On Sunday, November 5th, the UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital marked a milestone as they hosted the 24th annual Party on the Pier at the Santa Monica Pier. Personalities such as Nathan Kress, Bachelorette Charity Lawson, and her fiancé Dotun Olubeko, as well as Merrick Hannah, were among the guests who lent their support to the cause.
If you take one look at the former Bachelor’s Instagram, you will see that he is a huge foodie, which greatly informed his decision to partner with Lays and create a new twist on everyone’s favorite side dish.
They painted the town blue.
If you’re anything like me, anything with low, colorful lights and a ball pit will surely catch your eye. Maybe it’s my affinity for maximalist decor or the fact that I am more than likely a 10 year old trapped in the body of a 20 year old journalist, but I digress, the era of museums that double as adult (and kid!) playgrounds popping up (and coming to stay) all throughout my New York City home has been the perfect one for me to be living through.
It is because of the aforementioned affinity that I have such a vivid memory of season two of Emily in Paris. The Balloon Museum takes center stage in episode seven, titled “How to Lose a Designer in 10 Days.” The pop-up exhibition, initially located in Paris during filming and now residing in downtown Manhattan, gained significant attention during its time at La Grand Hall de la Villette, attracting over 800,000 visitors from April to September 2022. This success prompted its move to Milan, following a previous installation in Rome from December 2021 to May 2022.
The Balloon Museum, self-described as the “first incubator of artworks and installations completely created by inflatable and balloon art,” showcases immersive environments featuring works by international artists. As seen in the show, visitors encounter furnishings made entirely of balloons, including a lamp, cactus, couch, and coffee table. During Emily and Gabriel’s walk (and ball pit dive) through the immersive experience, I found myself utterly jealous, and wishing that the exhibition would make its way to New York. It would be just under a year before the exhibit made it’s way down to pier 36!
The New York installment is called the Let’s Fly exhibition, and it offers a stunning inflatable experience crafted by a collaboration of fourteen international artists. This concept transcends conventional art installations, embracing an avant-garde approach that redefines the traditional interactions with art. Let’s Fly encapsulates freedom, flight, and accessibility, taking spectators on an unprecedented sensory journey.
The exhibit thrives on physical interaction, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a universe of unparalleled freedom. It’s a space where play, touch, and exploration lead through hypnotic visual realms. Artists like Michael Shaw, Sasha Frolova, Rub Kandy, Camilla Falsini, Cyril Lancelin, Tadao Cern, and SpY offer contrasting atmospheres—ranging from light, colorful worlds to heavier, darker tones. The journey is designed as an expedition through surprises and contrasts, igniting a genuine thirst for discovery.
In addition to the contemporary installations, the museum offers a space dedicated to the history of inflatables, tracing its origins from the Montgolfier brothers’ 18th-century experiments to iconic contemporary works like Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog series. The Balloon Museum serves as a platform not only for contemporary inflatable art but also as a window into its rich historical evolution.
It aims to provide visitors with a tailor-made experience, offering marvels like the graceful bubbles of Quiet Ensemble, interactive sculptures such as ADA by Karina Smigla-Bobinski, the myriad black spheres of Hyperstudio collective, and the musical sculptures of Eness. These works stimulate the senses through touch, sight, and hearing, engaging visitors in transdisciplinary immersive art proposals.
If you make your way to the ball pit, you’re in for a treat. The massive area takes up nearly the whole room, and guests are treated to an immersive show while there. Between it’s interactive features, fantastic music, and photo worthy sites, everyone can have a great time at the exhibit, no matter what age they are.
We highly recommend a trip to the museum yourself! Hear more about it and grab your tickets here!
A colorful celebration of mental wellness
On November SIXth, the Museum of Broadway officially opened its special exhibit, “SIX: The Royal Gallery,” honoring Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’s esteemed show, SIX The Musical.
B.I is no stranger to releasing new music, but he returns on November 9th with his latest offering to fans. In this release, he gives fans a glimpse into heartbreak with his album, “Love or Loved Pt 2.” The album includes five tracks that take on the pain of a love in trouble or lost. The album begins with the title track, “Loved,” before venturing into “4 Letters” which features, Filipino-Australian singer and songwriter, James Reid. Then the album journeys into the track, “Alone” which also features singer, TYTAN. Rounding out the album are the last two songs, “S.O.S” and “All shook up” which features Indonesian singer and songwriter, Agnez Mo.
