of pseudoscientific belief, creating “a ‘taxonomy of bunk’ that explores the intersection of science and culture at large.” (ThoughtGallery.org)

=========================================================
5 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Marcus Roberts Nonet
>> ‘VELOCITY’
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE 
>> Renegade Craft Fair
>> Brooklyn Chocolate Fest.
Continuing Events
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Marcus Roberts Nonet (LAST DAY)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30PM, +10:30PM, $35
“The 1989 recording “Deep in the Shed”—the pianist Marcus Roberts’s second project as a bandleader, featuring the guest soloist Wynton Marsalis (under the alias E. Dankworth) and a cadre of fine young players—was a bracing affirmation of jazz essentials coated in the thick rhythms and tones of the blues. Roberts has used the ensuing decades to examine both historical and original jazz tangents. At his first Vanguard appearance in fifteen years, he revisits his opus with a nonet braced by six horns.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

Juilliard Opera presents Britten’s ‘The Turn of the Screw’
The Juilliard School, Peter Jay Sharp Theater / 2PM, $30
Steven Osgood, conductor Juilliard Orchestra

‘VELOCITY’   (also Nov.23-25).
at the New Victory Theater / 12PM, +4PM, $17+
“In this high-energy production, the much-lauded champion dancers James Devine and David Geaney look at the past, present and future of Irish dance. Featuring live music by a Celtic band, along with a D.J., “Velocity” — performed by Geaney, AnneMarie Keaney and Gabriella Wood — is a celebratory jam session and suitable for all ages.” (NYT-Gia Kourlas)

TWYLA THARP DANCE  (next Nov.20, 7:30PM)
at the Joyce Theater / 2PM; $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

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

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

Renegade Craft Fair
Metropolitan Pavilion / 11AM-5PM, FREE
“Browse quality, curated goods, peruse imaginative earrings, cheeky underwear, whimsical ceramics, calligraphy-embellished stationery, and elegantly-embroidered silk scarves from more than 200 vendors at Metropolitan Pavilion. You can also play designer yourself at a workshop, munch on food truck fare, and finish the day with relaxing a cocktail after you shop til you drop.
Cost: vendors set their own prices.” (thrillist.com)

OK, so this is not Manhattan’s WestSide. It is so far away in South Brooklyn that it is hardly even New York City. But it is chocolate.

Brooklyn Chocolate Fest.
Barren Island, Floyd Bennett Field / 10AM-5PM; $13
“It’s officially wool sweater season, which means diets are over for the foreseeable future. Delight in their demise at Brooklyn Chocolate Fest. Gooey, melty standouts include a chocolate fountain, free samples, pudding shots, CBD sorbetto, and chocolate-covered bacon. Besides the chocolate, entertainment includes “hot chocolate break dancers,” a butterfly-feeding exhibit, and an eating contest.” (thrillist.com)

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

Continuing Events

White Light Festival (LAST DAY)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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 – 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. (btw 6/7), thetownhall.org, 212-997-6661
Le Poisson Rouge – 158 Bleecker St., lepoissonrouge.com, 212-505-3474
Sony Hall – 235 W 46th St. (btw 7/8), sonyhall.com, 212-997-5123
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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.

See Below.
———————————————————————————————————-

NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):
=================================================================================

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.

CAFFE VIVALDI HAS CLOSED,  JUNE 23 WAS THE FINAL NIGHT. VERY SAD.
I HAVE LEFT THIS REVIEW ON MY SITE AS A KIND OF MEMORIAL.
As reported in the “Gothamist”:
“Caffe Vivaldi, one of the last bohemian bastions of the West Village, is set to close this weekend. During its 35 years on Jones Street, the casual cafe won the hearts of locals and celebs alike, including Oscar Isaac, Bette Midler, and Al Pacino.

Despite that friendly communal atmosphere, the owners ultimately struggled to survive under their notorious vulture landlord Steve Croman, who they say waged a harassment campaign against the restaurant, and eventually tripled their rent.”

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.
==============================================================
“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.
========================================================

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.

========================================================
“3 Good Eating places” focuses on a quick bite, what I call “Fine Fast Food – NYCity Style”
No reservations needed.
========================================================
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 SPRING 2019).
◊ Order before MAY 31, 2019 and receive a bonus – 27 of my favorite casual dining places with free Wi-Fi.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/17) + Museum Special Exhibitions: Manhattan’s WestSide

Posted on 11/17/2018 by GregD

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > SATURDAY/ NOVEMBER 17, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

Renegade Craft Fair (also Nov.18)
Metropolitan Pavilion / 11AM-5PM, FREE
“Browse quality, curated goods, peruse imaginative earrings, cheeky underwear, whimsical ceramics, calligraphy-embellished stationery, and elegantly-embroidered silk scarves from more than 200 vendors at Metropolitan Pavilion. You can also play designer yourself at a workshop, munch on food truck fare, and finish the day with relaxing a cocktail after you shop til you drop.
Cost: vendors set their own prices.” (thrillist.com)

=========================================================
7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Tosca
>> Jack White
>> ‘VELOCITY’
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE
>> Marc Ribot
>> Enjoy Kentucky bourbon for free
>> Recovered Memory: New York and Paris 1960-1980
Continuing Events
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Tosca
Metropolitan Opera House / 1PM, $30+
“Met favorite Sondra Radvanovsky and rising star Jennifer Rowley share the title role of the volatile diva at the heart of Puccini’s operatic thriller. Joseph Calleja brings his stylish tenor to the role of Cavaradossi, Wolfgang Koch is the nefarious police chief Scarpia, and Carlo Rizzi conducts Sir David McVicar’s resplendent production.”

