UNGA French After Party at the Hall des Lumières presented by FIAF

To celebrate the kick-off of UN Week, Villa Albertine and FIAF partnered to present the UNGA French After Party at the Hall des Lumières.

Hall des Lumières, which has recently popped up in New York after its longstanding existence in France, has opened its immersive exhibit called, “Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion.” The digital exhibition, which features most of Klimt’s work throughout his lifetime, is a truly immersive experience for any art and technology lover.

Hall des Lumières also presented three additional exhibits alongside Gold in Motion: FRIEDENSREICH HUNDERTWASSER: In the Wake of the Vienna Secession, 5 MOVEMENTS: Contemporary Creation and RECODING ENTROPIA: Contemporary Exhibition. The exhibitions all take place before Gold in Motion comes on screen, allowing each visitor to submerge all of their senses into the art world.

The UNGA French After Party also featured a live DJ, traditional charcuterie boards and other sensory experiences which filled the rooms of 49 Chambers Street throughout the night.

If you’re interested in attending Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion, please visit the Hall des Lumiéres website.

Lang Lang Gala 2022

Lang Lang and his wife Gina Alice hosted the Lang Lang International Music Foundation Gala Concert and Dinner on September 21st at Cipriani Broadway. Lang Lang performed, along with Disney’s Encanto, Mauro Castillo, singing We Don't Talk About Bruno and 20 Young Scholars from the foundation. The sweet melodies of Steinway & Sons pianos filled the air, delighting all the guests.

Wyclef Jean gave an impromptu birthday performance of Maria Maria for his friend Lang Lang --- celebrating a 40th birthday that was three months ago, “I could not be with you then, so let’s do it now”. It was only one of the high notes of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation “Lang Lang and Friends Gala” last night in New York CIty, their first since the pandemic. John Paulson chaired the event, offering “I tried to play many instruments in my life but learned that I'm better as an audience. But the work of the foundation is important. Thousands of children will play music and gain confidence because of this foundation and your support." Lang Lang then joined CEO of his Foundation, Leszek Barwinski Brown, on stage and greeted the audience with, "Thank you for coming tonight to help celebrate the power of music, all I can say to you is Good Job!" The black-tie evening raised in excess of 1.3 million dollars.

The Foundation’s Ariela Rossberg announced their first annual Teacher of the Year Award, Davis Cahill of Jefferson Elementary School in Greensboro NC. Lang Lang commended him personally for his outstanding commitment to music education and presented him with a check for five thousand dollars.

Barbara Tober presented a posthumous Lifetime Philanthropy Award to longtime board member Shirley Young, who befriended Lang Lang when he was just ten. Shirley’s sons, David, Doug, and William Hsieh announced a $100,000 challenge grant for new Keys of Inspiration school sponsorship in her memory. Tober also announced the creation of the Donald Tober Piano Fund for Scholars, helping talented young pianists with tuition fees, travel to competitions, lessons, and piano maintenance.

The evening was filled with musical performances, including Lang Lang himself playing several from his new album, The Disney Book as well as the Chinese favorite, Jasmine Flower. He was joined by Mauro Castillo from the cast of Disney's Encanto for a version of We Don't Talk About Bruno. Afterwards, the crowd held glow sticks in the air while Lang Lang and his wife, Gina Alice, performed a romantic rendition of When You Wish Upon a Star. Castillo took the stage once more to perform a Celia Cruz salsa with Young Scholar alumni Maxim Lando, followed by Wyclef's surprise concert.

Among over 300 guests were Lang Lang International Music Foundation Board members Christy Cressy, David Hsieh, David Hryck, Joseph Rallo, Elizabeth Segerstrom, and Kyle Wool. Supporters included Kelly Bensimon, Candace Bushnell, Mauro Castillo, Kelly Cutrone, artist Steven Ladd, as well as Afsaneh Akhtari, Janna Bullock, Amanda and Carter Burch, Angela Chen, Joan Hardy Clark, Judith Anne Corrente and Wym Kooyer, Laurie Cumbo, Nathanael Hausmann, Joanna Fisher, Chloe Flower, Carole Guest, Michele Gerber Klein, Ellie Manko, Sherrie Mu, Liane Pei, Lydia and David Sarfati, Jean Shafiroff, Daisy Soros, Vivienne Tam, Veronika Vilim and Victoria Wyman.

Photos by Jonathan Marder + Company

Turkish Airlines CONNECT photography exhibition

On September 16th, the "CONNECT" exhibition and its stunning picture collection were officially launched by Turkish Airlines, the international carrier that flies to the most nations than any other, and the Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey in New York. The Turkish House, one of Turkey's most important diplomatic missions abroad, hosted the unveiling.

The "CONNECT" exhibition showcases landscape photography from 49 cities and 49 different areas of Turkey, highlighting both undiscovered treasures of Anatolia and offering fresh viewpoints on well-known and recognized locations. The exhibition, which was put together by Serhat Kula, has images taken by one of the new generation of artists' photographers, Murat Daaslan.

The display, which is based on the idea of Pangea, the supercontinent that existed millions of years ago, honors Turkish Airlines' vast connectedness as the international carrier that flies to the most nations.

On the exhibition, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat stated; “In many ways, Türkiye’s history is that of humanity.With countless cultures making their home on this remarkable land, it is apparent to visitors how pivotal a role these lands have played in the development of civilized societies. More than 30 years ago we started flying to the U.S. and Turkish Airlines will be celebrating its 90th anniversary next year. Our mission today, as it was then, is to bridge continents, connect countries and unite communities.”