We had the wonderful opportunity of chatting with B.I ahead of this release. During our chat we discussed everything from inspirations to collaborations. He also shared his favorite track off the new album.
Question: What was the genesis or the inspiration for the new album?
B.I: While I’ve consistently delved deeply into the concept of love, this time, I wanted to venture into new genres and experiment with different lyrical tones. Love is an emotion that feels incredibly familiar to all of us, yet I aimed to convey these stories with fresh and unique music and storytelling.
It is my sincere hope that listeners can deeply connect with this portrayal of heartbreak. And by that, I don’t only mean that they relate to the lyrics, but also that they find solace in the melodies.
Question: How would you say this album helped you evolve as an artist? as a music producer? as a musician and creator?
B.I: I can sense personal growth with every studio or single album I produce. So far, I believe my exploration of various musical genres and diverse instrumental arrangements has enriched my work, and I’m very satisfied with the results.
Question: Can you break down each track on the album? Can you explain to me what its vibe is or what people should expect?
B.I: [Loved] has an alluring combination of bass and drum sounds, and its overall mood is cold. The mellow and calm vocals also add to its charm. [4 Letters], on the other hand, resembles an uplifting and bright movie soundtrack, but its lyrics in contrast, evokes a sense of nostalgia. I think that would transport the listeners into a state of reminiscence about a past love. On top of that, having James as a featured artist on the track further heightens great anticipation, I’m sure. [Alone] is a laid-back track with a peaceful rhythm, while it bursts with energy in the rap section. Titan, who featured in the song, delivered the tone I had envisioned. With [S.O.S], I spent a significant amount of time on creating the lyrics. If you pay attention to it, it could really get you thinking deep. [All shook up] is an unfamiliar genre not only for me, but also for listeners in Korea. I’m pleased with my collaboration with Agnez Mo; it’s a fresh combination that elevates the level of completion. The melody is very beautiful, so I wish the listeners a relaxing and easy listening experience.
With the entire album, I put in the effort to explore something new and uncharted. Moreover, I wanted to highlight the charming and surprising collaborations with artists in Asia. The results aligned perfectly with my vision, so I’m eagerly looking forward to sharing them with our fans.
Question: Is there a song off the new album that you feel closest to or love the most?
B.I: I adore each and every song, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the title track [Loved]. It has a wonderfully dreamy and sentimental quality. It’s the kind of mood I’ve always wanted to explore, and I’m particularly pleased with how well it came together… It beautifully showcases the essence of the album, I have a deep affection for it, and knowing that it was co-created in collaboration with such an exceptional team of songwriters, makes it even more precious to me.
“Love or Loved Pt 2” is out now and can be found on all streaming platforms.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: Lynn Nottage speaks onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater)
The Knockturnal was honored to be part of the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center Gala at The Capitale in New York City. This night celebrated Award-winning playwright and screenwriter Lynn Nottage, recipient of the 22nd Annual Monte Cristo Award. This prestigious accolade is an annual tribute to a visionary artist whose work has deeply impacted American theater.
In the midst of this grand celebration, The Knockturnal had the privilege to chat with attendees and performers Justin Hicks, Quincy Tyler Bernstein, and Illario Grant on the red carpet, capturing their emotions and hopes for the impact of the award. We were also honored to speak with honoree Lynn Nottage, who graciously shared her thoughts and hopes for the next generation.
The Knockturnal: As you step onto the carpet tonight, How does it feel to be in attendance for such a special night?
Justin Hicks: It’s special for me because I love Lynn so very much, it feels good and it also feels good to see so many people in the theatre community here its kinda a reunion.
The Knockturnal: What do you envision the benefit of tonight’s gala being for future playwrights and artists?
Justin Hicks: I think anytime someone like Lynn is being awarded or honored it kind of puts a spotlight on someone who may be like her and in various ways, She’s been such a trailblazer in so many ways and I think she also is someone who maintains a level of honesty and in-depth interaction with people that she writes about so I think that’s something that should stick around and something that won’t go out of style.
