OPINION

Theater Reviews: WOULD YOU STILL LOVE ME IF… & HARD LOVE

Love and long held beliefs are never cut and dried matters of the heart. French philosopher Michel De Montaigne once observed, “Obstinacy and heat in sticking to one’s opinions is the surest proof of stupidity.” While stupidity might be too pejorative , there is certainly shortsightedness in holding so tightly to a long held belief that it alienates those around you. Two current off Broadway offerings are wrestling with these themes, but only one of them is painting with a brush of realism.

Would You Still Love Me If... Photo by Len Prince — Would You Still Love Me If… Photo by Len Prince

In Would You Still Love Me If…., A lesbian couple, Addison (Rebecca Brooksher) and Danya (Sofia Jean Gomez) are just about to adopt a baby. That, in itself, is breaking news to Danya, a lawyer with her own secret to share. The secret? She would like to be become a man. All of her life she has struggled to find comfort within her own body and as much as she adores Addison, she can no longer live with herself by lying to others. Danya consults Dr. Gerard (Roya Shanks), a prickly expert in the field of gender reassignment. Meanwhile, Danya’s mother, Victoria (Kathleen Turner) meddles in the proceedings. Thank heavens for Turner, who also jumped in as a last minute director for the piece. She’s really the only one bringing grounded, dramatic weight to the role, even though her character seems to

John S. Anastasi’s play is well intended, but there is so much drama packed in at every turn that it just seems implausible. In addition, it often drifts into soap opera territory and, as much as we wish to emphasize and connect with the players, they all appear like characters from a telenovela. It does force an introspective question though: How much compassion and understanding are we willing to give under the extreme circumstances of our own personal relationships? The curiosity that is sparked, though, doesn’t seem worthy of the 90 minute commitment,

As theater becomes more and more of a fertile ground for progressive themes, it’s encouraging to see a work that isn’t afraid to dive head first into this difficult topic . It’s just a shame that there isn’t more depth in the water.

Further down the street, playwright Motti Lerner is grappling with faith with much clearer accuracy in his two-hander, Hard Love. Director Scott Alan Evans helms this play about Hannah (Victoria Mack) and Zvi (Ian Kahn) a once married couple who resided an ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of Jersusalem. Twenty years later, personal circumstances reunite them and both are forced to admit romantic feelings and discuss their religious differences between one another.

Lerner’s play often paints Zvi, who has now denounced his belief in Judaism, as a bit unlikable. His adamancy for having Hannah join him on anti-religion mission makes him look like more of a jerk. Hannah’s every action is guided by her own unbending Dogma. Still, we see a portrait of two well meaning lovers who are coming to terms with themselves and their worldviews. It’s not unlike Playwrights Horizons’ marvelous, recent production of Lucas Hnath’s The Christians which proves that doctrine can either be a life-saving rope or a noose or destruction. Both plays give us reason to deeply question the purpose of our spirituality-either the presence or absence-and how that affects our daily interactions. For that, I say, “Amen!”

Would You Still Love Me If…. plays at New World Stages (West 50th between 8th and 9th aves. For tickets and more info, visit http://www.wouldyoustilllovemeiftheplay.com

Hard Love plays at Theater Row (West 42nd between 9th and 10th). For tickets and more info, visit: Hard Love Play

Rustic Table: Bringing Heavenly Taste to Hell’s Kitchen

by Ryan Leeds

The farm to table phenomenon that made its way to the east coast a few years ago is still thriving in New York City and thankfully, a new restaurant in that theme has arrived in Hell’s Kitchen. On 42^nd street, where also-ran chain restaurants have long cornered the market, Rustic Table is the refreshing “new kid on the block.”

This cozy café, located between 10^th and 11^th avenue offers an ample amount of all day selections without overwhelming its patrons. Breakfast selections include a homemade honey date granola, a farmers’ omelette with shredded mozzarella, mushroom, and ricotta, or a fisherman’s breakfast with smoked salmon, red onion, and sour cream. In addition, coffee beverages are also served, but owner Jordan Hadani is mindful about the restaurant’s food and beverage preparation. “When you come to our restaurant, you won’t find an extra-large sized cappuccino,” he said. “The reason is that, we feel that specific amounts contribute to the taste and quality of our food, so we don’t encourage substitutions or changes.”

