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Danielle Niecey

HEAR YE! AUDIBLES THEATER PRESENTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF: “GOOD ENEMY”

by Danielle Niecey November 11, 2022

written by Danielle Niecey

Wednesday, November 2, 2022. Minetta Lane, Manhattan, New York – I attended Audible Theater’s newest play, “Good Enemy”, written by Audible Theater’s emerging Playwright, Yilong Liu and directed by Obie Award winner, Chay Yew. A father is conflicted once he discovers that closing the doors of his past has caused him to alienate himself from his daughter in the play Good Enemy.

Alec Silver as Dave and Francis Jue as Howard (Photo Credits: Joan Marcus, 2022)

Yilong Liu’s atmospheric new play, sets the opening scene with two bickering men en route a cross-country road trip. With the aid of his daughter’s aimless ex-boyfriend, Dave, performed by Alec Silver (Temping), Howard, played by lead actor, Francis Jue, acts impulsively and makes a cross country road trip from California to New York to surprise his daughter, Momo, played by Geena Quintos, (SoftPower, Emojiland). After coming across scantily clad posts on Momo’s Tik-Tok account, Howard immediately expresses his concern by showing up on her doorstep, unannounced. To her frustration, and his disdain, Howard also discovers his college-aged daughter is a young woman of his own (and her late mother’s) heart; inserting herself into political social causes that could jeopardize her life.

Howard’s internal war forces him to confront the dynamics of their relationships as a result of his reluctance to share the memories of his life as a young man in Communist controlled China. As a father, he is faced with the shame of his past and the possible accusation of treason and disloyalty to his own country. Howard wants to keep Momo safe and warns her of the dangers in taking part in political protests, even peaceful demonstrations, for the sake of her “being a voice” for a world that will not hesitate to silence hers.

Francis Jue as Howard and Geena Quintos as “Momo” (Photo Credits by: Joan Marcus, 2022)

This play was beautifully written and wonderfully depicted by each of the actors, each character haunted with their own battle of “Good” vs evil “Enemy” struggle. The minimalistic backdrop on stage allowed the attention to remain centered on the actors who were tasked to use the inflection of voice, synergy of their interactions, and vivid imagination to paint the scene for the viewing and listening audience. The storyline explored human connections in various ways; from the western influences regarding cohabitation when Howard discovers Momo has a “white- live in boyfriend”, performed by actor Ryan Spahn (Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow); whose comedic verve reminded us of the many great ways to use Google; to the discomfort Howard faced recapping how he met, courted and fell for Momo’s mother, Jiahua portrayed by Jeena Yi (Network, Somebody’s Daughter) who gave an engaging performance; and

Jeena Yi as Jiahua and Tim Liu as young Hao (Photo credits: Joan Marcus, 2022)

commanding officer Xiong, played by Ron Domingo (The American Pilot, “As The World Turns”) internal war centered on a man who was socially and politically forced to repress his sexual nature to survive and protect his family from being shamed, arrested or murdered.

Good Enemy intermingles the age old tale and trial of two generations, two continents, worlds apart in their values, yearning to find common ground for the greater good of all. Good Enemy illustrates a lesson in creating boundaries for our self evident truths and the distances we travel, figuratively and geographically to ensure our right of the freedom to shape our lives any way we want. The overarching message I gathered from this play is that neither government nor governing bodies (parents, legal guardians and those in authoritative roles) can deny us our innate need to find peace in our selves, even to the point of risking our lives.

Tim Liu as young Hao & Ron Domingo as commanding officer Xiong (photo credits: Joan Marcus, 2022)

Tim Liu (“Nepotism”) as Hao, the character whose storyline reveals the earlier days of Howard’s life leading up to his escape as a political refugee and rogue militant, does a splendid job in warming our hearts up to favoring the and understanding the stern nature he adopts in his latter years.

Good Enemy features scenic design by Junghyun Georgia Lee, costume design by Mel Ng, lighting design by Reza Behjat, sound design by Mikhail Fiksel and fight/intimacy direction by Dave Anzuelo/Unkle Dave’s Fight-House. Casting by X Casting Victor Vazquez, CSA. Merrick AB Williams is the production stage manager. Technical supervision is by Hudson Theatrical Associates with general management by Baseline Theatrical‘s Andy Jones and Jonathan Whitton.

