Plasticity: New Play Presents Playful Look at the Hard Problem of Consciousness
On Saturday, February 1st, a new play written by Alex Lyras and Robert McCaskill, dazzled and delighted audiences at Greenwich House Theater. Plasticity guides the viewer on a psychedelic experience, simultaneously scary and spiritual tour of the boundaries of the human consciousness.
Plasticity at Greenwich House Theater
Plasticity follows the tragic yet hopeful story of recovery from a coma. The identity of the protagonist, a male comatose thrill-seeker, is reconstructed by diving and rifling through his memories and through the perspective of his family members circled around his hospital bed, his fate laying in their hands. Plasticity doesn’t settle with exploring the consciousness of the comatose alone but also the conscious unconscious of the surrounding family members and medical team, who all have life-changing decisions to make. It raises urgent questions: Does science always have the answers? Does faith trump probability? How does the brain heal?
Alex Lyras in action. Photo: Jessica Sherman Photography
Plasticity as a play is a triumph in multi-media theater. Trippy, colorful, trance-inducing projections dance behind Lyras, as a sheet of ghostly images float between him and the audience, perhaps a reference to the layers of consciousness our minds hide behind. What makes this feat even more impressive is Lyras performance as a one-man show. Lyras’ versatility is striking, as he transitions between comatose man, to neuroscientist, to twin brother to psychiatrist. This continuity of character speaks to a notion of collective unconsciousness while also nodding to the ineffable idea that we can only know our own minds and even then, that too is often called into question.
Photo: Jessica Sherman Photography
Perhaps we don’t need to be braindead to lose control of our minds. Are we already unplugged or switched off? This existential thread runs delicately through the play, culminating in a conclusion that is just as complex and confusing as where we started. Which was where exactly? I invite you to lose yourself in Plasticity, to unravel your mind and spiral into unconsciousness. Showing until February 17 2020.
@giselle Screening at Lincoln Center
On January 14, 2020 a screening of @giselle by Joshua Beamish/MOVETHECOMPANY was hosted at The Bruno Walter Auditorium in New York City’s Lincoln Center.
Beamish created a new take on the beloved classic ballet Giselle, where dating apps and social media platforms reinterpret love, sex and relationships.
Joshua Beamish/MOVETHECOMPANY premiered @giselle at the Vancouver Playhouse in September 2019, commissioned by TO Live.
Performance of @giselle by David Cooper
@giselle stars American Ballet Theater’s Catherine Hurlin in the title role of Giselle and Betsy McBride as Bathilde, Pennsylvania Ballet’s Sterling Baca as Hilarion as well as National Ballet of Canada’s Harrison James as Albrecht.
What makes Beamish’s production so unique is the use of motion-captured digital projections and visual effects, that the director applied to reflect the digital world we live in.
"The ballet Giselle is one of the most profound constructions of the classical canon.” said Joshua Beamish, when introducing his show.
Catherine Hurlin and Joshua Beamish
He added: “I want the original work to exist within our production as its own ghost - a ghost from another time. Traditional romance is evaporating. The internet is threatening our ability to value individuals. @giselle shows the evolved hysteria born from unanswered texts, likes, and story views. In today's media saturated environment, is Giselle's descent into "madness" really so shocking? I hope audiences will relate to Giselle's journey and see themselves in the plights, struggles, and joys of the varying characters and their social interactions."
Performance of @giselle by David Cooper
After the screening of @giselle, the performing artists Hurlin, McBride and Baca joined Joshua Beamish on the stage to discuss and share the creative process of @giselle.
Baca emphasized Beamish’s ability to bring the old classic into the present time, by creating a version of Giselle we all know, yet never seen before.
Hurlin, McBride and Baca all agreed on the director’s distinctive characteristic of describing the detailed choreography with his broad vocabulary.
Joshua Beamish, Catherine Hurlin, Betsy McBride and Sterling Baca
The screening of the new interpretation of the ballet classic Giselle wasn’t only a unique chance to get a glimpse of the stunning production, but also to get an insight of the artistic process involved in the new must-see ballet and therefore made a special night for all guests.
Joanna and Brian Fisher underwrote the screening and served as hosts with Ben Rodriguez-Cubenas, Roger Kluge and Denise Roberts Hurlin.
Photos of the evening were taken by Sean Zanni PMC.
Bebe Neuwirth and Chris Calkins, Hank and Gerry Alpert and Jonah Boaker were some of the numerous guests that enjoyed the evening at the Lincoln Center.
@giselle honours the memory of every young life lost to Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS) complications.
Catherine Hurlin and Joshua Beamish
Brian and Joanna Fisher
PHOTOS BY SEAN ZANNI/PMC and DAVID COOPER
Holly Jolly at the Ho Ho Holiday Lounge
The Springs, located in Brooklyn, NY, opened their Ho Ho Holiday Lounge on December 5th. This chic bar transformed itself into a Christmas wonderland, leaving every guest with an immediate euphoria. This pop-up lounge managed to incorporate everything one could think of to feel like Christmas has arrived. Greg’s Tree’s Christmas Market occupied both the patio and the side of The Springs. The Christmas trees embrace you with a pine scent, transporting you to a world of relaxation. Comfort was found amongst the trees, the towering reindeer decoration, Santa’s sleigh, and millions of other Christmas trinkets that were either for sale or amplifying the ambiance.
Every aspect of The Springs makes you feel like you are at home: the unmatched generous hospitality, the specially named seasonal cocktails, and Fornino’s pizza which brings warmth and contentment to your body with every bite. They offer a mouth-watering spiked hot chocolate(called “The Springs” on their menu), along with other drinks that will bring you as much fun as their names indicate such as: “Elf’d Up”, “Nog Yourself Out”, “Comet so Bitter”, and many more. Complimenting the drinks was a vast array of pizzas leaving an option for everyone. One was comprised of mushrooms and truffle oil, another was classic Margherita, and lastly there was one with butternut squash and a spicy honey. While these pizzas all had different toppings, what they all had in common, was a savory flavor.