Jack White
at Kings Theater / 8PM, $
“We know who the first rock stars were, but who among this endangered species will be the last? Few candidates have made as resounding an argument as Jack White, with his dazzling guitar acumen, ghostly mystique, and, in a truly retro touch, sizable audience. Like his forebears, the musician also delights in taking creative leaps with sticky landings. Case in point: “Boarding House Reach,” his recent release, in which White casts aside his first loves—minimalism, analog—to engage with contemporary production, at times invoking the mad hedonism of P-Funk. After months of touring arenas, White and his backing quartet, which includes two keyboardists, squeeze into a theatre.” (Jay Ruttenberg,NewYorker)

‘VELOCITY’
at the New Victory Theater / 2PM, +7PM, $17+
“In this high-energy production, the much-lauded champion dancers James Devine and David Geaney look at the past, present and future of Irish dance. Featuring live music by a Celtic band, along with a D.J., “Velocity” — performed by Geaney, AnneMarie Keaney and Gabriella Wood — is a celebratory jam session and suitable for all ages.” (NYT-Gia Kourlas)
(also Nov. 18, noon and 4 p.m.; through Nov. 25).

TWYLA THARP DANCE  (through Dec. 9),
at the Joyce Theater / 2PM, +8PM; $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Marc Ribot (LAST DAY)
The Stone at the New School, 55 W. 13th St. / 8:30PM, $20
“As socially conscious and politically active as he is musically inventive, the guitarist Marc Ribot is understandably piqued these days. How that will affect the intensity of his upcoming performances at this residency is anyone’s guess, but his solo recitals—featured Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 16—are generally special events. A duet with the pianist Anthony Coleman on Nov. 15 also has promise.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

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

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

Enjoy Kentucky bourbon for free
“America’s native spirit is touring the country, and this weekend it’s NYC’s turn. The Bourbon Legends Boxcar Tour transports visitors to Kentucky, the heart of bourbon country, with an Instagram-ready walk-through of scenes where you taste, touch and see how brands like Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Knob Creek and Basil Hayden are made. The free event includes tastings plus a craft cocktail bar and authentic Southern cuisine. Nov. 16-17, 6-10 p.m., must be 21+, somewhere in Midtown, register at bourbonboxcar.com”

Recovered Memory: New York and Paris 1960-1980
Albertine, 972 Fifth Ave./ 4PM, FREE
“Journalist and photographer Frank Van Riper will discuss his latest book, Recovered Memory: New York and Paris 1960-1980 (just out in the U.S. with Daylight Books). Van Riper’s striking black and white photographs, spanning twenty years, coupled with his eloquent texts, capture the 20th-century romance and grit of New York more than half a century ago, and Paris, some forty years ago.”

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

Continuing Events

White Light Festival (through Nov.18)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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.

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

Laurie Beechman Theatre – 407 W 42nd St.

Marie’s Crisis – 59 Grove 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):

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

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)

‘BODYS ISEK KINGELEZ: CITY DREAMS’ (through Jan. 1). “The first comprehensive survey of the Congolese artist is a euphoric exhibition as utopian wonderland featuring his fantasy architectural models and cities — works strong in color, eccentric in shape, loaded with enthralling details and futuristic aura. Mr. Kingelez (1948-2015) was convinced that the world had never seen a vision like his, and this beautifully designed show bears him out.” (NYT-Smith)
212-708-9400, moma.org

Rubin Museum of Art

Chitra Ganesh: The Scorpion Gesture (Through Jan. 7)
“The Brooklyn artist’s new animations ingeniously combine her own drawings and watercolors with historical imagery, peppering the journeys of bodhisattvas with contemporary pop-culture references. Five of these pieces are installed on the museum’s second and third floors amid its collection of Himalayan art, elements of which appear in her psychedelic sequences of spinning mandalas and falling lotus flowers. (Ganesh’s works are activated, as if by magic, when viewers approach.) In “Rainbow Body,” a cave, which also appears in a nearby painting of Mandarava, is filled with people in 3-D glasses, watching as the guru-deity attains enlightenment. “Silhouette in the Graveyard” is projected behind a glass case containing a small sculpture of Maitreya, from late-eighteenth-century Mongolia, for a cleverly dioramalike effect. Prophesied to arrive during an apocalyptic crisis, the bodhisattva is seen here against Ganesh’s montage, which includes footage of global catastrophes and political protests, from the Women’s March to Black Lives Matter.” (

==============================================================
For other selected Museum and Gallery Special Exhibitions see Posts in right Sidebar dated 11/15 and 11/13.
============================================================

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

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/16) + Today’s Featured Pub (Upper West Side)

Posted on 11/16/2018 by GregD

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > FRIDAY/ NOVEMBER 16, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

Jack White (also Nov.17)
at Kings Theater / 8PM, $
“We know who the first rock stars were, but who among this endangered species will be the last? Few candidates have made as resounding an argument as Jack White, with his dazzling guitar acumen, ghostly mystique, and, in a truly retro touch, sizable audience. Like his forebears, the musician also delights in taking creative leaps with sticky landings. Case in point: “Boarding House Reach,” his recent release, in which White casts aside his first loves—minimalism, analog—to engage with contemporary production, at times invoking the mad hedonism of P-Funk. After months of touring arenas, White and his backing quartet, which includes two keyboardists, squeeze into a theatre.” (Jay Ruttenberg,NewYorker)

