Free Arts NYC 19th Annual Art Auction
On Thursday Night, April 12, Free Arts NYC honored legendary Conceptual Artist Lawrence Weiner at the Free Arts NYC Annual Art Auction. A longtime collaborator and supporter of Free Arts NYC, native New Yorker Lawrence Weiner is widely considered to be one of the most central figures of Conceptual Art, and is among the trailblazers of the 1960s to pursue inquiries into language as sculpture.
The special event took place at Ukrainian Institute of America—housed in the historic Harry F. Sinclair mansion—guests were treated to an exhibition of aspiring teenage artists from Free Arts NYC’s Creative Career Exploration, Portfolio Mentorship, and Museum & Studio Visit Programs. On March 4th, this group of art lovers took part in a very special workshop led by Lawrence Weiner in his West Village studio. Given the prompt “Not why I am born but now that I am born what do I do?”, the young artists created their own Lawrence Weiner-inspired text art, paired with personal ampersand designs symbolizing individuality. The project is a response to Lawrence's contribution to Free Arts NYC's A to Z Project—an original alphabet created through the collaboration of 45 artists, illustrators, and designers—for which Lawrence designed an ampersand.
Guests were then greeted by Lawrence Weiner’s text piece, “Learn to Read Art” as they ascended a grand staircase adorned with hanging floral gardens. While browsing works of art to bid on by such notable artists as Taryn Simon, Glenn Ligon, Robert Longo, Rob Pruitt, Charline von Heyl, Richard Serra, and Agathe Snow—all generously installed by sponsor Crozier Fine Arts—guests were treated to a live performance by the renowned experimental jazz ensemble, Onyx Collective. As guests sip Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut champagne and cocktails from The Sexton Single Malt Speakeasy, they discussed the artistic inspirations and practices of fellow attendees like Chloe Wise, Sheree Hovsepian, and Eddie Martinez, who all generously donated artwork to the Free Arts NYC auction, which has been live on Artsy since March 29th.
The evening was presented by acclaimed Japanese fashion label Sacai, whose Spring Summer 2018 collection incorporates Lawrence Weiner's iconic text art. On the occasion, Sacai Founder and Head Designer Chitose Abe dresssed such guests as CNN Anchor Kate Bouldan—who was the evening’s MC—actress, DJ, and style icon Mia Moretti, Internet sensation Pari Ehsan, and auction artist Zoë Buckman, among others. Throughout the cocktail hour, guests had the opportunity to see the innovative collection up close while listening to a playlist curated by Mia Moretti, and stepping away to ornament themselves with coveted Lawrence Weiner temporary tattoos.
At 8:30pm, dinner guests entered a dining room enveloped with Lawrence Weiner’s iconic wall pieces, sitting down to a meal presented by Sacai, set on top of Lawrence Weiner x Sacaitablescapes. The meal was followed by a live auction led by art advisor Aileen Agopian, accompanied by Master of Ceremonies Kate Bouldan, with special words by Free Arts Teens about how Lawrence Weiner has impacted their lives. Dinner guests took home gift bags filled with Lawrence Weiner coffee table books published by Phaidon, and Lawrence Weiner x Sacai fabric napkins.
All proceeds from the evening benefit Free Arts NYC’s educational arts mentoring programs for underserved youth and families.
Images by BFA: Mike Vitelli/BFA and Max Lakner/BFA
Rock'n'Roll at SUSHI ROXX
If you’re looking for a restaurant experience unlike any other, turn to Sushi Roxx. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this Japanese restaurant offers both delicious food and a live dance show, performed by none other than the waiters and waitresses, who are also talented singers and dancers. But this isn't the Stardust Diner. Sushi Roxx is a little more selective with their musical choices: their show “We Will Roxx You” only features music from world famous rock artists such as Aerosmith, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Journey.
Although the restaurant has been open for a few years, it has recently launched a series of new menu items in order to go along with the musical dining experience. The venue, which exudes romantic Asiatic influences, offers delicious specialty cocktails named after Marvel and DC superheroes, such as the Green Lantern (Jameson, blue curacao, peach, lemon), the Skywalker (Avion Silver, honeydew, agave, lime, jalapeno, basil), and the Black Panther (Aviation, Creme De Cassis, blackberry, lime), as well as additional food items, such as sushi pizzas and rolls with combinations varying from spicy tuna to lobster. There is something for everyone to enjoy while singing along to some of the most popular throwback songs of the 20th Century.
