Best of New York

Spring is Looking Good

Theater

“On the Twentieth Century” is a smash revival from 1978 and a star vehicle for Kristen Chenoweth if ever there was one. Her comedic talent and presence are unforgettable (as is her singing) and the show moves at breakneck speed. The entire cast is terrific. This is a winner. Running Time: 2 hours, 30 min. (1 intermission). At the American Airlines Theatre, at 227 W. 42^nd St. Tickets: Ticketmaster.

Jay Armstrong Johnson and Alysha Umphress in "On the Town," a wonderful revival. Joan Marcus

“On The Town” is another great revival. Made famous by the film with Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra, the singing and dancing in this production are exceptional as is the Leonard Bernstein score with favorites like “New York, New York.” Running Time: 2 hours, 35 min. (1 intermission). At the Lyric Theatre, 223 W. 42^nd St. Tickets: 877 250-2829.

 

 

 

 

 

Alvin Ailey II's Aubree Brown and Jamal White. Eduardo Patino, NYC

Dance

Alvin Ailey II is a younger company of the famed Alvin Ailey Dance company and the long hours of rehearsal have obviously paid off. They have definitely graduated to the big time with their first season at the Joyce Theatre, a part of their worldwide tour. The New York season ran through March 22 at the Joyce Theatre, 8^th Ave and 19^th St. Tickets and info: AlvinAiley.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Park Avenue Symphony with Conductor David Bernard. Nanci Callahan

Music

Classical Park Ave. Symphony is celebrating its 50^th birthday. Imagine trying to manage a volunteer orchestra of over 100 musicians. Would it be like herding cats but with outstanding results? Their live performances are rare, but merit a visit. The performance at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Concert Hall was sensational, and their albums are available on I tunes.

The Jazz Dexter Gordon Celebration: Pianist George Cables, vibraphonist Joe Locke, (Edward Scissorhands must have been inspired by Joe’s amazing quad mallet skill), bassist Gerald Cannon and drummer Lewis Nash (who knew he could scat?) are the best of the best. Adding to the group were sax players Abraham Burton and Craig Handy, at Dizzy’s Coca Cola, part of Jazz at Lincoln Center. As all great musicians, they are constantly on the road so keep your eyes peeled for in-town engagements. In addition to great jazz at Dizzy’s, the duck gumbo is a killer. Info at jalc.org or the artists’ web sites.

Joe Locke is wizard on the vibraphone. Alexandros Lambrovasssilis

Cinema

“Difret” (“Courage” in the Ethiopian language. ) A moving narrative portrays a very real situation today in too many countries where young girls are taken from their families and forced into marriage. The film follows a young girl and her lawyer/mentor as they wage the battle for her life through the court system. Coming soon to a theatre near you! Check difret.com

 

Comments: Contact Nanci Callahan at [email protected]