Rustic Table Co-Owner Jordan Hadani. Photo by Ryan Leeds

Judging from the quality of the food, Hadani and his business partner, Guy Weizmann, know exactly what they’re doing in the kitchen-as proven by a recent dinner visit. The meal began with three iced tea selections, which is impressive for such a small scale operation. I chose the green tea. It was difficult to determine the quality, as one would have to be a complete idiot to mess up green tea, but nonetheless, it was refreshing and I appreciated the variety. Next, Hadani and his friendly staff brought the chef’s choice salad, a combination of roasted red peppers, chick peas, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, mint leaves, and baby arugala. Usually, I find feta to be a dry, salt mine of brackishness, but the quality was exceptionally velvety and there was a lot of it. As a general lover of cheese, I had no complaints. The market salad was lightly dressed with a simple, but perfect lemon and extra virgin olive oil. Too often, restaurants drown their greens in a pool of dressing, leaving the ingredients to figuratively yell for rescue. Here, it was a flavorful coat, allowing room to taste each of the carefully crafted components. A homey bread basket with a Kalamata olive infused butter accompanied the vegetarian friendly offering.

Chef's Choice Market Salad. Photo by Ryan Leeds — Chef’s Choice Market Salad. Photo by Ryan Leeds

Next came a warm, slow cooked brisket sandwich with charred tomatoes and arugula, topped with a hint of lemon aioli. Served on homemade Italian country bread, the sandwich was fresh, hearty, and incredibly tasteful. It was also paired with a small salad. One thing is certain: With all of the greens offered at Rustic Table, diners will be left with fresh oxygen pumping through their veins.

Slow Cooked Brisket Sandwich.Photo by Ryan Leeds

Hoping that the meal would end on an upbeat note, we were given a blackberry tartlet. The berries were ripe and sweet, the custard filling cool and creamy, but the crust was a bit on the dry side-suggesting that it had been sitting for a good portion of the day. Oh well. It can’t always be Tiffany diamonds.

Other offerings on the menu include bite size options of their quiche of the day, salmon bites, various small cheese plates, and their Nutella Classic, comprised of peanut butter and banana. Additional market salads and sandwiches are available as well.

Like any New York institution, space is a precious commodity and Rustic Table is by no means a cavernous dining establishment. With only one large table as a main resource, it is better suited to delivery. But they do have plans to add more tables and bar seats, especially with the prospect of a wine and beer menu which Hadani hopes to secure within the next month or two. In the meantime, it still provides a warm and inviting atmosphere to sit, unwind, and briefly grab a healthful bite before scurrying out to the weary world.

Hadani and Weizmann are no strangers to the restaurant world. “Both of us have worked in the New York City service industry for over a decade,” Hadani said. “The idea for Rustic Table came from a place of wanting to emulate the style and culture of food we have back home (Israel), but to do so without looking pretentious.” He continued, “The farm to table concept seemed the most suited as it emphasizes the idea of fresh produce and products. That is something to which we really adhere.”

The restaurant has been opened since May 2015. Thanks to the help of great yelp reviews and neighborhood support, it is doing quite well. Are more restaurants in the future? The friendly proprietor seems to think so. “More restaurants are definitely in our future,” said Hadani, “But we must focus on this idea and perfect it first.” At this rate, they are close to that goal.

Rustic Table is located at 504 West 42^nd Street between 10^th and 11^th Avenue. They are open Monday-Friday from 7 AM-7PM, Saturday&Sunday from 8AM-7PM. Delivery is also available. Call (212) 244-0744

Theatre Review: ROTHSCHILD AND SONS

by Ryan Leeds

It’s hard not to admire masters in their field who continue to mold and meld their craft. Lyricist Sheldon Harnick, 91, and Book writer Sherman Yellen, 83, are two such individuals who are keeping the proverbial coal in the fire. But (You had to know it was coming)…

York Theatre Company is currently staging a revised, scaled down version of their Broadway musical, The Rothschilds. The 1971 tuner took in a slew of Tony nominations and employed a sprawling cast of 40. The new version, Rothschild and Sons, is a much smaller version with only 11 in the mix. The story follows Mayer Rothschild (Robert Cuccioli) , a real life rags to riches mensch who shrewdly and wisely fights for social justice against the 1800s German government. His ultimate goal is to strip away with the Jewish ghettos. Rothschild and his five sons eventually create what would arguably become the world’s largest private fortune by means of banking.

