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Seven Things I’m Looking Forward to in New York City!

In less than a week, I will be in the most fabulous place on earth, New York City! In my eager anticipation, I have written a list of things I’m psyched to check out on my upcoming visit. I’m counting down the days…

Camp Broadway Dance – Though I won’t make it to the program, a CB Dance class is going on over the exact same weekend that I’m there! This is an awesome opportunity to sharpen your dance skills and have a fantastic time! I wish I could be there.

Broadway shows! I have tickets to see Matilda and Once and I absolutely can’t wait. Naturally, this is the part of the trip I’m most excited about. I’ve been planning this part ever since my last trip. Last time I was in NYC was before Matilda opened. I tried to rush tickets to Once but was too late, so this time I’m thrilled to see both! I’ve heard such amazing things about both shows and can’t wait to be back and see them. Bonus: with some luck, I might be able to score some cheap student rush tickets to a third show! Now THAT would be fantastic.

Schmackary‘s – Once you’ve had a Schmackary’s cookie, no other cookie will ever compare. I’m ecstatic to visit this favorite bakery once again and enjoy some excellent cookies.

The High Line – This famous park is built on an old elevated railroad track. I haven’t been there before, so this is a first! I plan to meet some friends there, and maybe even spot a Broadway star or two… a girl can hope, right?

College tours! The main purpose of this (admittedly nerdy) blogger’s trip to New York is to tour some schools, namely Columbia University and New York University. These will be my first college trips, so I’m a little nervous, but mostly so excited about the prospect of going to school in this amazing city!

SHOPPING. My hometown isn’t exactly known for high style, so shopping for some fall and winter goodies while I’m in NYC is a must. For a list of the best stores, check out Rory’s post here!

The food! There are so many amazing restaurants in New York City, I can’t wait to eat there. Don’t be fooled by my petite stature- I can and WILL eat everything in sight. Watch out, NYC!

Overall, there are so many things about my upcoming trip that I just can’t wait to do! Do you have any suggestions about other things I could check out? What are your favorite things to do in New York City? Leave some suggestions in the comments!

Tony Nods on the Way? The Buzz-Worthy Performances to See this Broadway Season

Well, I’m excited.

Excited that we’ve got two Jason Robert Brown musicals coming down the pipe this season? Nope. Excited that Stroman has two shows on the way? Nope. How about that we’ve got revivals of both Les Miserables and Cabaret waiting in the wings. Nope, not at all.

Alright. I lied. All those things THRILL me! The vast smorgasbord that the Broadway gods are serving up in the 2013-14 Season gives me more energy than the ungodly amount of Pumpkin Spice Lattes that Manhattan consumes each fall. Still, that’s not the main reason I’m excited. Nope. No thanks to all that exposition, here’s the simple point: I’m excited for the incredible performances we’re sure to see this season.  As we all know, a show can sink or swim based on one performer alone.  Lucky for us, it’s looking like we’re going to have some floaters this year- too many to choose from! But, alas, I chose. Here’s ten performances to watch out for; performances that might just merit Tony nods come spring…

Cherry Jones in The Glass Menagerie
When I think of Cherry Jones, I think intensity. Whether it’s focus or passion, Cherry Jones brings it to every piece she graces. She’s mesmerizing, and beyond believable. I simply can’t wait to take in what I’ve been told is bound to be another award-winning performance from Ms. Jones in Tennessee Williams’ classic play.

Norbert Leo Butz in Big Fish
You already know how much I adore NLB if you read this. Well… You know what? That about covers it. Just read that.

Neil Patrick Harris in Hedwig and the Angry Inch
Well, duh.

Jessie Mueller in Beautiful
Unlike the hoards of people who claim they witnessed Carrie in 1988, I actually did see the super-short-lived-Harry-Connick-Jr.-driven-completely-confusing-and-psychedelic-gender-bending-revival of On a Clear Day You Can See Forever. It was… interesting. Yet, Jessie Mueller rose above and gave us show-stopping romance that has kept her working on Broadway ever since. Now, as Carole King in Beautiful? Trust me. There’s gonna be a lot of show-stopping over at the Stephen Sondheim.

