The eminent Alvin Ailey Dance Theater company hosts a prodigious opening night gala to kick off a four-week holiday season celebration.
Are celebs just like you and me when it comes to pandemic travel? We caught up with a few you may know — and others you may not have heard of — to hear their travel tales.
Jacques Torres, celebrity pastry chef
I went to Bandon, a city between Toulon and Marseilles in Provence for five weeks in 2021. I grew up there. It’s famous for wine. I went to the beach. I enjoy the south of France for wineries and tastings. I felt safe traveling because this is a house I own.
Photo Courtesy of Facebook
Ben Johns, pro-pickleball player
No international travel. We go all around the US for tournaments. We don’t vacation. We just play pickleball. Even in 2021, there were full crowds. In July of last year, I played pickleball in Hawaii. October 2021, Las Vegas. I did go to Ecuador, but not too recently. I own a pickleball vacation company called Pickleball Getaways.
NOTE: Johns and his business partner, pro-pickleball player, Dekel Bar, have led trips to destinations including Riviera Maya, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic and Richmond, British Columbia.
Photo Courtesy of Facebook
Collin Johns, pro-pickleball player
A lot of times the pickleball tournaments are in locations where there are vacations. The PPA Masters November 2021 in La Quinta, California was like a hotel. It’s a nice area — essentially like a vacation. I go on all of the same tours as Ben. In the height of Covid-19, they were shut down for a couple of months, and there were travel restrictions.
Photo by Laurie Heifetz
Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada, artist
I did a trip from Barcelona to New York. We were in lockdown in Barcelona in the middle of the pandemic when no one was flying — May of 2020. I did an homage piece next to the Queens Museum to a Latino doctor who passed away. That flight was bizarre. It was a huge plane with two passengers. There was no food in the airport. The reason why the plane was larger was that it was used for cargo. It was filled with cars on the bottom floor!
Photo by Laurie Heifetz
Jet Tila, celebrity chef (“Food Network”)
I took my family to Hawaii in the height of Omicron, November/December of 2021. We were on the island of Oahu, which I love. We based ourselves at the Disney Resort, but we’d take day excursions. One callout excursion families need to know is Kamoauli, a 100-year old wooden canoe from Tonga staffed with teachers and native experts who tell the history. Basically, you’re whale watching, while they’re preparing native foods and teaching native history. It’s like a luau in a boat!
Photo by Laurie Heifetz
Photo by Pat Lambert
Deana Martin, singer-actor
My trip to Toronto last year was fantastic! I had light drinks — “sippy-poos,” as my dad would say — on the plane because you didn’t have to have your mask on. I did a debut of the documentary, “Dean Martin, King of Cool,” and won the IItalian Contemporary Film Festival (ICFF) Excellence Award. It was one of those experiences where you go to this party and this press conference. We had excellent meals in Toronto.
Interviewed in NYC at: “Taste of the Upper West Side”; “Live with Kelly & Ryan”; “The Hug” statue unveiling for me2music.org’s “Monumental Moments” at Lincoln Center; CAMP’s flagship store Visit California media event; and Frank Sinatra’s birthday party at Patsy’s Italian Restaurant.
The interviews have been condensed and edited for clarity.
On Monday, the 74th Emmys returns to Hollywood.
But first… 2022 Emmy nominee Christopher McDonald (Guest Actor “Hacks”), Lisa Ann Walter (2022 Emmy nominated series “Abbot Elementary”), 2022 Emmy nominee Anthony A. Anderson (“Anacostia”), former Oscar nominee Eric Roberts (also father of Emma Roberts), multiple award-winning actor Marilu Henner, Derrex Brady (“Johnson”), Constance Marie (“With Love”) and over 100 of LA’s biggest stars came out to celebrate TV’s biggest night at Doris Bergman’s 12th Annual Luxury Lounge & Luncheon, held at LA fave L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele on Thursday, September 8, 2022.
By the way, if this pizzeria sounds familiar, that’s likely because it was once Julia Roberts’ yummy co-star in Eat Pray Love. (The original is located in Naples, Italy).
VIP Sponsor, Milena LA, with Lisa Ann Walter (“Abbott Elementary”/Emmy Nominated/ABC). Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Former Emmy® winners, presenters, stylists and industry VIPS were out at this highly anticipated invitation-only event, hosted by Bergman Public Relations and presented by Naturade®. The star-studded event showcased an incredible array of fun and fashion including couture gowns and handbags, jewelry collections and accessories, health foods, gourmet teas, scented soaps and candles, health foods, spiritual awakenings, organic Tequila, and more.