=========================================================
7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> ‘VELOCITY’
>> ¡VAYA! 63: Andre Veloz
>> THE DOOBIE BROTHERS
>> ‘The Turn of the Screw’
>> Marcus Roberts Nonet
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE
>> Marc Ribot
Continuing Events
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

‘VELOCITY’
at the New Victory Theater / 7PM, $17+
“In this high-energy production, the much-lauded champion dancers James Devine and David Geaney look at the past, present and future of Irish dance. Featuring live music by a Celtic band, along with a D.J., “Velocity” — performed by Geaney, AnneMarie Keaney and Gabriella Wood — is a celebratory jam session and suitable for all ages.” (NYT-Gia Kourlas)
(also Nov. 17, 2 and 7 p.m.; Nov. 18, noon and 4 p.m.; through Nov. 25).

¡VAYA! 63: Andre Veloz
Opening set by DJ Youngeun
Atrium at Lincoln Center / 7:30PM, FREE
“Raised in the Dominican Republic, this Bronx-based bachatera brings her big voice and effortless soul to an evening of high-energy bachata infused with merengue, jazz, and more. The self-described “unicornio de la bachata,” whose viral hit “Eta Que Ta’ Aquí” took over the Dominican internet last winter, keeps the dance floor packed with her carefree charisma, feminine fearlessness, and killer band.”

Juilliard Opera presents Britten’s ‘The Turn of the Screw’ (also Nov.18, 2PM)
The Juilliard School, Peter Jay Sharp Theater / 7:30 pm $30
Steven Osgood, conductor Juilliard Orchestra

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS
at the Beacon Theater / 8PM, $50+
“The soft rock harmonizers will revisit two of their most iconic albums during their first run at the Beacon in 23 years. On both nights, the band will play 1972’s “Toulouse Street” and 1973’s “The Captain and Me” in their entirety — with some deep cuts that they’ve never performed live. But even casual fans should be pleased with the strict set list: Those albums feature some of the Doobies’ most memorable hits, including “Listen to the Music” and “Long Train Runnin’.” (NYT-NATALIE WEINER)

Marcus Roberts Nonet (Nov.13-18)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30PM, +10:30PM, $35
“The 1989 recording “Deep in the Shed”—the pianist Marcus Roberts’s second project as a bandleader, featuring the guest soloist Wynton Marsalis (under the alias E. Dankworth) and a cadre of fine young players—was a bracing affirmation of jazz essentials coated in the thick rhythms and tones of the blues. Roberts has used the ensuing decades to examine both historical and original jazz tangents. At his first Vanguard appearance in fifteen years, he revisits his opus with a nonet braced by six horns.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

TWYLA THARP DANCE
at the Joyce Theater (Nov. 15-16, 8 p.m.; through Dec. 9), $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Marc Ribot (Nov. 13-17)
The Stone at the New School, 55 W. 13th St. / 8:30PM, $20
“As socially conscious and politically active as he is musically inventive, the guitarist Marc Ribot is understandably piqued these days. How that will affect the intensity of his upcoming performances at this residency is anyone’s guess, but his solo recitals—featured Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 16—are generally special events. A duet with the pianist Anthony Coleman on Nov. 15 also has promise.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

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

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

More Smart Stuff coming soon.

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

Continuing Events

White Light Festival (through Nov.18)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.

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

NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):
================================================================================

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.
========================================================
“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. 
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/15) + GallerySpecialExhibits: Chelsea

Posted on 11/15/2018 by GregD

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > THURSDAY/ NOVEMBER 15, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS (also Friday)
at the Beacon Theater / 8PM, $50+
“The soft rock harmonizers will revisit two of their most iconic albums during their first run at the Beacon in 23 years. On both nights, the band will play 1972’s “Toulouse Street” and 1973’s “The Captain and Me” in their entirety — with some deep cuts that they’ve never performed live. But even casual fans should be pleased with the strict set list: Those albums feature some of the Doobies’ most memorable hits, including “Listen to the Music” and “Long Train Runnin’.” (NYT-NATALIE WEINER)

=========================================================
7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> BELA FLECK, ZAKIR HUSSAIN AND EDGAR MEYER
>> Emily King
>> No-No Boy
>> Y LA BAMBA
>> Marcus Roberts Nonet
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE
>> Marc Ribot
Continuing Events
>> Canstruction (LAST DAY)
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

BELA FLECK, ZAKIR HUSSAIN AND EDGAR MEYER
at the Town Hall / 8PM, $50+
“More than anything else, these three musicians are unified by their rejection of conventional genre boundaries. They’re well known among classical music aficionados for their 2009 collaboration with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, “The Melody of Rhythm,” but that release made it no easier to pin down their style. Meyer, a bassist, and Fleck, a banjoist, have both worked extensively in bluegrass; Hussain, a tabla player, first rose to fame performing Hindustani classical music but often collaborates with jazz musicians. In the end, trying to pin them down is futile: Each is a virtuosic talent, so any tradition they take on jointly winds up transformed.” (NYT-NATALIE WEINER)

Emily King
Apollo Theater, Harlem / 8PM, $40+
“NYC native Emily King makes anthemic, infectious R&B that often incorporates retro flavors, but always with a modern sensibility. She hits the Apollo in advance of a new album, Scenery, due out on ATO Records in February.” (TONY)

No-No Boy
Atrium at Lincoln Center / 7:30PM, FREE, but get there early for a seat.
“In this immersive, indie-folk concert, singer-songwriter Julian Saporiti and vocalist Erin Aoyama illuminate the Asian-American experience through song, storytelling, and imagery. Taking inspiration from interviews with World War II Japanese incarceration camp survivors, his own family’s history living through the Vietnam War, and many other stories of the Asian-American experience, Nashville-raised Saporiti has transformed his doctoral research at Brown University into folk songs to bring these stories to a broader audience. Alongside Aoyama, a fellow PhD student at Brown whose family was incarcerated at Heart Mountain, Wyoming—one of the 10 Japanese-American concentration camps—No-No Boy aims to shine a light on experiences that have remained largely hidden in the American consciousness.

