100 in 6
April 15 - October 23
We have come to the end of this challenge. It was a long haul, but this adventure has left me with more than just a slew of program books, a hole in my wallet, and a sleep deficit. It has left me with a renewed appreciation of independent theatre and acts that are not yet discovered, a lessened fear of being at a show with more players than members of the audience, and a boatload of memories and stories to tell. In short, it has been one hell of a good time.
The grand total of expenses:
tickets: $1315
incidentals: $567 + one pint of blood + a couple hundred alveoli
These totals don't include the cost of being out in New York either. If I really wanted to scare myself, I would have kept a budget of all the money I spent on drinks and food during the 100 in 6.
Thanks for reading! Please pass along any comments, words of advice, grammar corrections, and ideas for next summer. I am sure that there will be another adventure in the future, I just haven't thought of it yet.
Cheers,
Lauren
25 October 2008
24 October 2008
100 - Cozy Cafe Hookah Lounge
Cozy Cafe Hookah Lounge
Cozy Cafe
23 October 2008
A hookah is a water pipe used for smoking various tobaccos. The hookah, aka Shisha from the Persian word Shishe which means glass, originated in India. Smoking from a hookah was traditionally part of the Arab cultural world, but has become quite popular for young trendsetters in New York. Hookah lounges have been popping up all over the five boroughs. These new lounges cater to young smokers interested in a techno-pulsing, dimly illuminated, hip atmosphere rather than the traditional hookah clubs that are usually only patronized by men interested in talking shop and seeing old friends. While smoking flavored tobacco and sipping Moroccan tea might not be a new experience for most people, I had never tried the hookah before last night, so it was completely new for me. In my opinion, if there was any way to end this long summer challenge of events it was to end it with something that I have never tried before. Enter the Cozy Cafe.
Alison, Nellie and I ended up at the Cozy Cafe after a dinner celebrating Nellie's upcoming move to Australia. While the two of them have frequented several hookah lounges and were ready to jump right into things, I needed a quick tutorial from them and one of the managers to keep from hacking up bits of lung. As a non-smoker, my first sensation from inhaling our Jasmine flavored tobacco was a fantastic lightheaded feeling. A few puffs later and I felt like an old pro. The key to not scalding your lungs is to exhale the smoke rather quickly, or so said the manager. Thanks to the girls and the Cozy Cafe it was lovely evening and a very interesting end to the 100 in 6.
100 in 6 incidentals budget: $567 + one pint of blood + a couple hundred alveoli
Photos courtesy of Alison.
Cozy Cafe
23 October 2008
A hookah is a water pipe used for smoking various tobaccos. The hookah, aka Shisha from the Persian word Shishe which means glass, originated in India. Smoking from a hookah was traditionally part of the Arab cultural world, but has become quite popular for young trendsetters in New York. Hookah lounges have been popping up all over the five boroughs. These new lounges cater to young smokers interested in a techno-pulsing, dimly illuminated, hip atmosphere rather than the traditional hookah clubs that are usually only patronized by men interested in talking shop and seeing old friends. While smoking flavored tobacco and sipping Moroccan tea might not be a new experience for most people, I had never tried the hookah before last night, so it was completely new for me. In my opinion, if there was any way to end this long summer challenge of events it was to end it with something that I have never tried before. Enter the Cozy Cafe.
Alison, Nellie and I ended up at the Cozy Cafe after a dinner celebrating Nellie's upcoming move to Australia. While the two of them have frequented several hookah lounges and were ready to jump right into things, I needed a quick tutorial from them and one of the managers to keep from hacking up bits of lung. As a non-smoker, my first sensation from inhaling our Jasmine flavored tobacco was a fantastic lightheaded feeling. A few puffs later and I felt like an old pro. The key to not scalding your lungs is to exhale the smoke rather quickly, or so said the manager. Thanks to the girls and the Cozy Cafe it was lovely evening and a very interesting end to the 100 in 6.
100 in 6 incidentals budget: $567 + one pint of blood + a couple hundred alveoli
Photos courtesy of Alison.
19 October 2008
99 - Pinchbottom - Pretencion
Pinchbottom - Pretencion
Spiegeltent
18 October 2008, 2200
With cleverly sculpted witticisms, humorously crafted poetry and boobs, Pinchbottom presented Pretencion at Spiegeltent, one of the structures that makes up Spiegelworld at South Street Seaport. Spiegelworld is responsible for the critically acclaimed Absinthe and Desir, two burlesque-inspired shows of acrobatics and contortion that are awe-inspiring, erotic and breathtakingly beautiful. Spiegeltent is a wooden-walled tent-topped venue that seats around 300 people and is meant to evoke feelings of seeing a show in France in the early part of the 20th century.
With a bevy of beauties and talented gentlemen, Pinchbottom seduced the audience through the imaginary world of Pretencion where the performers rediscovered their lost sense of pretentiousness. All of the performances were perfectly polished and ready to please. The line-up included our hosts, Nasty Canasta and Jonny Porkpie, joined by Tigger!, Delirium Tremens, Dirty Martini, GiGi LaFemme, Little Brooklyn, Naughtia Nice and Bastard Keith. Pinchbottom's next show, You Only Pinch Twice, is back by popular demand. The show, a parody of James Bond themed burlesque acts, is showing on November 22nd at The Zipper Factory Theatre.
100 in 6 budget: $1315
Photos provided by the Spiegelworld website.
Spiegeltent
18 October 2008, 2200
With cleverly sculpted witticisms, humorously crafted poetry and boobs, Pinchbottom presented Pretencion at Spiegeltent, one of the structures that makes up Spiegelworld at South Street Seaport. Spiegelworld is responsible for the critically acclaimed Absinthe and Desir, two burlesque-inspired shows of acrobatics and contortion that are awe-inspiring, erotic and breathtakingly beautiful. Spiegeltent is a wooden-walled tent-topped venue that seats around 300 people and is meant to evoke feelings of seeing a show in France in the early part of the 20th century.