Some stories naturally sing and if we were to look at Harnick’s other works, (She Loves Me, Fiorello!, and Fiddler on the Roof) which he composed with Jerry Bock, we would undeniably reach the conclusion that the songs are well placed, superbly written, and do an excellent job at moving their stories forward. Rothschilds and Sons, however, feels forced and as well intended as it is, it doesn’t ever seem to get off the ground. Mayer’s passion for passing the torch onto his children is noble and, like any family, there are a few squabbles. His wife, Gutele (Glory Crampton), sings of wanting little more than a single room and a simple life, Mayer provides some musical insight about the virtues of sons, and his offspring perform a song and dance routine about London. Aside from them, the only stand-out here is the beautiful and heartfelt song, “In My Own Lifetime”, performed near the end by Mayer. The lyrics are a plea to end oppression and world dischord. Even now, the song remains fresh, ageless and relevant.

There’s also a distinct lack of comic relief here too and while one wouldn’t imagine a show about the Jewish struggle to be filled with the yuks of a Carol Burnett comedy sketch, there should be a bit of levity in this two hour intermission less drama.

Some projects are worthy of revival but this piece will only appeal to true musical enthusiasts seeking a glimpse of theatre history. Harnick and Bock’s finer shows, She Loves Me and Fiddler On the Roof are coming back to the Great White way soon. Both are likely to provide a better return on investment.

Rothschilds and Sons is playing now through November 8th at the York Theatre company (619 Lexington Avenue at 53rd street). For tickets and information, visit: York Theatre Company

Music Review- My Favorite Things: The Songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein

by Ryan Leeds

If you witnessed people rummaging through their purses or coat jackets on Friday, October 9th at Carnegie Hall, they were most likely searching for Kleenex to dry their tear filled eyes. The New York Pops, along with Essential Voices USA kicked off another season and were joined by Broadway talent, Sierra Boggess and Julian Ovenden who performed the most stirring version of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” I have ever heard. The song, from Carousel, was one of the many Rodgers and Hammerstein numbers heard that night. Conductor Steven Reineke sequentially represented every one of their musicals (even the flops) in a brisk, but wholly enjoyable evening of song.

Photo: The New York Pops My Favorite Things: The Songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein Steven Reineke, Music Director & Conductor Sierra Boggess, Guest Artist Julian Ovenden, Guest Artist Essential Voices USA Judith Clurman, Music Director & Conductor Concert photographed: Friday, October 9, 2015; 8:00 PM at Isaac Stern Auditorium at Carnegie Hall; Photograph: © 2015 Richard Termine PHOTO CREDIT - Richard Termine — Photo: The New York Pops and Essential Voices USA
Steven Reineke, Music Director & Conductor
Sierra Boggess and Julian Ovenden, Guest Artists
PHOTO CREDIT – Richard Termine

Boggess, who recently starred in Broadway’s It Shoulda Been You and will soon be seen in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Broadway show School of Rock, showed a playful and fun side in “The Gentleman is a Dope” from Allegro and “I Enjoy Being a Girl” from Flower Drum Song. Her more pensive side was on display in the obscure, but lovely “Everybody’s Got a Home but Me” from Pipe Dream.

Ovenden’s solos included “Oh! What a Beautiful Mornin’” from Oklahoma! , “Soliloquy” from Carousel, and “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific. The stage and screen star, most recently seen on Downtown Abbey has a serviceable, but not terribly compelling voice. He is the type of singer who sings from the page, but not necessarily from the heart. One exception was his moving version of “Edelweiss” from The Sound of Music, which is probably a good sign; Ovenden is set to play Captain Von Trapp in a live version of the beloved musical on ITV this December. Perhaps he was just vocally tentative, given the fact that he was a last-minute replacement for the previously announced Steven Pasquale.

Boggess on the other hand, has the “it” factor that thrills. Her impressive range is warm and exciting and fewer sopranos can match her fresh interpretations of these classics.

Judith Clurman’s Essential Voices USA also had their moments in the spotlight, first with “It’s a Grand Night for Singing” from State Fair and later with a cheeky, solo-flecked version of “There is Nothin’ like a Dame” from South Pacific. Both numbers, along with their occasional accompaniment of Boggess and Ovenden proved that they are worthy of their frequent appearances at the distinguished Carnegie Hall.