Good Enemy (runtime 1 hour & 45 minute) is showing at 18 Minetta Lane (between Bleecker and West 3rd Street), New York, NY and will be playing from the dates of October 25th – November 27th at Minetta Lane Theater, the home of Audible Theatre!

November 11, 2022 0 comments

The Must Watch HBO Documentary Film: “Say Hey Willie Mays!”

by Danielle Niecey November 10, 2022

written by Danielle Niecey 8 Minutes read

Thursday, October 27, 2022, Manhattan, New York. HBO Documentary Films and Urbanworld Film Festival – hosted an exclusive screening for, “Say Hey, Willie Mays!” at the SVA Theater (located at 333 W 23rd Street in Manhattan, New York). The production runs in association with UNINTERRUPTED, Zipper Bros Films, and the Major League Baseball franchise to curate and celebrate one of baseball’s most renowned players, the living legend, and Baseball’s oldest living Hall of Famer, Willie Howard Mays Jr.

The film “Say Hey Willie Mays!” is directed by Nelson George and produced by Colin Hanks, Sean Stuart and Glen Zipper; Executive producers from UNINTERRUPTED include LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Jamal Henderson, Philip Byron and Major League Baseball’s Nick Trotta. With his career that spanning over 25 years, “Say Hey Willie Mays!” tells the story of the MLB icon, Willie Mays Jr, the discovery of his life calling in Baseball and emphasizes the fulfillment this path afforded him. The film covers Mays’ early career, where he began his profession in the Negro minor leagues; his draft by the US Army during the Korean War (1952 – 1953 ) shortly after being signed to the, then New York Giants; his impressive record setting career stats, that are compared to Babe Ruth’s; the highs (and the self-reflective times) of his life, and how he changed the face of baseball for the world.

Athleticism runs in Mays’ blood. His story begins in Westfield, Alabama; the living legend co-narrates the film which speaks highly of his father, Cat Mays, who raised him after he and Willie’s mother separated. Cat Mays played an integral part in young Mays’ development as an athlete and his sportsmanship. Willie’s father, Cat Mays, a talented baseball player himself, participated in a local baseball team in Fairfield. His mother, Annie Satterwhite, also a skilled athlete, chose to run track and play basketball while she attended school. As a natural athlete, Mays explored an array of sports from basketball, to even becoming a quarterback for his school’s football team. Ultimately, his heart found its home in Baseball. His professional career as a baseball player began before he finished high school at the tender age of 17 with the Birmingham Black Barons, a minor league that initiated him into the, then, Negro American League. Despite all of the social commotion and cultural norms separating people of color from experiencing a more robust life, it was impossible to hide a light as bright as Mays. On the field Mays shone, and was scouted by several major leagues before he was of legal age to commit to a professional Major league team. Mays eventually signed to the New York Giants in 1950 and it is here that the world begins to take notice of Willie Mays Jr!

As the story continues, the world kept a close eye on this gifted athlete as he literally swept the nation westward; branching his career from the East Coast and playing for teams as far out as California. He even inspired younger athletes, such as his godson, Barry Bonds; to walk in his footsteps. Mays would go on to become the Rookie of The Year (1951); becoming an MVP player after closing in on 41 home runs and leading his team to win the World Series Championship of 1954-1955 thanks to his infamous “Catch” from a fly-ball hit by Vic Wertz of the Cleveland Indians.

The film also highlights Mays as a star off the field. His natural charm and mild-mannered temperament opened doors for him to meet high ranking public officials, political and national figures and receive special honors. Mays was featured in mainstream television, where his early media appearances on “The Donna Reed Show”(1964-1966); “The Colgate Comedy Hour Self”(1954) reaffirmed the benevolent narrative that surrounds him and set the trajectory for his star-studded career in and out of Major League Baseball.

Although the documentary is filled with gems and life principles, one of the most inspiring aspects of this film is Mays’ diplomacy and his work ethic, which he allowed to speak for the man that he was raised to be. He never lost sight of his mission to excel or perform at his best, even when facing discrimination. He never let the outside noises or distractions become the “thing” that branded his career. He had a gift of not taking things personal, remaining focused, rooted and being noted by his colleagues as a very reserved man, even in the face of personal and career scrutiny. The film makes reference to fellow MLB icon, Jackie Robinson, who accused him of “selling out” and “not doing enough for the advancement of black people”. With class, poise and dignity, Mays responded to his statement and made it clear that he successfully led his own quiet revolution for his people and many others. The film backs this evident truth by highlighting community involvement, charitable works, his impact on every community he’s stepped foot in; his accolades and praises from public figures and his dedication to his craft. Mays clearly inspired and opened doors for people of various nationalities to enter the league and never once did he care what the color of their skin was.