Lisa Ann Walter, from the Emmy-nominated hit show “Abbott Elementary” was spotted checking out VIP sponsor Milena LA’s custom-scented candles.
Presenting Sponsor, The Beauty Tea Co. with Derrex Brady (“Johnson”/Bounce TV). Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
We’re gonna spill some tea here and let you know what Derrex Brady (“Johnson” on Bounce TV) surely learned at the Emmys lounge: that The Beauty Tea Company is pretty awesome: not only does it taste great but it promotes beauty on the inside as well. With 3 blends currently available (“I am Love,” “I am Peace” and “I am Energy”) the teas contain high quality tea leaves imported from farmers in China and Japan.
VIP Sponsor, Spa Girl Cocktails with Chris McDonald (2022 Emmy Nominee/Outstanding Guest Actor/“Hacks”/HBO. Photo:courtesy Doris Bergman
2022 Emmy nominee Christopher McDonald (Guest Actor “Hacks” but of course he’s been in tons of movies and TV shows throughout his career including classics like Happy Gilmore and Thelma & Louise) was seen checking out Spa Girl Cocktails. Available to try yourself at numerous grocery stores (including Whole Foods and local grocers) — but we’ve got a pro tip for ya: if you subscribe to their email list at the link above, you can get 10% off your first order.
Presenting Sponsor, Naturade® with Anna Maria Horsford (“B Positive”/CBS). Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Comic legend Anna Maria Horseford (“B Positive”/CBS) stopped by to check out presenting sponsor Naturade (whose founders Kareem Cook and Claude Tellis created the weight loss meal replacement to combat diabetes and who’ve partnered with none other that Magic Johnson).
VIP Sponsor, Soon Hari, with Constance Marie (“With Love”/Amazon Prime). Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Other fun drink options include Soon Hari (which Constance Marie checked out), Dulce Vida Tequila (spotted with Matt Cedeno, “Ruthless” on BET) and Saratoga Spring Water Co.
VIP Sponsor, Dulce Vida Organic Tequila with Matt Cedeno (“Ruthless”/BET). Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Eric Roberts, an Oscar nominee and fixture on film and TV screens for decades (not to mention father of Emma and brother of Julia) checked out Beauty Kitchen and their clean, simple ingredients.
VIP Sponsor, Beauty Kitchen, with Eric Roberts (former Oscar Nominee). Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Reyalux is another awesome beauty brand on a mission, creating beautifully made handmade soaps without the dreaded harsh chemicals. These soaps make great gifts for little ones (some come in alphabet and robot shapes) or for more grown-up use (fun and Insta-friendly donuts and roses).
Sponsor Reyalux with their Instagram-friendly looking natural soaps. Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Doris Bergman always keeps the spirit of giving back top of mind and guests and sponsors made monetary donations and/or donated unwrapped gifts for young adults (Age 13-18) for a Pre-Holiday Gift Drive benefiting “Wednesday’s Child” — a weekly segment airing on KTTV FOX 11 News, Los Angeles, with Anchor Christine Devine. “Wednesday’s Child” advocates for older teens who experience more disadvantages in the LA County foster care system who deserve adoptive families.
“In Los Angeles County, alone, there are over 35,000 children receiving child welfare services,” says social worker, Dr. William Wong. Bergman always invites at least 2 foster youth to join in on the festivities and experience what it feels like to be treated as a VIP. Christine Devine was also on hand to spotlight the event for a future segment.
Pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Photo courtesy Doris Bergman
Other guests included 2022 Emmy Winner Wayne Federman/Producer “George Carlin’s American Dream,” International Award-winning film and TV star Jimmy Jean-Louis, John W. Lawson (leading actor in Paramount’s “Pet Sematary – The Prequel,”) former Oscar Nominee Patty McCormack, Former Emmy Winner/Best Actor Kim Estes, former Emmy Winners Tristan Rogers (“General Hospital,”) Eric Martsolf (“Days of Our Lives,”) and Patrika Darbo (“Acting Dead,”) Multiple Award-Winning Actor Patrick Warburton; John Brotherton & Michael Campion (“Fuller House,”) Miles Tagtmeyer (2018 Emmy Nominee,) Naomi Grossman (“American, Horror Stories,”) Chris Browning (“The Lincoln Lawyer,”) Donovan Carter & Carl McDowell (“Ballers”).