For those craving something sweet to finish off the night, fun desserts, such as Nutella S’mores (nutella, marshmallow, graham cracker), Berries and Creme (seasonal berries, lemon, schlag), and Death by Birthday Cake (chocolate cake, whipped cream, chocolate fudge, vanilla cream) are just a few choices of sweets available for anyone interested in getting a sugar rush after a gleeful night.
If you’re up for some old school music with a fun twist and delicious food, or would like to spice things up by visiting a new restaurant in the midst of New York City, make sure to reserve a table at Sushi Roxx by visiting http://sushiroxxnyc.com/, and check out the menu by clicking here.
Photos courtesy of SUSHI ROXX
Sneak Preview of Borrachito at The Garret East
On Wednesday night, one of New York City’s most reputable cocktail bars, The Garret, located in the Lower East Side, turned into a finger-licking taco concept. As guests walked in, they were welcomed to a drink of their choice at the bar, where they had a chance to strike up a conversation with a compelling stranger. And when the evening went well, invitees continued their night by walking further into a more romantic setup dubbed, “Borrachito.”
Borrachito, which is located in the back area, was once a speakeasy restaurant entitled, “Dinnertable,” turned itself into an intimate and date-appropriate bar and taco spot, filled with lots of delicious tacos to accompany a wide array of boozy cocktails and luscious wines.
Borrachito brings Mexican street food inspired by family recipes to the comfort of a New York City bar. Executive Chef Yuval Ochoa thrills the crowd with tacos filled with pork, steak, and fish, as well as delightfully unexpected fillings, such as burrata. Each taco is a masterpiece of its own: the “Pork Bomb” taco includes roasted pork belly, confit pork shoulder and deep fried pork skin, andpico de gallo and pickled onions; the “Baja Fish” taco is a refreshing creation comprised of fried seabass, grilled pineapple salsa, and guajillo majo. Not feeling tacos but still want a flavor of Mexico? Try “Del Every Dia” soup, or ceviche and guacamole appetizers. And for those with a sweet tooth, Borrachito does not disappoint. There is a choice of paletas (ice pops) with flavors such as pineapple mezcal and strawberry cilantro, and duros (sweet chips) covered in sugar, cinnamon, and served with a side of corn ice cream.
To accompany the flavorful feast, grab one of the delicious cocktails from The Garret’s bar. From “Detroit Dancehall” to “Cheap Furniture,” your night is guaranteed to be a blast. With mouthwatering food and equally delicious drinks, what else could one wish for? In the age of Instagram, it is an aesthetically-pleasing venue, which Borrachito and The Garret most definitely offer.
Looking to experience street style tacos but are on a date, or would just like to enjoy flavors of Mexico with a delicious drink in another hand? Borrachito is for you. It doesn’t have to be #TacoTuesday for you to visit this cozy and flavorful location this weekend by going to 206 Avenue A, NY, NY 10009, located in the back of The Garret East.
Photo credit @fohnyc
Axel Vervoordt at New York Benefit
"Axel Vervoordt is a non-conformist, which is dear to my heart. He’s a modernist who embraces every period. He does not use his rooms for modern furniture, but for the best furnishings in the world, and, notably, the best art.” Thus declared Jack Lenor Larsen on Wednesday night when LongHouse Reserve honored Axel at the Hearst Tower.
Matko Tomicic, executive director of LongHouse, welcomed guests and introduced Diane Benson, president of the Board who said, “We are here tonight honoring a man who defies being defined by a single word. So we are right in presenting his award by a woman who also challenges conventions and titles, conceptual artist Kimsooja,” who in turn said, “It is a great honor and pleasure for me to celebrate Axel Vervoordt and his legacy tonight, on the occasion of the prestigious LongHouse Award." The artist continued, "The honor also goes to LongHouse and its mission to reflect world culture and inspire creative talent."
In accepting his award, designed by Marc Leuthold, Axel gallantly offered, “Thank you all for coming. I don’t know if I deserve it, but I always do my best,” then delivered a fascinating presentation on design and his theories of art, light, and space. A smaller group of just 50 retired afterwards to Adelaide de Menil's remarkable Central Park South duplex for dinner, where each guest was presented with a signed copy of Axel’s newest book, Stories and Reflections, which is not yet available in the US.