Willie Mays Jr loved what he did, and played with love. The film does an extraordinary job highlighting these wonderful qualities about him.

Other special film appearances included his protégé, Barry Bonds, the son of baseball legend Bobby Bonds.

Chuck D of Public Enemy Nick Trotta, Colin Hanks, Nelson George, Michael Mays, Sean Stuart and Jamal Henderson. Credit: HBO/GETTY IMAGES

The special guest in attendance for the HBO Documentary screening included film-contributor and Hip Hop Legend, Chuck D of Public Enemy (who I was so thrilled to have met); Nick Trotta, Colin Hanks, Nelson George, Michael Mays, Sean Stuart and Jamal Henderson.

The new HBO documentary for, “Say Hey Willie Mays!” aired on HBO Nov. 8, 2022 and is available on HBO Max.

I highly recommend it!

November 10, 2022 0 comments

Entertainment Film The Latest

On The Scene: “A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” Screening

by Danielle Niecey November 9, 2022

written by Danielle Niecey

Co-Head of HBO Documentary & Family Programming, Nancy Abraham, introduces the HBO Documentary Film “A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” October 20, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for HBO)

There wasn’t a dry eye in the theater the night of October 20th, 2022; including mine. I can typically bypass the daunting task of processing tear jerking emotions altogether. My avoidance usually works best when I misplace an item of clothing or if something I wanted doesn’t come to fruition and I do my best to not get upset about it. I rationalize my way around minor, non-life threatening annoyances such as these once I find the logic behind it all. However, there is one annoying experience that I’ve encountered (and unfortunately, still do from time to time) that I’ve yet to find the logic behind. That major annoyance is Racism. It doesn’t make sense to me at all. It will never make sense to me that the fears and misconceptions about a group of people or persons could incite hate and premeditated acts of violence.

Rabbi Hazzan Jeffrey Myers attends a special screening for the HBO Documentary Film “A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for HBO)

On October 20th, 2022, I attended the exclusive HBO screening in Manhattan, New York for “A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” nationally phrased as, ‘The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting’. The screening opened with remarks by director Trish Adelsic and producer Susan Margolin. Rabbi Hazzan Jeffrey Myers led the audience in a moment of silence and thoughtful prayer. On the cusps of the 4th anniversary, the screening was a beautiful event to remember the innocent men and women lost and celebrate their lives. The tragic events of the day unfolded, a little over 4 years ago, on the morning of October 27, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 22 defenseless Jewish worshippers became the targets of a anti-semitist terrorist attack. The lone suspect, Robert Gregory Bowers, armed himself with a Colt AR-15 SP1, semi-automatic assault rifle and 3-Glock .357 handguns, entered into the synagogue during their time of devotional prayer and open-fired on the unassuming congregation. In his wake of destruction, 11 victims of this mass shooting survived, many with injuries and lingering cases of PTSD from the incident; 11 of the victims did not survive the attack of the gunman.

Co-Head of HBO Documentary & Family Programming, Nancy Abraham, introduces the HBO Documentary Film “A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” on October 20, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for HBO)

The documentary film was created by award-nominated and Emmy-winning director Trish Adlesic, a Pittsburgh native, and was Executively produced by Michael Keaton, Billy Porter, and Mark Cuban among others (which include, D.J. Gugenheim, Geeta Gandbhir, Elliott Joseph, Lloyd Myers, Lauran Bromley, Michele Fetting, and Charlie Friday). The documentary film delves into the aftermath of the Squirrel Hill community, a quaint town in Pittsburgh, whose foundation was shaken by this heinous act against humanity. The film highlights the resilience that helped the community band together across the divides of culture, religion and racial differences to mourn the innocent victims who lost their lives.

Special Guests Kate Diaz and Idina Menzel with Director Trish Adelsic

“A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting”, alarms the world to the prejudicial violence that threatens our sense of security; and the film takes an expansive look at the hate-based crisis in the United States, stemming from the political climate in our country and it stands up to the ideals that are presently causing the moral decay of humanity. Adlesic does a remarkable job balancing the focus on the impacts of Anti-Semitism in America being as problematic a concern nationally as it is on a global scale; she skillfully illustrates the impacts of Anti-Semetic views, propaganda and how these global issues change the lives of well-meaning people that we interact with day to day.