Present at the event and for a ribbon-cutting ceremony was Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat, Türkiye’s Ambassador to the United States Hasan Murat Mercan, Consul General of Türkiye in New York Reyhan Özgür, and Permanent Representative of Türkiye to the United Nations Ambassador Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu.

Authentic Flamenco by the Royal Opera of Madrid

In the heart of Harlem at the vaulted St. Thomas the Apostle Church you can find Authentic Flamenco by the Royal Opera of Madrid. A special and passionate flamenco show performed by award-winning professionals from Spain, this authentic flamenco expresses raw passion and emotion with it, the feelings that make us human. They honor and celebrate this captivating Spanish art form with award-winning dancer and choreographer, Amador Rojas, alongside outstanding Spanish artists.

Originating in Spain, this special show, in partnership with the Royal Opera of Madrid and produced by SO-LA-NA, brings together award-winning professionals for an unforgettable performance with stunning vocals, instruments, and dances. Whether you’re an avid flamenco lover or just seeing it for the first time, there’s no better, more authentic way to witness firsthand the raw power of this captivating Spanish art form.

Even if you don’t speak any Spanish, the emotions of the storytelling will captivate and move you. Featuring live instruments on the stage and encouraging audience participation to clap and shout “olé!”, this immersive experience makes for an impressive and unique date night. 

VIP tickets include exclusive visibility with seat selection, and a meet & greet with the artists to take photos after the show. It also includes a tasting of Spanish products before the show, including delicious charcuterie for the real European experience. A cash bar offered a selection of imported Spanish wines and liquors.

Visit https://feverup.com/m/116734 to get your tickets to this passionate and authentic event!

Downtown 100 Party at Nebula

The Best Selling Author of “Anyone Who’s Anyone, Editor at Large of PARK Magazine and Vanity Fair scribe George Wayne hosted his 26th Annual Downtown 100 Party in Midtown at Nebula on Tuesday, September 13th.

Over twenty years ago, George came up with the idea of throwing a party called "The Downtown 100 Party" to honor the 100 most innovative, influential, inspiring, and ground-breaking names in the DOWNTOWN community.

Fashion Designers Nicole Miller and Frederick Anderson danced to a live soundtrack of disco classics from DJ Elle Dee alongside New York Times Best Selling Author of Sex & the City Candace Bushnell, Jean Shafiroff, and The Dragon Sisters. Nebula owners Yang Gao and Richie Romero were also on hand to celebrate the occasion. The Studio 54 themed party celebrated the 100 coolest, smartest, and most fabulous minds of our zeitgeist, and revelers continued to party at Nebula well into the night for their weekly Tuesday Baby Tuesday party.

One of New York City's most esteemed lists is the Downtown 100 List. George Wayne has already given recognition to celebrities on it, including Lady Gaga, Kate Upton, Ivana Trump, A$AP Rocky, Solange Knowles, Alan Cumming,, and a long list of others.

Photos Courtesy of Patrick Cashin

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air at Le Poisson Rouge

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air performing on Friday nights at Le Poisson Rouge (LPR) is a can't-miss dance party down memory lane!

The epic cover band, consisting of five local NYC musicians on vocals, electric guitar, and drums, takes the stage weekly to entertain a packed audience with hits from chart-topping artists of the 1990s and 2000s every Friday at 11:55 PM (and doors open at 11pm). The genre-bending musical event is the brainchild of Fun Music Presents and includes a sing-a-long filled with hit singles from stars like Jay-Z, Lizzo, Katy Perry, Fall Out Boy, Eminem, Rhianna, Blink-182.

Party-goers are also invited to an opening DJ set full of throwbacks and mind-blowing mash-ups. And expect the unexpected with special performances from surprise talent from the dance floor or elevated VIP booths, drinking their fave cocktails and belting out tunes into the AM!

This past Friday brought out Rock of Ages star Constantine Maroulis and Mims, who popped in to perform hits with The Fresh Kids.

To purchase tickets or reserve VIP tables and bottle packages visit, https://www.funmusicpresents.com 

All photo credit : Toni-Ann Langella

Machine Dazzle Exhibition at MAD Opens During NYFW

Last night the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) welcomed more than 700 friends to celebrate the opening of Queer Maximalism x Machine Dazzle, the first solo exhibition dedicated to the genre-defying artist Matthew Flower, better known as Machine Dazzle. Sequins, glitter, feathers, rhinestones, and ribbons filled the Museum, as the self-taught designer shared his repertoire of stagecraft, design, performance, and music, showcasing queer maximalism’s aesthetic language of gay liberation.

“Since its founding, the Museum of Arts and Design has been a home for artists who have reimagined and radically subverted traditional craft techniques in search of more authentic self-expression,” said exhibition curator Elissa Auther, Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and William and Mildred Lasdon Chief Curator at MAD. “Machine Dazzle demonstrates how costumes have world-making capacity, why unorthodox materials have become the preferred way for those outside of majority culture to describe themselves, and the ways in which excess can both transform and transfigure the queer body.”

Warmth, joy, and connection, exuded from the Museum, highlighting the importance of this exhibition to the LGBTQ+ community. “The higher the heels, the closer to the goddess,” said Machine Dazzle to a packed room as the Dazzle Dancers reunited to perform a colorful dance with a provocative finale of no clothing–just glitter! As founding Dazzle Dancer Mike Albo wrote in his essay contribution to the exhibition catalogue, “having fun is a political act,” and only fun was had last night.