With a bevy of beauties and talented gentlemen, Pinchbottom seduced the audience through the imaginary world of Pretencion where the performers rediscovered their lost sense of pretentiousness. All of the performances were perfectly polished and ready to please. The line-up included our hosts, Nasty Canasta and Jonny Porkpie, joined by Tigger!, Delirium Tremens, Dirty Martini, GiGi LaFemme, Little Brooklyn, Naughtia Nice and Bastard Keith. Pinchbottom's next show, You Only Pinch Twice, is back by popular demand. The show, a parody of James Bond themed burlesque acts, is showing on November 22nd at The Zipper Factory Theatre.
100 in 6 budget: $1315
Photos provided by the Spiegelworld website.
98 - CFA IAMS Cat Show
CFA IAMS Cat Show
Madison Square Garden
18 October 2008
The Cat Fancier's Association and IAMS pet food joined together for the 6th annual CFA-IAMS Cat Championship show at Madison Square Garden. I like cats well enough. I don't own a cat nor do I want to, but I firmly believe that they are lovely animals and make wonderful companions. If I am not a cat-fanatic then how did I end up at the cat show? Well, I happen to know someone who is without doubt a cat person and is well on her way to becoming a veritable 'cat lady'. We started our feline journey at the adoption center browsing the hundreds of cats and kittens that are looking for good homes. The collection of cats that were available for adoption were left behind when their owners had to move, strays that were rescued from the streets, injured and rehabilitated cats, and unexpected litters. As we strolled around amongst the cat fanciers, I entertained myself by renaming every cat we saw. My favorites were deemed 'Donut', 'Pumpkinhead', 'Luca Brasi', and 'Pastrami on Rye'. For the record, the volunteers at most of the shelters did not find me humorous. Their loss.
After our sojourn through the adoption area, we entered the hallowed halls of the cat judging area. There were agility contests, awards for the best of a particular breed, and the much coveted Best of the Best award. After a few hours, we were all cat-ed out. Although I will probably not be returning to the cat show in the future, it certainly made for an interesting afternoon.
100 in 6 budget: $1293
Madison Square Garden
18 October 2008
The Cat Fancier's Association and IAMS pet food joined together for the 6th annual CFA-IAMS Cat Championship show at Madison Square Garden. I like cats well enough. I don't own a cat nor do I want to, but I firmly believe that they are lovely animals and make wonderful companions. If I am not a cat-fanatic then how did I end up at the cat show? Well, I happen to know someone who is without doubt a cat person and is well on her way to becoming a veritable 'cat lady'. We started our feline journey at the adoption center browsing the hundreds of cats and kittens that are looking for good homes. The collection of cats that were available for adoption were left behind when their owners had to move, strays that were rescued from the streets, injured and rehabilitated cats, and unexpected litters. As we strolled around amongst the cat fanciers, I entertained myself by renaming every cat we saw. My favorites were deemed 'Donut', 'Pumpkinhead', 'Luca Brasi', and 'Pastrami on Rye'. For the record, the volunteers at most of the shelters did not find me humorous. Their loss.
After our sojourn through the adoption area, we entered the hallowed halls of the cat judging area. There were agility contests, awards for the best of a particular breed, and the much coveted Best of the Best award. After a few hours, we were all cat-ed out. Although I will probably not be returning to the cat show in the future, it certainly made for an interesting afternoon.
100 in 6 budget: $1293
18 October 2008
97 - MAD
MAD About Politics book reading
Barnes and Noble
17 October 2008, 1930
What, me worry?
MAD About Politics is a political pop-up book, which was written by The Usual Gang of Idiots otherwise known as the writing staff of MAD magazine. Depending on the site, you may also find the book accredited to MAD's infamous mascot, Alfred E. Neuman, a fictional character created by MAD editor Harvey Kurtzman. Alfred E. Neuman certainly is familiar with the limelight having graced the cover of the magazine on virtually every issue since the first time he ran for President against Eisenhower in 1956. Since then, he has unsuccessfully made a stab at the Presidency every election as a write-in candidate. At the reading, there was a handful of MAD writers, editors, and art directors among the enthusiasts sharing a chuckle as the reading took on more of a question and answer session with the current editor, John Ficarra. The best line of the night was when Ficarra was asked if there were any other satirical magazines in existence now that posed a threat to the MAD empire? To that, Ficarra deadpanned, "Just Times and Newsweek."
Barnes and Noble
17 October 2008, 1930
What, me worry?
MAD About Politics is a political pop-up book, which was written by The Usual Gang of Idiots otherwise known as the writing staff of MAD magazine. Depending on the site, you may also find the book accredited to MAD's infamous mascot, Alfred E. Neuman, a fictional character created by MAD editor Harvey Kurtzman. Alfred E. Neuman certainly is familiar with the limelight having graced the cover of the magazine on virtually every issue since the first time he ran for President against Eisenhower in 1956. Since then, he has unsuccessfully made a stab at the Presidency every election as a write-in candidate. At the reading, there was a handful of MAD writers, editors, and art directors among the enthusiasts sharing a chuckle as the reading took on more of a question and answer session with the current editor, John Ficarra. The best line of the night was when Ficarra was asked if there were any other satirical magazines in existence now that posed a threat to the MAD empire? To that, Ficarra deadpanned, "Just Times and Newsweek."
15 October 2008
96 - NOFX
NOFX
Irving Plaza
15 October 2008
NOFX got together back in 1983 when most of the band was still in high school. They started out as Erik Sandin on drums, Eric Melvin on guitar and Fat Mike on bass and vocals. Throughout their first few years, aside from an extra guitarist here and there or a temporary substitute, the line up didn't change much. Since 1991, the band has been Sandin, Melvin, Fat Mike and El Hefe (guitar). Influenced by bands like Minor Threat, Black Flag and Misfits, NOFX has paved its way through to punk royalty while remaining a wildly successful independent act. Their first gig was in Hollywood at an open mic night of sorts at Cathay de Grande. After that, they put together a demo tape, sent it out and followed up with lots and lots of phone calls. They started touring in one of the guy's parents' station wagon and the rest is history.
An appropriate event for the night of the last Presidential debate if you ask me. With songs like, "Idiot Son of an Asshole" unquestioningly directed at the President, "American Errorist" and "Idiots are Taking Over," the band has been waging war on the Bush administration since the 2004 punk tour, "Rock Against Bush." The concert was ear-numbingly wonderful. They played a gamut of songs from all different albums, including one of my favorites, Linoleum, and closed of course with Theme From a NOFX Album. They are playing a second show tonight.