As for the New York Pops…it goes without saying that spending an evening with them is like visiting an old friend: inviting, surprising, and something to cherish.

For tickets and information on their upcoming performances, including a November 13^thtribute concert to Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Dinah Washington, and other Sophisticated Ladies, visit http://www.newyorkpops.org/

Last Chance! Theater Review: THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE

by Ryan Leeds

“Fake it ‘till you make it” and “Be true to yourself” are the basic themes of The Legend of Georgia McBride, which has been playing a successful (and extended) run at downtown’s Lucille Lortel theater. This weekend, the make-up kits and glittery gowns will be packed away as the MCC Theater company prepares for their next offering, Lost Girls.

Dave_Thomas_Brown__Matt_McGrath__Keith_Nobbs_in_THE_LEGEND_OF_GEORGIA_McBRIDE_(Photo_by_Joan_Marcus)

Georgia McBride tells an unorthodox tale of Casey (Dave Thomas Brown), an Elvis Presley devotee who spends his time imitating the King at Eddie’s (Wayne Duvall) run down dive bar in Panama City, Florida. The watering hole, called Cleo’s, isn’t attracting any customers, leaving Casey very little take home pay for him and his newly pregnant wife, Jo (Afton Williamson). Enter Tracy Mills (Matt McGrath), a family relative to Eddie who delivers more sass than a Gospelfest in Newark. She is joined by her sidekick, Rexy (Keith Nobbs). After Eddie decides to eighty-six the Elvis bit and spruce up the live entertainment with a Mills hosted drag show, a desperate Casey is left with little alternative but to follow suit…er..um….gown?!?! Instantly, he is transformed into an awkward, but eventually dazzling, Edith Piaf lip-sync princess.

Afton_C_Williamson_and_Dave_Thomas_Brown_in_THE_LEGEND_OF_GEORGIA_McBRIDE_(Photo_by_Joan_Marcus)

Matthew Lopez’s wispy show, helmed with a light but able hand by Mike Donahue doesn’t break any new ground. Like drag-themed shows that have come before (Kinky Boots, Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, Victor/Victoria, and La Cage Aux Folles), it sends the same Oprah-fied message of “living your best life.” Georgia McBride delves a bit deeper, however, and offers a rare glimpse into the lives and struggles of drag artists. The result is the same feel-good, aspiring feeling that its predecessors inhabit–with a little more perception and heart. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s blessed with a cast of Manolo Blahnik quality.

Anita Yavich’s showy costumes and Ben Stanton’s lighting add the perfect contrast to scenic designer Donyale Werle’s appropriately dingy set. Paul McGill’s choreography is the cherry on top of this faaaaaaa-bulous sundae.

The Legend of Georgia McBride runs through this weekend at the Lucille Lortel Theater, 121 Christopher St. For tickets and information, visit: http://www.mcctheater.org/

Q&A with Top Italian Leather Handbag Designer Patricia Nash

by Danielle Flocco

As some of you may already know, there is an absolutely amazing premium leather handbag designer named Patricia Nash. Her products are not your run of the mill leather bags. They have beautiful detail, old world touches, and are built to last.

Patricia Nash had spent years designing for other companies like Disney, Warner Bros., Banana Republic, Express, and American Eagle- just to name a few. A challenge from a friend led to the launch of Patricia Nash Designs in 2010, which has received an overwhelming response with her products extending to stores like Macy’s, Dillard’s, Nordstrom, and various boutiques nationwide.

I am a proud owner of the Salerno Saddle Bag, and I can tell you that Patricia Nash’s products’ quality are like no other. The leather strap is so sturdy, and the bag itself is small and structured- great for a day out or daily use. The inside is perfect for orderly keeping of your wallet, phone, and planner. The structured sides are perfect- you’ll never go diving into the bottom of your bag again. Plus, there are two pockets inside that are perfect for keys, change, or other small objects you like to keep easily accessible. And, my favorite feature is the snap that secures the the flap to the purse itself. I accidentally sent the purse crashing down my steps, filled with my wallet, phone, pens, spare change, and various lip balms and absolutely nothing came out! It is absolutely the best snap closure I have ever experienced, which makes it perfect for clumsy folks like myself.

I was given the opportunity to ask Patricia a few questions, so here is what she has to say about her brand.

Your designs are not like anything else that we see today. They have such intricate detail that I have yet to see from any other designer. What are some inspirations behind your brand?