Gifts and services were provided by:
Soonhari Soju; Lotte Beverage America; Luxepets; Twisted Silver; My Saint, My Hero; Spa Girl Vodka; Sue Wong Couture; Beauty Kitchen; The Marijuana Factory; Milena LA; “Wednesday’s Child” & FOX 11 News; Dulce Vida Organic Tequila; Reyaluxe Skin Care; Naturade®; “The Healing Trilogy” by Author & Intuitive, Kimberly Meredith; The Beauty Tea Company; Radiant Pathways; Blue Triton Water; Timmy Woods Handbags; Gooseberry Designs; Readings By Vida; Kickin’ Ash BBQ Sauce; L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele Hollywood; Bergman Public Relations and VIP Gift Bags provided by Milena LA and Gooseberry Designs.
From the mind of I. Marlene King, Pretty Little Liars defined a generation.
To start this article with the soliloquy reference, or not to start this article with the soliloquy reference, that is the question.
And because I lack total self control, I just did. But I urge you to think about what comes to mind when you think of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. For starers, THEE aforementioned soliloquy. The ghost, the haunting familial betrayal. No matter how “different” the thousands of productions of Hamlet may seem, we have yet to see a production that truly is different – in feel, tone, structure, the list goes on…until James Ijames’ Fat Ham.
Fat Ham (which won the Pulitzer Prize in drama this year) completely reimagines a Hamlet, without putting the play or complex characters in a box. The writing is ever so poignant and approach to adaptation is modern, fresh, queer, and Black and almost Freudian in certain ways – as the show feels so familiar, but so eerily and distinctly different from the original text material from centuries ago. One of the themes that becomes clear throughout the 95 minute show is that nothing is concrete and everything “kind of” still a work in progress – and that’s totally okay!
Set at a summer barbecue in current day, this co-production between The Public Theatre and the National Black Theatre (Directed by Saheem Ali, of Merry Wives) goes here, there, and everywhere while exploring themes of queerness, bravery, and questioning societal expectations. We were lucky enough to have the opportunity to chat with Marcel Spears, who plays “Juicy”, our Hamlet-esque character.
TK: We have seen so many productions attempt a “new and fresh” approach to contemporary Shakespeare, but Fat Ham feels SO different for a multitude of reasons – off the top of my head, the Black and queer stories, the layered motifs and themes, but also as different as James Ijames Pulitzer Prize winning work may be, it feels true to Shakespeare’s original work and that’s remarkable. Can you tell us a bit about your approach for mastering that fine line?
MS: I have always had a unique relationship and approach to Shakespeare mostly because when I was first introduced to the work I felt so outside of it; As a young Black actor I always felt like Shakespeare was so inaccessible, I didn’t see very many actors that looked like me doing the work locally, it wasn’t until I started formal acting training that I was able to realize that Shakespeare is full of big messy emotions, and dirty jokes, it’s just as raw and ugly and wonderfully relatable as the world we live in today. It’s for everybody. I respect the structure of the language, but I dive into the work like I do anything else; with and abundance of curiosity and empathy.
TK: Juicy is such a complex, yet relatable character. I was rooting for Juicy throughout the play, even when the unthinkable happens – my heart sank, but I still was on Juicy’s journey and that could not have happened without your remarkable ability to breathe life into the character, flaws and all. Do you feel that you are similar and/or different to Juicy in certain ways – if so, how?
MS: I always put a little of myself into the characters I play, I try to find some common threads to ground the performance. Juicy loves his mom, he’s a southern boy etc. The work of an actor early in the process is to find your characters “why” and I think that was the trickiest part for me. Juicy in someways is absolutely fearless, but in the play he kept making choices that were so different from what Marcel would do. Finding JUICY’S “why” was a lot of fun for me.
TK: And a follow up to that, what is one major takeaway that you have learned about yourself from playing Juicy? Juicy has softened me up a little.
MS: I grew up in New Orleans, it’s a beautiful city, but it’s a tough city. I was always encouraged as a young man to be strong. Because I’m Black, because I’m poor, because I am me; I was to expect the world will treat me coldly and to meet that reality with unwavering force. As much as I have matured I still held on to pieces of that upbringing. Juicy helped to shatter most of that and caused me to reflect and redefine, what can be considered strength.
TK: What was your first reaction to reading the play for the first time? Specifically the scene between Juicy & Larry. (I don’t want to spoil so I’m not getting into great detail)
MS: When I first read this play I just knew I wanted to be apart of it. I hadn’t seen anything like it, I knew it was special. Specifically that scene between Juicy and Larry which is the scene I auditioned with is one of my favorite scenes I’ve ever seen or read in all of tv/film/ and theater. I think that’s all I can say without giving it away but it’s beautiful.