Among the guests were Sandy and Steve Perlbinder, Adelaide de Menil, Martha Stewart, Sherri Shultz, Sherri Donghia, Julie Jensen, Kay Hall, Newell Turner, Mark and Elizabeth Levine, Nina Gillman, Suzy Slesin and Michael Steinberg, Chris Mead and Zoe Hoare, Harvey and Audrey Feuerstein, Catherine and Nathan Bruckner, Judi Roaman, Nick and Christina Martin, Lindsay and Fitzhugh Caleo, Kang Chang, Dianne Benson, Jack Lenor Larsen.
LongHouse is a 16-acre reserve and sculpture garden located in East Hampton, NY, featuring works from Buckminster Fuller, Yoko Ono and William de Kooning to name only a few. Founded by Jack Lenor Larsen, it exemplifies curated living with art in all forms. It’s collections, gardens, sculpture and programs reflect diverse world cultures and inspire a creative life.
Photos Courtesy of Patrick McMullan
Flamenco Night at Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola
If you are looking for a place to relax to smooth sounds of jazz in the midst of a busy city, you might want to turn to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. Located at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola hosts weekly jazz events featuring a variety of talented musicians, along with the opportunity to wine and dine, for students, members, and fans of jazz.
On Friday, March 23, 2018, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola turned into a destination for anyone who wished to hear the collision of the sounds of jazz and flamenco without traveling to the origin of flamenco--Spain. The evening, accompanied by delicious cocktails and a wine carte, as well as a range of mouthwatering appetizers, such as a gooey mac-n-cheese and roasted brussel sprouts with bits of bacon, introduced the New York crowd to four exceptional artists: DORANTES, Adam Ben Ezra, Chano Domínguez, and a guest musician, Tim Ries.
The quartet created an energetic and picante melange of jazz, flamenco, classical, and Latin melodies in order to bring elements of surprise and curiosity into the audience. With nighttime lights of Columbus Circle and Central Park in the background, the night seemed to take unexpected yet pleasant turns with every note of music.
If you are looking to conclude a tiresome week on an upbeat note, or find a new romantic private spot in the city for a successful date night, Jazz at Lincoln Center is the place to do all of the above and more. Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at Jazz at Lincoln Center holds weekly, two evening sessions: one at 7:30 pm, and another at 9:30pm, as well as a late night session at 11:15pm. There is always time to enjoy jazz for every New Yorker.
Jazz at Lincoln Center is also the destination for students who are looking to indulge in the sounds of jazz by themselves or with a friend, since the tickets are only priced at $20 for most of the sessions. As for the post-studies crowd, have no fear as the jazz destination allows to absorb most of the musical nights starting at $35.
Whether you're a fan of jazz or just looking for a more unique cultural experience, Jazz at Lincoln Center has it all. If you are interested in paying a visit or two to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola in Jazz at Lincoln Center, visit http://www.jazz.org/dizzys/ for more information.
Affordable Art Fair
The price-conscious art fair returned to NYC one again. Art ranged from original paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures from 67 local, national and international galleries. With price tags ranging from $100 to $10,000. AAF is an experience that you can really only find in NYC. There is a ton of talent and you can spend as little as 30 minutes or as long as hours walking through the exhibit. You don't have to purchase anything and aren't heckled to do so.
BELLA Cover featuring Jillian Michaels
On Thursday, March 22, 2018, Jillian Michaels hosted BELLA’s influencer cover launch party at Mr. Jones in SoHo. Guests checked out the latest cover while sipping on 1907 Water and prosecco provided by Prosecco DOC.
Genesis Fertility was on hand talking to women about such reproductive treatments at egg freezing. Other sponsors included wereUniversity Pain Management Center and Lenox Hill Hospital.
Jillian, known for her badass approach to transforming lives on TV shows like The Biggest Loser and Sweat Inc., has made a name for herself as America's toughest trainer. When Jillian was 12 years old, she was 5'2 and weighed 175 pounds. After verbal torment by her classmates, she decided to change for the better and now at 36, and with abs to kill, she has become one of America's most famous fitness trainers.