Patricia Nash: “My travels across Europe have provided many inspirations, including vintage shopping in Bologna, London, and Paris. I’ve developed friendships with people who share the same passion for vintage Italian leather bags as I do, and have been inspired by their collections as well as my own.”

You’ve accomplished so much with your brand in a short period of time. So, how does it feel for your career to be where it is now, and for you to do what you love everyday?

Patricia Nash: “Surreal! I am just humbled by the outpouring of women who reach out to me and share their passion for and loyalty with the brand with me.”

With such stunning and high quality products, I’d imagine that a lot of women appreciate your designs and your brand as a whole. What about Patricia Nash Designs really sets your products apart from other leather handbag designers?

Patricia Nash: “The old world craftsmanship and vintage vegetable tanned Italian leathers along with printed and tooled leather are unique to the entire market of handbags sold in the U.S.”

First of all, thank you to Patricia Nash for taking the time to tell us more about her one of a kind brand, Patricia Nash Designs.

The handbag shown in this article is the Salerno Saddle Bag in Florence.

Get your own Patricia Nash authentic Italian leather handbag and other great products like wallets, stationary, scarves, footwear, and more at patricianashdesigns.com

Ankle Booties- A Fall Footwear Essential

by Danielle Flocco

While we all trade our tank tops for sweaters and our shorts for jeans, we cannot forget to change our footwear, too. While it’s easy to overlook and emotionally painful to say goodbye to those super cute flats for a few months, wearing season appropriate shoes can up your style game- effortlessly!

When we dress for fall with in our favorite jeans, comfy sweater, and maybe a scarf or beanie or other seasonal accessory of choice, we are actively participating in the season. But, when the shoes are not right, it can make the outfit look mismatched. Obviously this extreme, but would you wear flip flops in the winter?? It’s all the same- out of season is just that.

Trading in flats for ankle booties puts the final touch to a fall outfit. There’s something about showing your feet that points towards spring and summer, and putting on a season appropriate equivalent of a flat takes that warm weather edge off of the outfit.

Ankle booties are just as comfortable as flats. Here, I’m wearing my most recent buy- a pair of suede American Eagle zipper ankle boots. While I usually prefer a pair with a small chunky heel, I thought these were super fun since they are suede, cheap, and feel like you’re wearing flats. The suede adds such a warm, autumn/winter feel to an outfit for me since it is a material rarely worn in the warmer seasons. So, this was a major draw when bootie shopping. Secondly, the price is awesome- $30! I found these in particular at a Payless shoe store, but AE.com or American Eagle stores have a really great variety of booties (ankle, mid calf, and knee high) for incredibly reasonable prices. And the best part- it feels like wearing regular flats. So, these are like a transition bootie, when you’re not quite ready to bid your flats farewell for awhile or not quite ready to embrace a typical leather boot.

My favorite thing about these is the zipper detail. The zipper on the outside is nonfunctional, purely for looks. But the zipper on the inside is fully functional, which makes it very easy to tuck your pants in over your socks. And even if you’re not into tucking in your pants, you can roll them up just a little above the top of the bootie, so you can still show off the zipper detail without tucking in. Or, wear them under pants so you don’t see the zipper, or even with a casual dress or skirt- with or without tights. These booties are so simple, which makes them incredibly versatile.

And even though they are simple, the metal of the zippers is enough to add to an outfit that is otherwise plain. I love wearing these with black skinny jeans and a black sweater. The metal breaks up the black on black on black, but is simple enough to keep the outfit minimalist chic.

In these photos, I’m wearing them with a comfy pair of skinny jeans from Forever 21 and a soft, slinky sweater from Aerie. It was a chilly day where I was, and the booties fit the sweater better than flats, tying in the two textured pieces but keeping them separate with the jeans. Fuzzy sweater, suede bootie, smooth denim- perfect!

Personally, I don’t think there is such a thing as too many ankle booties. You can have the basic versatile pair like these, a dressy pair with a heel, and a street friendly pair that’s more durable, usually leather, with a small chunky heel for support. They’ll all find their places in your closet, and they’ll take your fall fashion game to the next level without even trying.

Go ahead, find yourself a pair (or three) here.