The Cast of If/Then
I really should have picked one person… But how could I? Idina Menzel can’t take all the credit here. This killer ensemble paired with enthralling new material from Next to Normal‘s team? I smell Tony nominations! Plus, this cast has Chaplin‘s Jenn Colella, who, as we all know, was unfairly snubbed during last year’s nominations.  I’m still working through that with my therapist.

Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen in No Man’s Land & Waiting for Godot
Forget about the fact that you have two brilliant classics running in rep. You’ve got two of the greatest actors alive! It seems too perfect to be true. Forget about awards. I’m buying tickets purely for the nightly master class!

Andy Karl in Rocky
It’s about time we see Karl originate a leading role in a musical, and the casting is perfect! There’s no doubt, he’s got quite a show to carry on his back. But, I’m putting my faith in Karl. I’m willing to bet he’s got some raw emotion hidden up his sleeve… or boxing glove.

Condola Rashad in Romeo and Juliet
Sure, Orlando Bloom is causing the all-to0-necessary hoopla surrounding this high profile revival. But, Condola Rashad is the one I’m going to see. The fact is, I love Romeo and Juliet on paper. But, I’ve never been satisfied with it on stage.  Why? Partly due to the fact that most Juliets are a bit too lovestruck-annoying-teenager for my liking. We’re supposed to be upset that she dies… right? Well, you get the point. But, Rashad is a pro that’s genial and grounded. She might be just what the play needs!

Zachary Levi in First Date
Simply put, Levi is THE reason to see First Date. He’s quirky. He’s charming. He’s exactly who the Tony voters should remember next spring.

Sebastian Arcelus in A Time to Kill
Arcelus as a lawyer? In a new play by Rupert Holmes? Sign me up. Arcelus is under-appreciated, having managed to elevate a significant amount of not-so-good material on Broadway over the years.  I can’t wait to see him take on this meaty role. Let the appreciation begin!

Alan Cumming in Cabaret
If you’ve suffered through all of my banter, and have payed any attention to how many people I’ve discussed, you then know that I’m cheating. This is, in fact, number eleven. Well, say whatever you want, but I had to include Alan Cumming! He’s reprising the role that won him a Tony… the role that introduced this genius to Broadway audiences… the role that many use to define his stage career… the role that… you get the picture. To get back to the beginning and all that indulgent exposition: I’m excited.

Places to Eat in NYC, John’s Pizzeria, Junior’s, more!

Whether it’s pre-show, post-show, or a no-show kind of day in New York, there are thousands of places to catch a bite. One of the best things about the city is that there is literally every kind of you food can think of and you can get something great to eat 24/7. My number one tip when it comes to eating in NYC is to avoid chain restaurants if you can because there are hundreds of eateries you can’t get anywhere else. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places to grab a meal when you’re in town!

John’s Pizzeria (260 W. 44th St.) – I feel like it’s illegal to visit New York and not have a slice of pizza. This is my first-choice for pizza with its fresh ingredients, prime location, and many options to share with friends (no slices). The building used to be a church, so th interior is gorgeous. After seeing it featured on a Food Network program, my family and I checked it out and have been going back ever since.

Tony’s DiNapoli (147 W. 43rd St.) – This family-styled Italian restaurant offers huge portions of delicious dishes to share. You get the feeling like you’re having a huge home-cooked meal with your family. Tony’s DeNapoli also features a Broadway Wall of Fame with portraits of theatrical shows and stars aligning the walls.

Junior’s (corner of Shubert Alley and W. 45th St.) – Known for their desserts (and rightfully so), Junior’s also offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, steaks, and more. My personal favorite menu items include the macaroni and cheese and the meat dishes. But when it comes to dessert, this place literally takes the cake with two dozen options. My favorite is the double chocolate chocolate layer cake because you can never have too much chocolate. Seating is offered on an outdoor patio when the weather is nice and overlooks some of Broadway’s best theatres.