Guests included Penny Arcade, Noella Bella, Mx. Justin Vivian Bond, Haleigh Ciel, MAD Chair Michele Cohen with Marty Cohen, Amy Fine Collins, Duke Dang, Darlinda, John "Lypsinka" Epperson, Taylor Mac, Andrew Martin-Weber, Dirty Martini, Marsy Mittlemann, MAD’s  Nanette L. Laitman Director Tim Rodgers, Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas, Dan Romer, Jean Shafiroff, Christopher Tanner, Davóne Tines, and MAD Chair Emeritus Barbara Tober.

On view until February 19, 2023, the exhibition brings together nearly 100 of the artist’s creations for stage, spectacles, and street theater, alongside a variety of environments, ephemera, material samples, photography, and video. Together, they chronicle the metamorphosis of Flower, a closeted suburban kid from Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, into “Machine Dazzle,” the queer experimental theater genius.

Displayed are Machine Dazzle’s famous collaborations with drag and performance luminaries such as the Dazzle Dancers, Mx Justin Vivian Bond, and Taylor Mac, among others, as well as the artist’s recent emergence from behind the scenes to center stage of their own artistic life. 

Queer Maximalism x Machine Dazzle is accompanied by a 160-page catalog published by Rizzoli, as well as a series of films curated by Machine Dazzle, that helped shape the artist’s aesthetic sensibility. Starting October, the series includes screenings of the Faye Dunaway classic The Eyes of Laura Mars (1978) for Halloween and Xanadu (1980) starring Olivia Newton- John to mark the artist’s birthday. Attendees of the film screenings can expect costume contests, giveaways, photo shoots, and more! For more information, visit madmuseum.org.

Photos by PMC Getty photos

Southampton Arts Center SummerFest

Southampton Arts Center [SAC – southamptonartscenter.org] hosted their largest benefit and culinary arts festival, SummerFest, on September 1st! Honorees Helena and Rob Vahradian accepted the 2022 Champion of the Arts Award for their commitment to the arts of Southampton. Broadway star Jessica Vosk (Elphaba in Wicked) performed a medley of songs entertaining over 370 guests, with dinner and dancing into the morning hours. SummerFest is SAC’s most critical fundraising initiative generating 1/3 of SAC’s annual contributed income – allowing the continuation of our year-round world class programming while serving as a critical economic driver of our beloved community. As a result of last night, today they proudly announce the event raised over $650,000! Committee members were dressed in Bulgari jewelry while guests perused Bulgari vitrines in their bespoke lounge and enjoyed sweet treats from their dessert cart. LaLique partnered with Oscar Mora to produce and design the floral decor for the tables and, additionally, their historic LaLique designed vases were centerpieces. As guests arrived for cocktails, they were greeted by the stunning LaLique floral cart for the perfect photo op. Guests strolled through the galleries experiencing SAC’s current exhibition, FIGURES TRANSFORMED, curated by Christina Mossaides Strassfield after enjoying signature dishes for an authentic taste of the Hamptons from its most celebrated East End restaurants! Serving as the backdrop for SummerFest, guests freely explored the historic grounds and galleries of 25 Jobs Lane, with artwork by Deborah Buck, Hal Buckner, and Strong-Cuevas. 

“We've now completed our 9th season at The Southampton Arts Center. Next year that's double digits time!” shared founding co-chair, Simone Levinson in her opening speech. “SummerFest originated as a way to have a great party to represent who we are and what we do.  It is an opportunity to come together to celebrate our mission of building community through the arts. Each year, we've grown exponentially, and tonight we're hosting 370 people here for dinner.” she stated, proudly. “We have an after dark party where we're going to have over 200 young patrons spearheaded by Andrew Warren and his host committee.”

Following SummerFest was SAC’s first annual SummerFest After Dark party. Hosted by Alexander Hankin, Danielle Naftali, Makenzie Moon Phelan, and Andrew Warren, with event co-chairs Emira D’Spain, Julia Moshy, Noor Pahlavi, Julian Polak, Ryan Thomas Roth, and Harrison Vail. Whipshots’ played a pivotal role as it hyped up the party with signature milkshakes passed just in time for Grammy Nominated singer Kelis’ performance of her iconic hit Milshake. The boozy, alcohol infused whipped cream topped the milkshakes, instantly taking everything to the next level. Guests enjoyed their bottomless drinks, bites, and danced past 2 am to music by DJ’s Zeke Thomas and Timo Weiland.

Honorees Helena and Rob Vahradian were joined by event chairs Sylvia Hemingway, Simone and David Levinson, Nicole and Allen Salmasi, and Aline and Tom Shapiro, as well as distinguished supporters, including Stacey Bronfman, Henry Buhl, Candace Bushnell, Lisa Dennison, Jamee and Peter Gregory, Dorothy Lichtenstein, Margie Loeb, Daniel Nir, Susan Rockefeller, The Honorable Wilbur and Hilary Ross, Kara Ross, Chuck Scarborough, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall, and more. And, After Dark guests included Mercedes de Guardiola, Gabi Demartino, Noriella (Nora Gjieli), Morgan Halberg, Logan Horne, Natalie Jackson, Brooke Korine, Brooks Marks, Micah McLaurin, Brooks Nader, Stephanie Nass, Preston NicholasJeff O’Donnell, Newman Parker, Erica Pelosini, Taylor Phillips, Giancarlo Purch, Kameron Ramirez, Melany Rodriguez, Nathan Romano, Sydney Sadick, Rosa Sanchez, Ally Shapiro, Duckie Thot, Blake and Elliot Tomaeno, and Michaela V.