The ceiling was lined with garland and Christmas lights, allowing a sense of magic to resonate through every corner of the room. Some parts of the entrance are garnished with rainbow lights. The back wall and ceiling are adorned with candy cane stripes, bringing about a pepperminty excitement. Scattered throughout are endearing videos of fire places displayed on TVs.
The Springs has an energetic sense of life that flows through every part of the establishment. The Ho Ho Holiday Lounge is open from December 5th- January 1st, and is the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit.
Expectations Upended: Derren Brown’s hit Broadway Show SECRET!
Specific types of people go to see magic shows. Those who want their world’s turned upside, no matter how unsettling; people who want to be fooled into a fantasy; willing participants signing up to have their heads severely messed with. I am one of those kind of people. However, I wasn’t prepared for the rabbit hole of wonders Derren Brown would spiral us into with his new hit Broadway show SECRET.
Derren Brown SECRET now showing on Broadway
At the Cort Theatre through 4 January 2020, SECRET, is a show true to its name. Brown dances the audience through layers upon layers of obscurity and mystery, keeping the secret his until the last possible moment. At the beginning of the evening Brown specifically asked that any reviews exclude specifics, in order to keep the show shrouded in secret and shock factor. This I am more than happy to oblige, future audience members deserve to be delighted and surprised just as I was. Besides, some of the illusions looked so complex (most probably complex in their simplicity) I wouldn’t even know where to start with writing about them.
SECRET, which first debuted in the US in 2017, winning the New York Drama Desk Award for Unique Theatrical Experience, is back for round two. The show manages to incorporate heavy audience participation in a way that enchanted the crowd; even if you weren’t randomly selected to join Brown on stage you still felt as much part of the magic. This level of complete continued captivation and elation of an audience is a rare achievement for any theatre.
Brown on stage. Photo credit: http://derrenbrown.co.uk/shows/secret/
British born mentalist and illusionist Derren Brown is a two-time Olivier award winner, showcasing his magic on both screen and stage since 2000. He has written several best-selling books and – a first in the history of magic – has toured with eight sell-out one-man stage shows. Brown is also hilarious, a gifted showman, talented painter and annoyingly clever yet also personable, which makes him all the more intriguing.
SECRET gets inside your head, weaving webs of psychological manipulation and flashes of the fantastical. The audience are with Brown every enticing step of the way. He assures us he doesn’t have special powers but I doubt any of us believe him. One thing is for certain- I left truly believing that reality is most definitely overrated.
Sumo + Sushi: A Sensational Combination for an Evening of Entertainment
Good news! You no longer have to fly to Japan to experience the extravagance and thrill of Sumo wrestling. With the arrival of Sumo + Sushi, a live show that catapults this ancient sport right into the centre of New York City, Sumo fans now have the pleasure of watching five world champion Sumo wrestlers do their thing all while comfortably sipping on sake and snacking on sushi.
Sumo + Sushi, an intense experience of food and fighting
On Sunday, November 17, I had the pleasure of attending one of the fun filled shows sat The Playstation Theatre in Times Square. Hosted by legendary Sumo wrestler Konishiki, the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach ōzeki, the second highest rank in Sumo, the event was filled with information as well as entertainment, with Konishiki guiding the guests through the history and culture of Sumo, before explaining the do’s and dont’s of Sumo wrestling -- if a Sumo loses his silk belt and is exposed, for example, he automatically loses the match!
The evening progressed with the remaining four world champion Sumo wrestlers battling it out over the course of six live matches. Tououyama, a professional for nine years and weighing in at a whopping 400 lbs fought valiantly against Musashikuni, a 6’3” Hawaiian native. While fighters caught their breath, Q+A sessions with the wrestlers took place between matches, allowing the audience a further glimpse into the complex, competitive world of Sumo.
Sumo + Sushi at The Playstation Theatre
While watching the Sumo spectacle, guests were also treated to an interactive dining experience including miso soup and wasabi peas as well as a carefully curated bento box filled with sushi, vegetable tempura and chicken katsu. Multi talented wrestler Kumago, who owns a karaoke bar in the city, ended the evening with a haunting rendition of Backstreet Boys, I Want It That Way, to the wild enthusiasm and applause of the audience. Sake and beer were also widely available and indulged.
The pinnacle of the evening however, was the very end, with Sumo + Sushi’s unique trend of allowing audience participation. Eager, (and possibly insane) audience members clambered up into the ring to fight their chosen wrestler. Some did better than others but all had a fantastic if frightening experience. Sumo + Sushi brings so much together into one evening of outrageous entertainment!
Imagine This Women's International Film Festival Dazzles Brooklyn
From November 7-10 2019, Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival (ITWIFF) descended on Brooklyn. From short block screenings to feature length films, from networking parties and screenplay competitions to pitch workshops, ITWIFF created a dynamic and informative film-filled weekend. With screenings at multiple locations including Firelight Studios, Alamo Drafthouse, and UnionDocs, ITWIFF set Brooklyn abuzz with big, bold content and events.
Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival 2019
ITWIFF, diverse in both style and content, offered web series, documentaries, narration, animation and music videos, resulting in a showcase of innovative and rich stories from both established and emerging female filmmakers. A truly international event; with filmmakers heralding from Nigeria, Australia, Iran, Germany and Denmark, to name a few; with a serious grounding in strong and inspiring storytelling, creating compelling, and at times unnerving dialogue between the films.