On a brighter note, the film sends the uplifting message that “love wins”. The documentary film interviews both survivors, their families and members of the community that rose to the occasion to serve as the balm for the healing of the Jewish community in Squirrel Hill. The story of the attack is told through voices from the community, including Carol Black, Dr. Joseph Charny, Anthony Fienberg, Audrey Glickman, Daniel Leger, Wasi Mohamed, Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, Brad Orsini, Rabbi Jonathan Perlman, Michele Rosenthal, Diane Rosenthal, Augie Siriano, Ellen Surloff, Andrea Wedner, Stephen Weiss and Barry Werber.

Wasi Mohamed attends a special screening for the HBO Documentary Film “A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for HBO)

Special guests of the screening included HBO Executives, Nancy Abraham and Lisa Heller; Idina Menzel and Kate Diaz, who share a song featured in the film; film-featured American Classical Musician and Jazz Trumpeter, Hannibal Lokumbe; and film featured Senior Policy Officer and community advocate Wasi Mohamed, a life-long Pennsylvania resident and community advocate committed to changing systems and structures that perpetuate poverty and inequity.

For me, the most eye opening aspect of this film was the perspective that it afforded me. As a spectator, I was a witness to racism and not as the victim. Very rarely have I been a witness to racial crimes that weren’t targeted and directed towards BIPOC. Adlesic’s film offered me a unique and freeing insight about racism by educating me on the ongoing struggles of the Jewish communities in America. I was able to experience the vulnerability and helpless feeling of wanting to free a targeted group of people from the experience of being discriminated against, but found myself not knowing how to convince their attacker of the fault in their logic. This film taught me that prejudice and hate crimes all mimic the same behavioral pattern; an the unwillingness of a racist person to see life outside of their own perspective; the spread of misinformation, the continuance of indoctrinating fear-based rhetoric into the next generation; lack of gun-control laws, the lack of mental health and hygiene; and that hatred along with the crimes it inspires are not an exclusive struggle to one race, color or creed, as an experience. It is my hope that films such as, “A Tree Of life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” can be a major part of the catalyst that helps our country and the world to stop these attacks and heal us all from our fear-driven, limiting beliefs.

“A Tree Of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” aired on Wednesday, October 26th, 2022 on HBO and is available to stream on HBO Max.

November 9, 2022 0 comments

Lifestyle The Latest

Cozy At The CODA: Coda Williamsburg Hosts Its Grand Opening 10/12/22

by Danielle Niecey October 16, 2022

written by Danielle Niecey

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 12: Atmosphere at the CODA Williamsburg Hotel Grand Opening at CODA Williamsburg on October 12, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/Getty Images for CODA Williamsburg)

Cuffing season is upon us, and for some, that puts them in search of a warm body to get next to in private spaces. If you are of the fortunate few that snags a seasonal crush, turned cuddly companion, I invite you to indulge in the newest boutique (and might I add, cozy) lifestyle hotel: Coda Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Conveniently located at 160 N 12th Street in Williamsburg, its easily accessible as a 5 block walk from Bedford Ave, L train station. Coda Williamsburg’s entrance into Brooklyn is that of a quiet storm; tacitly opening its doors, shifting the visual aesthetics of the landscape and clearing the static energy of the surrounding neighborhood. Coda Williamsburg lends its appeal to those that favor a trendy, high-society escape from the busyness of Brooklyn, yet invites you to snuggle into its spaces, reminiscent of Bali and Malibu. The Coda hotel offers upscale service with a nonrestrictive flow for its guests to unwind, with ease.

Upon entrance to the Coda hotel’s grand opening, I was warmly greeted by the front desk concierge, and clear views of the CODA BEACH CLUB which features an “adult only” 4 ft. outdoor pool.

