ENTERTAINMENT

Rupaul’s Drag Race Finale Party At Stage 48

So Kitty Girls, Rupaul’s Drag Race has completed yet another season under its belt this past Monday night. The fashionable and irreverent Violet Chachki took home the season 7 crown over the dark horse & sleeper of the competition Pearl and the funny, campy and stylish Ginger Minj. Although the actual finale that aired on LOGO Monday was taped from a previous week, the real crown was presented that night at Stage 48 right in Hell’s Kitchen. This isn’t the first time that Drag Race has held events for RPDR there, and is the perfect venue for this type of a show.

Even with the weather being as shitty as it was, fans and press alike showed up in droves to celebrate the season that was with several of its incredible contestants. In the press room, some notable guests outside of this years contenders included Season 5 and 6 winners Jinkx Monsoon and Bianca Del Rio as well as legendary New York City drag queen Lady Bunny who arrived in her signature oversized blonde bouffant.

Rocco Steele, Katya — Credit to: Rocco Steele

Other big time players that showed up was entrepreneur & big time adult film star Rocco Steele and his buddy (and scene partner for Raging Stallion’s Clusterfuck 2) Boomer Banks, who performed a number with the ever so beautiful and polished Miss Fame.

So out of the fourteen girls from this past season, only a couple weren’t in attendance. Jaidynn Dior Fierce (which is a huge bummer because I really enjoyed meeting her at the premiere), Kandy Ho, Tempest Dujour, Max, Sasha Belle and Jasmine Masters were not in attendance. To be honest, out of that group the only ones I would’ve been interested in talking to would’ve been Tempest, Max and Jaidynn as Kandy brought nothing to the show, Sasha is boring and Jasmine did enough for herself to make her a villain throughout. Sorry, not sorry.

As for the girls who did show up to the meet and greet in the press room, I was surprised by how some were and not so surprised by how some behaved. First off, Pearl didn’t show up for press. I don’t get it. You are a freaking finalist, why aren’t you talking with the people that will write about you ESPECIALLY with you having an album coming out? Wasn’t really thrilled about that as I have attended finale parties in the past and the top three are always there. When it comes to Violet, I still have the same thoughts that I did when I met her at the premiere party- frazzled and not overtly nice. You don’t need to be, however she just seemed scattered and didn’t really stop for too long to let anyone really interview her. I am happy that she won, however these are things I will remember about her as you have to be amicable to a certain degree in order to make it far in anything with this industry. Just food for thought.

Ginger was absolutely incredible. She is beyond nice, hysterical and we had a great conversation about the season and so much more. I do feel as if she should’ve won the prize as overall she was consistent in my facets throughout the season, however I am still holding out hope that a big girl wins the prize eventually. Still not over Latrice losing S4. For as much shit as she got thrown at her this season, Kennedy Davenport couldn’t have been sweeter as well as poised and beautiful all at the same time. To be labeled the villain of this season when you didn’t really do anything villainous must be rough on a person, but she seems to be taking it in stride and was a fabulous person to chat with that night.

Trixie Mattel was hysterical as always, looking like a Katy Perry “Last Friday Night” inspiration decked in pink and wearing these incredible rollerblades. The makeup was overdone but in true Trixie style looked great on her. If Katya was in the final three I have no doubt that she would’ve won Miss Congeniality. Speaking of Katya, she looked ravishing in her black ensemble while sipping away on a red bull and giving everyone a big belly laugh with her great sense of humor. Finally, Mrs. Kasha Davis was a delight to talk to and I hope to see more from her in the future (especially if there is All Stars 2).

The night consisted of performances from the top six as well as the crowning moment where Violet was presented with the check for her win from Bianca Del Rio. Although many thought this was a lackluster season, the girls really did turn out some great performances and reminded us as to why they were cast on the show in the first place. Here is to hoping that S8 knocks it out of the park!

Ryan Shea, Manhattan Digest — Credit to: Ryan Shea

For more info on Drag Race, check out LOGOTV.com.

Get To Know Actor & Comedian Rob Magnotti

by Ryan Shea

For anyone in the show business, it is hard to get acceptance and acclaim from people that you view as mentors and legends in the industry. For Rob Magnotti, that seems to be a walk in the park. Rob, who is a multi-talented actor and comedian, has done quite a great job at working with some of the big wigs and impressing audiences throughout his illustrious career. Beginning with WNYW’s “The Uptown Comedy Club”, Rob has done a pretty seamless job of transitioning himself as a newbie in the comedy industry to starring in multi million dollar movies and guest appearances on some of the top rated late night programs out there.

With a huge appearance on “Late Night With David Letterman” and a recent role in the box office smash “Paul Blart 2: Mall Cop”, Rob’s career is on fire more than ever. He also has an upcoming dramedy he is working on called “Surviving Sam”, stand up performances including ones right here in NYC, and more. We sat down with him to discuss the history of his career and where he hopefully sees it going. Take a look.

What got you into the comedy world in the first place?

As a kid I was always performing / mimicking friends and family members and watching comedians and actors on television. I love making people laugh. Laughter is an awesome gift to give. My Mom, being a singer, inspired me to be on stage. My Dad was a high school language teacher and funny, so I think I got my ear for voices from them. My brother, Al, inspired me to play the drums like himself, a great instrument for comic timing. He has always been a big supporter and is still working with me today. He’s was instrumental in getting me the Letterman show, the dramedy “Surviving Sam”, and in keeping me in the comedy game.