For me, good cinema unsettles and upends expectations all the while caring for the audience and their experience. ITWIFF achieved this and more. I personally enjoyed the blocks of shorts; 6 or 7 short films back to back across a range of genres. All Skinfolk Ain't Kinfolk, directed by Angela Tucker, was a powerful opening documentary, following the mayoral race in New Orleans between two very different black women, Desirée Charbonnet and LaToya Cantrell. This was sharply juxtaposed by Savannah DesOrmeaux and Madison Seely’s Ghost Town, an interview-format comedic talk show that explores the modern dating phenomenon of “ghosting” and what it means for any human navigating the world of love, sex, and…abandonment. This was hilarious and managed to be original in both style and delivery, which considering the genre of pop culture was an achievement. Looking at Millennial dating trends such as ghosting is vital to understanding how language adapts to shifting cultural environments.
Screening at ITWIFF
Esther, a hauntingly beautiful and suspenseful horror, follows a husbands plot to kill his wife with his mistress. Yet as director Montana Mann demonstrates, things don’t always go to plan. A silent film for a modern audience, yet set centuries earlier, Esther, confronts your expectations of revenge and adultery and creates 10 minutes of compelling feminist horror. The most affecting from this block of Sunday shorts was certainly Fatemeh Mohammadi’s delicate depiction of the cruel disease that is Alzheimer’s. Oblivion tenderly yet bluntly follows Mehrbanoo’s attempts to make her husband’s life, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s, worth living. From rental issues to absence of their children, Oblivion achieves the poignancy of portraying how often love and suffering co-exist.
Watching the dance between genres, from psychological horror to political documentary, macabre animation to family drama, with seconds between films you feel caught up in the theatre of the experience. Watching blocks of shorts intentionally keeps you unsettled; whats coming next? What emotion will be evoked? What will I bear witness to?
Drinks and discussions
“According to statistics, women still lag behind men directors in the film industry,” ITWIFF Co-Founder Patrice Francois said. "We are trying to create a platform of diverse storytellers from all over the world that is available to everyone to create an inclusive environment that supports and elevates women storytellers. We create opportunities for women to take their stories to the screen and share with the community." ITWIFF’s dedication to providing aspiring women storytellers and filmmakers a platform that encourages original content creation and project development is overwhelmingly evident and resulted in a fantastic four day film festival that delivered at every angle.
The 13th Annual Food Film Festival
There is no delicacy better than having flavorful food served to you while watching films about what it is you’re eating. As they say in the art world, you have to know the history of what you’re looking at, in order to understand the piece. The same goes for food. You appreciate it all the more once you know the backstory of the chef and restaurant. The Food Film Festival provides you with that irreplaceable experience.
Upon arrival at AMC Empire 25, VIP guests were shown to the pre-party room, where doors opened at 6:15. The room was detailed with dishes, all prepared by Chef Stephen Yen. As each plate was thoughtfully placed, it enriched the atmosphere of the room, along with the drinks that were served by The Shanty and New York Distilling Company. The food and beverages served at the pre-party represented the diverse neighborhoods that inhabit New York, from lox bagels and roasted nuts to hot dogs, and kimchi fried rice, along with cocktails, wine, and beer. This prelude excited guests, leaving them in cheerful anticipation for what the theater had in store for them.
Afterwards, all GA & VIP guests took their seats, George Motz, Festival Director and co-founder said a few words and then the first film began.
The first film was about Lagunitas Brewery which quenched the guests thirst with Lagunitas IPA. It was the first of seven items to be passed down the rows for all to try. The second film, directed by Liza Mosquito deGuia, featured Erik Ramirez, a chef of a modern Peruvian restaurant. Many of his dishes were showcased, however, when the Tuna ceviche appeared on screen, it appeared in front of the audience as well. This dish filled your mouth with a savory flavor. The third film excited the audience as it centered on a more specialized type of cooking: bugs. While Chef Joseph Yoon spoke about his passion for bugs in the film, everyone else was sitting on the edge of their seats waiting to try the cricket-crusted fried chicken.
The Food Film Festival is such a riveting event that not one but two restaurants revived just for it. The first was Gyro II, which festival co-founder, George Motz, actually directed the film for. The second was Ramen Shack. In between the gyro meat with the famous white sauce being served from Gyro II, and ramen broth from Ramen Shack, carnitas con queso with braised chicken was served. The significant piece in what may seem like a typical carnita is the Piaxtla tortilla. The brothers who now own the company have a family history going back to their father who used to be a driver for the tortilla factory. The concluding dish was a sweet treat: an Indonesian style coconut pancake. The film focuses on their stand that sells this authentic cuisine and how it’s making was due to the lack of its prominence here.
After the films came to an end, the night went on in what was the original VIP party room and the outside terrace. There was a surplus of dishes that were extensions of the Chefs, restaurants, and factories menus shown in the films. With each bite that the attendees took, the food left everyone with radiating smiles.
Barano: Italian Dining At Its Best
Barano, an Italian restaurant located in Williamsburg, is an endearing eatery that provides you with a modern rustic scenery. The atmosphere of Barano engulfs you in a warmth that transports you to feel as though you are at an enchanting Italian villa.
From beginning to end of your dining experience here, there is a reinvented take on traditional Italian cuisine, opening your palate to customary dishes with a specialized twist and flawless presentation. When eating, it is rare to find food that tastes delicious and is presented well, but at Barano there is no need to settle for one or the other.
The eccentric cocktail names and savory meals ensure a memorable experience that everyone desires, whether you’re a local or tourist. One of the most captivating aspects were the names of the drinks on the menu. Although you may never find yourself in a situation where you’d say, “ I’ll do a living in a van down by the river and a schwing please”, but, after having a sip of the drinks, it’ll be your new favorite sentence.