The Knockturnal: As you step onto the carpet tonight, How are you feeling? What are some thoughts going through your mind and how does it feel to be here?
Quincy Tyler Bernstein: I’m just thrilled to be here, I’m honored to be here Lynn Nottage is one of our greatest living playwrights and I’m so happy I can be here to celebrate her
The Knockturnal: What does it mean to you to be a part of something so special?
Quincy Tyler Bernstein: I just feel really lucky I get to participate in something like this to call Lynn a friend and a former colleague, and I feel really blessed to be here.
The Knockturnal: What does it mean to be a part of this moment of tonight? Being in attendance, what are your emotions and feelings tonight as you step onto the carpet?
Illario Grant: Very excited, doing red carpet, doing press. I’m able to express how important the arts are as a young black man in the arts i think it’s important that I’m here tonight to represent that!
The Knockturnal: What are your hopes for the future of this foundation what are your hopes for future playwrights and artists who will be receiving funding for new work?
Illario Grant: More black artists… it’s important in the business I think that we also have a voice so we have the stuff to say so I think more black artists are needed
The Knockturnal: If you had the opportunity to create your own original play from scratch what would the character or storyline be?
Illario Grant: I think it would be equality something that deals with the world today because there’s a lot going on in the world and there’s a lot of inequality so something dealing with those issues.
The Knockturnal: Happy Belated birthday and congratulations on being honored tonight how are you feeling right now?
Lynn Nottage: To get to this point in your career and your recognized by your peers it’s a little bit daunting but it’s beautiful and worth it.
The Knockturnal: What are your hopes for the next generation of playwrights and artists who are following the path that I’ve blazed for so long?
Lynn Nottage: What my hope is for the next generation is that they continue to innovate, and tell stories. Things have shifted, I feel bigger artists have to be much more socially, politically, and culturally engaged, in my opinion, I feel the younger generation is much more invested in fame than storytelling so, my hope for the future is that we continue to create space for us to tell the diversity of stories that are out there.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: Tonya Pinkins and Joyce Sylvester perform onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater )
After the carpet, the celebratory evening, directed by Seret Scott began with enlightening remarks, from the Eugene O’Neil Theater executive director Tiffani Gavin and featured an array of special performances paying homage to Nottage’s masterful plays, from a reading of “Poof!” skillfully performed by Tonya Pinkins and Joyce Sylvester, followed by an enthralling rendition of “Event The Night Has Ears” from “Mlima’s Tale,” performed by the talented Justin Hicks. The night continued to unfold with a powerful scene from “Ruined,” expertly read by Quincy Tyler Bernstein and Jason Bowen, and another from “Intimate Apparel,” brought to life by the dynamic duo of Stacey Sargeant and CJ Wilson, and a captivating monologue from “Crumbs from the Table of Joy,” skillfully performed by Gabby Beans.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: (L-R) Ilario Grant, Bre Jackson and Max Chambers perform onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater )
These acts were not just artistic offerings but heartfelt tributes, and a testament to Lynn Nottage’s courage and influence in the theater. The night filled with heartwarming moments continued when Lynn Nottage’s daughter, Ruby Aiyo Gerber, stepped forward to present the 22nd Monte Cristo Award to her accomplished mother. As the night drew to a close, the audience was treated to a captivating performance by the incredible talents of the MJ Musical, Max Chambers, Bre Jackson, and Ilario Grant who left attendees in amazement, a perfect conclusion to a night dedicated to the magic of theater.
Notable guests for the evening included: Michael Douglas, O’Neill Board Chairman Tom Viertel, Carlo Alban, Krystal Joy Brown, Mario Cantone, Angel Desai, Jerry Dixon, Ben Durocher, John Jellison, Isabel Keating, Chalia La Tour, Jevares Myrick, Michael Potts, Laila Robbins, Ryan Spahn and others.