I find that people in this particular industry always have
inspirations. What was yours?

I am a standup comic who loves to do impressions and characters as well as acting, so artists like Eddie Murphy, Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg and Carol Burnett inspired me. Of course, Carl Reiner, Gary Marshall, Richard Prior, SNL, Rodney Dangerfield’s HBO Comedy Specials
were also profound influences.

Tell me about the Letterman experience. How did that come about?

I was doing a comedy show at a theatre venue and one of the Executives of the Late Show saw my set. He approached me after the show and said, “ We have to get you on the Late Show.” A year later, I received a call from the production staff asking me if I would like to appear on the Late Show with David Letterman. There was major exuberance on my part, I called back and said, “Yes, absolutely!” Ironically, in 1998, I was in an acting class and had to do an exercise requiring me to be super excited, and I chose to imagine that I got a spot on CBS Late Show with David Letterman. Almost ten years later, and a lot of work, it happened for me.

As for the experience, I remember my set going really great, getting applause breaks, thanking the audience, then seeing David Letterman walking over to me smiling and applauding, and being very complimentary. I then left the sound stage and went to the green room where I heard him continue to say
great things about me. It was a pinch myself moment. I just kept thanking God! It was a cloud nine experience and one I will not forget!

What was your reaction to how big it became digitally?

It’s an awesome feeling to know that my appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman received millions of hits on YouTube, and at one point was the 24th most watched video. It was very rewarding to know that people around the world were seeing my comedy and knowing my name. My website got so many hits, it crashed the following morning after my appearance. I’m
still getting great comments about it till this day.

You’ve appeared in movies and TV shows. Do you have a particular moment that you are proud of more than others?

My Letterman experience, and working on Mall Cop 2 with Kevin James.

As a comedian, what do you find funny?

I have a broad sense of humor. I love observational humor, physical comedy, funny characters, sketches, and
improv. I enjoy so many great comedians, actors, sitcoms and comedy movies from the classics to the contemporary.

Is there anything currently happening in the media that you think is a comedian’s dream?

The upcoming political election and it’s candidates.

You are in Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 which had a huge opening weekend at the Box Office. How did you score that role and what is your take on Kevin James?

It was my first major comedy feature film, and it was very exciting working with Kevin James! He is an excellent Comedian/Actor/Writer/Producer and a great guy. I’m thrilled to know Mall Cop 2 has grossed over 100 Million Dollars worldwide and counting. It was a great experience to see how involved Kevin was on the set. I loved every minute of the rehearsal takes and the actual filming of the scene with Kevin, and Director Andy Fickman, as well as fellow comedians, Richie Minervini and John Joseph. I play the gambler that Paul Blart comes over to at the Craps table and asks what all the cheering is about. I tell him how much I’m winning, Blart gets involved with the game and comedy ensues.

Tell us about “Surviving Sam”, what can we expect from it?

Working with Alicia Minshew is so much fun and we have great chemistry! She’s a beautiful, accomplished and generous actress as well as a wonderful person.

It’s a dramedy about a divorced couple living under the same roof for the sake of their children. I play Ben Gallo, a smart, hardworking, but quirky OCD guy, who owns and operates his own advertising agency. The show is about his daily challenges living with his prissy, high-maintenance, ex-wife, Samantha
Gallo, a romance novelist, played by Alicia Minshew. Although Ben and Sam are divorced, and argue regularly, they are still very attracted to each other.

What other plans do you have for 2015 and beyond?

To continue moving forward with my comedy and acting career working with great people on great projects! Check out www.robmagnotti.com for my schedule and media.
This June I will be at Dangerfield’s Comedy Club NYC and Stand Up NY.

Theater Review: WHAT I DID LAST SUMMER & THE GLASS MENAGERIE

by Ryan Leeds

A wisp of nostalgia is currently floating over Midtown Manhattan. On 42nd street, the setting for remembrance is a beach town along the shores of Lake Erie in 1945. Signature Theater’s revival of A.R. Gurney’s 1981 play What I Did Last Summer is a touching slice of drama bursting at the seams with an impeccable cast and plenty of food for both the soul and mind.

Set near the end of World War II, What I Did Last Summer introduces us to Charlie (Noah Galvin), a precocious 14 year old, his sister Elsie (Kate McGonigle), his best friend Ted (Pico Alexander), and later, his love interest Bonnie (Juliet Brett). Guiding their path is his frustrated, but devoted and rather uptight mother, Grace (Carolyn McCormick) whose husband is overseas fighting in the war.

In his effort to gain summer employment, Charlie, much to the dismay of his mother, seeks a job with Anna Trumbull (Kristine Nielsen) , otherwise known as “the pig woman”. Trumbull is the town’s kooky bohemian who gives art lessons (but as we learn, nobody takes them.) In her younger days, Grace was a student of Trumbull but wishes to put the memory behind her. Charlie arranges frequent visits to the outcast, who is desperate to teach him the ways of an artist. Her attempts are futile, but what he lacks in artistic talent, he makes up for with an open mind and a new world view.