TK: You all look like you’re having a BLAST on that stage, but you really trust each other to go there with these characters – can you tell me a bit about your dynamic with your castmates? Also, how do you not crack up during the karaoke scenes or Tio’s gingerbread man monologue at the end?
MS: This cast has gotten very close very quickly, in theater actors learn to make fast friends, to build chemistry as a company for the purpose of telling a story, but I think early on our director Saheem Ali was so adamant about creating a space for deep and vulnerable work it also created a very tight bond. We genuinely enjoy each others company, and we have fun together, you can see that on stage. And the truth is Chris’ as Tio isn’t the scene that is most likely to crack everyone up, that charge goes to Benja playing Rabby, she breaks everyone, I think she enjoys it.
TK: What is the main thing you would like audiences to take away from Fat Ham?
MS: I think the thing I want audiences to walk away from this play with is a sense that Joy is contagious, even in the most difficult circumstances joy is a a radical act of love and kindness. Joy is revolutionary, it is a gift, and it can change your life and the lives of people around you, like it literally changes the world of this play.
We loved sitting down with Marcel as much as we loved watching Marcel light up the stage. With brilliant performances from Nikki Crawford, Chris Herbie Holland, Billy Eugene Jones, Calvin Leon Smith, Adriana Michell, and Benja Kay Thomas – run, don’t walk to catch this hysterical and relatable show.
P.S. – trust me, you will not be disappointed with the musical performances, but let those be a surprise.
Fat Ham is playing at The Public Theatre through July 31, 2022. Learn more about the full cast, creative team, and tickets by visiting https://publictheater.org/productions/season/2122/fat-ham/
Disco lives on forever and Central Park is where you can find the modern, Studio 54 ,roller staking oasis in the middle of Manhattan. Come get your groove on and you might even run into a minion or two.
On July 21st 2022, I was cordially invited to the Minions take over of the DiscOasis in Central Park, New York City. Roller skating has made a huge comeback since the 1970’s and disco will always reign on. The DiscOasis is a new and glamorous edition to Central Park’s Wollman Rink, which is previously known for ice skating. It’s a great transition during the winter to summer, to incorporate multiple activities each kind of person, young or mature would enjoy. Once you approach the rink, you are welcomed with music, glitter, vibrant colors and warm smiles. I was so excited about The Minions celebration of the new film The Rise of Gru.
Personally, I love the Minions franchise, they’re filled with laugher and real heartfelt lessons on life so of course I was excited to be apart of this experience. When you walk in, you were greeted by two life sizes Minions and they definitely live up to their mischievous nature. They had a cute set up for pictures with them and a minion themed photo booth. The DiscOasis team were beyond accommodating, attending to everyone who they came across and making my experience that much more enjoyable. Once I got my skates I headed to the rink and might I say definitely took me for surprise. My eyes light up in excitement to the glitz and glamour that was out on the rink. Disco-balls shined in each corner of the rink kissed by the sun and the music was so on theme it felt like I was transported right into the original Studio 54. The Disco also has professional skaters that are on the rink who can be seen moving and grooving with their routines. They each had their own unique signature tricks and even a community of dancers that flooded the floor during a specific song. I had the pleasure of meeting three phenomenal skaters.
The sensational Sade
Meet the sensational Sade. Sade started skating at the age of 31 and can be found in the cutest vibrant outfits that match her personality. She is bold, beautiful and can groove so effortlessly in the rink. She can be found on instagram with the name @thesensational_sade.
Kardale Holland
This is Mr. Kardale Holland, who is an incredible dancer and actor. Kardale was lighting up the rink with tricks I’ve never seen before, he even did a handstand on skates! If you come by the DiscoOasis, you definitely have to make your acquaintance with these two individuals.
I also had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Motown herself, the world renounced Lynna Davis. In her career she has made quite the name for herself as an actress, singer, and stunt & choreographer who’s energy will just make you smile. Lynna has such a warm spirit with a killer fashion sense.
After roller skating, I made my way to the Minions section of the rink and got a gorgeous minions goodie bag filled with a minions pen, T-shirt, keychain, toy, and cassette tape with the new movie, The rise of Gru soundtrack. The kids loved the minions and so did the adults because we spent the rest of the night dancing with the minions.