Guests included Courtenay Hall (BELLA Editor-in-Chief), Daniel Hall (BELLA Chief Brand Strategist), Doug Wilson (TLC’s Trading Spaces), Monte Bezell (NBC’s “The Blacklist”), Joe “Monk”Pardavila (95.5 WPLJ), Donald Paul (FX’s “Atlanta”), Carter Redwood(actor, “The Long Road Home” & NBC’s “Rise”), Steve Stranulis (Actor/Director “Clinton Road”), Jake Allyn (BET’s “The Quad”), Thalia Almodovar (VH1’s “Beauty Bar”), Heide Lindgren (model), Carey Murphy (model), Dani Seitz (model), Damaris Lewis (model), Courtney Davis (comedian), Olga Namer (comedian), Dr. Tabasum Mir (Bravo’s “The Singles Project”), Any Peeke (TV Host), Valerie Greenberg (lifestyle expert).
Photos Courtesy of Steve White
Sneak Preview of Sugar Momma
On a chilly Tuesday night, a cafe “Hole in the Wall” turned into a mysterious bar and restaurant dubbed, “Sugar Momma.” Located in the heart of the Financial District, the location serves as a bright and cozy coffee spot during the hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but turns into a playful and cheeky relaxation zone from the hours of 6:00 pm until midnight.
The dining and cocktail location provides a large variety of delicious food on its menu designed by the Executive Chef Brent Hudson (@hashtaghudson). The menu items range from hot and cold appetizers such as Crispy Pork (soy caramel, sour apple, picked herbs & cashews), Shrimp and Crab Crackers (remoulade and avocado puree), and East Coast Oysters and Burrata with shaved melon and prosciutto. After a spread of starters, Sugar Momma serves up a feast of equally mouthwatering entree items, such as their signature Truffle Beef and ‘Shroom’ Burger (crispy bacon, caramelized onions, house pickles and special sauce), Grass-Fed Wagyu Rib Eye (XO mushroom butter, broccolini and garlic chives), Satay Curry Chicken and the ability to Roll Your Own Brisket Tacos.
To accompany the mind-blowing food journey, Sugar Momma offers 11 signature cocktails, all created by lead mixologist, Ryan Byrnes. Some of the cocktails include sweet and bitter combinations, such as The Gatsby (gin, pama, lemon, prosecco), Back in Fashion (bourban, honey, bitters & orange), and Momma’s Martini (vanilla vodka, passoa, passion fruit puree & prosecco), along with some spicier choices, such as Spicy Time Margarita (tequila, combier orange, lime, simple syrup & jalapeno). However, if you would like to withhold the cocktails and enjoy the meal with a glass of chilled-rose or some quality beer, Sugar Momma presents wines by the glass and bottle in addition to Brooklyn Lager and an Oyster Bay IPA.
Sugar Momma is sure worth a visit. With tracks straight from 90s hip hop to candles and neon signs, Sugar Momma has it all. Relaxing ambiance with scrumptious food, rich drinks, and great company is all you really need to unwind after a stressful day at work and jump straight into a commitment-free weekend.
Pay a visit to Sugar Momma to jump start your weekend: 15 Cliff Street, New York, NY 10038
Photos courtesy of Sugar Momma
Laila Biali at Birdland Jazz Club
On Thursday night, Laila Biali took the stage at the Birdland Jazz Club located on West 44th Street, right in the heart of New York City-Times Square. The Canadian singer and pianist performed several songs from her self-titled album, "Laila Biali", ranging from nostalgic references to the days of touring with other performers through North America, to healing broken hearts with self-love and a new, nurturing relationship with her now-husband.
The songs performed by the jazz pianist certainly matched the atmosphere, invoking a sense of the mystique, while also mixing it up with playful and cozy melodies. Surrounded by candlelight, delicious food and great company, the audience enjoyed Biali’s performance, since it was just as marvelous as one would expect.
Mixing jazz and pop, along with a full-band show, Biali froze the time in the middle of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. A lovely night to remember with music that certainly filled the soul.