The hem of the pool is accented with palm trees, beach shutters, gorgeous cabanas and a mini bar that serves healthy smoothies, cocktails, wines; as well as Tequilas and Vodkas, available for purchase by the bottle.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 12: CODA BEACH CLUB/POOLSIDE at the CODA Williamsburg Hotel Grand Opening at CODA Williamsburg on October 12, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/Getty Images for CODA Williamsburg)

Guest in attendance to the opening were offered choice wines (with shameless abandon, I selected the Rosé, twice), and was served delicious savory wagyu beef empanadas, drizzled with spicy mayo, these were my absolute favorite; midnight mi goreng grilled cheese sandwiches and gratifying samples of snap pea dip crostini (on baguettes) by pool side. Coda hotel offers the option of day-pass booking, daybeds and access to those beautiful shaded cabanas that I loved for the general public seeking a mini break away from the concrete jungle that is New York City.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 12: Atmosphere at CODA Williamsburg Hotel Grand Opening at CODA Williamsburg on October 12, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/Getty Images for CODA Williamsburg)

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 12: Atmosphere a CODA Williamsburg Hotel Grand Opening at CODA Williamsburg on October 12, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/Getty Images for CODA Williamsburg)

For the escape to the private corridors, Coda offers its guests an option of 64 rooms and suites to choose from. The sizes range from the standard Queen, an intimate Boho room for a more conservative stay; to the Coda Penthouse, the 1,500 sq. ft light-filled room is the most generous of them all and features two bathrooms, living and dining space, kitchenette and two private outdoor patios.

The Penthouse’s king sized bed sleeps up to 3 and its window views peers out towards the city. Whichever room you choose at Coda, you will notice that each one is as uniquely designed as a fingerprint and laden with its own distinct flair and touch of class. Purposely handcrafted for comfortability and permanence, the furniture and decor reflects what Coda hotel echoes through every corner: relax, relate, and release.

The bathrooms offer walk-in rain showers to mimic the rains in Bali; toiletries by APOTHIA, a fashion and luxury inspired fragrance and body care brand based out of Los Angeles, that manufactures cruelty free, quality eau de perfumes, diffusers, candles and personal care essentials; and room service for its guests. For the fitness enthusiasts, the hotel encourages health and wellness, granting access to its 24/7 fully equipped gym facility.

As an added bonus to the hotel, Coda has a large rooftop lounge, Creatures of all Kind, operated by Full: Life Hospitality Group. The rooftop getaway delivers iconic views of Manhattan’s skyline and scenic landscape of Brooklyn, a live DJ, an enormous open space perfect for hosting day parties and events, plenty of seating arrangements; access to gender neutral bathrooms, an open bar and to top it off (pun intended) a retractable rooftop for its guest to enjoy the lounge, rain, sleet or snow. If rooftop lounging isn’t your thing, Coda also has an additional featured floor for Bohemia, a low lit dining space and nightclub club, located at the basement level of the hotel. Bohemia’s concept of its design is woven in the fabric of South Asian nightlife culture. Bohemia, as the other accommodating rooms and clubs has plenteous dance floor space and offered those in attendance the delicacies of watermelon crudo, scallop “leche de jaguar” ceviche, porb belly “B”ohemia Baos buns, Arancini and a deliciously light chia pudding accented with mint leafs and topped with frozen berries to close the evening.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 12: Justin Miller, Blake Mcgregor, Ronald Baroody, John Glynn and Taylor Opperman attend CODA Williamsburg Hotel Grand Opening at CODA Williamsburg on October 12, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/Getty Images for CODA Williamsburg)

“Coda Williamsburg brings in a fresh hospitality experience to Brooklyn inspired to bring guests

to the shores of Bali and Malibu and provide a breather from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Our

new boutique hotel and brand will aim to redefine the standards of Brooklyn hospitality via its

numerous seasonal programs, enhanced room designs and fun food and beverage offerings,”

said Ronny Baroody, Coda Williamsburg’s General Manager.

Danielle Niecey for The KNOCKTURNAL & Damian Irizarry for Coda Williamsburg Hotel, October 12, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo By Jared Siskin/Getty Images for CODA Williamsburg)

As the hotel readies itself for an influx of guests, the Coda Williamsburg feels promising and is one I highly recommend to anyone seeking impeccable customer and concierge services, a pet-friendly space to relax and break away from it all! What I enjoy most about Coda Williamsburg is the variety in enjoying what feels like time a night out in the city on rooftop and at the underground night club, with the accessibility of staggering back to my room if the night gets intense. Coda Williamsburg truly gives creature comforts away from home in an adult-friendly, mature setting; one that creates the perfect weekend getaway for lovers, night life goers, (and working professionals) alike!

Coda Williamsburg is located at 160 N 12th Street, between Bedford and Berry Streets, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
For additional information and for reservations:

visit the Coda Williamsburg Hotel: CODAHOTELS.com
or Email: Info@codahotels.com

October 16, 2022 0 comments

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