100 in 6 budget: $1279
Irving Plaza
15 October 2008
NOFX got together back in 1983 when most of the band was still in high school. They started out as Erik Sandin on drums, Eric Melvin on guitar and Fat Mike on bass and vocals. Throughout their first few years, aside from an extra guitarist here and there or a temporary substitute, the line up didn't change much. Since 1991, the band has been Sandin, Melvin, Fat Mike and El Hefe (guitar). Influenced by bands like Minor Threat, Black Flag and Misfits, NOFX has paved its way through to punk royalty while remaining a wildly successful independent act. Their first gig was in Hollywood at an open mic night of sorts at Cathay de Grande. After that, they put together a demo tape, sent it out and followed up with lots and lots of phone calls. They started touring in one of the guy's parents' station wagon and the rest is history.
An appropriate event for the night of the last Presidential debate if you ask me. With songs like, "Idiot Son of an Asshole" unquestioningly directed at the President, "American Errorist" and "Idiots are Taking Over," the band has been waging war on the Bush administration since the 2004 punk tour, "Rock Against Bush." The concert was ear-numbingly wonderful. They played a gamut of songs from all different albums, including one of my favorites, Linoleum, and closed of course with Theme From a NOFX Album. They are playing a second show tonight.
100 in 6 budget: $1279
12 October 2008
95 - Chris Belden: Guitar and Pen
Chris Belden: Guitar and Pen
Cornelia Street Cafe
12 October 2008, 1800
The Cornelia Street Cafe hosted Chris Belden: Guitar and Pen. Mr. Belden is a multi-talented writer who has dabbled in writing songs, novels, screenplays and plays. He co-wrote a screenplay with David Henry called Amnesia, which was produced in 1996 and starred Ally Sheedy and John Savage. In 2004 he released an album titled Songs about Anything, which was featured on NPR's Sunday Weekend Edition. Tonight he continued reading from his novel, The Writer, a creative little slice of fiction. Each reading session at Cornelia Street Cafe takes the audience a chapter or two further into the story. The reading was followed by a performance of songs from his new album Camouflage.
100 in 6 budget: $1253
Cornelia Street Cafe
12 October 2008, 1800
The Cornelia Street Cafe hosted Chris Belden: Guitar and Pen. Mr. Belden is a multi-talented writer who has dabbled in writing songs, novels, screenplays and plays. He co-wrote a screenplay with David Henry called Amnesia, which was produced in 1996 and starred Ally Sheedy and John Savage. In 2004 he released an album titled Songs about Anything, which was featured on NPR's Sunday Weekend Edition. Tonight he continued reading from his novel, The Writer, a creative little slice of fiction. Each reading session at Cornelia Street Cafe takes the audience a chapter or two further into the story. The reading was followed by a performance of songs from his new album Camouflage.
100 in 6 budget: $1253
94 -Jeff Koons
Jeff Koons Exhibit
Metropolitan Museum of Art - roof deck
If you remember the giant, flowered Puppy exhibit at Rockefeller Center (now permanently displayed at the Guggenheim Bilbao) or the big Red Balloon Flower at 7 World Trade Center, then you have already admired some of Jeff Koons's sculptures. Jeff Koons was born in York, Pennsylvania in 1955. He studied at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Koons is a versatile artist who works with many different media. His works have been displayed throughout the world, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art is currently showing three on the roof deck until October 26th. The critics are in complete disagreement of Koons's talent or lack thereof, especially after his series titled Made In Heaven, which featured him and his porn star wife Cicciolina in various explicit sexual positions. I am very much not an art critic. As I stood on the roof deck of the Met staring at the giant balloon dog, I didn't wonder what inspired him to create it or how he chose that particular color. The only thought that crossed my mind was of how much I would like to shoot a dart at it to see if I could pop it.
Metropolitan Museum of Art - roof deck
If you remember the giant, flowered Puppy exhibit at Rockefeller Center (now permanently displayed at the Guggenheim Bilbao) or the big Red Balloon Flower at 7 World Trade Center, then you have already admired some of Jeff Koons's sculptures. Jeff Koons was born in York, Pennsylvania in 1955. He studied at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Koons is a versatile artist who works with many different media. His works have been displayed throughout the world, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art is currently showing three on the roof deck until October 26th. The critics are in complete disagreement of Koons's talent or lack thereof, especially after his series titled Made In Heaven, which featured him and his porn star wife Cicciolina in various explicit sexual positions. I am very much not an art critic. As I stood on the roof deck of the Met staring at the giant balloon dog, I didn't wonder what inspired him to create it or how he chose that particular color. The only thought that crossed my mind was of how much I would like to shoot a dart at it to see if I could pop it.
08 October 2008
93 - NYU Lecture
NYU Lecture - Cross Examination and Re-Direct Techniques
08 October 2008
As a teaching hospital, NYU Medical Center hosts different lecture series and constantly has continuing education classes open to various groups. Today, I attended a lecture about giving expert testimony and being able to defend the science and your work in court. The two women giving the lecture work for the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and have prosecuted hundreds of cases between them. They actually turned the lecture into an interactive workshop by cross-examining someone in front of the group of attendees. They had some very good pointers for holding your own on the stand and tricks that defense attorneys can use to shake you. Overall, a very informative lecture. Apparently, "You can't handle the truth!" is not the best way to answer either.
08 October 2008
As a teaching hospital, NYU Medical Center hosts different lecture series and constantly has continuing education classes open to various groups. Today, I attended a lecture about giving expert testimony and being able to defend the science and your work in court. The two women giving the lecture work for the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and have prosecuted hundreds of cases between them. They actually turned the lecture into an interactive workshop by cross-examining someone in front of the group of attendees. They had some very good pointers for holding your own on the stand and tricks that defense attorneys can use to shake you. Overall, a very informative lecture. Apparently, "You can't handle the truth!" is not the best way to answer either.