What I Did Last Summer The Pershing Square Signature Center/Irene Diamond Stage Carolyn McCormick and Tony nominee Kristine Nielsen will star as Grace and Anna Trumbull, respectively, alongside Pico Alexander as Ted, Juliet Brett as Bonny, Noah Galvin as Charlie and Kate McGonigle as Elsie. Performances will begin on April 28 at the Irene Diamond Stage at the Pershing Square Signature Center off-Broadway. — .

Galvin, who was recently seen downtown in Caryl Churchill’s Love and Information is unquestionably one of the finest young actors working on a New York stage. With a combination of intensity, focus, and earnestness, he turns out another first rate performance. The character of Charlie could easily become a grating, impetuous twit in the wrong hands. Here, Galvin strikes perfect harmony between anxious adolescence and a hugely likable young man in search of himself and his purpose.

Noone plays “quirky” quite as well as Kristine Nielsen, and once again, she doesn’t disappoint. Nielsen has captured the carefree, anti-establishment spirit of Trumbull, and also evokes Thoreau’s observation that “the mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” Trumbull is one who “coulda been a contender” but has allowed life to triumph over her. Now she fights to be recognized.

In fact, every character in Gurney’s memory play is jockeying for attention . As each one introduces themselves, each is certain that the play is about them. Perhaps it is Gurney’s comment on our own humaness; for at our core, we are all seeking the comfort and assurance of being visible and validated.

Director Jim Simpson guides the piece with sentimentality that carefully avoids the syrupy realm. Michael Yeargan’s sparsely modern but efficient set places the intended focus on the story, while Dan Wiener’s perfectly timed drum interludes add an extra ray of delight to this already charm soaked production.

A few blocks north, the quintessential memory play was set afoot in Masterworks Theater Company’s inaugural production of Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie and boy oh boy, was it ever a mixed bag.

Williams’ semi-autobiographical tale of abandonment and unfulfillment proved an audacious choice for a brand new theater company, especially after an acclaimed and Tony award Broadway production played the boards less than two years ago.

Although it is mandatory reading for most high school students, here is a cliffs notes version of the plot. (And let’s face it: Even if did read it in high school, you’ve probably forgotten it by now!) Tom Wingfield (Richard Prioleau) is both the narrator and a player in the story. As the primary breadwinner of his family , he spends day after laboring day at the factory and his nights going to the movies (essentially code for “drinking”). Laura (Olivia Washington), is his younger sister, content to spend her days tinkering with her glass menagerie but too shy and handicapped to endure the delicate nature of romance. Jim O’Conner (Doug Harris), a gentleman caller and colleague to Tom, assuages her fears in a tender moment of inspiration. Amanda Wingfield (Saundra Santiago), is a matriarch of force. As she recalls her younger, more beautiful days she also minimizes her daughter’s struggles and throws fits of dramatic hysteria in an effort to hold her broken family together.

First, let’s highlight the pros: Masterworks choice of multi-cultural casting worked quite well. Prioleau, a handsome African-American actor was a marvelous Tom Wingfield. In him, there is a natural ruggedness and internal struggle which evokes sheer empathy and compassion. Prioleau is a gifted young actor and it will be thrilling to watch his career advance. Likewise, Harris delivered a winning turn as Jim, a popular high school jock whose higher pedigree is a stark contrast than that of the Wingfield clan. Harris’ gesture of kindness to the wounded Laura is played with delicacy and his manners would make any mother target him as in-law material. Campbell Baird’s tattered apartment perfectly evoked depression-era ambience.

While Priloeau and Harris were the stronger portions of this 4 person cast, the same praise could not be shared with their female co-stars. Santiago appeared to be a seasoned actor, given her lengthy program bio which includes Broadway credits and well known television appearances, so she should be given the benefit of the doubt. Here though, she charged through her performance with her foot constantly pressed to the gas pedal, allowing little opportunity for her to gradually increase the intensity of Amanda. Washington also has a tendency to conjure unrealistic anxiety in Laura, specifically upon her first interaaction with Jim.

Masterworks Theater Company appears to be on the right track as they aim to produce classic works in the coming seasons. Founding director Eric Krebs deserves high praise for exposing new audiences to classic works. One can only hope that his team will find collectively talented ensembles so that his recent “mixed bag”, directed by Christopher Scott, will be upgraded to a sack of gold.

What I Did Last Summer is currently playing at the Pershing Square Signature Center (42nd street between 9th and 10th). For tickets and information, visit the box office or online at:http://www.signaturetheatre.org/

The Glass Menagerie ended May 30th at the 47th Street Theater (304 West 47th street between 8th and 9th). For more information about Masterworks Theater Company, click http://www.masterworkstheatercompany.org/

Sitting Down With Choreographer & Actor Lancelot Theobold Jr.

by Ryan Shea

Lancelot Theobold Jr has made quite the name for himself in so many different arenas of what it is to be a professional. He is an accomplished choreographer, actor and fitness impresario with a great workout he has developed called Ab-Solute Fusion. On top of that, he also recently choreographed the movie “On Top Of The Pyramid” as well as acted as part of the Soho Film Festival. So clearly this guy has a lot going for him which is why I wanted to sit down with him and learn more.

Lance discusses how he got into all of this in the first place, his thoughts on living a healthier lifestyle, acting, choreographing and what he sees for his hopeful future. Take a look.

Hi Lance! So it seems like you are a good juxtaposition of theater and exercise. What drew you into both fields in the first place?