Speaking of outdoor seating, New World Plaza (W. 50th St. between 8th Ave. and 9th Ave.)  hosts two great eateries – Blockheads and Mother Burger. Blockheads focus on Mexican dishes like burritos, quesadillas, and nachos while Mother Burger specializes in their four food groups: burgers, hot dogs, fries, and beer. Both options are great for an afternoon bite or drinks at night with a full bar and highlighted bulldog alcoholic beverage (which is deliciously refreshing).

One of the first places I went to eat before a show was Ellen’s Stardust Diner (1650 Broadway at 51st St.). Any diner features food from a similar menu, but Ellen’s has the added bonus of a singing waitstaff — many have gone on to appear on Broadway! My friends and I always sing along with the staff and have a great time as an appetizer to a show.

Lastly, no trip of mine to NYC is complete without a trip to Schmackary’s (W. 45th St. and 9th Ave.), featured as one of Camp Broadway’s favorite things. With a cookie menu that features classic flavors and bold new flavors, they have something for everybody. I love putting a bag of cookies into my purse to enjoy when my trip to New York is done; my family has gotten into a habit of asking for a piece themselves!

These are only a few of the many eateries New York City has to offer. Even though these are my favorites, I’m always looking for new places to check out. What are some of your favorite places to eat in NYC?

Camp Broadway’s Spotlight On: Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba has been gaining notoriety on the acclaimed Netflix series, Orange Is The New Black. (The series is based on a memoir by Piper Kerman of the same title chronicling her experiences in a New York prison and is for mature audiences.) Aduba plays Suzanne Warren, known by the nickname “Crazy Eyes,” described as a slightly unhinged prisoner who develops an obsession with Piper Chapman, the series’ main character. With the announcement that Aduba will be promoted to a series regular for the second season, we are sure to see more of this theatrical-rooted talent on our screen.

While the rest of the world is only discovering her, theater fans have known and loved Uzo Aduba for a number of years. She moved from Massachusetts to New York to pursue her dream and was seen in New York Theater Workshop’s production of The Seven in early 2006. Gaining some regional credits, including The Kennedy Center’s production of Translations of Xhosa which earned her a Helen Hayes Award nomination, she made her Broadway debut in the short-lived drama Coram Boy as Toby. She later went on to earn two IRNE Award nominations for her work in Dessa Rose (New Repertory Theatre) and A Civil War Christmas (Huntington Theatre Company). Her most recent Broadway appearance was in the revival of Godspell, where she sang “By My Side” (click here to listen to the song on the cast recording). She remained with the production for its entire run.

Last summer, I became a part of the street team for the short film “Sing Along” and helped to spread the word about the film’s Kickstarter fundraising efforts. Uzo Aduba was one of the film’s stars, alongside Tony Award-winner Alice Ripley and Billy Elliot’s Myles Erlick. She played the role of the cafeteria lady and had a solo song in the film. In the fall when the director needed extras to play students, I took the opportunity and got to experience her work first-hand. Aduba was completely captivating on-set, fully belting along to her recorded track. All of the extras stood back behind the camera to watch her work and applauded after each take.

Earlier this year, Aduba appeared in The Public Theater’s production of Venice. Soon after the run ended, Orange Is The New Black premiered on Netflix. The second season is currently shooting and early reports say we will learn more about the story of “Crazy Eyes.” I’m excited to see more of Uzo Aduba on my screen and to see where else her talent will take her.

Follow Uzo Aduba on Twitter!

Let’s Hear it For The Techies!

I know, I know. It’s been said a million times, but I’d like to reinforce it again: Techies are the unsung heroes of theater. Without them, nobody could put on a production half as brilliant. They are the forces that allow theater to happen. They build, rig, and illuminate our sets. We’re talking about stage managers, board operators, sound technicians, wardrobe staff, and all of the backstage workers and engineers who, let’s face it, are way more crucial to a show than any actor. Above all, stagehands and backstage workers deserve more recognition. So with that in mind, I’ve created a list of the top ten reasons I appreciate “Techies.”