A very special thanks to SummerFest sponsors 21 Seeds Tequila, Baked by Melissa, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Bulgari, D&G Gelato, Geo Events, GTIS Partners, ICHIBan Japanese Catering, KPMG, LaLique, New York Lounge Decor, Pearl Street Caviar, Peter Thomas Roth, PS Balloons, Puff Delights, Shearman & Sterling, Sundae Donuts, Tickets 2 Events, WhipShots, and Whispering Angel. Additional thanks to Fiduciary Trust International, and Purist. Dinner was served by Acquolina.

Select Southampton Arts Center programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature. FIGURES TRANSFORMED is presented by Sylvia Hemingway and Lana Jokel, with media partners Purist and WLIW-FM. FILM @ SAC is sponsored by Brown Harris Stevens. Wellness @ SAC media partner is The Purist. ECO Programs at SAC are made possible by Dorothy & Michael Reilly. Financial Literacy Partner: J.P. Morgan Private Bank. General operating support is provided by Bank of America. The SAC Summer Stage 2022 is sponsored by Primary Care and Reproductive Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian.

ABOUT SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER 

Southampton Arts Center is committed to community building through the arts. We present and produce inspiring, inclusive, socially and regionally relevant programs across all disciplines – welcoming, connecting, and collaborating with the diverse members of New York’s East End community and beyond. SAC is a not for profit 501(c)(3) organization. 

For more information about Southampton Arts Center, located at 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton, New York 11968, visit southamptonartscenter.org or call 631.283.0967. Follow SAC on Facebook and Instagram @southamptonartscenter. For press inquiries, contact Rachel Bosworth via email at rachel@rachelbosworth.com or by phone at 631.220.1220. 

Photos Credits: PMC / Getty by Sean Zanni, PMC / Getty by Patrick McMullan, BFA by Madison Voelkel

Lang Lang Hamptons Party

Christopher Burch opened his new Watermill residence for a Young Scholars Concert by the Lang Lang International Music Foundation on Saturday, August 27th. A longtime board member, Buch will soon again become the foundation’s chairman.  

The two Young Scholars, Eden Chen and Maxim Lando, performed at sundown solos and four in hand reeditions of a varied program including Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker and Led Zeppelin's Stairway to Heaven, Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue, Sousa’s The Stars and Stripes Forever.  

Lukas Barwinski-Brown, CEO of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, thanked Chris and spoke movingly of their work together, and how no child should be denied a musical education.  Lang Lang’s Foundation now works on three continents, both partnering with schools in low income districts as well as mentoring for the most talented musicians.  He also announced plans for the upcoming fundraiser, Lang Lang & Friends Gala Concert and Dinner, September 21 in New York City with performances by Lang Lang, his wife Gina Alice, Mauro Castillo (star of Disney’s Encanto), plus 20 of the Lang Lang Scholars. 

Guests at the Burch residence included the Board Members David Hryck, and Kyle Wool, as well as Debbie Bancroft, Janna Bullock with her dog, Cricket and Richard Burns, Candace Bushnell, Lord William and Liliana Cavendish, Luane de Lesseps, Max Dolgicer, Patricia Duff, Lee Fryd, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Carole Guest, Andrea Karambelas, Ellie Manko, Liane Pei, Mary Snow, Sophia Tang, Peter Thomas Roth, and many more.

Feel the heat at Ruth Stage's Cat On A Hot Tin Roof

As we stretch into the dog days of a sweltering summer, there’s no better time to see the Ruth Stage Production’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The Ruth Stage production marries Tennessee Williams’ classic 1955 play with modern aesthetics as the set design featured sleek furniture and modern costuming. With the script unchanged from it’s original form, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof continued the featured motifs such as social morals, greed, superficiality, mendacity, decay, sexual desire & taboo, repression and death.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof stars Ruth Stage co-founder Matt De Rogatis as the lead character Brick. De Rogatis’ layered and powerful performance brings a troubled depth to one of the show’s more taciturn characters, relying on subtle acting choices and expressions to evoke Brick’s emotional turmoil. His chemistry with on-stage wife Maggie, played by Sonoya Mizuno, brought a tense presence to the stage. A native Brit, Mizuno’s mastery of a gallant Southern accent is all the more impressive as she floats between impassioned monologues like a songbird. The two leads were flanked by a powerhouse cast of seasoned dramatic actors, including Tony veteran Alison Fraser, and crowd-adored Christian Jules Le Blanc of “The Young & Restless”.

Beneath the shouting, struggling, and shoving on stage the familial dynamic between the cast was clear on and off the stage. After having been delayed multiple times due to COVID-19, there is almost a sense of relief behind the palpable joy that is felt from the actors getting the chance to perform in front of a live audience again. This is made apparent through their utter commitment to their roles and scenes, including very real bruises on De Rogatis’ that were made visible as the actor took his bows, or Le Blanc’s impassioned toss and subsequent breaking of the crutches used by Brick.

The show’s only downfall is in its limited run, which goes between July 15th to August 14th. If you haven’t had the pleasure of viewing this spectacular production, make sure to make your way to the Theater at St Clemens as soon as you can: https://www.ruthstage.org/cat.html

The cast takes their bows to a standing ovation.

LongHouse Reserve 2022 Summer Benefit

The LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton, New York, held its annual Summer Benefit on July 23rd to honor its artists, past, present, and future. A favorite slogan of its creator, Jack Lenor Larsen, ONWARD is the name of the organization. In the end, the old-fashioned sit-down supper beneath the tent was wiped out. It was instead stretched out in the garden beneath the stars with sofas, canopied beds, carpets, and chairs, as well as five buffets that included everything from poké bowls to a raw bar. More than 300 revelers danced into the wee hours of the morning, many of them in caftans, thanks to the art auction and a variety of bands.