Well I was an athlete all my life and enjoyed the preparation for the game as much as playing the game itself. Once football was over I tried owning my own sporting apparel company and had success but was not happy or should I say feeling fulfilled the way I felt when I was an athlete. I met a guy name Richard Willis Jr who introduced me to theatre as a producer first and the theatre was just the spark and excitement I was looking for.

Tell me about how you started the concept of the Ab-Solute-Fusion Workout?

After becoming a producer and then executive producer of theatre I realized that I wanted to be in front of the camera as well. Through contacts I was lucky enough to receive a full dance scholarship at Bernice Johnsons Dance School in Queens NY. I started studying Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Tap and African for the next four years. I began to realize that dancers were tremendous athletes who had great control of their body, explosive power, tremendous balance coordination and a self-awareness of the mechanics of how their body moved. Football, basketball, lacrosse players etc. all need explosive power, balance and coordination as well but most athletes don’t have that self awareness of body mechanics and why they’re able to perform the way they do. The definition of AB-SOLUTE-FUSION is the complete synthesis of dance and athletic training.

Our goal is three fold: To create self-awareness of Body mechanics, strengthen and stretch the components of the body that will produce explosive power, better balance, and coordination while at the same time getting your mind and body into great shape.

How does one people incorporate the Ab-Solute-Fusion Workout into their own daily routine?

If your in Long Island NY you can take class every Saturday morning 10:30 at 340 Wheatley Plaza at Gravity In Motion or Tuesdays 7:30 at Valencia Gym in Elmont, Long Island or you can go to my website www.absolutefusionworkout.com read about it, see video on it or go to my Youtube channel for beginner exercises or go to my Facebook page where I post exercises on a weekly bases you’ll find all that on my website.

What do you think is most people’s Achilles Heel when it comes to not only losing weight but also staying the course and keeping it off?

I think each person’s situation is different but I do know that consistency is the key. Its to easy for people to make excuses on why they can’t and when your surrounded by negativity or people in your circle who are not interested in loosing weight and being healthy it makes it that much easier to quit. It’s not an excuse but it is reality. I watched my mom try diets for years and lose and gain it back. It wasn’t until 7 years ago after a lifetime of fighting she’s finally lost over a 120 pounds and has been able to keep it off. I asked her what was different and she said she just one day made up her mind and believed she could do it and said she watched my sister and I stay in shape consistently for years and it just motivates her not to give up.

Outside of the workout, what do you recommend people do to maintain a healthy diet?

I’m not a dietician but I do know diets are temporary. It’s about a life style change. Eat smaller portions stay away from the sodas and high sugar beverages and treat yourself once week. You can experiment with all kinds of health meals make its all about discovering and learning something new experiencing something different by doing the research, if you want to succeed bad enough you’ll create your new life style.

I heard about your big theater performance in NYC. Can you tell me more about it?

I’m apart of an incredible theatre company called Open End Repertory Theatre, we performed May 20^th as a part of the SoHo Film Festival. We’re a company that is dedicated to the preservation of classic American playwrights and new living playwrights work and we add non-traditional diverse multi-ethnic casting in the mix. Our goal is to bring to life the vision of the playwrights past and present. It was an entertaining evening of one-act plays from an extraordinary group of accomplished actors who have been together for a decade.

^.You also choreographed the movie “At The Top Of The Pyramid”. What was that experience like?

It was an incredible experience to be the lead choreographer and responsible for choreographing over ten scenes in the movie with different types of choreography. I was so grateful to the executive producers for giving me this opportunity especially cause this was my first feature film I choreographed. I enjoyed watching how a movie is shot and just the teamwork and execution and preparation that goes on behind the scenes. When you see the end result on the screen and know what it really took to get it to that point it can bring tears to your eyes the first time you go through it.

Anything else coming up of interest to our readers?

June 19^th I’m receiving the national honor of being awarded the 2015 People of Distinction Humanitarian award at the City University Graduated Center in Midtown, New York. In July I go on tour with Hip-Hop Dance Boot Camp. I travel around the country teaching the many different styles of hip hop dance. www.hip-hopdancebootcamp.com. Looking forward to going into production with a Mozell Entertainment project in the fall.

Lancelot’s Official Site

Lea Black On Her “Red Carpets & White Lies”… And More

by Ryan Shea

When one thinks of words like fabulous, outgoing, exuberance and fashionable. you would tend to believe that the person having those attributes are ones desired to be inspired by. All of those and so much more can be attained to the fantastic star of “Real Housewives Of Miami” and now author Lea Black. As a fan of the Housewives, especially Miami, I was always captivated by Lea’s beauty, upfront honesty, humor and so much more which made her time on the show positively radiant in so many different ways. I have a huge amount of respect for her as she truly is a workhorse is many facets of her life- as a businesswoman, a mother, a wife, humanitarian, etc. You name it she’s done it, and just recently she was able to add onto her already plentiful resume- author.

Lea wrote an amazing book called “Red Carpets & White Lies”, a fictional novel about a Miami Socialite named Leigh Anatole White who goes through the ringer when planning her 10th and final year at the Annual Charity Ball, which is a star-studded event for troubled teens. Sounds kind of familiar right? (if you watched RHOM) The book is getting a ton of amazing reviews from New York Times Bestselling authors, readers on Amazon and yours truly. It is a fun, whimsical look on Miami’s social life and has a lot of characters, fun and drama to keep you on the edge of your seat. Definitely a fab summer reading if I must say so myself.