Apologies from Men: Live Concert and Album Release
Lauren Maul dances to "Kevin Spacey's Apology: The REMIX"
New York based creator of comedy, music, and film Lauren Maul (Amazon Reviews: The Musical!) announced the release of her album Apologies from Men. The album is available for purchase as of March 9th, 2018, and she debuted the songs live at a concert at The People’s Improv Theater on that same date. The album is released by her own production company, MaulFace, and is available for purchase as an audio album on iTunes, Amazon Digital Music, Google Play Music, and more. Maul has pledged to donate 100% of the sales revenue from the album to RAINN, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. A free visual album is available online through Vimeo and apologiesfrommen.com. The album is available for sale on Google Play here:
https://play.google.com/store/music/album/L_Maul_Apologies_from_Men?id=Brhlazfpaec66jd56t4wm323gee
Tahlia Robinson, Alyson Greenfield, Jen Kwok, Alexius Smith, and Kate Weber sing "I Do Not Believe by Charlie Rose"
In Apologies from Men: The Album, Maul has taken infamous male apology statements and created animated videos set to original music. The album features the apologies of Louis CK, Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Matt Lauer, Mario Batali, Russell Simmons, Dustin Hoffman, Charlie Rose, and an instrumental song from the men who have been accused but have yet to apologize. By carefully constructing the songs around the actual words and tone of the “apologies”, Maul purposely highlights the flaws and ridiculousness of the statements. Each song is different, with a variation of dance tracks, piano ballads, and even a faux-Christian rock song. The album features additional singing talent from comedic musicians Alyson Greenfield, Jen Kwok, Lady Kate Weber, Alexius Smith, Chase O’Donnell, and Tahlia Robinson.
Apologies From Men Tracklisting:
1- The Louis CK Apology... Set to Music
2- Kevin Spacey's Apology: The Remix
3- Sorrow & Regret: The Matt Lauer Apology
4- Humbly Apologize by Russell Simmons
5- A Short Apology by Dustin Hoffman
6- The Culture Then by Harvey Weinstein
7- Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe by Mario Batali
8- I Do Not Believe by Charlie Rose
9- Instrumental by The Men Who Have Not Apologized
Lauren Maul sings "A Short Apology by Dustin Hoffman"
Lauren Maul was raised in Nebraska, studied theater at the University of San Diego, trained as an improviser in Chicago, and currently performs in New York. She was named one of the "50 Funniest People in Brooklyn" by Brooklyn Magazine in 2016. A "bit-maker" by trade, Lauren creates music, films, puppets, stand-up routines and has experience working professionally as a composer and director. She has performed at major NYC comedy venues including UCB and Carolines, Second City in Chicago and has also appeared in several festivals including Williamstown, Just for Laughs, Chicago Sketchfest, the Women in Comedy Festival, SOLOCOM, NY Fringe, Brooklyn Comedy Festival, and San Francisco Sketchfest where her show "Dudes Being Dudes Being Dudes" played to a sold-out audience. Her writing has appeared in BUST magazine, The Frisky, Splitsider, Merry Jane, and Reductress. She produces and hosts the critically acclaimed "Dudes Being Dudes Being Dudes" and "Bitchcraft!" shows in NYC and is a teacher at The Peoples Improv Theater. n 2016, Lauren created a musical web series, Amazon Reviews: The Musical!, which was named one of the best web series of the year by IndieWire. To find out more, please visit laurenmaul.org.
Photos courtesy of Shark Party Media
The Armory Show
Staged on Piers 92 & 94, The Armory Show featured presentations by over 200 leading international galleries, innovative artist commissions and dynamic public programs.
Scope Art Fair
Known for presenting groundbreaking contemporary work, SCOPE New York welcomed 60 international exhibitors at its centrally-located venue. In addition, SCOPE continued its legacy of critically-acclaimed VIP Programming, with a focused schedule of events, talks and screenings. The first fair to run concurrent with The Armory Show, SCOPE New York’s spirit of innovation has consistently forged the way for emerging artists and galleries. Attuned to nuances in the market and itself an influential force in the cultural sphere, SCOPE continues to usher in a new vision of the contemporary art fair.
The Vienna Philharmonic Society Event
At a private club The Vienna Philharmonic Society presented The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra for over one hundred benefit guests.
There are many grand fundraisers in New York, but some nights are special and this is always because of their hosts. Although the Chairman of The Vienna Philharmonic Society, Marifé Hernández, was unable to attend, her attention was evident everywhere. Resting comfortably at home, recovering from surgery, she still saw to the placement of every guest and every detail. Her beloved husband Joel Bell arranged a first - the evening was videotaped so she could see it. Guests were invited to record their own get-well messages for the much-missed chairman. Her warm presence was felt everywhere.
Following cocktails, there was a remarkable performance of the Octet in F Major by Franz Schubert, a signature piece of the Orchestra repertory. The concert and dinner were under the distinguished patronage of all the senior Austrian officials in our country including His Excellency Wolfgang Waldner, Austrian Ambassador to the United States and Mrs. Gudrun Faudon-Waldner; His Excellency Jan Kickert, Permanent Representative of Austria To the United Nations and Mrs. Latica Tomasic-Kickert; His Excellency Helmut Boeck, Austrian Consul General in New York and Mrs. Barbara Boehm-Boeck; Christine Moser, Director, Austrian Cultural Forum.