“Having so many of the talented makers of our new artworks with us is in keeping with LongHouse’s tradition of honoring makers” said executive director Carrie R. Barratt. “LongHouse is so fortunate to have such a wealth of talent and support in our community,” offered co-president Dianne Benson. “You could feel the love and support in the air” added co-president, Nina Gillman.

Among the artists attending were Cheng Tsung Feng, who traveled with his team from Taiwan, inviting guests to enter his bamboo pavilion, Fish Trap VI; Steven Ladd stood inside his piece (created with his brother William Ladd), Right Here, Right Now;  Moko Fukuyama engaged us with her Hell Gate Keepers; and Fitzhugh Karol shared Friendship, his immense totems honoring the spirit of trees. Other work on the property for the first time included Bjorn Amelan's sumi ink paintings and Alexander Polzin's Parthenope alongside permanent installations by Yoko Ono, Buckminster Fuller, and Willem de Kooning. 
Guests included  Alice Aycock, Tony Bechara and Desiree Von la Valette, Halim Bulos, Stacy Engman, Edwina von Gal, Dakota Jackson and RoseLee Goldberg, Anna Kulinova, Nathan Lane and Delvin Elliott, Stewart Lane and Bonnie Comley, Laura Lobdell, Fern Mallis, Jean Shafiroff,  Leann Pei, Harry Santa-Olalla, Lee Skolnick, Barbara Slifka, David White (Mr.StarCity), Robert Wilson, stylish sister duo Tanya and Temidra Willock, and Victoria Wyman,  as well as LongHouse Reserve Board of Trustees, Sherri Donghia, Dr. Derick George, Ayse Kenmore, Mark and Elizabeth Levine, Deborah Nevins, Peter H. Olsen, Suzanne Slesin and Michael Steinberg, and James Zajac. 

The Summer Benefit is LongHouse Reserve's largest event of the year, with all proceeds going towards their mission of teaching living with art in all its forms; this includes diverse educational outreach, community programming, and maintenance of the grounds to keep it open for all. Sponsors included Macari Vineyards, Springs Brewery, Baked by Melissa, Marders, Diversified Services Inc., Power Equipment, and Riverhead Building Supply. Music provided by The Cherry Bombs, Joy Jan Jones, Royal KhaoZ and Certain Moves, with choreography and movement from Hadam Sung.

Photography by Patrick McMullan and Richard Lewin

Fourth of July 2022 Events

Many New Yorkers enjoy celebrating Independence Day, and it's a holiday that the whole family should enjoy! While you wait for the family barbecue to start, check out one of these entertaining Fourth of July 2022 activities or events taking place throughout the weekend.

1. Front Row Fireworks

Front Row Fireworks - This special occasion offers exclusive access to the highly limited East Riverfront area where guests will be front and center for the 46th Annual Macy’s Fireworks show, America’s most renowned fireworks event. But that’s not all! Enjoy life-size versions of Jenga, ping pong, chess, and more, from NYC’s beloved venues Clinton Hall and Slate, as well as live music, gourmet BBQ food, beverages, and more! This event will run from 6 PM - 9:30 PM. For more information or to buy tickets to this event, which begins at $35, visit: https://nytix.ticketsauce.com/e/july-4th-front-row-fireworks-viewing-celebration

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2. The Day Party at the Coney Art Walls

There’s nothing more quintessential to New York City than a day and night in Coney Island. Celebrate Independence Day in a big way at The Day Party at the Coney Art Walls (3050 Stillwell Avenue), an annual, urban cultural arts event filled with live music, performances, and a rotation of DJs spinning throughout the day. Meek Mill will headline the show this year along with sets from DJ Spade and DJ Chase B. There will be showstopping fireworks to follow making this an event you don’t want to miss. The Day Party was founded by nightlife entrepreneurs Yuval Eder and Tal Goldfus together with Roc Nation’s music mogul Lenny S and influencer Jason Boone. This year, club owner Richie Romero has joined the team as a strategic brand partner. This year's special event is 18+ and will go from 3pm-12am on July 4th. Food and drinks will be available to purchase on site from a range of vendors. Tickets begin at $39 and are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.thedayparty.com.

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3. Riverpark on the East River

As a way to beat the crowds and enjoy the Macy’s Fourth of July Firework Show, Riverpark will feature live music, VP of Culinary German Villatoro’s specialty BBQ, signature cocktails, and a prime view of the fireworks. In case of inclement weather, Riverpark also features a spacious indoor space with floor to ceiling windows for optimal viewing.

Chef’s “Big Herms” BBQ station will feature pulled pork sandwiches with Carolina honey BBQ sauce, Memphis-style ribs, Texas brisket jalapeno BBQ sauce, marinated grilled checking breast, and southern sides, as well as a NY burger station with master purveyors blend burgers, black bean burgers, bratwurst & smoked sausage, seasonal salad and an à la mode ice cream truck.

General ticket begins at $250 inclusive of F&B including open beer, wine and sangria cocktail, while the VIP package (which includes open bar and Champagne for fireworks) is at $325. The event will take place on Monday, July 4th from 7 to 10 pm.