I was lucky enough to meet and interview Miss Lea Black last week when she did a book signing at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Union Square. Poised, politeful and perky in the best way possible, Lea talked more about her book at hand, her experience with the Real Housewives, and more. Take a look.

Thanks for sitting down with me Lea! You have so many facets of your career so far and now you are adding author. What made you want to go this route?

Fun and a guilty pleasure. I’ve always written poetry or lifestyle pieces for magazines, my leablackink.com blog, training manuals for sales teams, the Huffington Post political pieces, etc. So it is something I love to do, it’s an escape and it comes natural to me.

Manhattan Digest, Lea Black — Credit to: Jason Clarke

The book is fiction based, however most of the Real Housewives that have done books before have been memoirs, not fictional novels. What made you want to switch things up and stick with fiction?

It’s more fun. My first book was about about Inner and Outer Beauty, beauty from within. I decided this one would just be a fantasy, fun, easy read, scandalous novel.

Would you ever consider writing a memoir?

No. Because my life is pretty much an open book but the people I interact with for the most part prefer to be private. I know it’s hard to believe, lol, but not everyone wants to be on Facebook!

How did you come up with the title for “Red Carpets & White Lies”?

I went through different types of titles: “Shameless in Miami” types, then the glamour types, and then realized that “Red Carpets and White Lies” paints a backdrop and leaves the picture to the imagination. It is inviting, don’t you think?

Is the character loosely based on your life? This all seems familiar based off what I saw on Real Housewives.

Parts of it are – maybe the underlying backdrop of experiences and personality traits but the storyline is completely fiction. The driven, self motivated, get things done part, I can certainly identify with. And of course, the betrayals are familiar territory too! Lol.

Lea Black, Manhattan Digest — Credit to: Jason Clarke

Could you see the character of Leigh on a TV series, or even better a movie?

Yes, both. And several people in the industry have mentioned it to me. Someone even mentioned a Broadway Play. For me it was so much fun, if it just turns out it was a hobby – I laughed so much writing it that I can’t ask for more. It’s quite sarcastic too.

Any plans on a sequel for the novel?

Yes – I have a spin-off character already in the works. A very strong character who gets what she asks for but what she had in mind – is quite a different outcome. This one is gonna hit a lot of people close to home and have a lot of raw meat for fodder in it. Can’t wait to see who people “guess or think” the characters are! I’m having a ball just thinking about squeezing the juice out of some of these lemons! Lol.

A lot of people know you from Real Housewives of course. What was your overall experience on that show? Would you ever consider joining the cast in another city?

I have fun when I do it and I do not miss it when I don’t. And I would be open minded about another city if I had a real connection to the girls. But you know Bravo doesn’t really do the cross-over thing much. Not sure some of those cities are ready for a hurricane from Miami to hit!

Outside of the show and novel, what else do you have going on that would be of interest to fans and readers alike?

The charity for 20 plus years. Omg! Really? I can’t believe it. Whew! My LeaBlackBeauty.com line of jewelry and skin care products (over 400 products). SuddenYouth.com an amazing non-surgical face lift lit in a box that shows results in twenty minutes. I created Sudden Youth in the mid ’80’s and I’ve never demonstrated it on a customer that didn’t see immediate results. LeaBlackHandbags.com, an exquisite line of after five handbags starting at about $100 that will rock any outfit with classic chic pieces. And of course my blog LeaBlackInk.com, that’s a little bit of everything to pop culture to lifestlyle, beauty tips, personal growth, entertainment – it has it all. And because I spend about half my time in Los Angeles in our West Hollywood Hills home – i have a full life of fabulousness there! I love my life. I created it so I don’t get to complain. I pinch myself and give thanks everyday!

Anything you want to add?

Yes, I am loving my book tour, next stop, Book Soup, West Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard, Thursday, June 4th at 7 pm for more information email [email protected]. This is going to be a star studded packed house of fun and fabulous LA guests, and many of my West coast friends. Then it will be party time as summer begins, no school for my son and our schedule will be foot loose and fancy free! Did I mention how much I love my life?

Aaron Kaburick: A “Rotten” Life of Roses

by Ryan Leeds

Stage star Aaron Kaburick won’t tell you this himself, but he’s kind of a big deal. The Illinois native is currently making his fourth appearance on Broadway as a Featured Performer in the 10- time Tony nominated Broadway smash Something Rotten! In addition to quick change costumes that range from Francis Bacon to a dress wearing villager to the Queen of England, he understudies not one, not two,but three of the show’s major roles. If that weren’t enough, Kaburick, along with the entire cast, turns out an indefatigable performance eight times a week. For someone whose theatrical appearances started from humble (and pungent) beginnings, his journey to the Great White Way has been both hilarious and hard earned.

Recently, Kaburick shared a bite with me at Angus restaurant beside the St. James Theatre (his current workplace). As a sixth grader in his small, cornfield town, he was something of a real life Billy Elliot. Coincidentally, he would go on to make his Broadway debut in Elton John’s musical of the same name. He began taking one hour lessons at a local dance studio. The classes were one hour, divided into three styles: 20 minutes of tap, 20 minutes of jazz, and 20 minutes ballet. “After the first year, I went to my teacher and told her that I wanted to exclusively study tap,” he said. “She was so desperate to have a guy interested in her class, that she placed me in an adult tap class.” He went on to study with her for a couple of years.