I had such an amazing time and will definitely be back to enjoy another Studio 54 night at the Disco Oasis. I felt such bliss on the rink without a care in the world about my other responsibilities, problems or hardship, I was truly blown away but how everyone was so incredibly friendly, supportive, creative and expressive, its like a paradise. If anyone can find time to make their way to Central Park, it is worth the trip. See you there!
Photo by @edithannphooto and @ idea is on that can be found on instagram
Spring is here and what better time for a Soiree, on a rooftop, with views of the sunset casting down over the west village.
Socialization is officially back with rooftop conversations and refreshing drinks, Velour Medical is the one to thank for such a spectacular evening, hosted on Wednesday, May 25th 2022.
Co -founder and cosmetic injector, Sari Katz PA-C and her husband Ryan lynch
Velour Medical is a luxury company that provides many services such as cosmetic, medical treatments and personal care. They are known all around New York for providing an experience that will have you leaving pampered than before, bringing that confidence up to a 10. I had the pleasure of meeting the Co-founder Sari Katz PA-C and her husband who welcomed me with a warm embrace to the Velour family. Consumers want to be treated more than just an ordinary customer, so I admired how each member of Velour was so personable. The soirée was quite the experience. Velour offered a “make your own” perfume area where guests could mix and match scents to their liking and be entertained by a magician who would blow your mind. There was a fabulous open bar, fresh catering of mouth watering finger foods and music that kept me dancing for the whole evening. Dancing aside the most entertaining founder, Dr. Michael Kennis and Co-founders made my whole night; everyone was laughing and letting loose from a long day at the office. There was an amazing speech that the founder hosted midway, and it was great to speak with him and hear the story of Velour.
“The event space that we are in, is near and dear to my heart because for 6 years I lived down the street and I would look up and these lofts and think something cool must be going on up there. Velour started in that apartment down the street, and it started with an idea. That idea was to bring luxury concierge medicine to the comfort of your own home. Our promise to you is to always keep bringing the most intimate and advanced medicine to New York City.” – Dr. Michael Kennis
Guests who attend events like such always wear the most fashionable looks; from floral prints, light fabrics and casual jeans it was like a runway show. Although everyone had amazing outfits, my mouth dropped when I noticed the 1996 vintage Jean Paul Gaultier suit that an icon, such as Robin Williams, once wore. The Red X-ray style shirt has such a subtle but bold pattern of a person’s body, which has definitely been trending lately with brands such as Balmain, Jaded London, and more.
Overall I had such an amazing time at the event and experienced the luxury that Velour has to offer, providing all the details needed to make an event spectacular, and to top it off I even left with a goodie bag! It was filled with a Velour T-shirt, QR code for the services and discount, playing cards, a magazine and a beverage. 10/10!
For years, The CW has been providing us with the most intense and thrilling plot lines, incredible casts, and the most amazing shows. This season we’re looking forward to seeing even more new stories and witnessing what our old favorites have to offer! Fan favorite show All American is getting a new spin on the story of Simone, in her all new spinoff All American: Homecoming. The show tells the story of a tennis player and a basketball player and their journey through the world of young adulthood. That’s not the only fan favorite that’s getting a new life, the iconic show Supernatural is now back in the form of a prequel. Starring Drake Rodger and Meg Donnelly as John Winchester and Mary Campbell, The Winchester’s will be premiering this fall. Viewers can expect to hear the exciting story of how Dean (Jensen Ackles) and Sam Winchester’s (Jared Padalecki) parents began their journey. On a sadder note, it seems like the Archie comics journey on screen is coming to a close, as Riverdale will be coming to an end after the upcoming season seven. We had the amazing opportunity to talk to the casts of these amazing shows and hear all about what’s in store for everyone’s characters and stories! Check out the conversations below!
Two years after the coronavirus pandemic spread through the United States, we are somewhat getting back to what some would call our normal lives. Parks and museums are open, masks are longer required and we can now enjoy the activities that we used to partake in. With the majority of leisures available, we are happy to share that The National Gallery of Art’s Jazz in the Garden concert series is officially back! If you have never been to one of their concerts then you are missing out. After a long week of work, school and adulting overall. Those who have not heard of The National Gallery of Art’s Jazz in the Garden are a weekly open concert and picnic hosted at Sculpture Garden Pavillion Cafe in Washington DC. Guests are welcome to bring all their picnic essentials for a great evening with various performances. The first week’s performance was a great way to step into the summer. The talented Nataly Merezhuk and company brought such a positive atmosphere. Nataly is a Russian violinist who has emerged herself in the role of the violin in jazz after her extensive classical training. If you would like to see other talented performers like herself at The National Gallery of Art’s Jazz in the Garden, here are a few things you need to know:
- You must reserve tickets to attend the concert series. The tickets are available a week prior to the event.