Through generous sponsorship of Vienna Philharmonic Society (in partnership with the Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall) Principal musicians from the Orchestra conducted Master Classes with former students of Carnegie Hall's National Youth Orchestra (NYO), all of whom are now Conservatory students in Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, New York City, Oberlin, Philadelphia, and Puerto Rico. The message to them throughout the day was legato – learning to play in a smooth, flowing manner, without breaks between notes, to play with passion, and to play as if you are making your instrument sing. Steeped in the rich history of the 176-year-old Vienna Philharmonic, the instructors emphasized understanding the history of each work and its author, to bring the music to life as the composer intended.
The Vienna Philharmonic Society, founded in 2016, is a New York based non-profit organization that supports and celebrates the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and works to extend its performances across the United States. Through a variety of educational programs with their partner, The Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall, including Master Classes for advanced students and music events for children in the community, the Vienna Philharmonic Society helps the Orchestra expand its contribution to the cultural life of New York and cities throughout the country.
Photos Courtesy of Da Ping Luo and Vienna Philharmonic
RIOULT Dance NY Winter Gala
John A. MacKinnon and Harsha Murthy were gala co-chairs of RIOULT Dance NY's Winter Gala, “Centered on the Future” and there was much to celebrate. The company will soon break ground on a new home in Queens.
Long-time friends of the company, actress Kathleen Turner and Tony-nominated Christine Andreas performances punctuated the evening. Kathleen sang a special rendition of It’s Only A Paper Moon and Christine sang Hymne á L’Amour (reprising her 2015 collaboration with RIOULT Dance NY). During cocktails RIOULT dancers performed duets. During dinner they performed last season’s premier, Fire in the Sky with music by Deep Purple and costumes by Patricia Field.
The gala honorees included RIOULT board member Joseph W. Armbrust accepting for his longstanding service to the company and his unique expertise in governance. Also honored were members of the Astoria community; Steinway & Sons with Anthony Gilroy accepting the award. For over 160 years they have been not only an integral part of Queens but also of the international arts community. Pascal Rioult proudly announced that the address for the new RIOULT Dance Center, 34-01 Steinway Street, shares their name. Also honored was Kaufman Astoria Studios with CEO Hal Rosenbluth accepting. He gave a moving tribute to their former CEO, George S. Kaufman, who brilliantly lead a revival of film and television production in New York, and passed away just last week at the age of 89.
“As RIOULT Dance NY looks forward to international touring, our 2018 season at the Joyce Theater, and prepares to take residence in the Kaufman Arts District in Astoria, Queens, it is encouraging to be surrounded by so many supporters and well-wishers. Every day I am inspired by my glorious dancers, and buoyed by a generous Board of Directors and dedicated staff. I look forward to deepening our relationships with honorees from the Kaufman Astoria Studios and Steinway & Sons, and creating new relationships with other Kaufman Arts District residents. Together we are forging a new path for RIOULT Dance NY, the greater dance community, and northwest Queens.” - Pascal Rioult
This summer, RIOULT will open the 11,000 square-foot RIOULT Dance Center in Astoria’s Kaufman Arts District with five studios including a flex-studio and performance space with seating for over 100 audience members. The opening of the RIOULT Dance Center will mark a pivotal milestone in RIOULT’s history, not only providing a permanent home for its professional company of dancers, but also offering the community a new world-class dance facility and school.
Photos by Eric Bandiero
The Hotline
A very special organization exists called The Hotline. We had the pleasure of attending a night of conversation at Sisley Paris for The Hotline, where we got to meet Katie Ray-Jones, the CEO, and learn more about the organization.
The Hotline is the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and it is so much more than a phone number. It is the only 24/7 national organization that has access to service providers and shelters across the United States to help people affected by domestic violence. When you go to their website you are greeted by a pop-up that tells you what to do in case you are worried about your internet usage being monitored. On their website you have access to details on what makes a relationship abusive in any sense, resources for victims and survivors, an informative blog, ways to get involved, and an online chat for those who are not able to make a phone call. The website covers all areas for someone looking for help or someone simply looking to get educated. The mission of The Hotline is to answer the call to support and shift the power back to people affected by relationship abuse. In a time where more and more people are gaining the courage to come forward and use their voice, organizations like this are so important.