Please join us for a post-show talk with artists Erin Aoyama and Julian Saporiti, moderated by Theodora Yoshikami.”

Y LA BAMBA
at Murmrr Ballroom / 9PM, $15
“Indie pop influenced by Mexican folk music might be the simplest way to describe Luz Elena Mendoza’s band, which this artist from Portland, Oregon, has fronted since 2007, but it doesn’t fully capture the seamlessness of that combination across the group’s five albums. Mendoza’s voice is the X factor, ranging from forceful and strong to bright, sweet and vibrato-filled as she sings in both English and Spanish. The result is music that’s global without sounding kitschy or like it’s lost its experimental edge.” (NYT-NATALIE WEINER)

Marcus Roberts Nonet (Nov.13-18)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30PM, +10:30PM, $35
“The 1989 recording “Deep in the Shed”—the pianist Marcus Roberts’s second project as a bandleader, featuring the guest soloist Wynton Marsalis (under the alias E. Dankworth) and a cadre of fine young players—was a bracing affirmation of jazz essentials coated in the thick rhythms and tones of the blues. Roberts has used the ensuing decades to examine both historical and original jazz tangents. At his first Vanguard appearance in fifteen years, he revisits his opus with a nonet braced by six horns.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

TWYLA THARP DANCE
at the Joyce Theater (Nov. 15-16, 8 p.m.; through Dec. 9), $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Marc Ribot (Nov. 13-17)
The Stone at the New School, 55 W. 13th St. / 8:30PM, $20
“As socially conscious and politically active as he is musically inventive, the guitarist Marc Ribot is understandably piqued these days. How that will affect the intensity of his upcoming performances at this residency is anyone’s guess, but his solo recitals—featured Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 16—are generally special events. A duet with the pianist Anthony Coleman on Nov. 15 also has promise.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

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

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

More Smart Stuff coming soon.

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

Continuing Events

Canstruction (LAST DAY)
Brookfield Place | Battery Park City / 10AM-8PM, FREE
“This annual cans-for-a-cause competition pits architecture teams against each other to create larger-than-life Pop Art–installations using more than 120,000 cans of nonperishable food, all in the name of ending hunger (every can is donated to City Harvest). Head down to Brookfield Place to see the unveiling of these engineering spectacles, all built overnight after months of planning, and check back to see if your favorite takes home any titles in judges’ categories like Best Use of Labels, Best Meal and Structural Ingenuity. Admission is free, but do your part by bringing the suggested donation of one canned good per person.” (TONY)

White Light Festival (through Nov.18)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

============================================================================
♦ 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
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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.
===========================================================

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 is one exhibition the New Yorker likes:

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 this 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.) “

=======================================================
For other selected Museum and Gallery Special Exhibitions see recent posts in right sidebar dated 11/13 and 11/011.

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

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/14) + Today’s Featured Pub (WestVillage)

Posted on 11/14/2018 by GregD

Today’s Elite 8 NYC Events > WEDNESDAY/ NOVEMBER 14, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

RHIANNON GIDDENS
at Symphony Space / 8PM, $45-$65
“The banjoist and singer has earned considerable acclaim and a MacArthur Genius grant through her work as both a dynamic folk performer and deft musical historian, reviving long-dormant strains of traditional American music without invoking a trace of golden age syndrome. That mission is reflected in the lineup for her four-show residency at Symphony Space, where she’s paying tribute to historical and contemporary women of color. Wednesday’s performance, titled “Sisters Past,” will pay homage to artists and activists like Nina Simone, Ethel Waters and Fannie Lou Hamer.” (NYT-NATALIE WEINER)

=========================================================
7 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> TWYLA THARP DANCE
>> SAM HARRIS TRIO
>> Les Pêcheurs de Perles
>> ‘GRAHAM DECONSTRUCTED: MARTHA’S MEN’
>> Marc Ribot
>>  Frankenstein and His Monster in Today’s World
>>  StarTalk Live!
Continuing Events
>> Canstruction
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

TWYLA THARP DANCE
at the Joyce Theater (Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 15-16, 8 p.m.; through Dec. 9), $60+
“Tharp takes inspiration from just about anything fit for a stage — from ballet to the circus to baton twirling — so she can sometimes feel like a stylistic maximalist. But early in her career, she caught the minimalism bug sweeping through the arts at the time. This nearly four-week engagement, called “Minimalism and Me,” focuses on works she created between 1965 and 1971. Among them are the now-classic “Tank Dive,” “The History of Up and Down” and “Eight Jelly Rolls,” a richly layered romp to music by the ragtime master Jelly Roll Morton.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