- Be sure to arrive early. Jazz in the Garden has been missed by many so expect a sea of people ready to have a good time.
- Bring refreshments but remember to leave the booze at home. If you are a sangria lover, be sure to purchase at the concert.
- Be sure to have sunscreen, a blanket, and shades!
We all need a place to unwind and Jazz in the Garden is the perfect place for that. Every Friday you will have the chance to see amazing artists while enjoying the weather with friends and family. If you haven’t been yet, you should certainly add The National Gallery of Art’s Jazz in the Garden to your list of Summer activities
Are ya 1? Are ya 2? Are ya 3?…and the extension of the “Happy Birthday” song continues, much to the dismay of those dreading adding another year to their tally. Noah Haidle’s latest play (and Broadway debut), Birthday Candles challenges the negative connotations of the passage of time and ideas associated with getting older, as it focuses on aging as the concept of adding tools to life’s toolkit and wisdom to one’s rhetorical autobiography (and on the amount of goldfish and buttery, vanilla cake one can consume).
But truly, what’s in a lifetime? Time doesn’t end when you go to college. Time doesn’t end when you find love. Time doesn’t end if/when you get married. Time doesn’t end when you have kids, grandkids, and then on. Hell, time doesn’t end if you end a first marriage and pivot the direction of your career at age 48. If anything, time moves on and new opportunities are presented to you. The good, the bad, the beautiful, the ugly, and everything in between. Birthday Candles touches a bunch of extremely relatable themes such as mental health, questioning one’s self identity, priorities, boundaries, but most importantly (in my opinion) is that it’s never too late.
We had the remarkable opportunity to sit down with Noah and connect on Birthday Candles.
TK: Firstly, what a BRILLIANT piece of work. Congratulations! Poignant, sophisticated, yet casual, relatable, funny yet emotional. How did you go about approaching a piece that could tap into all of those emotions and more?
NH: I knew if I got this one right it could be a very effective play (as opposed to some of the plays I’ve written which have been complete shit), so I tried to approach it with great caution.
TK: Process wise, how long did this take you to write?
NH: Six years. The first word I wrote for this play was in April of 2016 and the last was a week before opening in April of 2022. With a total of just over 15,000 words, that’s like 6.8 words a day, which is pretty much as many as the list of ingredients of mayonnaise. Pretty slow.
TK: One of the things I love most about Birthday Candles is that it shows that life is not perfect, but it happens. People make mistakes. Sometimes huge mistakes, but it’s never too late to change your mind and revisit prior thoughts. Was this theme based on any event(s) in particular for you?
NH: Yes. More than I would prefer.
TK: Debra Messing. That’s it. The way she portrays Ernestine at every stage, it’s remarkable. Do you have a favorite aged Ernestine of hers?
NH: My favorite is her hunched and surly 107 year old. I don’t know if I’ll be so lucky to make it that long, but if I do, I want to be exactly like Debra’s rambunctious yet open hearted 107, including, of course Debra’s otherworldly sense of comedic timing.
TK: Bravo to you for tackling mental health, aging, divorce, illness in relatable and practical ways – what is one key takeaway you wish for audience members to take away from seeing Birthday Candles? (it can be more than one)
NH: That life is a miracle. (Might as well go big, right?)
TK: How many goldfish have you owned in your life?
NH: One. As a kid. Spot. The idea for the play began when I was telling my wife about Spot and she misinterpreted my reminiscences as an expression of deep longing to own another goldfish and surprised me with a new, unwanted goldfish for my birthday. (If you haven’t seen the play, this anecdote will mean nothing, if you haven’t seen the play, you totally should).
We loved chatting with Noah as much as we loved watching his writing play out on stage. With brilliant direction by Vivienne Benesch, this play is funny, heart-wrenching, emotional at its core – a work for all ages.
P.S. – Debra Messing is truly outstanding in this work! What she is able to accomplish in those 100 minutes is beyond impressive and worthy of a visit to the American Airlines Theatre alone.
Birthday Candles is a Roundabout Theatre Company production and runs thru May 29. You can learn more about the show and ticket information by visiting: https://www.roundabouttheatre.org/
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