05 October 2008
92 -Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain - hiking and Oktoberfest day trip
Bear Mountain
05 October 2008
Sharon and I made a trek up to Bear Mountain this morning for what we thought would be a simple day of hiking and breathing fresh air. When we arrived at the mountain though, we were pleasantly surprised to see that Bear Mountain's Oktoberfest was happening that afternoon! Hooray! We set off on our hike up a lovely, albeit steep, trail with visions of frothy brews dancing in our heads. Two hours later we marched triumphantly from the woods and straight to the official Oktoberfest bar and snack tent. After a couple beers and some pierogies we ventured into the Bear Mountain zoo for a tour of the local wildlife (check out the picture of the awesome human exhibit!). A fantastic day only made better by a good nap, a nice dinner, and a hot shower. I love Oktoberfest.
100 in 6 budget: $1246
Bear Mountain
05 October 2008
Sharon and I made a trek up to Bear Mountain this morning for what we thought would be a simple day of hiking and breathing fresh air. When we arrived at the mountain though, we were pleasantly surprised to see that Bear Mountain's Oktoberfest was happening that afternoon! Hooray! We set off on our hike up a lovely, albeit steep, trail with visions of frothy brews dancing in our heads. Two hours later we marched triumphantly from the woods and straight to the official Oktoberfest bar and snack tent. After a couple beers and some pierogies we ventured into the Bear Mountain zoo for a tour of the local wildlife (check out the picture of the awesome human exhibit!). A fantastic day only made better by a good nap, a nice dinner, and a hot shower. I love Oktoberfest.
100 in 6 budget: $1246
04 October 2008
91 - the subdudes
the subdudes
Highline Ballroom
04 October 2008, 2000
Wow! I love the subdudes! Today, the subdudes are Tommy Malone (who in my opinion looks hauntingly similar to Dave Grohl), John Magnie, Steve Amedee, Tim Cook and Jimmy Messa. They started out back in 1987 with Malone, Magnie, Amedee and Johnny Ray Allen playing what they thought would be a one time gig at Tipitina's in New Orleans. At that point, most of the band had already played together as The Percolators and The Continental Drifters, so they knew that they had a significant amount of musical chemistry. After the overwhelmingly positive response they got at Tipitina's, the subdudes were born. In 1997 they decided to call it quits to explore solo careers and other opportunities much to the dismay of their dedicated fans. There was a brief time when three of the original members plus Tim Cook, Jimmy Messa and Sammy Neal, got back together as a band called the Dudes (hmmm...), but the music still sounded wonderfully like the subdudes. In 2003, the Dudes re-added the 'sub' and once again started touring and recording as the subdudes.
The subdudes' music is a mix of rock, southern rock and a twangy New Orleans blues sound. Their most notable feature, aside from their fantastic harmonizing vocals featuring Malone on lead, is their use of a tambourine player instead of a drummer. Amedee actually played the tambourine with an old wooden spoon at their first gig in New Orleans. One of the other features that gives them their signature sound is the fabulous Magnie on accordion.
The show was absolutely fantastic and the rest of the audience seemed to be in complete agreement as they fled their tables and stormed the aisles to dance towards the end. The highlight of the evening was definitely when the band decided to unplug completely and meander into the audience to play the acoustic treat Rain. I have been listening to the subdudes casually for years, but I had never been to a show before last night. It was wonderful to hear them live and I hope that they continue to tour so that I can catch them again soon!
Highline Ballroom
04 October 2008, 2000
Wow! I love the subdudes! Today, the subdudes are Tommy Malone (who in my opinion looks hauntingly similar to Dave Grohl), John Magnie, Steve Amedee, Tim Cook and Jimmy Messa. They started out back in 1987 with Malone, Magnie, Amedee and Johnny Ray Allen playing what they thought would be a one time gig at Tipitina's in New Orleans. At that point, most of the band had already played together as The Percolators and The Continental Drifters, so they knew that they had a significant amount of musical chemistry. After the overwhelmingly positive response they got at Tipitina's, the subdudes were born. In 1997 they decided to call it quits to explore solo careers and other opportunities much to the dismay of their dedicated fans. There was a brief time when three of the original members plus Tim Cook, Jimmy Messa and Sammy Neal, got back together as a band called the Dudes (hmmm...), but the music still sounded wonderfully like the subdudes. In 2003, the Dudes re-added the 'sub' and once again started touring and recording as the subdudes.
The subdudes' music is a mix of rock, southern rock and a twangy New Orleans blues sound. Their most notable feature, aside from their fantastic harmonizing vocals featuring Malone on lead, is their use of a tambourine player instead of a drummer. Amedee actually played the tambourine with an old wooden spoon at their first gig in New Orleans. One of the other features that gives them their signature sound is the fabulous Magnie on accordion.
The show was absolutely fantastic and the rest of the audience seemed to be in complete agreement as they fled their tables and stormed the aisles to dance towards the end. The highlight of the evening was definitely when the band decided to unplug completely and meander into the audience to play the acoustic treat Rain. I have been listening to the subdudes casually for years, but I had never been to a show before last night. It was wonderful to hear them live and I hope that they continue to tour so that I can catch them again soon!
03 October 2008
90 - Hip Hop Honors
Hip Hop Honors screening and after-party
Opera
02 October 2008
Lucky for me, I have fantastic, interesting, exciting friends. On Thursday evening, thanks to the well-connected M.Douglas, we visited Opera (formerly the China Club) for a live screening of the Hip Hop Honors, which airs on VH1 on October 6 at 10pm. VH1 hosted the event, so all of the nibbles and drinks were on them. We grabbed some treats, perused the crowd, and settled into a booth to watch the show. As the show was being taped at the Hammerstein ballroom, we were watching a live telecast at Opera. The footage from the show is probably on the cutting room floor right now being edited and laden with commercials to make it ready for airing next week. A couple hours and a few drinks later, the after-party was ready to begin. We left our cozy little booth and walked upstairs to the VIP area and roof deck. The next couple hours were spent socializing, schmoozing, bumping into Mike Rappaport who was filming a De La Soul documentary, and seeing Kid Rock surrounded by beefy security guards and adoring fans. I am quite certain that there were more artists there, but since I don't know much about the big names of the Hip Hop scene, I wasn't able to recognize anyone else. The evening was lovely and certainly the type of event that I don't get to go to often if at all.