10. They can turn a theater from plain to fabulous in a matter of days. They’re responsible for the incredible sets that truly add to the theater experience.

9. They have magnificent imaginations. They dream up and create props, sets, and costumes to bring shows to life, all from their own artistic vision.

8. They create breathtaking costumes. From high school productions to Tony winning shows, costumes are a key element in a great production. And you know who to thank for that.

7. They have stellar attention to detail. Whether it’s creating a lifelike set or doing stage makeup, Techies have an eye for the details that make theater believable.

6. They allow us to be heard. We so often take for granted the amazing (and complicated) sound systems in our theaters. Without the hard work backstage, theaters would be awfully quiet.

5. They work because they love it. They don’t get fans or sign autographs at stagedoors. Techies are integral parts of productions and they do their work for the good of the theater.

4. They’re practically ninjas. They wear all black and move quickly and silently. Think about it…

3. They know what every little button on the sound board does. I can’t even remember what all the buttons on my laptop do.

2. They can transform us. With the help of Techies and the magic they possess, people can transform into flowers or animals or dancing silverware. It’s truly the magic of theater.

1. They do it all without a single complaint.

So thank you to every Techie out there- whether you operate the spotlight in your high school productions or stage manage the Nederlander, thank you for your commitment to the theater.

BCEFA Flea Market 2013

Every year, Broadway cleans its closets, cast members get together and bake, and Shubert’s Alley turns into a Broadway lover’s dream.  It’s a great chance for Broadway lovers and Broadway performers to join together and raise money for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. And while it’s different every year, from the ever changing autograph tables and photo booth, and the shows that come out-the feeling in the air is the same-and everyone walks away with a smile!

I go every year for my birthday and every year I walk away with great one-of-a kind items! And this year was no different! The only difference for me this year is I focused more on the individual show tables rather than the autograph and photo booth.

Jumping from Rock of Ages, seeing the baby llama up for sale, and going immediately to the Pippin table, I couldn’t stop the grin on my face! Especially because I brought my theatre-loving friend who had never been there before. Watching him experience his first flea market made me fondly remember mine!

While I didn’t meet anyone at the autograph table, I did go to the Unbroken Circle table and met Seth Rudetsky and even won a month of “Seth TV”! We also met and made friends with Richie Ridge, the host of Broadway Beat!

I also walked away with a lot of great finds! Playbills from Wit, Relatively Speaking, Man of La Mancha, and Barnum. Visiting the Wicked table, I bought a mint chocolate brownie, and from The Lion King I bought something the cast deemed “Kitty Crack”, chocolate and butterscotch covered bits of rice krispie treats!

I bought a newspaper prop from Pippin, lots of Broadway Bares DVDs, and even Joey Taranto’s name plate from Rock of Ages.

Whether you stayed at the autograph tables and photo booth, visited with the shows at their own booths, or went to the auction at the end-this year’s BCEFA Flea Market was a great success and I walked away with another giant grin on my face! See you all next year!

Fun Bob Fosse Facts

In honor of the choreographer Bob Fosse, today’s post will be dedicated to “Fun Fosse Facts”- little tidbits of information that may one day save your life in a heated round of Jeopardy.

Fosse was born in 1927, the same year that The Jazz Singer came out as one of the first films to feature talking, marking the decline of the silent film era.

Fosse toured with a show called Tough Situation which played for military and navel bases. He later accredited some of his technique and development of his style to the time he spent touring with this show.

Fosse won nine Tony Awards, was nominated for four Academy Awards (of which he won one), and an Emmy Award. In 1973, Fosse became the first person to win all three awards in one year.

Fosse’s common use of hats in his choreography can be accredited to the fact that he started balding early.

Fosse portrayed a snake in the 1974 film adaptation of The Little Prince at the request of his daughter, who enjoyed the book.

In Fosse’s film version of Cabaret, Liza Minnelli wore green nail polish.

Fosse died in 1987, moments before the revival of his own show Sweet Charity opened. Fosse was on the way to the production when he died.