Their menu offers food that accommodates all audiences, whether you’re pescatarian, vegetarian, or gluten free. Options range from steak, fish, pasta and chicken. When going out with friends, and especially large groups, finding a menu that suits everyones’ needs can be a daunting task, but Barano eliminates that stress.
The antipasta listed a variety of options that were impossible to go wrong with. The octopus was not only a favorite due to flavor, but its beautiful presentation will make you hesitate to dig in. The house bread was paired with chickpea puree + basil pesto, which if you never knew you needed it before, now you do. Not to mention, once you start eating their house made stracciatella you’ll never be able to stop.
The main courses continue to exceed expectations. It is ensured to leave with a happy and full stomach. After a meal, a desert is always desired but never something that will leave you overwhelmingly full. Barano’s dessert menu offers light options to end the dining experience with a sweet that tops off the meal.
The food and cocktails reverberate the atmosphere in every bite and sip. This restaurant brings with it not only quality food but a quality experience.
Ten Hope opens in Williamsburg with Top Chef winner Harold Dieterle
On Wednesday, October 17th, Ten Hope, a charming pan-Mediterranean restaurant, with Top Chef winner and consulting chef Harold Dieterle, opened its doors at 10 Hope Street in Williamsburg.
Top Chef winner and consulting chef Harold Dieterle at the helm in the kitchen. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Taking influence from Greek, Italian, Spanish and Moroccan flavors, Ten Hope offers dishes that range from traditional Seared Halloumi Salad and Kofta Burgers to Crispy Octopus and shareable platters with an array of different dips and vegetables.
Crispy Octopus with Chorizo, wax beans, pickled eggplant and nigella aioli. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Vegetable Crudités. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Ten Hope offers exciting, expertly-crafted cocktails, such as the aptly named rum based Comfortably Numb, bursting with notes of Thai basil and black pepper or the not-so-subtle Royal Half, with Bourdon, blood orange and ginger. The innovative, fun and fizzy Hopeful Sodas, house-made spiked seltzers, infused with Hibiscus Vodka, Grapefruit Tequila, and Earl Grey Gin, are definite winners in a world of White Claw shortages. In addition with Champagne, Wine and Beer, Ten Hope’s fully stocked bar will not disappoint.
Collection of cocktails and drinks offered at Ten Hope. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Outside, a vine-laced, dimly-lit 2,500 square-foot patio provides generous seating, and serves as a beautiful entryway to the restaurant’s mod-interior, a space for up to a hundred guests. Whether it’s a late night drink date, dinner with friends and family or a long afternoon on the weekend, Ten Hope is the perfect spot to bring people together: a living room, dining room, and patio for locals to call home throughout the seasons.
Sun-drenched outdoor patio with ample seating and a relaxed ambiance. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Other highlights from the menu include Roasted Carrots with Squid Ink Ricotta, Chicken Cooked Under a Brick and my favorite, crispy, cumin coated Lamb Ribs which brought a whole new magical meaning to what lamb can be.
Ten Hope, at 10 Hope Street in Williamsburg. Photo Credit - Oleg March
To spice things up further, Ten Hope’s owner, restaurateur and music event producer Bill Zafiros is marrying his two passions by bringing a weekly Tuesday series of live music, dubbed Studio Sessions, which will showcase NYC’s newest talents and sounds.
Overall, Ten Hope certainly impresses, resulting in excellent food with an authentic Mediterranean flare, in a warm, contemporary environment.
Food and Fun at Maker's Mark(et): A Taste of Old New York
On Thursday, October 10th, Maker’s Mark completely took over the new Essex Market in NYC’s Lower Eastside. Maker’s Mark wanted to give back to New Yorkers because the Wall Street Journal put them on the front page when they were just starting out, which contributed to their popularity. New Yorkers were invited to Maker’s Mark(et): A Taste of Old New York, where they got to taste Essex Market’s delicious food stands with Maker’s Mark cocktails in hand. Guests got to choose three perfectly crafted Maker’s cocktails, and then pair them with food from the food stands.
Maker’s Mark(et) was held at the new Essex Market, which is located in the Lower East
Maker’s provided signs next to each bartender that described the drink they were serving and what food it paired well with (this was extremely useful for people like me who just turned 21 and know nothing about whiskey!) My personal favorite was the Second Avenue Penicillin cocktail, which I paired with a savory empanada from the Dominican Cravings food stand and chicken tacos from the Puebla Mexican Food stand. The drink also paired well with Cafe D’Avignon’s outstanding banana chocolate chip bread.
The event was a great way to celebrate Maker’s Mark, as well as support a very important cause. All proceeds from the event benefited the United by Blue company, which is an outdoor clothing brand focused on ocean conservation, and for every ticket purchased, three pounds of trash will be removed from waterways. Guests also left the event with a new reusable copper mug (perfect for Moscow mules) and reusable straws to help guests decrease their plastic usage. I left this event absolutely stuffed, and a new fan of Maker’s Mark bourbon!
Cafe D’Avignon provided pastries and cookies for the event.
Drink pictured: Second Avenue Penicillin
Escape Virtuality
Anyone who’s ever seen Minority Report knows the coolest part of the entire movie: the VR Room. A futuristic “arcade” where users can experience almost anything they want -- from winning an Oscar to carrying out a murder -- Virtual Reality, or “VR,” is the ultimate form of entertainment...and it’s finally here. Escape Virtuality, an entertainment complex on West 29th Street, is an entire space dedicated exclusively to providing the most incredible interactive experiences in all of New York City.