Opera
02 October 2008
Lucky for me, I have fantastic, interesting, exciting friends. On Thursday evening, thanks to the well-connected M.Douglas, we visited Opera (formerly the China Club) for a live screening of the Hip Hop Honors, which airs on VH1 on October 6 at 10pm. VH1 hosted the event, so all of the nibbles and drinks were on them. We grabbed some treats, perused the crowd, and settled into a booth to watch the show. As the show was being taped at the Hammerstein ballroom, we were watching a live telecast at Opera. The footage from the show is probably on the cutting room floor right now being edited and laden with commercials to make it ready for airing next week. A couple hours and a few drinks later, the after-party was ready to begin. We left our cozy little booth and walked upstairs to the VIP area and roof deck. The next couple hours were spent socializing, schmoozing, bumping into Mike Rappaport who was filming a De La Soul documentary, and seeing Kid Rock surrounded by beefy security guards and adoring fans. I am quite certain that there were more artists there, but since I don't know much about the big names of the Hip Hop scene, I wasn't able to recognize anyone else. The evening was lovely and certainly the type of event that I don't get to go to often if at all.
89 - Pinchbottom - Devilish
Pinchbottom - Devilish
Corio
01 October 2008
What a fantastic way to begin my favorite month and time of year! Pinchbottom was as sinful, seductive and salacious as ever with their new endeavor, Devilish. Devilish casts Mayor of Burlesque, Jonny Porkpie (who, term limits be damned, should definitely run for a third), as a somewhat innocent mortal who signs a deal with the foxiest devil I have ever seen, Nasty Canasta. If Devilish is any reflection of what the proper Hell is like, then save me a seat and declare me a sinner! The show took us through the nuances of entering into a contractual agreement with an evil deity through performances by Gal Friday, Ms Tickle, Precious Little, and Albert Cadabra. The highlight of the evening in my opinion was a new, delightfully sultry number by Miss Precious Little. In fact, the new number was so delightfully sultry that I think I blushed a bit.
Corio is a beautiful venue filled with green velvety couches, low set black and chrome tables, black and white kitschy wallpaper, exposed brick, and heavy velvet curtains. Although not a great venue if you are going to have the place packed wall to wall with standing room only, but certainly aces for an intimate crowd of revelers.
Don't miss Pinchbottom at Spiegelworld on October 18th presenting Pretencion!
Corio
01 October 2008
What a fantastic way to begin my favorite month and time of year! Pinchbottom was as sinful, seductive and salacious as ever with their new endeavor, Devilish. Devilish casts Mayor of Burlesque, Jonny Porkpie (who, term limits be damned, should definitely run for a third), as a somewhat innocent mortal who signs a deal with the foxiest devil I have ever seen, Nasty Canasta. If Devilish is any reflection of what the proper Hell is like, then save me a seat and declare me a sinner! The show took us through the nuances of entering into a contractual agreement with an evil deity through performances by Gal Friday, Ms Tickle, Precious Little, and Albert Cadabra. The highlight of the evening in my opinion was a new, delightfully sultry number by Miss Precious Little. In fact, the new number was so delightfully sultry that I think I blushed a bit.
Corio is a beautiful venue filled with green velvety couches, low set black and chrome tables, black and white kitschy wallpaper, exposed brick, and heavy velvet curtains. Although not a great venue if you are going to have the place packed wall to wall with standing room only, but certainly aces for an intimate crowd of revelers.
Don't miss Pinchbottom at Spiegelworld on October 18th presenting Pretencion!
28 September 2008
88 - 3rd Avenue Street Festival
3rd Avenue Street Festival
Bay Ridge
28 September 2008
I have been to a handful of street fairs this summer and I know what you are thinking... It is New York in the summer, everyone has been to a handful of street fairs and festivals. Bay Ridge's 3rd Ave Street Festival wasn't any ordinary street fair though. Between 69th street and 94th street, the streets were taken over by shops, bars, restaurants, dance troupes, street vendors, tarot readers, cocktail-mixing zodiac specialists, massage tables, at least six bands, a raw bar, an FDNY roving training center, every politician in the neighborhood, the New York Blood Center's mobile collection truck, rides and ponies for the kiddies, clowns, a semi-pro wrestling demonstration, prayer stations and everyone's favorite borough President, Marty Markowitz. So, while I was strolling the 25 blocks of street festival bliss I watched at least four bands, ate fried zucchini flowers, donated a pint of blood, bought an ugly necklace, toured a gallery, got a little too close to the wrestling demonstration, observed a cocktail-mixing zodiac specialist give someone a reading, salivated at the FDNY, discovered a new gourmet market, almost stepped in pony poop, learned about the potential development of the Bay Ridge food co-op, joined a prayer circle, and found out about the Bay Ridge Historical Society and the Narrows Botanical Garden.
100 in 6 incidentals budget: $553 + one pint of blood
Bay Ridge
28 September 2008
I have been to a handful of street fairs this summer and I know what you are thinking... It is New York in the summer, everyone has been to a handful of street fairs and festivals. Bay Ridge's 3rd Ave Street Festival wasn't any ordinary street fair though. Between 69th street and 94th street, the streets were taken over by shops, bars, restaurants, dance troupes, street vendors, tarot readers, cocktail-mixing zodiac specialists, massage tables, at least six bands, a raw bar, an FDNY roving training center, every politician in the neighborhood, the New York Blood Center's mobile collection truck, rides and ponies for the kiddies, clowns, a semi-pro wrestling demonstration, prayer stations and everyone's favorite borough President, Marty Markowitz. So, while I was strolling the 25 blocks of street festival bliss I watched at least four bands, ate fried zucchini flowers, donated a pint of blood, bought an ugly necklace, toured a gallery, got a little too close to the wrestling demonstration, observed a cocktail-mixing zodiac specialist give someone a reading, salivated at the FDNY, discovered a new gourmet market, almost stepped in pony poop, learned about the potential development of the Bay Ridge food co-op, joined a prayer circle, and found out about the Bay Ridge Historical Society and the Narrows Botanical Garden.