SAM HARRIS TRIO
at the Jazz Gallery / 7:30 and 9:30PM, $15
“Best known for his work in Ambrose Akinmusire’s groups, Harris, a pianist, will soon be on the jazz radar as a bandleader himself. This concert celebrates the release of “Harmony,” an album featuring a five-part suite performed by his trio. The record has a distinctive sound, at once unprecedented and nourished by a deep well of history. He plays roughly and beautifully, connoting both seriousness and indifference to decorum. His rich, carefully shaded harmonies draw equally on gospel, R&B and the avant-garde. He appears here with the trio from “Harmony”: the bassist Martin Nevin and the drummer Craig Weinrib.” (NYT-GIOVANNI RUSSONELLO)

Les Pêcheurs de Perles (The Pearl Fishers) (next Nov.17, 8PM)
Metropolitan Opera House / 7:30PM, $20+
“Penny Woolcock’s breathtaking production, a highlight of the 2015–16 season, makes its much awaited return with an all-star cast. Soprano Pretty Yende is the beautiful priestess Leïla, with tenor Javier Camarena and baritone Mariusz Kwiecien as rivals for her forbidden love. Emmanuel Villaume conducts Bizet’s sensual score.”

‘GRAHAM DECONSTRUCTED: MARTHA’S MEN’ (Nov.13-14)
at the Martha Graham Studio Theater / 7PM, $
“This season, the Martha Graham Dance Company is highlighting historical and contemporary ideas of femininity in Graham’s work. As a complement to that theme, this iteration of the company’s casual, intimate showcase series in its home studio focuses on Graham’s depiction of men by presenting male solos from classic works like “Cave of the Heart,” “Night Journey” and “Errand Into the Maze.” A preview of the revival of the 1962 comedic work “Secular Games” will also be performed. As usual, the artistic director Janet Eilber will offer context.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Marc Ribot (Nov. 13-17)
The Stone at the New School, 55 W. 13th St. / 8:30PM, $20
“As socially conscious and politically active as he is musically inventive, the guitarist Marc Ribot is understandably piqued these days. How that will affect the intensity of his upcoming performances at this residency is anyone’s guess, but his solo recitals—featured Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 16—are generally special events. A duet with the pianist Anthony Coleman on Nov. 15 also has promise.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

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

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

Frankenstein and His Monster in Today’s World
Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave./ 6:30PM, $15
“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein has held a place in the popular imagination for 200 years. Join us for an evening exploring two themes from the novel and their relevance to today’s world. First, discover ways the monster is represented in Queer art and how its descendants find their way into contemporary culture and media with Charlie Fox, author of This Young Monster. Next, Rosalind Williams, Bern Dibner Professor of the History of Science and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, talks about the conundrums posed in the novel—how can we exercise responsibility in a world of innovation beset by unintended consequences?

The exhibition It’s Alive! Frankenstein at 200 will open at 5:30 pm for program attendees.” (ThoughtGallery.org)

StarTalk Live!
Beacon Theatre, 2124 Broadway / 8PM, $37-$48
“StarTalk Live! returns to the Beacon with host Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-host Eugene Mirman and their special guests.

Other than a StarTalk Live! show, where else can you get your brain and your funny bone titillated at the same time? If you’ve ever been to a StarTalk Live!, you know how you can end up laughing so hard, you miss some of the science. (Never fear, we always record our shows for future podcasts.)

And, if you’ve never been to a StarTalk Live! show, especially one at the Beacon, what are you waiting for? What do you have against spending a night in a room filled with hundreds of fellow science and comedy lovers? The first time you hear an entire theatre unabashedly applauding for science, you know you’re where you belong.”

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

Continuing Events

Canstruction (Nov.02-15)
Brookfield Place | Battery Park City / 10AM-8PM, FREE
“This annual cans-for-a-cause competition pits architecture teams against each other to create larger-than-life Pop Art–installations using more than 120,000 cans of nonperishable food, all in the name of ending hunger (every can is donated to City Harvest). Head down to Brookfield Place to see the unveiling of these engineering spectacles, all built overnight after months of planning, and check back to see if your favorite takes home any titles in judges’ categories like Best Use of Labels, Best Meal and Structural Ingenuity. Admission is free, but do your part by bringing the suggested donation of one canned good per person.” (TONY)

White Light Festival (through Nov.18)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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.

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

Laurie Beechman Theatre – 407 W 42nd St.

Marie’s Crisis – 59 Grove 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 / West Village

Corner Bistro / 331 W. 4th St.

Sometimes you just need a beer and a burger. If so, Corner Bistro is the place you want. Located just outside the hip Meatpacking district, this corner bar and grill is decidedly unhip, but it’s not uncrowded, especially at night. Seems that everyone knows this place has one of the better burgers in town.

kac_120405_phude_corner_bistro_bar_1000-600x450In the maze of streets known as the West Village, where West 4th intersects with West 12th (and West 11th, and West 10th, go figure), you will eventually find Corner Bistro on the corner of West 4th and Jane Street. An unassuming neighborhood tavern, it looks just like dozens of other taverns around town.

The bartender tells me that the Corner Bistro celebrated it’s 50th anniversary last year. The well worn interior tells me that the place itself is much older.

Corner Bistro has outlasted many of those other taverns around town because they know how to keep it simple — just good burgers and beer, fairly priced. The classic bistro Burger is only $6.75, and should be ordered medium rare, which will be plenty rare for most folks. Actually, it will be a juicy, messy delight – make sure you have extra napkins. I like to pull up a stool and sit by the large front window in the afternoon, where I can rest my burger and beer on the shelf, and watch the Villagers walk by.