The first thing you’ll probably notice when entering Escape Virtuality is the giant rock climbing wall. At first glance, it might seem pretty easy -- maybe what, nine feet high? But there’s a catch: the wall is actually a screen, and guests can choose various challenges that will limit where and how they will climb -- meaning at one point, you will be stuck seven feet in the air, listening to people chant your name, and wondering how and earth you are going to squeeze yourself between the virtual barriers without falling on your face. But don’t worry! There’s a mat to catch you if you slip up, and it’s as comfy as can be -- which I can confirm for you myself.
If the rock wall is a little out of your reach, though, there are plenty more activities to choose from. Although I never would have expected it, one of my favorite experiences was a multiplayer shooter game that consisted solely of me running around (virtually) and shooting at another person. It seemed so simple, but something about the 360 view and being locked into a machine made everything seem amazingly real. But if you’re really looking for “realness,” I suggest the XTREMATIC, a “virtual reality simulator extreme machine,” where you can experience “extreme” scenarios such as white water rafting, flying, and my personal favorite -- bungee jumping. You can go in skeptical, but I promise the lurch you feel when the bungee cord springs and you launch into the air is as real as they come.
In addition to augmented reality and virtual reality games, Escape Virtuality has a number of Escape Rooms located on their upper floor. Unfortunately, the rooms were closed on the day I visited, but with puzzles that include a motion stimulated runaway train, a goblin quest, and a mysterious ghost collector… I guess I just have no choice but to go back.
Check out Escape Virtuality on their website: https://escapevirtuality.com/, or their instagram, @escapevirtuality.nyc
Photos from Escape Virtuality
An Exotic Dinner at Utsav
Discard the stereotypes from TV shows and cheap takeouts. After having an exceptional dinner at Utsav, I’d say that Indian cuisine is not only rich in flavor but also in the diversity of culture.
In NYC, restaurants never get tired of branding themselves as “authentic”, but many times it’s just marketing. As a food explorer, it’s my sacred job to go beneath the superficial level. I don’t simply take what’s on the table but ask for the story behind the dish. But at Utsav, I didn’t even have to ask.
What’s on your list if you are dining on a night out? French, Italian, or Japanese? How about try something different this time. If there is a romantic dinner on your calendar, I think it’s time to explore the realm of Indian cuisine. Curry over rice is absolutely delicious, but not everyone can see the sophistication of it.
After being seated, Roob, the manager of Utsav, walked us through the menu with unforgettable hospitality and detailed explanation of each dish. He informed us that “Utsav” means “Festival” in Sanskrit. In India, a land of cultures and regions with abundant festivals to celebrate, each Utsav is a carnival of sounds, colors, rituals, and feasts. Rooted in this concept, Utsav restaurant is known for serving traditional dishes infused by a festival flair. After seeing how overwhelmed I was by the abundant choices in themenu, Roob delightly explained that the diversity of Indian cuisine was adequately represented by Utsav. From the Ganges River area in northern India to southern India, traditional cuisines of major regions of India was served with authenticity as well as innovation.
Beyond the opulence of choices,what won my heart was the caring flexibility that Utsav catered to each of its guests. The chefs are willing to learn about your dining preferences and cater to personalized dishes. So don’t be shy and tell them exactly what you want, from the detailed spice levels, to cooking approaches, you can even explore the secret menu---Utsav got all the ingredients!
Chicken Kali Mirch Kabab, Tandoori Broccoli, and Butter Chicken Kulcha
We were amazed by Roob’s presentation and decided to take all of his recommendations. After a while, a full table of Indian cuisines was delivered. We had Chicken Kali Mirch Kabab, Tandoori Broccoli, and Butter Chicken Kulcha for appetizers. The broccolis were salted with garlic spices which was amazingly appetizing. Then we tried the chicken, which came with crispy golden crusts and homemade green curry sauce on the side. Immediately after the first bite, we already went to grab the next piece, lets just say it was a quick empty plate.
Garlic Naan
Chess Naan
Fish Tikka
Bhuna Mutton
Sea Bass Rasa
Accompanied by the Garlic Naan, Chess Naan, and a bowl of rice, there came the Fish Tikka, Sea Bass Rasa, and Bhuna Mutton as Entrees. The meat was fresh, tender, and juicy. The Naan was so soft and al dente, it tasted like a marshmallow that melted in my mouth. We were already pushed to the limit by the quantity of the food, however, when the delectable desserts showed up, we just had to stuff ourselves a bit more. We had “India’s favorite sweet” Gulab Jamun, the Panna Cotta infused with refreshing mint, and the creamy Mango Mousse that brought us to the peak of satiation. “Unprecedented.” That’s my word for the dinner. As an upscale Indian restaurant, Utsav was unprecedented in its variety and authenticity. Besides, it had elevated the dining experience to another level with Indian’s unprecedented warmth and generosity.
Gulab Jamun, Panna Cotta, and Mango Mousse
Sitting by the glass window and sipping a cocktail, I was intoxicated by the cozy, exotic, and luxuriant dining environment. Capable of accommodating 300 guests at one time, Utsav has one of the most spacious dining lounges you can find in the city. The dining room is surrounded by floor to ceiling French windows, through which you have the overlooking view of a plaza, the Laura Pels Theatre, and street lights at midtown. Utsav has brought India into the city. It has brought the Indian cuisines, culture, festival vibes, romance, and hospitality.
The Chemistry’s Going On: Sushi Lab Review
Located at The Sanctuary Hotel, Sushi Lab is known for its creative spin on traditional sushi. On a breezy Wednesday evening, my friend and I visited Sushi Lab to taste the signature Omakase from Chef Frankie Chen.