100 in 6 incidentals budget: $553 + one pint of blood
27 September 2008
87 - Lucky 13 Saloon's All Male Revue
Lucky 13 Saloon's All Male Revue
Lucky 13 Saloon
26 September 2008, 0200
On any given weekend, you can walk into Lucky 13 Saloon and be greeted by barely-clad, barely-legal go-go dancers gracing the bar's stripper pole. If you are into the pale, tattoo-sporting sort then Lucky 13's dancers are perfect for you. On this particular evening though, Lucky's was featuring a different sort of go-go dancing. Taking volunteers from the audience, Lucky 13 Saloon's All Male Revue was on! Six brave souls took turns trying to impress the judges and their peers by taking it off...taking it ALL off in a few cases with some help from the grabby judges in the front row. There were stunts, theatrics, acrobatics, and costuming. After many rounds of applause (and laughter), the semi-finalists were chosen. A dance-off ensued, a judge was tackled to the ground, and finally, at long last, a winner was chosen. Congratulations, El Sucio.
Lucky 13 Saloon
26 September 2008, 0200
On any given weekend, you can walk into Lucky 13 Saloon and be greeted by barely-clad, barely-legal go-go dancers gracing the bar's stripper pole. If you are into the pale, tattoo-sporting sort then Lucky 13's dancers are perfect for you. On this particular evening though, Lucky's was featuring a different sort of go-go dancing. Taking volunteers from the audience, Lucky 13 Saloon's All Male Revue was on! Six brave souls took turns trying to impress the judges and their peers by taking it off...taking it ALL off in a few cases with some help from the grabby judges in the front row. There were stunts, theatrics, acrobatics, and costuming. After many rounds of applause (and laughter), the semi-finalists were chosen. A dance-off ensued, a judge was tackled to the ground, and finally, at long last, a winner was chosen. Congratulations, El Sucio.
86 - Taste For Hope
Taste For Hope
Westside Loft
25 September 2008, 1900
Taste For Hope is a fundraiser that supports the New York City Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. For a very reasonable donation of $100, patrons were invited to ascend to the 6th floor of the Westside Loft, a lovely open space on West 37th Street that can be rented for fundraising events, trade shows and holiday parties, and enjoy an evening of sampling delicacies from New York's finest. Taste For Hope benefits everyone involved. The MS society invites restaurants and beverage producers and distributors to set up tables in the loft and hand out samples of their wares. For those showcasing, the evening is a great means of publicity and the donation of their time and treats is for a great cause. For the attendees, nibbling and sipping the evening away makes the $100 donation worth every penny and, if I didn't already mention, it is for a great cause.
I attended Taste For Hope as a volunteer for Stout's sister-restaurant, F.A.T.S. (my homes away from home). Lucky for me when traffic around the table was slow, I was able to wander the loft and sample some wonderful goodies myself provided by Penn Brewery, Tommy Bahama Rum, Zipang Sparkling Sake, Becco, Stand, The Indian Bread Company, Hard Rock Cafe, and Terra Medi, to name a few. Definitely a delicious, wonderful, and inspiring evening.
Westside Loft
25 September 2008, 1900
Taste For Hope is a fundraiser that supports the New York City Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. For a very reasonable donation of $100, patrons were invited to ascend to the 6th floor of the Westside Loft, a lovely open space on West 37th Street that can be rented for fundraising events, trade shows and holiday parties, and enjoy an evening of sampling delicacies from New York's finest. Taste For Hope benefits everyone involved. The MS society invites restaurants and beverage producers and distributors to set up tables in the loft and hand out samples of their wares. For those showcasing, the evening is a great means of publicity and the donation of their time and treats is for a great cause. For the attendees, nibbling and sipping the evening away makes the $100 donation worth every penny and, if I didn't already mention, it is for a great cause.
I attended Taste For Hope as a volunteer for Stout's sister-restaurant, F.A.T.S. (my homes away from home). Lucky for me when traffic around the table was slow, I was able to wander the loft and sample some wonderful goodies myself provided by Penn Brewery, Tommy Bahama Rum, Zipang Sparkling Sake, Becco, Stand, The Indian Bread Company, Hard Rock Cafe, and Terra Medi, to name a few. Definitely a delicious, wonderful, and inspiring evening.
23 September 2008
85 - Unscene
Unscene
Spoon Theatre
23 September 2008, 1900
Unscene is a play in five scenes. Each scene takes place in a different apartment within the same apartment building and allows the audience to peer into the lives of everyday New Yorkers. The first scene involves an awkwardly adorable man professing his love for a clearly uninterested woman while an apartment party goes on in the adjacent room. The second scene shows us two brothers, one of which has just confessed to killing his girlfriend and who is having mixed feelings of anger and remorse over his actions. In a complete 180 degree turn, the next act portrays a set of very comical female roommates, one a functional alcoholic and the other a compulsive eater, discussing their lives and pitfalls with men. The fourth and fifth scenes involve two couples. The first, a couple breaking up and each blaming the other for forcing a strain on the relationship. The second, a married couple who get into a discussion about sex and insecurities after an innocent analogy goes awry. So basically, Unscene was like watching five mini-plays! I would say to go and see it, but tonight was the last night that it was showing. I found out about the play from my cousin. He did a smashing job portraying the brother in the second act who killed his girlfriend. Way to go, cousin, and good luck with the next endeavor!
100 in 6 budget: $1154
Spoon Theatre
23 September 2008, 1900
Unscene is a play in five scenes. Each scene takes place in a different apartment within the same apartment building and allows the audience to peer into the lives of everyday New Yorkers. The first scene involves an awkwardly adorable man professing his love for a clearly uninterested woman while an apartment party goes on in the adjacent room. The second scene shows us two brothers, one of which has just confessed to killing his girlfriend and who is having mixed feelings of anger and remorse over his actions. In a complete 180 degree turn, the next act portrays a set of very comical female roommates, one a functional alcoholic and the other a compulsive eater, discussing their lives and pitfalls with men. The fourth and fifth scenes involve two couples. The first, a couple breaking up and each blaming the other for forcing a strain on the relationship. The second, a married couple who get into a discussion about sex and insecurities after an innocent analogy goes awry. So basically, Unscene was like watching five mini-plays! I would say to go and see it, but tonight was the last night that it was showing. I found out about the play from my cousin. He did a smashing job portraying the brother in the second act who killed his girlfriend. Way to go, cousin, and good luck with the next endeavor!
100 in 6 budget: $1154
21 September 2008
84 - The New York Burlesque Festival
The New York Burlesque Festival
Le Poisson Rouge
20 September 2008, 1900
Wow!