Katie Ray-Jones is an exceptionally inspiring woman who has done so much for the domestic violence movement. She started as a therapist for victims, managed a shelter for victims, and managed the funding for the family violence program at the Health and Human Services Commission with the state of Texas before applying for a job with The Hotline and rising to the position of Chief Executive Officer. She is incredibly passionate about what she does and is looking for more ways to expand The Hotline to be even more helpful every day. Although this line of work can be emotionally draining, Katie Ray-Jones remains the strong, nurturing woman that these victims need when they call.
On average, twenty-four people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. Nearly half of all women and men in the United States have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Coming forward not only helps the victim, it also encourages others to do the same. For more information about The Hotline, visit their website at http://www.thehotline.org.
Special thanks to Stacy Dreyfus from The National Domestic Violence Hotline
together1heart Partners with JEZ Magazine
Last week, together1heart, an organization that works to protect the rights of young women who are victims or at risk of being victims of slavery, partnered with JEZ Magazine for a launch event in Midtown Manhattan. The event was a gathering of supportive future readers, photographers, editors, and writers, and it was hosted by the February’s cover stars, supermodel Carol Alt and Teen Wolf star, Ian Bohen.
The event was an opportunity to receive a first look at JEZ Magazine, as well as to meet individuals who support and are a part of together1heart. As the Executive Director of the organization, Bill Livermore, said, “This is an incredible evening for together1heart to announce a partnership with JEZ Magazine. JEZ is a special publication in that its focus is not just on fashion and beauty, but on how fashion and beauty is deeper than just appearance. To their core, they’re all about social improvement and ways they can work to raise the empowerment of women”.
The launch event was also a moment to discuss the future plans of together1heart, such as focusing on empowering survivors and supporting girls by including a scholarship program, which provides financial support for nine young women to their education at universities. Indeed, the partnership between JEZ Magazine and the organization is a special one due to not only focusing on culture, style, and fashion, as actor Ian Bohen pointed out, but also social change and helping the victims of sex trafficking, as mentioned the actor, Ian Bohen.
Supermodel Carol Alt then took over the stage, and voiced her admiration for the editor-in-chief of JEZ, Ezequiel De La Rosa. “I wanted to applaud Ezequiel De La Rosa, who is the publisher and editor of JEZ Magazine. And, by the way, he took all the photos of me as well.” For her cover shoot, Alt mentioned how her and De La Rosa traveled to Portugal, where she also ended up walking in a runway show. “Believe it or not, at this day in age, I walked in a show,” said the model, whose speech was followed by a room full of cheer and applause.
Although to launch a magazine in the digital age seems to be a risky move, JEZ Magazine and its contributors, along whom are Victoria Deblauss, Aylen Jover, Sophie Lyons, and Sara Sist, have launched not just a publication, but a creative call for social action. In the words of the editor-in-chief, JEZ hopes “to encourage a spirit of positivity, generosity and philanthropy,” and they are definitely on a mission to a successful future.
JEZ Magazine hopes to immerse readers into a multicultural world of original fashion and creativity, alongside heartfelt and enlightening interviews. JEZ hopes to encourage a spirit of positivity and philanthropy.
together1heart, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, works to ensure that the young women who are victims of sexual slavery and those at risk of becoming victims of it can get the help they need to live healthy, sustainable lives. For more information go to: www.together1heart.org
Photos courtesy of together1heart
The 63nd Viennese Opera Ball
The 63rd Viennese Opera Ball took place on February 2nd, 2018, at the legendary and newly reopened Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. The annual white tie charity gala celebrates the cultural and economic relationships between Austria and America, connecting two continents, two cities and two centuries in one glamorous night. Founded by Austrians immigrating to the United States more than 63 years ago, the night is a tribute to both their former home town,Vienna, and their new host city, New York.
Widely considered as one of New York City’s greatest annual events, the celebration has garnered international media coverage for more than five decades. The white tie attire, considered the most formal dress code, calls for all gentlemen to be outfitted in white tie and tailcoats with decorations, and for all the ladies wear long floor-length ball gowns and opera gloves.
Regarded as the most prestigious and oldest Viennese Opera Ball outside of Vienna, the festival drew a global audience that included diplomats and dignitaries, international corporations and celebrities. There event was nothing short of magnificent; and with four generations of guests, the Ball reflects the universal appeal of Austria’s traditional and culinary treasures.