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4. Grey Lady 4th of July Celebration

With a menu of seasonal seafood dishes and Nantucket-inspired cocktails, Grey Lady is a laid-back escape for locals and visitors alike. Some highlights include:

• Dancing & Live DJs: For those looking to dance the night away, Grey Lady has you covered – after 9pm on weekends, the space transforms into an exuberant dance floor with three bars and live DJs on rotation

• Summer Libations: Enjoy refreshing cocktails including Grey Lady’s Painkiller (White Rum, Dark Rum, Creme of Coconut, Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice, Nutmeg) and Spicy Watermelon Margarita (Blanco Tequila, Fresh Watermelon, Lime, Jalapeno, Spicy Salt Rim)

• Lobster Rolls: No need to leave New York for great seafood—enjoy freshly shucked Maine lobster (warm with butter or cold with mayo) on a Balthazar bun, served with crinkle cut fries!

• Fresh Oysters: Enjoy fresh oysters by the dozen or half-dozen, or stop in for Grey Lady’s weekday happy hour from 4pm - 6pm to enjoy $1 oysters, $6 drafts, $9 wine, and $10 cocktails

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5. Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks

You cannot avoid the Macy's Fourth of July fireworks if you are spending the holiday in New York City. Every year on July 4th, New Yorkers unleash an incredible fireworks display that is sponsored by the renowned department store Macy's.

The 46th annual display of fireworks dazzling New York's skyline will take place in 2022. Shells are launched during the nation's largest independence day celebration in New York, which lights up the night.

Starting at 9:25pm, over 65,000 shells will be launched off five different barges on the East River. The fireworks show will last approximately 25 minutes.

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6. Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

Maimonides Park, 1904 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest returns to Maimonides Park in Brooklyn this year. You don't need a ticket to attend the event; it is free. Additionally, seats will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis while adhering to regional and national safety regulations.

At 10 a.m., doors will open. At 11 a.m., the women's competition gets underway, and at 12:30 p.m., the men's competition.

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Fête de la Musique at SummerStage

No summer in New York is complete without good music and Fête de la Musique is here to launch summer in full swing. 

Organized by FIAF (French Institute Alliance Francaise), FranceRocks and SummerStage, Fête de la Musique is a music-for-all initiative that originated in France and is celebrated every year internationally during the summer solstice. This year’s event was also special as Fête de la Musique celebrated its 40th anniversary. 

Despite the gloomy skies of New York City, Fête de la Musique’s stars shone the brightest. Bon Entendeur, who are the electro-DJ duo, opened the show with their beloved songs like “La Rue Madeira” and “Le Temps est bon.” Afterwards, Hyphen Hyphen took the stage with their electric performances of “Like Boys” and “Too Young.” By then, the crowd was prepared for the final act: MC Solaar. 

MC Solaar, who’s a legendary French rapper recognized worldwide, took the stage for two hours, performing his hit songs like “Caroline” and “Solaar pleure,” capturing the crowd in awe. Solaar’s performance left the crowd singing and dancing for the rest of the night under Central Park’s skies. 

If you’re interested in more events relating to arts, food and culture, take a look at FIAF upcoming events. As for the SummerStage concert series, you can visit CityParks foundation for a full schedule.

Photos by Sean Salamon.

Shark Tank’s Daymond John Unveil Portrait at Carlton Fine Arts

Udo Spreitzenbarth, Daymond John 13.jpg

Between Light and Dark by Udo Spreitzenbarth, a series of "Film Noir" inspired creative celebrity portraits, will be on display at Carlton Fine Arts. More than 20 pictures will be on display at the Carlton Fine Arts Ltd. site at 543 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022, from June 16 through July 16.

A special champagne celebration honoring the launch of Udo Spreitzenbarth's new show Between Light and Dark at Carlton Fine Arts on Madison Avenue featured a surprise appearance from Shark's Tank Daymond John.

All night, guests sipped champagne while perusing the "Film Noir" inspired celebrity portraits displayed in the two gallery floors, which included images of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Tyra Banks as well as Jeffrey Wright and Daymond John and Kevin O'Leary of Shark Tank as well as the Jonas Brothers and Meg Ryan of The Beach Boys.

Daymond John

Jean Shafiroff, R. Couri Hay

Giulia Carniato, Hannah Sobon

Udo Spreitzenbarth, Daymond John, Lawrence Gilliard, Charles Saffati

Midway through the evening, Daymond John walked to the gallery floor to convey his gratitude to Udo Spreitzenbarth and his body of work, before revealing his feature photograph, which was then individually autographed and made available for purchase that night.

Charles Saffati, owner of Carlton Fine Arts, The Wire's Lawrence Gilliard Jr., Jean Shafiroff, Vanessa Deleon, R. Couri Hay, Walter Baker, stylist Ty-Ron Mayes, Dr. Franziska Huettner, music producer Aleks de Carvalho, Dr. Lee Phillips, and Micah McLaurin were among those in attendance.

Art and fashion photographer Udo Spreitzenbarth has graced the covers of several magazines, including Elle, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Harper's Bazaar, and Marie Claire. Solo exhibits of his work have taken place in New York, Berlin, Shanghai, Beijing, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart. Catherine Zeta-Jones, Meg Ryan, Salma Hayek, John Legend, Tyra Banks, The Beach Boys, and Usain Bolt are just few of the celebrities Udo has photographed. The late Helmut Newton, Christo, Richard Meyer, and the late Helmut Newton were among the artists he shot.

Caravaggio and classic Hollywood film noir influenced his use of light and shadow to generate drama and suspense in the scene. This tension, along with the recording of a single moment, seems to enable the observer to look beyond the two-dimensional surface of the subject.