Aaron Kaburick. Photo courtesy of Aaron Kaburick.

In junior high, he learned that his high school would be doing a production of The Wizard of Oz. Casting was reserved for high school students, but after encouragement from his mother, an ambitious Kaburick made his bold move. He didn’t know the musical director but he picked up the phone and planted the seed in her ear. “I know you’re doing The Wizard of Oz this year, and you’ll need short people to play munchkins,” he told her. “I would like to be a munchkin. Just consider it.” In a few short days, he received his first offer from the show’s director. “Come be a munchkin!” she said.

The following year, Good News was slated as the school musical. A then eighth grade Kaburick contacted the director once again, hoping that she’d make another allowance for this would be star. This time, his request was met with resistance. Since the show was focused on college students, there were no roles available for younger people. However, Good News has a sub-plot in which the college represented in the show is auditioning various animals to serve as their mascot. Since his Illinois school was located in an agricultural town, real livestock was used and the crafty Kaburick found a loophole. Obviously, there was concern that the animals might relieve themselves onstage, so the musical director allowed him a position on the stage crew, where he was crowned as a pooper scooper. His job was to follow the animals and clean any “accidents”. “I received one of the best reviews because I basically mugged every episode and turned it into a bit! ” he laughed.

Kaburick pursued a major in Economics at Boston University, but kept his tapping feet in theatrical waters. It was here where he became more serious about his dancing craft. He was also part of a theater group at the University, which boasts an impressive roster of alumni currently working the boards. After college, he moseyed back the Midwest, accepting a job as an associate producer for the MUNY, the nation’s largest outdoor theater. “For a few years, I sat back and watched people doing exactly what I hoped to be doing,” he said. “Finally, I auditioned for the national tour of The Full Monty—and I got it! That was followed by a national tour of Annie.” After his stint on the road with the red headed orphan, Kaburick resumed his “hard knock life” at the MUNY.

Shortly thereafter, he caught wind from a colleague about Billy Elliot. She had returned from London and told him that if the show came to the United States, he should audition. “The minute I heard it was coming, I was all over my agent,” he recalled. “It was a long process. We started in February 2008 and I didn’t get the offer until June. But, it was my first Broadway break!” He remained with the Broadway ensemble for two years, playing a butch miner in a cash strapped English town. A national tour of the show followed but after 9 months, it folded. Kaburick then went back to the Broadway company and closed the show in 2011.

Five weeks after his jolt of Broadway “electricity”, Kaburick received a calling from the Almighty—actually, it was just his agent–, inviting him to audition for Sister Act. His second Broadway job began and he stayed with it for six months, until the show went to musical history heaven.

Next came Motown. During that time, Something Rotten! began stirring in the wings. “I had known Casey Nicolaw, the director, when he was an actor at the MUNY, and also in social circles.”, Kaburick said. Nicolaw asked him to be a part of his Renaissance romp, and he obliged, participating in various readings and labs of it. “From the moment we did the first reading, there was a palpable sense that the show was really good,” Kaburick reminisced. “I kept hoping that he would keep me through each incarnation and thankfully, he has!” The creative team mounted a lab last fall, and everyone felt as though it was “Broadway ready.”

On April 22nd , 2015, Something Rotten! landed on Broadway to rave reviews (except from a grumpy chief theater critic of an influential newspaper who was obviously not in the mood for delirious fun). Kaburick beams when he speaks about his current gig. “All of the shows I’ve done in the past have had tracks created before I went into them. This is the first Broadway show I’ve been in where I’ve been able to create and originate a role. It was so important to be valued in that way.” He credits Director and choreographer Nicolaw for the success of the show and for creating a true camaraderie among the cast. “Casey has really been the most rewarding part of this process. He loves to have everybody play in the room and allows them to bring everything they can think of to the table. Whether it’s comedy or movement, he just likes to see what innately shines in each person. We’ve all been in this (process) together, so it helps us get through the high energy numbers, especially the Act 1 finale,” said Kaburick. As an aside, I can tell readers that this is the most energetic show I have ever seen on a Broadway stage. Kaburick acknowledges how much stamina is required, but wisely takes the proper precautions. “I make sure that I get enough rest, eat at the same time every day, take a power nap, and warm up before each show.”

Kaburick (in red) as Francis Bacon and the cast of SOMETHING ROTTEN! Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus.

Throughout his Broadway career, Kaburick has been fortunate to brush elbows with some notable personalities. “When I was in Billy Elliot, Jill and Joe Biden came backstage. On another occasion, Debbie Reynolds paid him a visit. “I asked her to recreate one of my favorite lines from Singin’ In the Rain, and she obliged. He admits to accosting cabaret performer Bridgett Everett after she visited the cast of Something Rotten! “I am a huge fan! She kept turning the attention back to me, but I couldn’t help express my admiration for her.”

Although he has not met her, Kaburick holds Carol Burnett in the highest esteem. “She was such a major influence, since I grew up watching her show. I always wanted to do what they did on that show and although I hate to draw a comparison, I think in many ways, that is what we’re doing in Something Rotten! The fun they had transcended joy to the audience, and that’s the goal of our show, too.”