The Return of the Tommy Tune

The return of the Tune! No, I’m not talking about musical tunes.  Rather, I want to discuss the long awaited return of the aptly named Tommy Tune – one of the most influence director/choreographer/performers in the history of the Great White Way.  A few weeks ago, Michael Riedel wrote in the NY Post that Tune might be on the brink of making a Broadway comeback… and I say, “Yes, Please!”

Tune is a legend. In fact, he has been designated a “living landmark,” and he is now celebrating his 50th year in show business! Best known for his hit shows including Nine, My One and Only, Grand Hotel, and The Will Rogers Follies, he has racked up an impressive nine Tony Awards.  As if that weren’t incredible enough, two of those Tony Awards are actually for Best Actor and Best Featured Actor.  A man of seemingly endless talent, it’s not uncommon for Tune to direct, choreograph, and star in his productions.

Now, he is continuing that tradition with his new autobiographical show Steps in Time.  He has been touring around the country, time-stepping his way into the hearts of the old and young alike with his incredible life story.  At 74 years old, he’s still a remarkable, unparalleled performer. (You may have also noticed him from his cameo in season 4 of Arrested Development.)

Still, wouldn’t we all love to see a new big, brassy musical from Tommy Tune? Luckily, it looks we might sometime soon.  According to Riedel, he’s got two projects in the works.  First, he has recently caught a performance of the West End musical, Top Hat.  I adored this production, and I can only hope that Tune agrees to jump on board.  I’m sure he would bring a miraculous new life to the piece.  Secondly, he has been developing a new musical about the history of New York’s most famous club, Studio 54.  Sound familiar? Studio 54 is now converted into one of Roundabout‘s Broadway houses, and is located above the quickly growing cabaret space, 54 Below.  With all the 54 love both now and in the past, it appears that this could be a project just bound to make it to NYC.  At least, I’m crossing my fingers.

While we wait, binge-watching Tommy Tune clips on Youtube will just have to do.  If nothing else, take a look at this video in which Tune discusses his show Steps in Time. At one point, he mentions the fact that the core of a successful musical is a strong book that is able to encapsulate the audience’s attention and emotions.  Coming from someone known as a song-and-dance man, this proves that Tune is so much more than a dancer.  Rather, he’s a master storyteller, and that is why Tune is a household name today. Here’s to his return!

Photo via Joy2Learn

What to Expect at a Chorus Call Audition

When people hear the word ‘chorus call’, immediately images of ‘A Chorus Line’ flash into their heads. And while this image is right to an extent—it’s a bit exaggerated. Here’s what to really expect when you go to a chorus call.

First off all, unlike normal auditions—guys outnumber girls here. There are a lot more male chorus line dancers than there are women. When you get in, you will be in a holding room, where if you’re a good dancer, you will use this time to stretch and warm up. This is not really the time to be talking. You need all of your focus to go to what you are waiting to do. Get there super early or you’ll be waiting forever to get inside.

After that, they line people up and they make you stretch again. But, like I said before, this is something you should have been doing regardless while you were waiting to be lined up.

At this point, you will hand in your headshot and resume, and be given a number. Remember the number, or hold onto it if it’s given to you on paper. Then, there’s more waiting.

When your number is called, and they will call you along with fifteen to thirty people at a time to go inside, you go into the dance room and wait some more. From that point, you are either told to show them a specific style of dance, or you will be taught a combination from the show, that you will run through a few times.

Now, here’s where it gets tricky. At that point, just like in the show, they will begin weeding people out, asking people to either stay or leave. If you’re asked to stay, you will either be taught another combination, or you will need to show them what you just learned—except this time, you might have to do it by yourself. The director, casting director, choreographer need to make sure you can keep up on your own!

From there, you may or may not be asked to sing a selection from the show, or the song you’ve prepared (chorus line audition or not-you prepare a song to sing! Better to be over prepared than missing something!)

That’s it. That’s what a chorus call actually, truly looks like. I hope you get it!