You may see and buy all of Udo Spreitzenbarth's artworks at the Carlton Fine Arts Ltd. located at 543 Madison Ave in New York City. Mon-Thurs: 10 AM-6 PM; Fri: 10 AM-4 PM; Sat: closed; Sun: 11 AM-6 PM and by appointment only; Sun: 11 AM-6 PM and by appointment only. Those who want to see the show outside of normal business hours may make an appointment by contacting 212-593-2800 or emailing: info@carltonfa.com. For additional information, go visit http://carltonfa.com/.

Photo credits : Sylvain Gaboury/PMC.

The Glass House 15th Summer Party

The Glass House was thrilled to be back to an in-person Summer Party after a two-year hiatus, and they once again welcomed people to celebrate the 15th Anniversary on site. The Glass House has remained an internationally significant location since it first opened its doors as a public museum in 2007. Their goal is to keep this precious location alive by raising funding to preserve the campus and assets.

This year's event encouraged guests to explore the grounds while enjoying special performances by award-winning tap dancer and choreographer Ayodele Casel and musical stylings by Paul Sevigny. Mickalene Thomas, Glass House Artist of the Year, also debuted an exciting sculptural edition at the event.

Picnicking was encouraged throughout the site, whether on tatami mats on the Pavilion, pillow lounges by Italian textile company Dedar, or reclining on the pristine grass of the Glass House lawn. In between performances, guests enjoyed rosé by The Pale, lawn games, or view our curated auction of over 120 lots of art, design, and luxury experiences, as well as mingle with supporting artists.

During the party, presenting partner Yieldstreet brought frozen treats by People’s Pops. The Yieldstreet Sketch Booth also gifted attendees with their very own custom fashion illustration of themselves by New York based artist, @deannafirst. Each sketch took about 5-7 minutes. Guests were delighted with all the fun activities and everyone had an amazing time at the summer party.

Slate Rooftop Opens

Slate, which has operated in Chelsea since 2000, raised the roof to commemorate its 22nd birthday this month. Slate Rooftop opened in Williamsburg just in time for summer. The Pod Brooklyn Hotel now has Brooklyn's only solar-powered rooftop.

Brooklyn's greenest rooftop bar is this outdoor haven. The rooftop and courtyard beer garden are powered by solar panels that recycle electricity. The rooftop solar panels generate enough energy to power the venue. Solar panels cover approximately 1800 square feet on both sides of the roof.

Guests at the launch celebration were urged to take the lean and green route up to the rooftop to help save even more energy and see some of OG Millie and Colby Rosenthal's spectacular art. From the ground level to the rooftop, the stairwell is an art lover's paradise, with one-of-a-kind works.

Executive Chef Darryl Harmon of Slate Rooftop has devised a menu of shared foods such as Beef Short Rib Birria Tacos, Philly Cheesesteak Empanadas, Korean Spicy Cauliflower, Crispy Mac N' Cheese Bites, and more. There are also artisanal pizzas, salads, and desserts to choose from.

In addition to four rotating beers on tap, Froses are a mainstay on the cocktail menu. The Slate Smash features vodka, aperol, muddled raspberries and mint, lemon juice, and simple syrup; the Jenga Gingersnap features Earl Grey vodka, ginger beer, thyme infused ginger syrup, lime, crystallized ginger, and fresh thyme; and the Queen's Gambit features bourbon, peach puree, honey syrup, lemon juice, peach bitters, a lemon wheel, and rosemary.

The new roof, which is loaded with fun and games, is now open for brunch on weekends and from late afternoon to evening on weekdays. There's also a large, al fresco private event room with a view of the NYC skyline where guests can celebrate important milestones.

Photo Credit: Greg Groovez

Facticerie: The Largest Fragrance Bottle Collection in The World

From Fabergé Eggs to traffic cones, the Guinness Book of World Records has seen some incredibly niche collections over the years—and in 2022, they’re adding a new one to their list. As of June 8th, businessman and collector Sudhir Gupta’s Factice Fragrance Collection has officially been recognized as the largest collection of its kind in the world, and can be viewed at the exhibit Facticerie: The Factice Collection now open in Hackensack, New Jersey. 

But first—what is a factice? Simply put, a factice is an oversized perfume bottle made for display purposes. Sometimes filled, sometimes not, these items are rare treasures that are becoming increasingly harder and harder to find. For Sudhir Gupta, working at a perfume store after immigrating to New York from India in 1992, seeing a certain Nina Ricci Factice (pictured below) was like love at first sight. After saving up to buy it, Gupta proceeded to scout and purchase more and more factices to satisfy his passion. Today, he owns over three thousand of these factices, all well-preserved, extravagant, and precious.

But despite their aesthetic appeal, stores have moved on from using factices to advertise, instead relying on the pull of social media, celebrity, and salespeople. For Gupta, however, that makes his passion even more important. After all, the bottles are not just a manufacturer's sale tactic—each piece is a work of art, as well as a physical manifestation of fragrance history. By continuing to collect, he not only fulfills his passion, but is able to show exactly how magical and beautiful a perfume bottle can really be. 

So if you’re an avid perfume collector or maybe just like pretty things, feel free to swing by the Factice exhibition in New Jersey to get a glimpse of this new world record! You can make an appointment at their site before stopping in, or just follow the collection for more updates or tidbits here: @facticerie.  

A Conversation On The Future of Museums

On May 25th, Villa Albertine hosted an exceptional conversation between Laurence des Cars, President of the Musée du Louvre, and Laurent Le Bon, President of the Centre Pompidou, on the future of museums. The discussion was moderated by András Szántó, author of The Future of the Museum: 28 Dialogues (2020), and was the last in a series of encounters organized by Villa Albertine with major French museum directors in Spring 2022.