When I arrived at the front door, I was amazed by the majestic look of the boutique hotel. There were stairs covered by red velvet carpet, ivory marble columns, and a door decorated with delicate metallic cravings. Even the service oozed luxury -- I was greeted by a host, who led me to the lounge and brought out a glass of sparkling water. While relaxing on the sofa and waiting for my friend, I looked through the menu. In addition to the signature Omakase, Sushi Lab also served hand rolls, Sashimi, Maki, and other Japanese delights. The menu was designed in the way of a lab manual, and it was absolutely innovative and fun to read.
After being seated and choosing our drinks, we officially joined the “lab” with six other “observers”. Chef Chen was there, dissecting fish fillets with his partner. The first dish to arrive was Chef Chen’s unique creation Toro Tartare. Laid on top of a rich portion of avocado and accompanied by nori crackers, the toro was amazingly appetizing.
Then our drinks came to the table. My friend had the Suntory Whisky that reminded him of the movie Lost in Translation, and I had a fruity cocktail that brought me to the island of Hawaii.
The smoked miso soup was served as an unexpected highlight of the dinner. Chef Chen ignited two pieces of charcoals and covered them with beakers. Separated from oxygen, the fire snuffed out, and the beakers were filled with smoke. Then miso soup was poured into the beakers and delivered to us. Materfully infusing the unique aromatic of charcoal and using beakers as the containers, Chef Chen has turned the miso soup into a performative art and an innovative creation.
As I was having the last bite of the hand roll, I realized that we had come to the end of this omakase experiment. It is always a joyful moment to taste omakase. It is delicious, meticulously prepared, creative, and spontaneous. At Sushi Lab, guests won’t know exactly what’s included in Omakase until they experience it. We trust the chef and arrive with expectations. Omakase is an impeccable cuisine and a great performance art, especially here at Sushi Lab.
Brunch at Buenos Aires: Feels Like Argentina
Classic Hollywood star Marlene Dietrich once said: “Latins are tenderly enthusiastic. In Brazil they throw flowers at you. In Argentina they throw themselves.” I have never visited the country, but after trying the authentic Argentinian restaurant, Buenos Aires, I now know how Dietrich felt.
On a sunny winter day, I went to try Buenos Aires’ newly-launched, brunch menu. As soon as I set foot inside, I was teleported to the world of soccer, tango, and steak. As I walked between the rustic brick walls, decorated with soccer jerseys and postcards from Buenos Aires, every single staff member welcomed me with a smile, as they guided me to the brunch area.
Seated in a cozy glassed room, I ordered some Sangria, and started reading the menu: For $35 per person ($25 without alcohol), Buenos Aires offers two main courses, a dessert, two cocktails, as well as coffee or tea. Having a variety of traditional dishes and drinks (like the Argentine Parilla, Chorzio, Chropian, Empanadas, Panqueques de Dulce de Leche, Mate Cocido…), I decided to try the House Salad, the Breaded Prime Veal, and the Caramel Crepe.
The simplicity of the recipes, and the quality of the products, are what make Ismael Alba’s (Buenos Aires’ Chef/Owner) dishes so unique and appetizing: The freshness of the salad’s Mozzarella Di Bufala, the organic eggs topping the delicious, USDA meat, as well as the delightful homemade caramel, were truly delicious. Simple, appetizing, yet consistent- but it is the Argentinian servers’ kindness, warmth, generosity, and humor that elevated the whole experience to another level.
Through his authentic and traditional restaurant, Ismael Alba brought a piece of his native city to New York. He cooked for Meryl Streep, Al Pacino, James Gandolfini, and even Pope Francis. Now it’s time for him to cook for you.
The restaurant is located at 513 East 6th Street, New York, NY 10009
Interview with Melissa Stephens, creator of "Finding the Asshole."
The past few years have been...strange. More and more, it seems that the world is just filled with assholes: big assholes, small assholes, tall assholes and tiny assholes. In fact, don’t be surprised if everyone you know -- including yourself -- is actually a bona fide asshole. It’s a theory explored in the short film series “Finding the Asshole” created by Melissa Stephens, who was nice enough to answer some questions about the conception and creation of her project.
1. What was the inspiration behind Finding the Asshole? Did you draw from any specific real life incidents? The inspiration behind Finding The Asshole is probably my and Tom's frustrations with being a human being in the world. It is definitely based off of real life incidents.
2. What did you find to be the most difficult part of production?
Shooting under time constraints with no money….as you do as a indie filmmaker.
3. Which of the three chapters is your favorite, and why?
Chapter One - I love because it came out almost exactly as I had imagined in my head and as a director one shots are my favorite.
Chapter Two - the color palette and costume design are so on point. They elevate the piece and the production. Also it's one of my biggest pet peeves when walking on the sidewalk.
Chapter Three - as a filmmaker was such an undertaking and I am very proud of the finished product and how many things are going on at once and the layers of darkness and comedy. I'm pretty stoked there is a dildo scene with a woman giving it to a man and the dance battle is so good.
I couldn't pick one... sorry. I'm an asshole.
4. What is one thing (although feel free to share more) that you want people to experience while watching your series? Are there certain emotions or realizations you want them to take away from your piece?
You know when it's really late at night and you know you have to be up in the morning but you have some episodes to still watch of your favorite show? It’s the feeling you get when you decide to watch another episode. I want people to feel that...excitement laced with dread. Or uncomfortable joy -- or one of my favorite new sayings: Bats in the Belfry. I don't want people to take away realizations as much as I want people to say... “Yes, this happens to me all the time.” I want to validate the Asshole part of everyone.