Beautiful.
Gorgeous.
Sexy.
Provocative.
Too many beautiful women...I have lost my ability to think.
Le Poisson Rouge
20 September 2008, 1900
Wow!
Beautiful.
Gorgeous.
Sexy.
Provocative.
Too many beautiful women...I have lost my ability to think.
19 September 2008
83 - The Architecture of Flavour: A Whisky Blending Experience
Whisky Blending Class
Astor Center
18 September 2008, 1830
"Anyone can bottle a single cask, the real skill in Scotch whisky is demonstrated by the blender." - Peat
Astor Center is a foodie haven. From cooking classes to wine tastings, green market tours to sake pairing classes, Astor Center has it all including the ultimate course for Highland and Speyside lovers alike, a scotch whisky blending class. The class was presented by John Glaser a former employee of Johnnie Walker. Glaser separated from Johnnie Walker after spending years honing his tasting and blending skills in Scotland and England. He took his knowledge from Johnnie Walker and founded his own whisky company, Compass Box.
The Architecture of Flavour: A Whisky Blending Experience was held in The Study at Astor Center. The Study was set up more like a laboratory for mad whisky-blending scientists than a classroom. Two rows of 'desks' were equipped with graduated cylinders, tasting glasses filled with various scotch whiskies, bread, cheese and a carafe of filtered water. We started by going through some misconceptions about whiskies such as the most common that a single malt whisky is made only from a single cask. Wrong! A single malt just means that it is a pure malt whisky from a single distillery, but comes from multiple casks within that distillery. Since every cask is different, each cask will flavor the whisky differently. In order for the distilleries to keep a consistent flavor for their single malts, they blend together several malt whiskies of various ages from different casks in the distillery. Another misconception is that the age on a bottle of single malt is the number of years that it has been sitting inside the cask. Wrong! The age on the bottle is the age of the youngest scotch whisky that was involved in making the blend. Enough with the definitions though...on to the blending!
The eager students were instructed on how to smell and dissect the flavours in the whisky. After tasting several scotches with different base notes and top notes, we were given a lesson in how to blend. And blend we did! Each student left with a flask of his/her own scotch whisky, a bit of a buzz, and a better appreciation for scotch. I love you, scotch whisky. I love you.
100 in 6 budget: $1119
Astor Center
18 September 2008, 1830
"Anyone can bottle a single cask, the real skill in Scotch whisky is demonstrated by the blender." - Peat
Astor Center is a foodie haven. From cooking classes to wine tastings, green market tours to sake pairing classes, Astor Center has it all including the ultimate course for Highland and Speyside lovers alike, a scotch whisky blending class. The class was presented by John Glaser a former employee of Johnnie Walker. Glaser separated from Johnnie Walker after spending years honing his tasting and blending skills in Scotland and England. He took his knowledge from Johnnie Walker and founded his own whisky company, Compass Box.
The Architecture of Flavour: A Whisky Blending Experience was held in The Study at Astor Center. The Study was set up more like a laboratory for mad whisky-blending scientists than a classroom. Two rows of 'desks' were equipped with graduated cylinders, tasting glasses filled with various scotch whiskies, bread, cheese and a carafe of filtered water. We started by going through some misconceptions about whiskies such as the most common that a single malt whisky is made only from a single cask. Wrong! A single malt just means that it is a pure malt whisky from a single distillery, but comes from multiple casks within that distillery. Since every cask is different, each cask will flavor the whisky differently. In order for the distilleries to keep a consistent flavor for their single malts, they blend together several malt whiskies of various ages from different casks in the distillery. Another misconception is that the age on a bottle of single malt is the number of years that it has been sitting inside the cask. Wrong! The age on the bottle is the age of the youngest scotch whisky that was involved in making the blend. Enough with the definitions though...on to the blending!
The eager students were instructed on how to smell and dissect the flavours in the whisky. After tasting several scotches with different base notes and top notes, we were given a lesson in how to blend. And blend we did! Each student left with a flask of his/her own scotch whisky, a bit of a buzz, and a better appreciation for scotch. I love you, scotch whisky. I love you.
100 in 6 budget: $1119
82 - Rockin' Blue
Rockin' Blue
Elevated Acre
17 September 2008
What is better than partying with your mom? Partying with your mom and her rockin' coworkers while the boss is jamming 60s and 70s rock ballads on the Elevated Acre in the Financial District! Read that last bit again... and yes, I am serious. My mom works for a rock star, well, a rock star of the construction maintenance world who happens to be involved with a fun cover band called Rockin' Blue. If you enjoy classic rock as much as I do then you will enjoy Rockin' Blue. The boys put on quite a show too despite some technical difficulties from a faulty amplifier. Now I know what you are thinking, so put it out of your head. Just because the band is composed of contractors and construction bigwigs from Jersey does not mean that their equipment fell off the back of a truck. Seriously though, Rockin' Blue helped usher in the first really crisp evening of the upcoming fall season at a fantastic venue, which I think is one of the Financial Districts best kept secrets. The Elevated Acre at 55 Water Street is hidden from the hustle and bustle of Wall Street behind the HIP building, two stories up from the street via escalators that appear to lead to nowhere and sandwiched between the Police Museum and the skyscraper that is 55 Water Street. Once you follow the escalators to nowhere, you enter a one acre enclave that includes trees, shrubs and a large patch of grass that allows for a perfect spot to watch a concert. The Elevated Acre looks out over the FDR drive and is a stones throw from the East River, so the views of the county of Kings are spectacular. Thank you Rockin' Blue!