A heavily scheduled Kaburick has little free time, so he’s not seen too many other shows currently playing, but he does recommend Then She Fell, a immersive spin on Alice in Wonderland, and the new comedy Hand to God. Apart from entertainment, the ebullient gypsy enjoys cooking and sheepishly, he admits to a passion for quilting. Given his string of successes and the current smash hit in which he’s featured, it’s probably a safe bet that he won’t have much downtime for his needle and thread.

Something Rotten! is now playing at the St. James Theatre (W. 44th between Broadway and 8th Ave.) For tickets, visit the box office or online: http://rottenbroadway.com/

RuPaul’s RuCap: Adding Fuel to the Fire

by David Baxter

So, last week, there was some stupid Hello, Kitty theme, that really came across as something that Project Runway would love or would look at and shake their damn head. Katya left, which makes me even more angry at this season. There was really no reason for that shit to happen since, spoilers, Kennedy Davenport didn’t stay to make it a top three with someone who’s not white. [Read more…] about RuPaul’s RuCap: Adding Fuel to the Fire

Theater Review: IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU

by Ryan Leeds

“Cute” might be enough to cut a wedding cake, but it’s not enough to cut the pain of dropping your hard-earned dollars on Broadway’s latest musical romantic comedy, It Shoulda Been You. That’s the bad news. The good news is that this harmless confection will likely grow legs and be reproduced in regional theaters across the country.

Set in a swanky hotel on the day of a mixed marriage wedding, the show pits two sets of parents against one another: Judy and Murray Steinberg (Tyne Daly and Chip Zien), devout Jews whose daughter, Rebecca (Sierra Boggess) is tying the knot. In the other corner is George and Georgette Howard (Michael X. Martin and Harriet Harris), an uptight Protestant pair. Their son, Brian (David Burtka), is poised to take Rebecca’s hand, but not if his bride-to-be’s old flame, Marty Kaufman (Josh Grisetti) has anything to say about it. Albert (Edward Hibbert), the “so gay he nearly flies away” wedding planner, Annie (Montego Glover) , Rebecca’s “friend” and Greg (Nick Spangler), Brian’s “friend” round out the line-up of main players, except for Jenny Steinberg (Lisa Howard), Rebecca’s sister and chief organizer.

Lisa Howard. Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus

In spite of all its’ dippy humor by book writer and lyricist Brian Hargrove, Howard is the knockout star of this union, effortlessly taking shoddy material and weaving it into a bold and beautiful fur coat. As she puts on a good face and vies for the approval of those around her, Howard’s Jenny embodies warmth, sincerity, and a showstopping storm of sass near the finale in “Jenny’s Blues.”

The idea of It Shoulda Been You is clever: take an old-fashioned wedding comedy and put a modern spin on it, but the cake rarely rises. Sure, there are some gut-busting moments. Greg and Annie’s “American Idol”-esque love song, “Love You Till the Day” is comedic nirvana. (Watch the reactions of those seated behind them for additional guffaws). Aside from these two numbers, Barbara Anselmi’s music is far from memorable.

Nick Spangler and Montego Glover. Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus

The show is chock full of rich talent, from an always solid Tyne Daly to newcomer Josh Grissetti, whose nebbishness and irresistible charm furnish the show with winning endearment. Celebrity director David Hyde Pierce is no stranger to well crafted theater, but even under his hand, the ingredients create a batter of general disappointment.

Allow me a cheeky moment to paraphrase the wedding vows: Do you, New York ticket buyer, take It Shoulda Been You to be your musical comedy partner for 90 minutes, mostly in sickness but with a slight smattering of healthy humor? Will you love it and cherish it until it starts and only then realize that there are better options on the boards? If so, please answer, “I do”. Just know that next year this time, you’ll be able to see it in summer-stock at a fraction of the cost.

(L to R) Tyne Daly, Lisa Howard, Sierra Boggess, David Burtka, and Harriet Harris. Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus

It Shoulda Been You is now playing on Broadway at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 256 West 47th Street between Broadway and 8th avenue. For tickets and information, visit the box office or go to: http://www.itshouldabeenyou.com/

Producer Paul Andrews Officially Remixes Madonna’s “Ghosttown”

by Ryan Shea

So its pretty safe to say for any talent working in the music industry that if you get the seal of approval from the one and only Madonna, then you are clearly doing something right. This is the case for the amazingly talented producer and songwriter Paul Andrews, who has done an official mix of her song “Ghosttown” off her incredible new album “Rebel Heart”.

Paul is someone who I have profiled not once but twice in the past on Manhattan Digest. One in my Get To Know series, and the other one was coincidentally about dropping a mix of Madonna’s song “Living for Love”. I say the word coincidence because that is exactly how this whole process was able to happen. Apparently, Madonna’s team heard the remix to of “Living For Love” then he received a text from a mutual friend stating the following- “Silly question, but would you want to remix Madonna’s next single?”

Immediately jumping at the idea (because who wouldn’t), Paul asked what she was looking for when it came to remixing “Ghosttown”. It was simple- just be creative like he was with his other mixes. Only having three days to finish the mix, he spent them feverishly getting it done and arranging all of it in his head throughout that period of time. Once it was finished and submitted, he got word that Madonna herself has approved the mix and it would be an exclusive for the Jay-Z driven “Tidal Music Streaming”. Madonna (who just celebrated her 45th number one single on the Billboard charts), wanted to use it but not for a Dance EP as it wasn’t a dance mix. Suffice to say, this is an amazing accomplishment for Paul in getting to work with one of the biggest legends in music there ever was, and hope that this can continue and so on and so forth.