Corner Bistro seems to attract very different groups of patrons depending on time of day. While it’s crowded with locals in the evening, in the afternoon you hear different foreign languages, and watch groups of euro tourists wander in, led by their guidebooks and smartphones.

For the classic Bistro experience, order your burger with a McSorley’s draft, the dark preferably. This is the same beer that you can get over at the original McSorley’s in the East Village, the pub that claims to be the oldest continually operating bar in NYCity. The only difference is that this McSorley’s ale is served with a smile by the bartenders here. Or you can get a Sierra Nevada, Stella, or Hoegaarden on tap if you want to go upscale a bit. Either way this is a simple, but quality burger and beer experience that is just too rare these days (sorry for the pun).
=========================================================
Website: cornerbistrony.com
Phone #: 212-242-9502
Hours: 11:30am-4am Mon-Sat; 12pm-4am Sun
Happy Hour: NO
Music: Juke Box
Subway: #1/2/3 to 14th St. (S end of platform)
Walk 2 blk W. on 13th St. to 8th Ave.; 1 blk S. on 8th Ave. to Jane St.
Update:
==============================================================
“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.
===========================================================================
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/13) + Museum Special Exhibitions: Manhattan’s 5th Avenue

Posted on 11/13/2018 by GregD

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > TUESDAY/ NOVEMBER 13, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

Marc Ribot (Nov. 13-17)
The Stone at the New School, 55 W. 13th St. / 8:30PM, $20
“As socially conscious and politically active as he is musically inventive, the guitarist Marc Ribot is understandably piqued these days. How that will affect the intensity of his upcoming performances at this residency is anyone’s guess, but his solo recitals—featured Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 16—are generally special events. A duet with the pianist Anthony Coleman on Nov. 15 also has promise.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>>‘GRAHAM DECONSTRUCTED: MARTHA’S MEN’
>> Jim James
>>Marcus Roberts Nonet
>> Tosca
>>  Diagnosis: Literature
>> “The Science of Music”
Continuing Events
>> Canstruction
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

‘GRAHAM DECONSTRUCTED: MARTHA’S MEN’ (Nov.13-14)
at the Martha Graham Studio Theater / 7PM, $
“This season, the Martha Graham Dance Company is highlighting historical and contemporary ideas of femininity in Graham’s work. As a complement to that theme, this iteration of the company’s casual, intimate showcase series in its home studio focuses on Graham’s depiction of men by presenting male solos from classic works like “Cave of the Heart,” “Night Journey” and “Errand Into the Maze.” A preview of the revival of the 1962 comedic work “Secular Games” will also be performed. As usual, the artistic director Janet Eilber will offer context.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

Jim James
The Town Hall / 8PM, looks like a tough ticket, may need to use the secondary market.
“Jim James, leader of Louisville psych-roots-pop juggernaut My Morning Jacket, steps out for a gig at Town Hall to play his latest album Uniform Clarity—an acoustic version of his third proper solo LP Uniform Distortion. He is joined by special guests Alynda Segarra and Hurray For The Riff Raff.” (TONY)

Marcus Roberts Nonet (Nov.13-18)
Village Vanguard, 178 Seventh Ave. S., at 11th St./ 8:30PM, +10:30PM, $35
“The 1989 recording “Deep in the Shed”—the pianist Marcus Roberts’s second project as a bandleader, featuring the guest soloist Wynton Marsalis (under the alias E. Dankworth) and a cadre of fine young players—was a bracing affirmation of jazz essentials coated in the thick rhythms and tones of the blues. Roberts has used the ensuing decades to examine both historical and original jazz tangents. At his first Vanguard appearance in fifteen years, he revisits his opus with a nonet braced by six horns.” (Steve Futterman, NewYorker)

Tosca (next Nov.17, 1PM)
Metropolitan Opera House / 7:30PM, $30+
“Met favorite Sondra Radvanovsky and rising star Jennifer Rowley share the title role of the volatile diva at the heart of Puccini’s operatic thriller. Joseph Calleja brings his stylish tenor to the role of Cavaradossi, Wolfgang Koch is the nefarious police chief Scarpia, and Carlo Rizzi conducts Sir David McVicar’s resplendent production.”

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

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

# YeahYouWrite & The Arnold P. Gold Foundation Present Diagnosis: Literature
Bo’s Kitchen & Bar Room, 6 W. 24th St./ 6:30PM, FREE
“Prescribe yourself a trip to this #YeahYouWrite author reading exploring the doctor-patient relationship in fiction and non-fiction.

Feed your belly and your brain at #YeahYouWrite, a monthly author reading held in the dark and dreamy lounge at Bo’s Kitchen & Bar Room (6 W 24). Enjoy literary cocktails and dinner while authors read.

Afterwards enjoy the fun, rapid fire Q&A session, open mic, book sales, and book signing. #YeahYouWrite supports First Book through sales of our own literary cocktail recipe book.

Not exactly Manhattan’s WestSide, but this looks worth the detour:

“The Science of Music”
Subject, 188 Suffolk St./ 8PM, $18
“Music plays a central role in many people’s lives, both in terms of time and money spent on it. Yet, music is not necessary for survival – animals don’t make music; so why do all human cultures produce – and enjoy listening to it?

The emerging field of Music Psychology attempts to answer questions like that scientifically.
In this talk, Dr. Pascal Wallisch will address this and other questions, like “what is music?”, “why does it move us – but not others?”, “what does the music I like tell me about my personality?”, “does our love for music grow the more we listen to it?” and many more.
Some of the answers may surprise you!”