Each year the Viennese Opera Ball supports charitable projects that are connected to communities in New York or Vienna. The proceeds of the 63rd Viennese Opera Ball will benefit the music therapy program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center with the support from Gabrielle's Angel Foundation for Cancer Research.
The gala evening featured Opera, Classical Music and Ballroom Dancing including, of course, Waltzing. One popular highlight was the Midnight Quadrille, conducted by Ms. Stockmayer.
The Ball opened with the Grand March of Dignitaries and Diplomats. The ceremonial tone of the Ball Opening continued with the Presentation and Posting of the Flags by a West Point Cadet Color Guard. Mr. Serafin then welcomed and thanked the debutantes, escorts and guests, before ballet dancers entered and performed accompanied by the orchestra, Divertimento Viennese. René Pape, operatic Bass and two-time Grammy Award Winner, then performed Le veau d’or from Faust by Gounod.
The Debutantes and Escorts then made their entrance, led by choreographer Sandra Stockmayer, who also acts as choreographer for the Vienna Opera Ball. The program continued with the Presentation of Debutantes and their dance Escorts. A choreographed waltz routine by young ballroom dance couples is followed by a call for "Alles Walzer!" (Everyone Dance!) and guests joined the dancers for the first official waltz of the Ball.
The Ball was literally a celebration from night till the break of dawn. Following a champagne reception, the Ball ran from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., and included a four-course dinner. The guests gained new strength at the late-night Austrian specialty buffet after a long evening of fête. The “Tanz Bar” (post-Ball party) followed from 1:00 to 4:00 a.m, and included a full buffet supper with the Viennese Opera Ball's Signature Goulash Soup, as well as multiple venues featuring: a DJ, Vienna Coffee House with Viennese pastries, and a Casino.
The event hosted nearly 400 guests including Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Peter Thomas Roth, CEO, Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care, Viennese Opera Ball Executive Director Silvia Frieser, Actress Selenis Leyva, Designer Nicole Miller, Two time Grammy winner Rene Pape, and International Committee member Laine Siklos, among others, all praised the debutantes and performers, and noted the event’s importance to the social and cultural fabric of New York City.
A special thank you to the lovely Laine Siklos, who provided us the invitation for the special evening.
Secret Summer Aquarius
On Saturday, January 27th, the normally industrial Long Island City was gifted with a bit of glamour through Secret Summer Aquarius, an “Arctic Chic” sustainable seafood and cocktail event.
Hosted at The Foundry LIC, the Aquarius event featured interactive, insta worthy rooms, for their fashion forward, millennial cliente. Guests could play around in a “white room” filled top to bottom with bright white balloons, lounge near the fire pits, dance to tunes spun by a live DJ, and even have a poem written in their honor.
Adding to the glitzy glam of the night were the live shows, including aerialist Sasha Hart, and the High and Mighty Brass Band.
Still, the real star of the night were the drinks dreamed up by Secret Summer’s Mixology team, featuring, among many others, Peruvian Rum, Herradura Tequila, and French Ginger Liqueur.
In addition to the social and environmental benefits, Secret Summer Aquarius also played their philanthropic part by donating a portion of their proceed to the Billion Oyster Project, a charity dedicated to restoring the ecological balance of New York Harbor.
For more information about Secret Summer and their events, check out http://www.secretsummernyc.com/aquarius
Special thanks to @ejkvita for the photos!
New York Times Travel Show
The 15th anniversary for North America’s largest travel show was held on January 26 - 28, 2018 at Jacob K. Javits Center, NYC.
Exhibitors representing 170 countries participated in the 2018 Show. The Show floor is separated into 18 Pavilions and include: Adventure, Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Canada, Caribbean, Cruise, Europe, Family, Global, Latin America, Mexico, River Cruises, Sponsors,Taste of the world, Travel Products, LGBTQ and the USA.
It offered opportunity to memorize special moment to take a photo with people dressed in costumes utilizing the characteristics of each country made their booth more valuable.
South Korea, who will host the 2018 Winter Olympics, presented the mascots of the Pyeongchang Olympic.
Exhibitors boasted the diverse charm of their country by cooking their traditional foods for guests to taste. Patrons enjoyed not only drinks and light bites, but also a vivacious atmosphere.
Travel professionals had the opportunity to attend these exclusive seminars to share their precious knowledge. Experience for developing travel knowledge by attending their top-notch seminar in intense attention was extremely fascinating and compelling.
For more information click here