Villa Albertine headquarters in New York.

Moderator András Szántó kicked off the conversation by recognizing a shift in the idea of a museum as a singular entity to a much more inclusive structure that is no longer vertical and one-directional but is rather becoming more horizontal.

In agreement, Laurence des Cars noted that the idea of polyphony was a very clear priority in the modern collection of the Louvre. The President of the Musée du Louvre discussed the historic diversity and inclusivity in the institution’s collections and explained that it should now more than ever, be a platform that welcomes differences. She further identified that the beauty of these places is found in the possibility of being confronted with international expression.

In describing the DNA of the Louvre, she added that it is about dedication, curiosity, freedom of expression, expression of beauty, and freedom of thinking.

“C’est la maison des artistes”!

Photo: Left to Right: András Szántó, Laurence des Cars, and Laurent Le Bon.

Laurent Le Bon also expressed the need for modern institutions to be different and clarified that although there is more than enough quantity of artworks, quality is missing. In this modern age of art, he discussed the need for provocative artists, who are filled with inspiration and do not follow trends.

After all, we need more “Picassos”!

The President of the Centre Pompidou pointed out that the museum has to be a movement, where visitors get immersed in the context of collections and can experience new adventures even in the most permanent collections. Laurence des Cars added that the movement of these institutions is what makes them charming and special, as they are never finished but always transform with the time to remain relevant. Des Cars acknowledged the museum as a place where history can be rewritten and highlighted the need to more explicitly express the history of inspiration. 

After this insightful conversation, an intimate cocktail reception followed, where delicious wine, champagne, and canapes were served.

There is nothing less to expect from French hospitality; a beautiful space, exquisite alcohol, delicate flavors, good humor, and an intellectually curious audience!

Opera Lafayette Celebrates Baroque Musique Festival

Jérémie Robert

On May 17th, InvitedNYC was welcomed to a cocktail reception hosted by Marifé Hernández and Nizam P. Kettaneh at New York’s French Consulate to toast Opera Lafayette and their upcoming New York Baroque Musique Festival; The Era of Marie-Antoinette Rediscovered, June 7 – 9, 2022.

Consul General of France in New York Jérémie Robert shared “This festival will redress some misconceptions about Queen Marie-Antoinette. For one, she was fond of Gretry’s Silvain, a work Opera Lafayette will present on June 7th, that reflects on land rights of farmers as well as on the softening of paternal authority through the display of familial virtue, evidently sympathized with both aspects. The Salon de musique of Marie-Antoinette, to be performed on June 8th, reminds us on the one hand that she was a musician and that she was open minded, having the Chevalier de Saint-Georges as one of her chamber musicians and composers.

On June 9th will be a performance of Concert Spirituel aux Caraïbes, which illustrates the global reach beyond Europe of the queen’s musical taste for French opera-comique and for Italian music.” The beauty of each of the programs presented during this festival reveal the discerning taste of Marie-Antoinette.

(Albert Simons, Robert Quinlan, Alberto Mariaca [Right to left] )

Opera Lafayette’s festival programming highlights the relation of historical women in 18th century France to the musical life of their time. The three-day event features baroque music performed by international musicians, a roundtable discussion, gala dinner, and reception. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://operalafayette.org/festival2022.

Albert Simons, Robert Quinlan, Alberto Mariaca

Mattias Ederer, Ambassador Kimihiro Ishikane, Galina Novikova, Samuel Triboulet

InvitedNYC sipped cocktails with some guests including: Angela Chen, Susan Clearwater, Beatriz Coles, Matthias Ederrer, Mr. and Mrs. John French, April Gow, Susan Gutfreund, Sharon King Hoge, Roberta Downs Sandeman and Arthur A. Houghton, Ambassador and Mrs. Kimihiro Ishikane, Caroline and Max Jahn, Ellie Manko, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Quinlan, Barbara Tober, and Rosemary Zraly.

Stranger Things: The Experience

Stranger Things fans rise up: the hit Netflix show is in New York! No, not literally, of course, you’ll still have to catch up on Eleven and Mike’s adventures through your screen. But if you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to spend time with the gang and save Hawkins from the Upside-Down, head on over to the Duggal Greenhouse in Brooklyn for the all new Stranger Things: The Experience.

Guided by the Stranger Things gang themselves, this one-of-a-kind experience gives you a unique perspective and role to play in an all new storyline that takes you through Hawkins Lab and into the Upside-Down. We won’t spoil too much, but let’s just say there’s a slight chance you might have to get up close and personal with a demagorgon. It’s a lot of fun, maybe a lot of pressure (saving the world and all), and definitely a little intense, but don’t worry, you’ll have your guide, group, and the gang to help you through.

After the experience is over, you’ll be guided into a full on 80’s-style medley of locations from the show, including Scoops Ice Cream, where you can get an Eleven approved waffle sundae, and the Arcade, where you can play Pacman and pinball until the lights go out. Adults can even pick up a Stranger Things themed drink from the bar, and there are plenty of photo opps with the cast, as well as a replica set of Joyce’s Living Room complete with Christmas lights. 

So if you, or someone you know, is a huge Stranger Things head, this experience might just be the perfect outing. But move fast! Tickets are limited and can only be booked through strangerthings-experience.com/newyork.

Learn more about the new Stranger Things Experience at strangerthings-experience.com/newyork or follow them on instagram @strangerthings.experience.