To hear an exclusive preview of “Ghosttown” you can go to Paul’s direct site, however to hear it in its entirety download Tidal and experience the epic greatness that is this track.

Brooklyn Turns Elizabethan: An Interview with Food Historian Francine Segan

by Ryan Leeds

The Bard once observed that “small cheer and great welcome make a merry feast.” This Sunday, May 17th, Theatre for a New Audience will display such pleasures of merriment at Brooklyn’s Polonsky Shakespeare Center as food historian Francine Segan hosts “Shakespeare Primavera.” Created in partnership with Danny Meyer’s Union Square Catering, the event will feature food and wine from the playwright’s Italian plays. The late afternoon gathering will follow the critically acclaimed production of Fiasco Theater’s The Two Gentleman of Verona, also at the same venue. (Read the review here: https://www.manhattandigest.com/2015/05/06/theater-review-the-two-gentleman-of-verona/)

Pears in Broth. Photio courtesy of Francine Segan, — Pears in Broth. photo courtesy of Francine Segan,

A passionate Segan recently spoke to Manhattan Digest via phone to discuss the menu, 16th century food customs, and her first book, Shakespeare’s Kitchen: Renaissance Recipes for the Contemporary Cook (available for purchase here: http://www.amazon.com/Shakespeares-Kitchen-Renaissance-Recipes-Contemporary/dp/0375509178.) Segan says the evening will be “a general feel so that people will come away with an understanding of what a cookbook was like, what kinds of foods were served, and how dinner parties were conducted.” She expressed her enthusiasm for Danny’s Meyer’s Union Square catering, who were so open to her ideas. “We’ll have meat pies, a wonderful vegetarian soup, pickled oysters, croquettes, and other items.” Segan touched upon the theme of evening by adding that much of the food was usually dried, salted, and preserved. “This is why they (Elizabethans) were amazingly in love with springtime. After a long winter, they were just delighted to have fresh spring fruits and vegetables. That is the reason we picked Shakespeare Primavera.”

A whimsical bust of the Bard, made from vegetables. Photo courtesy of Francine Segan,

Segan’s fervor for Renaissance vittles was inspired by her friend, actor Mark Linn-Baker. She had been hosting fabulous dinner parties and Linn-Baker persuaded her to write a cookbook based on food habits of that time period. Segan began her search, stopping at key libraries around the country which had written manuscripts and actual cookbooks. “They gave a great window into the time,” she said. “Not only did they instruct hosts how to serve the food, but they also included tips and jokes for entertaining the guests.” Segan added that every course was intended to have a dramatic element. “I came across a recipe in which the host blind bakes the pie crust so it is hollow. You then stuff the pie with live birds, so when the guest of honor cuts into the pie, live birds would fly out! Substitutions were also available, so if you couldn’t find live birds, you could use garden snakes or frogs instead.” Segan was quick to add, however, that while jokes and stories will be shared, no birds, snakes, or frogs will be served on Sunday.

Recipes were quite involved then, especially the pies. “One of my very first test recipes was a pie that included salmon, mussels, pistachios, artichokes, nutmeg, grapes, and numerous other ingredients. I made it as sort of a joke at a dinner party and invited everyone to just take a spoonful, thinking that it would be absolutely awful. Everyone was amazed at how delicious it was!” Segan gained some insight from that experience. “I realized that this was a period when people were so sophisticated in art, literature, and culture–why not food?”

Meat Pies. Photio courtesy of Francine Segan, — Meat Pies. Photo courtesy of Francine Segan,

There were definitely food discrepancies between the classes. “The rich and upper class had everything-good meats, good veggies, you name it. There was a saying that ‘the rich eat what they want, when they want while the poor eat what they can, when they can.’ Many could not even afford fuel for the ovens, so they would have itinerant travelling oven men go from town to town; villagers would bring their risen dough and they would hold a communal bake-off. Nowadays, we eat whole grains, but back then, they were for the poor. The finely sifted white flour would be reserved for the elite.” She also discovered how the slang term for the wealthy, “upper crust”, came to be. “There is a line in a Shakespeare play, referring to someone being a bread chipper. This person would horizontally slice the burned part of the bread on the bottom, leaving the golden portion for those of affluence.”

In today’s culture, we are obsessed with specific diets, from gluten-free to vegetarian and vegan, etc. Did these types of diets exist back then? Segan believes they did. “There were books and all kinds of crazy theories about what made you healthy. Even dating further back to Hippocrates, there were writings from ancient Greece advising athletes to avoid breads for six months prior to competing in the Olympics and instead, to stock up on lean meats to make their muscles leaner and their minds sharper.”

As Lord Chamberlain, from Henry VIII said, “This night he makes a supper, and a great one.” Fortunately, paupers, princes, kings, queens and beggars are all invited to this communal supper. Tickets for the event are $45 and include red and white wine. Discounted tickets are also available if you see the afternoon matinée of The Two Gentleman of Verona.

Shakespeare Primavera, hosted by Francine Segan. Sunday, May 17th at 4:30 at Theatre for a New Audience’s Polonsky Shakespeare Center 262 Ashland Place Brooklyn, NY. For tickets and information, visit http://www.tfana.org/season-2015/current-events/shakespeare-primavera

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