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

Continuing Events

Canstruction (Nov.02-15)
Brookfield Place | Battery Park City / 10AM-8PM, FREE
“This annual cans-for-a-cause competition pits architecture teams against each other to create larger-than-life Pop Art–installations using more than 120,000 cans of nonperishable food, all in the name of ending hunger (every can is donated to City Harvest). Head down to Brookfield Place to see the unveiling of these engineering spectacles, all built overnight after months of planning, and check back to see if your favorite takes home any titles in judges’ categories like Best Use of Labels, Best Meal and Structural Ingenuity. Admission is free, but do your part by bringing the suggested donation of one canned good per person.” (TONY)

White Light Festival (through Nov.18)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

==========================================================================
♦ 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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.

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

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)

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Hilma af Klint : Paintings for the Future (thru 02/03/19)

“Convinced that the world was not ready for her artistry in 1906, particularly as an underrepresented female in her field, af Klint of Sweden kept her work private. Her paintings anticipated by years “breakthroughs” by Kandinsky, Mondrian and others and were unseen before 1986. The Guggenheim rediscovers her.”

“Recognized as one of the art world’s earliest abstract painters, Hilma af Klint was a steadfast believer that her work was inspired by the spiritual. The new Guggenheim exhibition, “Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future,” showcases the work of this groundbreaking Swedish artist (1862-1944), whose work was rarely seen until the 1980s.” (Newsday)

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)

Delacroix  (Now-1/6/19)
“This is the first comprehensive U.S. retrospective of the work of French artist Eugene Delacroix (1798-1863). The Met has teamed up with The Louvre, showcasing in chronological order some 150 pieces, including paintings, drawings, manuscripts, and prints.” (cityguideny)

‘CROWNS OF THE VAJRA MASTERS: RITUAL ART OF NEPAL’ (through Dec. 16). “Up a narrow staircase, above the Met’s galleries of South and Southeast Asian art, are three small rooms of art from the Himalayas. The space, a bit like a treehouse, is a capsule of spiritual energy, which is especially potent these days thanks to this exhibition. The crowns of the title look like antique versions of astronaut headgear: gilded copper helmets, studded with gems, encrusted with repoussé plaques and topped by five-pronged antennas — the vajra, or thunderbolt of wisdom. Such crowns were believed to turn their wearers into perfected beings who are willing and able to bestow blessings on the world. This show is the first to focus on these crowns, and it does so with a wealth of compressed historical information, as well as several resplendent related sculptures and paintings from Nepal and Tibet. But it’s the crowns themselves, the real ones, the wisdom generators, set in mandala formation in the center of the gallery, that are the fascinators.” (NYT-Holland Cotter)

===========================================================
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 11/11 and 11/09.
=============================================================

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

NYC Events,”Only the Best” (11/12) + Today’s Featured Pub (Greenwich Village)

Posted on 11/12/2018 by GregD

Today’s Super 7 NYC Events > MONDAY/ NOVEMBER 12, 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, check the tab above:“NYC Events-November”
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:

ROBBINS CENTENNIAL
at New York City Center, Studio 5 / 6:30PM, $30
“The celebrations of the 100th anniversary of Jerome Robbins’s birth continue with an intimate series in City Center’s upstairs studio. Adrian Danchig-Waring, a New York City Ballet principal dancer, serves as the event’s master of ceremonies, introducing excerpts from works that Robbins created for City Ballet when it was in residence at the center in its early years. Monday’s performance is sold out, but there will be a standby line at the box office.” (NYT-Brian Schaefer)

=========================================================
6 OTHER TOP NYC EVENTS TODAY (see below for full listing)
>> Shaina Taub
>> MELANIE CHARLES
>> Jim Caruso’s Cast Party
>> Why Women Have Better Sex Under Socialism:
>>  The Life of Saul Bellow: Love and Strife 1965-2005
>> The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction”
Continuing Events
>> Canstruction
>> White Light Festival
>> Harry Potter: A History of Magic
========================================================

Music, Dance, Performing Arts

Shaina Taub
Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater / 7PM, $20
“Accomplished piano songstress and theater composer Taub, whose wrote the score for the Public Works productions of Twelfth Night and As You Like It, shares new material in her latest Joe’s Pub set. Though her musicianship sometimes outstrips her lyrics, there’s no doubt she’s a rising talent.” (TONY)

MELANIE CHARLES
at Dizzy’s Club / 7:30 and 9:30PM, $30
“Catch Charles, a vocalist and flutist, performing in a coffeehouse setting and you’ll be struck by the easy intimacy in her singing, lightly redolent of Roberta Flack. Hear her fronting a combo at a jazz club, and you’ll notice generations of tradition spring from her voice. Then flip on “The Girl With the Green Shoes,” an album she released last year, and you’ll find something else: a creative, dusty-groove blend of neo-soul and experimental hip-hop, a new kind of music that plays by its own rules.