Finding the Asshole is out now! Catch it here: https://www.findingtheasshole.com/chapters
The Brooklyn Film Festival - Are You Glad I'm Here
Wednesday, May 30th. I meet with director Noor Fay at Amber, a sushi restaurant on West 70th street, to discuss her first feature film: Are You Glad I’m Here, recent winner of Best Original Score and Best Feature Narrative at the Brooklyn Film Festival. Having watched the film myself the night before, I’m excited for the chance to pick her brain: where did the idea for the film come from? What was the production process like? Noor answers my questions with ease. She tells me of her Lebanese heritage, and her screenwriter, Sam Anderson’s, studies in Arabic. We discuss the difficulties of filming on a low budget, of finding the perfect cast, and the skill required to bring the soft, specific beauty of the Lebanese countryside to the screen. I tell Noor that I expected the movie to end with her two female leads intertwined in a sexual relationship, and she laughs.
“Yeah, I guess I can see why you’d think that.”
Are You Glad I’m Here is in no way a sexual movie -- it’s refreshing, I realize, to have a drama about a female friendship where there’s no sexual undertone. There is, however, plenty of violence -- at first easy to ignore, like static background music, but then sharp and spiked -- gasps of forte after an entire composition in piano.
The movie opens on Kirsten (Tess Harrison), a young American teaching abroad in Lebanon. She’s at once identifiable as that liberal arts educated expat -- someone with a sense of higher morality who has adopted their own standards of right and wrong: stealing is acceptable, but domestic abuse? Not at all. Her character in is direct contrast to Nadine, played by Marwa Khalil. Unlike Kirsten, Nadine lives by the standards set by her society. She despises her husband, his wandering eye and his violent outbursts, but her fear of shame is greater than her desire for freedom.
Nevertheless, the two women find themselves slipping into an easy friendship. There are several scenes dedicated to the pair laughing, bonding over shared senses of humor and shared bottles of wine, seemingly ignoring the deeper troubles that plague them. This all comes to a head, however, when Nadine, in an act of self defense, strikes and kills her husband in front of a shell-shocked Kirsten.
From then on, there is a drastic shift in the tone and styling of the movie -- so much so that the second half of the film reads like a sequel to the first. Kirsten is on the verge of irrelevance -- the focus is instead on Nadine, dealing with the physical aftermath of her actions, hiding her secret from her family, and navigating how to break the death of her husband to her son.
But the lack of Kirsten is made up for with Nadine’s family. Their dynamic with her is full and beautiful -- the words Nadine exchanges with her brother are near poetic, benefiting from the pleasing sound of Arabic. It’s a relief when they are not revealed to be the tyrants we fear -- we are reassured that Nadine is now in good hands, capable of facing the future with them by her side.
It’s true that Are You Glad I’m Here has flaws -- ones that can’t be compensated for with stylish cinematography or interesting shots. Nonetheless, its ability to blend two cultures and languages into a cohesive, compelling movie, not to mention the clear passion and hard work behind it, makes the film worth a watch. But feel free to decide for yourself: check out the trailer below, or visit the film’s instagram page: @areyougladimhere.
Tribeca Film Festival - Fabled
Refinery29 debuted its all new anthology television series, Fabled, on April 23rd at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival as part of TriBeCa TV: Indie Pilots block. The series, which takes classic fairy tale narratives and puts modern, unconforming twists on their stories, is directed by Jennifer Morrison and written by both Evan Jonigkeit and Zosia Mamet, who married in 2016.
Fabled stars Zosia Mamet and Norbert Leo-Butz were both present for the premiere. I spoke with Zosia as well as writer/producer Evan Jonigkeit at the debut of the first episode of Fabled, which tells the story of Alice from Alice in Wonderland and Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz coming together after both have been admitted to a mental health facility. This episode is entitled “Anodyne.”
Synopsis: Allie and Dee are both creative young women that blaze their own trails and stray away from societal norms. They crave adventure and dream bigger than what the world tells them is acceptable. After meeting at an extensive behavioral therapy center, they find solace and fortitude in one another. Their bond illustrates the strength of friendship and the power that women can harness when they come together.
When asked about the collaborative creative process of making Fabled, Evan explained that “Writing and producing was great. It was a long road from when the idea got from its infancy to now teaming up with Refinery29 and working with the cast we have. It was amazing to see some words that you put down on paper come together and being able to bring the people together to make that happen. It was incredibly rewarding.”
Zosia went on to say, “Something that was really invaluable in us both being producers on this project and also having our partner Alex Gayner was that when one of us was acting, the other one was able to sort of team up with Alex and we could put on the producer hat . . . That’s definitely one of the benefits of being a team on the same project."
Fabled touches on themes of sexuality, gender, and relationships. I asked Zosia if her role in HBO’s Girls in any way influenced her in this work, and while her two characters in these shows differ greatly, she did say that both “touch on issues dealing with women in modern day society, which is obviously something that was sort of the kernel of the seedling behind Fabled. The Cinderella episode, which Evan and Trace Lysette star in, which was written by our friend Matt Flanders, was actually Evan’s idea of wanting to play with the Cinderella concept using a transition story.”
Fabled definitely offers viewers a reimagined interpretation of fairy tales unlike any other. This Refinery29 series is sure to wow audiences with its talented and inventive writers and actors.
Tribeca Film Festival - The Dark
One of the many horror films premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival was The Dark, a chilling story about a young flesh-eating girl who befriends a victim of physical abuse in the woods of her childhood home. Writer and director Justin P. Lange and lead star Nadia Alexander spoke with me about the process of creating this unique and unforgettable story.
Synopsis: Being a teenage girl is already difficult enough—so imagine also being an undead ghoul. That’s the horrible reality for Mina, a young woman who has been cursed to haunt her childhood home in the woods: Nobody gets in, and nobody gets out alive. That is, until she comes across Alex, a blind boy around her once-living age who is dealing with his own trauma. After she effortlessly dispatches his companion, Mina lets Alex live, and, by doing so, she begins to notice some old feelings, such as empathy and love, have resurfaced. It could be just a fluke—or Mina might be more alive than previously thought.