The evening’s Gala Committee included: Michael Douglas & Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stephen & Ruth Hendel, David Henry Hwang, Genia Kaplan Quinn & Dr. Bruce Quinn, Dominique Morisseau, Senator Chris Murphy (CT), The Nederlander Organization, Tom Viertel & Pat Daily, and Constanza Romero Wilson.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: Robbie Gordy speaks onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater)
In Essence, this gala was more than a glamorous affair; it embodied the O’Neill Theater Center’s commitment to cultivating original works and supporting emerging artists. It marked a dedicated step towards the theater’s future, fueled by generous donations shaping its trajectory. The celebration underscored the power of storytelling, emphasizing the crucial role of fostering original works in American theater. Recognizing luminaries like Lynn Nottage, the event promised a brighter, more innovative future for the performing arts.
P1Harmony has once again graced us with their musical powers, releasing the bilingual pop single ‘Fall In Love Again’ on November 9th. The six-member group, consisting of singer-songwriters KEEHO, THEO, JIUNG, INTAK, SOUL, and JONGSEOB, has collaborated with Grammy award-winning producer Tricky Stewart– the mastermind behind hits for Beyoncé, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and more– to deliver a track that seamlessly blends English and Korean in a fusion of captivating sounds. Believve, another key creative force, brings his extraordinary skills to the table, contributing to the song’s undeniable charm.
‘Fall In Love Again’ is a testament to P1Harmony’s evolving musical journey. The track features raps written by members JONGSEOB and INTAK, adding a personal touch to the infectious melody. The song’s unique blend of languages adds an extra layer of richness to the narrative, showcasing P1Harmony’s commitment to breaking boundaries and reaching a global audience. When asked about the inspiration behind their verses, INTAK said, “I got inspiration from the simple but pointy development of the song! So, I utilized the catchy pronunciation that I pursued, which made the recording more amusing!” JONGSEOB, on the other hand, painted a vivid picture, saying, “I thought of an image of a person who has suffered from love, listening to his/her best friend. It would be good to listen to this song as if talking ‘You don’t know yourself that much. Let the person from the past pass by and start over.'”
Following the release, KEEHO shared his nervous excitement about recording the song in a studio outside South Korea, emphasizing the personal and emotional investment in the track. The lyrics, penned by the talented members, convey a matured perspective on love, assuring listeners that falling in love is not something to be feared.
Accompanying the single is a visually stunning music video, showcasing the P1Harmony Love Manipulation Team assisting a client in their quest for love. The video adds a playful and engaging visual element to the already captivating audio experience.
‘Fall In Love Again’ arrives as P1Harmony gears up for two iHeart Radio appearances at the Jingle Ball concerts in Fort Worth, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. The band is also wrapping up their P1USTAGE H : P1ONEER tour in Europe, solidifying their global presence.
Three years since their debut, P1Harmony continues to leave an indelible mark on the music scene. Their latest album debuted at #8 on the Billboard chart, contributing to an impressive 300 million streams on Spotify. The band’s evolution in sound, coupled with their electrifying dance choreography, has garnered them a dedicated fan base across continents.
‘Fall In Love Again’ is a testament to P1Harmony’s ability to create a feel-good anthem without succumbing to clichés. The hypnotic melodies and vocals, coupled with the authenticity of Korean lyrics by JONGSEOB and INTAK, showcase the group’s comfort in staying true to themselves.
As winter approaches, ‘Fall In Love Again’ is the perfect song to warm your heart and lift your spirits. The track’s irresistible charm will have you singing along after just one listen, making it clear that P1Harmony is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. So, if you’re looking to ‘Fall In Love Again,’ let P1Harmony guide you through this musical journey, promising an experience that transcends language and borders.
Watch the music video: https://youtu.be/gvw87mowRsc?si=4t_E-H5DZzPv3IiO
Already in love and want to see them on tour? Check out P1Harmony’s tour dates below!
Thursday, November 9 – Oberhausen, Germany
Sunday, November 12 – Paris, France
Monday, November 13 – Zurich, Switzerland
Wednesday, November 15 – Berlin, Germany
Friday, November 17 – Madrid, Spain
Monday, November 20 – Tokyo, Japan
Wednesday, November 22 – Osaka, Japan
Tuesday, November 28 – Jingle Ball – Fort Worth, TX
Friday, December 1 – Jingle Ball – Los Angeles, CA
For more P1Harmony information:
Instagram: @p1h_official
Twitter: @p1h_official
TikTok: @p1harmony
YouTube: P1Harmony
Weverse: P1Harmony
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