At Dizzy’s, Charles presents a program she’s calling “Make Jazz Trill Again.” The name is a reference to hip-hop slang, but the band is stacked with young jazz talent, including the alto saxophonist Godwin Louis, the pianist Luke Carlos O’Reilly, the bassist Jonathan Michel and the drummer Charles Haynes. The alto saxophonist Rogerst Charles will appear as a special guest.” (NYT-GIOVANNI RUSSONELLO)

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)

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

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

Kristen R. Ghodsee | “Why Women Have Better Sex Under Socialism: And Other Arguments for Economic Independence”
The Half King, 505 W. 23rd St./ 7PM, FREE
“Ethnographer and Eastern Europe expert Kristen R. Ghodsee went viral with a Times op-ed on “Why Women Had Better Sex Under Socialism.” Monday night at The Half King she’ll speak on the book-length expansion of the essay, which includes chapters like “Women: Like Men, But Cheaper” and “What to Expect When You’re Expecting Exploitation.” (ThoughtGallery.org)

Author Reading |
The Life of Saul Bellow: Love and Strife 1965-2005
CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Ave., Room C200 /7PM, FREE; RSVP required
“Zachary Leader, in conversation with Martin Amis, on the second volume of Leader’s two-volume biography of Bellow. When this volume begins, Bellow, at forty-nine, is at the pinnacle of American letters – rich, famous, critically acclaimed. The expected trajectory is one of decline: volume 1, rise; volume 2, fall. Bellow never fell, producing some of his greatest fiction (Mr Sammler’s Planet, Humboldt’s Gift, all his best stories), winning two more National Book Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, and the Nobel Prize.”

Agora Presents “The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction”
W83 Ministry Center, 150 W. 83rd St./ 7PM, $10
“What if the most important parts of our life are the most invisible parts of our life? They are called habits. They are the thousand little actions we take every day that we don’t see because they are so normal, and yet they determine who we are and who we are becoming. In the words of Annie Dillard, “How we spend our days is how we spend our lives.”

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

Continuing Events

Canstruction (Nov.02-15)
Brookfield Place | Battery Park City / 10AM-8PM, FREE
“This annual cans-for-a-cause competition pits architecture teams against each other to create larger-than-life Pop Art–installations using more than 120,000 cans of nonperishable food, all in the name of ending hunger (every can is donated to City Harvest). Head down to Brookfield Place to see the unveiling of these engineering spectacles, all built overnight after months of planning, and check back to see if your favorite takes home any titles in judges’ categories like Best Use of Labels, Best Meal and Structural Ingenuity. Admission is free, but do your part by bringing the suggested donation of one canned good per person.” (TONY)

White Light Festival (through Nov.18)
“Lincoln Center’s annual White Light Festival, integrating performances from around the world in a cross-cultural extravaganza, will play six venues across the city.

The festival will include performances of Waiting for Godot from Ireland’s Druid Theatre Company, directed by Tony-winning director Garry Hynes—the first female to win a Tony Award for direction of a play.

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui brings Sutra to the stage, featuring martial arts from China’s Shaolin monks. Hip-hop, contemporary dance, and aerial work combine in the presentation of Borderline by Company Wang Ramirez. The U.S. premiere of Blak Whyte Gray, a mix of hip-hop and African-inspired movement, makes its way from across the pond to the Lincoln Center stage, as well as the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s chamber opera Only the Sound Remains, directed by Peter Sellars and starring Philippe Jaroussky and Davóne Tines.”

Harry Potter: A History of Magic (Now-1/27/19)
New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W.
“Gather round ye muggles and wizards, squibs and witches, tourists and natives: magic is on its way. Harry Potter: A History of Magic, commemorating the beloved series’s 20th anniversary, is now open at the New-York Historical Society. One of the most eagerly anticipated exhibits to hit the city since, well, ever, the show comes straight from the British Library in London, where, not surprisingly, it was the institution’s most successful exhibition.

Artifacts like crystal balls, Leonardo da Vinci notebooks, and the first written record of the magic word “abracadabra” are among the treasures on display, joined by original materials from author J.K. Rowling’s archives. Also on view to the public for the first time will be Mary GrandPré’s illustrations created for Scholastic’s original editions of the novels. Costumes and set models from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which opened on Broadway in April, will be showcased in the exhibition. A long list of events will take place in conjunction with the exhibit, including trivia night, talks, an adult costume party, and more.” (cityguideny)
Daily, except most Mondays, $21, $6 ages 5-13, free 4 and younger

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

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. (btw 6/7), thetownhall.org, 212-997-6661
Le Poisson Rouge – 158 Bleecker St., lepoissonrouge.com, 212-505-3474
Sony Hall – 235 W 46th St. (btw 7/8), sonyhall.com, 212-997-5123
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.

Alas, Caffe V is no more, another victim of a rapacious NYC landlord. Owner Ishrat fought the good fight and Caffe V will be sorely missed.

See Below.
———————————————————————————————————-

NYCity Vacation Travel Guide Video (Expedia):
=================================================================================

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.

CAFFE VIVALDI HAS CLOSED,  JUNE 23 WAS THE FINAL NIGHT. VERY SAD.
I HAVE LEFT THIS REVIEW ON MY SITE AS A KIND OF MEMORIAL.
As reported in the “Gothamist”:
“Caffe Vivaldi, one of the last bohemian bastions of the West Village, is set to close this weekend. During its 35 years on Jones Street, the casual cafe won the hearts of locals and celebs alike, including Oscar Isaac, Bette Midler, and Al Pacino.

Despite that friendly communal atmosphere, the owners ultimately struggled to survive under their notorious vulture landlord Steve Croman, who they say waged a harassment campaign against the restaurant, and eventually tripled their rent.”

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.
==============================================================
“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.
========================================================

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.

========================================================
“3 Good Eating places” focuses on a quick bite, what I call “Fine Fast Food – NYCity Style”
No reservations needed.
========================================================
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 SPRING 2019).
◊ Order before MAY 31, 2019 and receive a bonus – 27 of my favorite casual dining places with free Wi-Fi.

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