The Boss:
Elevated Acre
17 September 2008
What is better than partying with your mom? Partying with your mom and her rockin' coworkers while the boss is jamming 60s and 70s rock ballads on the Elevated Acre in the Financial District! Read that last bit again... and yes, I am serious. My mom works for a rock star, well, a rock star of the construction maintenance world who happens to be involved with a fun cover band called Rockin' Blue. If you enjoy classic rock as much as I do then you will enjoy Rockin' Blue. The boys put on quite a show too despite some technical difficulties from a faulty amplifier. Now I know what you are thinking, so put it out of your head. Just because the band is composed of contractors and construction bigwigs from Jersey does not mean that their equipment fell off the back of a truck. Seriously though, Rockin' Blue helped usher in the first really crisp evening of the upcoming fall season at a fantastic venue, which I think is one of the Financial Districts best kept secrets. The Elevated Acre at 55 Water Street is hidden from the hustle and bustle of Wall Street behind the HIP building, two stories up from the street via escalators that appear to lead to nowhere and sandwiched between the Police Museum and the skyscraper that is 55 Water Street. Once you follow the escalators to nowhere, you enter a one acre enclave that includes trees, shrubs and a large patch of grass that allows for a perfect spot to watch a concert. The Elevated Acre looks out over the FDR drive and is a stones throw from the East River, so the views of the county of Kings are spectacular. Thank you Rockin' Blue!
The Boss:
14 September 2008
81 - Pickle Festival
Pickle Festival
Orchard Street
14 September 2008
This Sunday was the 8th annual NYC Pickle Festival celebrated on Orchard Street between Grand and Broome. I don't think you can go wrong with a festival which starts out by giving away giant, delicious, spicy pickles directly upon entering the officially sanctioned Pickle Festival area. The Pickle Guys greeted fans with whole pickle samples right at the corners of Grand and Orchard. From gherkins to dills to half sours, the Pickle Guys have been keeping it Kosher for years, and are the last remaining pickle shop on Essex Street in the Lower East Side. The NYC Pickle Festival started in 2001 by Nancy Ralph, director of the New York Food Museum. She approached Alan Kaufman, owner of Pickle Guys, and asked if he would be interested in helping to celebrate the pickling history of New York. And just like that, a delicious event was born! Other stars of the Pickle Festival include Rick's Picks, McClure's Pickles and Wheelhouse Pickles, which offer everything from pickled beets to okra to green beans in a wasabi brine. Enjoy!
Orchard Street
14 September 2008
This Sunday was the 8th annual NYC Pickle Festival celebrated on Orchard Street between Grand and Broome. I don't think you can go wrong with a festival which starts out by giving away giant, delicious, spicy pickles directly upon entering the officially sanctioned Pickle Festival area. The Pickle Guys greeted fans with whole pickle samples right at the corners of Grand and Orchard. From gherkins to dills to half sours, the Pickle Guys have been keeping it Kosher for years, and are the last remaining pickle shop on Essex Street in the Lower East Side. The NYC Pickle Festival started in 2001 by Nancy Ralph, director of the New York Food Museum. She approached Alan Kaufman, owner of Pickle Guys, and asked if he would be interested in helping to celebrate the pickling history of New York. And just like that, a delicious event was born! Other stars of the Pickle Festival include Rick's Picks, McClure's Pickles and Wheelhouse Pickles, which offer everything from pickled beets to okra to green beans in a wasabi brine. Enjoy!
13 September 2008
80 - NY Brewfest
NY Brewfest
Pier 17 - South Street Seaport
12 September 2008
This event was held last night outside at Pier 17...in the rain. Despite the weather though, Pier 17 at South Street Seaport was packed! I think it is safe to say that rain or shine people want BEER. For any beer aficionado, a beer festival is a must attend event. NY Brewfest was hosted by Heartland Brewery and featured dozens of breweries from the tri-state area and New England showing off their finest wares. Ever since I worked at John Harvard's Brew House in Mass a few years ago, I have loved and appreciated wonderfully crafted beers. They are delicious and meant to be savored. I am not talking about Budweiser, Corona or any other mass produced beers. I am talking about beers produced by microbreweries (a microbrewery is defined as a brewery that can only distribute a certain number of barrels of beer a year - approximately 15,000 barrels, I believe). These beers are delicately brewed, seasoned, and hopped to perfection...well, not all of them are perfect.
My favorite pours at the NY Brewfest were Otter Creek's Sphinx, a honey and chamomile infused beer, Southern Tier's Creme Brulee Stout, which was as delicious as it sounds with undertones of maple and chocolate, and Cape Ann's Pumpkin Stout, which screamed of Autumn. The Allagash Brewery representatives were definitely having the most fun as far as I could tell pouring beers while puffing on cigs and drinking more than they were actually serving.
On a side note, I am happy that I decided to post about this event today rather than last night. If I had, I am quite certain the post would have read like this, "Brewssh Feshtshshsh wuuuuz schloooper...hiccup". You know 'they' say you should never drink alone. I find that I have come to agree with the saying that "If you drink enough, you will never be alone." This was abundantly clear last night because after a few pours, I was surrounded by friends!
100 in 6 budget: $1044
Pier 17 - South Street Seaport
12 September 2008
This event was held last night outside at Pier 17...in the rain. Despite the weather though, Pier 17 at South Street Seaport was packed! I think it is safe to say that rain or shine people want BEER. For any beer aficionado, a beer festival is a must attend event. NY Brewfest was hosted by Heartland Brewery and featured dozens of breweries from the tri-state area and New England showing off their finest wares. Ever since I worked at John Harvard's Brew House in Mass a few years ago, I have loved and appreciated wonderfully crafted beers. They are delicious and meant to be savored. I am not talking about Budweiser, Corona or any other mass produced beers. I am talking about beers produced by microbreweries (a microbrewery is defined as a brewery that can only distribute a certain number of barrels of beer a year - approximately 15,000 barrels, I believe). These beers are delicately brewed, seasoned, and hopped to perfection...well, not all of them are perfect.
My favorite pours at the NY Brewfest were Otter Creek's Sphinx, a honey and chamomile infused beer, Southern Tier's Creme Brulee Stout, which was as delicious as it sounds with undertones of maple and chocolate, and Cape Ann's Pumpkin Stout, which screamed of Autumn. The Allagash Brewery representatives were definitely having the most fun as far as I could tell pouring beers while puffing on cigs and drinking more than they were actually serving.
On a side note, I am happy that I decided to post about this event today rather than last night. If I had, I am quite certain the post would have read like this, "Brewssh Feshtshshsh wuuuuz schloooper...hiccup". You know 'they' say you should never drink alone. I find that I have come to agree with the saying that "If you drink enough, you will never be alone." This was abundantly clear last night because after a few pours, I was surrounded by friends!
100 in 6 budget: $1044
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