When asked what type of person is going to love The Dark, Nadia jokingly responded “psychotic and crazy.” Justin went on to say that an audience “that goes in with an open mind” and who is “willing to take the twists and turns with [the] characters” will love this film. Justin further commented on the fact that the movie makes audiences leave still processing and contemplating the story.
Nadia calls The Dark “genre-bending” with “a melding of different storytelling techniques.” It is emotional, dark, touching, and horrific. She further talked about the fact that The Dark is “a metaphor of abuse and the damage and monsters that come out of being abused.” Justin thinks of the ending as “bittersweet” and reflective of how the audience views the world.
On taking on her first solo lead role, Nadia explained that the creative process was challenging, complex, and fulfilling. Justin doted on Nadia’s commitment to the role, stating that “this was her movie . . . and she owned it.”
Additionally, Justin discussed the fact that he found it important to create a horror movie from the “perspective of the killer monster” because he knew that he “needed to feel strongly” alongside the character and to be with her “in her violence and in her rage.” Justin connected with this character deeply throughout his writing process, and Nadia fulfilled the role perfectly.
It was a pleasure discussing The Dark with Nadia and Justin, as this horror film undoubtedly left its mark on the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival.
https://www.tribecafilm.com/filmguide/dark-2018
Tribeca Film Festival - Cargo
The April 19th premier of Netflix’s Cargo at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival caused a great stir of excitement among filmmakers, stars, and moviegoers alike. This film, produced by Samantha Jennings and Kristina Ceyton of Causeway Films, follows the story of a loving father who is infected by a violent disease in rural Australia. Amidst post apocalyptic mayhem, he struggles to find a safe home for his child.
Cargo stars - Martin Freeman, Anthony Hayes, Susie Porter, Caren Pistorius, Kris McQuade, Natasha Wanganeen and David Gulpilil showed up and showed out at the premiere. I had the pleasure of discussing the film with Martin Freeman on the red carpet for premier night.
Cargo, which was originally a short directed by Yolanda Ramke and Ben Howling, was sent to Martin alongside the screenplay for the 2018 film. While this film details the hardships that a father must withstand when faced with protecting his child, Martin spoke about why Cargo truly is a movie for everyone.
Martin, who has a daughter of his own, explained that “being a parent does feed into [the storyline], but you don’t need massive amounts of imagination” to understand the extent of what a parent is willing to do for their child. He explained, “Even if I wasn’t a parent, [the story] still would have spoken to me . . . but certainly you are very aware as a parent all the time of the sacrifices that you are prepared to make and the things you are prepared to do to keep your children safe, so I love the fact that this character in this film goes the whole way as far as it could go.”
Aliens Coming Review
The unique and uproarious musical, “Aliens Coming”, has returned to The People’s Improv Theater after a previously sold out run. Under the directorship of Griffin Osborne, the talents of writer Joe Kelly and musical director Jonathan Evans, “Aliens Coming” beautifully merges contemporary music, classic show tunes and campy humor.
The musical follows the friendship of high school seniors, Brandi Boudoir (Maia Scalia) and Clementine Tweedy (Alice Kors), who have incredibly different outlooks on friendship and life. The beginning of the story takes place at an avant-garde art party hosted by Clementine, who seeks the approval of the American Spirit smoking Cool Art Kids. Brandi hates the Cool Art Kids, and loves makeup tutorials and can not wait to go to the state school and join a sorority. Clementine reveals to Brandi that she wants to attend Emerson University as a film student, which causes Brandi to leave the party in outrage and also causes Brandi to be abducted by Zooby Doober (Trevor McGhie), a Flimp from the planet of Flimpton. While abducted, Zooby uses Brandi’s emotional vulnerability to make her believe that he can make her famous for her Youtube makeup tutorial videos by giving her a necklace with special powers. Truthfully he is giving her the power of mind-control over all the humans who watch her makeup tutorials, and will make her control them as he wants. After learning that Zooby has a secret plan to harvest the genitals of the entire human race, Brandi makes it her mission to stop him. In the midst of Brandi being abducted and taking over the world, Clementine runs into Zooby’s hapless assistant, Smib. They end up sleeping together and Smib learns that contrary to what Zooby had been telling him, sex is not evil and that he does not want to get rid of genitals. Clementine, Brandi, and Smib join forces to save the human race and all of their genitals.
"Aliens Coming” truly has something for everyone in this unorthodox scrutiny of youth, identity, sex and technology. If you are not one for raunchy comedy, perhaps you will appreciate the fantastic musical numbers, the genius writing, or the passion the actors put into their performances. People with an interest in fashion will appreciate the fabulous costumes for the aliens, white bedazzled jumpsuits and light-up sneakers. The energy on stage was contagious, it was clear that everyone that was a part of the cast and crew had a great time putting this show together and loved performing it. The audience was invested in every minute of the show, you are unlikely to find a room filled with smiling New-Yorkers anywhere else. If you have the time, spend the ten dollars to see a show worth much more.
The cast features Alice Kors, Maia Scalia, Andrew L. Ricci, Trevor McGhie, Ariana Raygoza, Rebecca Lampiasi, Ashley Hutchinson and Tessa Stokes. Aliens Coming is Produced by Jonathan Evans, Joe Kelly and James Young of Ashcat Productions. Aliens Coming will be playing in the PIT up until September 18th. Buy tickets here.
Special thanks to Bianca from Shark Party Media. Photo credit: Jackie Abbott Photography.