Theater Review: IN BED WITH ROY COHN

by Ryan Leeds

A riddle: What do you get when you cross Ronald Reagan, Barbara Walters, Roy Cohn’s mother, Julius Rosenberg, random appearances by a stuffed frog, a Latina caregiver, a cameo from Richard Nixon and a African-American Adonis named “Serge?” If anyone can offer an accurate guess, please contact me. After sitting through a painful 90 minutes of the new Off-Broadway play In Bed With Roy Cohn, I’m not sure that even its playwright Joan Beber nor her director, Katrin Hilbe have the answer to this brainteaser.

Cohn (Christopher Daftsios) was a prominent, Manhattan lawyer who made his mark during Senator Joe McCarthy’s witch hunt into US Communist activity in the 1950s. Later, he represented prolific mafia figures, Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager of the famed Studio 54, and even real estate mogul slash current GOP rabble-rouser Donald Trump. Cohn’s brash, pit bull style made him one of the most feared and despised figures in legal and social realms of the eighties. Self loathing and egomania guided his contempt towards fellow Jews and homosexuals and he died of AIDS in 1986 (his closeted nature forced him to deny the diagnosis to his dying day.)

In Bed With Roy Cohn chronicles the last days of Cohn’s life. Personalities appear in his state of dementia and deliver various lines of non-cohesive gibberish, making it nearly impossible to form a collective picture of its subject. You’ll understand who this complex personality was with a little internet research or by watching Tony Kushner’s masterpiece, Angels In America. But with all the mishegas in this show, you’ll have no idea whether you’re seeing a piece on Roy Cohn or Roy Rogers.

God bless the cast, though. They are doing their best to scoop water from this inevitable Titanic and they all deserve better material. Near her demise, Cohn’s mother (Marilyn Sokol) laments, “I have no story”- a line that generally summarizes the whole messy bed. I really thought that Doctor Zhivago would walk off with the prize of being the worst theatrical experience of 2015, but my vote was premature: In Bed With Roy Cohn currently holds that title.

In Bed With Roy Cohn is now playing on Theater Row (W. 42nd between 9th and 10th avenues). For tickets and more information, visit http://www.inbedwithroycohn.com

Theater Reviews: KNOTS and MAGIC TRICK

by Ryan Leeds

Those dog days of summer are finally here. You know…The time of year when we stroll longer in the park, sip white wine in an al fresco setting, or take in a smidgen of kink and beg for burlesque? Alright, maybe the latter is reserved for those seeking an outlet for a somewhat naughty escape. If that’s the case, the season’s end might bring a devilish smile to your face with two adult theatrical offerings.

Yamadera Productions’ psychological one-act, Knots recently ended a successful run at the NY Fringe festival. The three character play, written by Jean-Daniel Noland, invites us to explore the meaning of life’s loose ends and the figurative and literal bounds we set within ourselves and our relationships. Noland’s script, under the excellent direction of Adam LeGrant, is well researched and convincingly executed by a strong cast, though it does occasionally waver into the zone of pretension.

Marc La Vasseuer (Man), opens the piece by talking with his therapist, Kevin Kilner (The Doctor) about his childhood trauma of being tied to a persimmon tree by his mother, Lucy Lavely (Mother/Woman). The Man carries his memory of bondage into a relationship he forms with a waitress, also played by Lavely. The two have an electric connection until his obsession becomes relentless. Noland’s device of using non-specific names for his characters serves the play well, as it broadens the scope to a universal, “everyman” level.

There is definite, dangerous fire in Knots and the cast does a fine job of keeping the action ablaze. One wishes that Noland’s characters wouldn’t focus so much on the history lesson of various knots and other superfluous historical trivia. Conversationally, it seems to be a stretch for even the most academic individuals. Still, Noland’s script is generally (no pun intended) tightly woven and offers dark and delicious delicacies sure to satisfy the dark corners of the mind.

Kim Gainer and Chet Siegel in MAGIC TRICK. Photo courtesy of Kacey Stamats

At Theater Row, an audacious and engaging work, Magic Trick, is being presented by Caps Lock Theatre Company. Mariah MacCarthy’s play focuses on Bana (Chet Siegel), a paraplegic who finds herself caught in the complexities of a relationship with her boyfriend Eric (Ethan Hova), and a burlesque dancer named Clara (Kim Gainer).

The two and one half hour story is woven together in non-linear segments and as the action unravels, we soon learn that Bana is lacking integrity with nearly everyone close to her. Meanwhile, both of her love interests are left trying to piece together the remnants of her emotional baggage.

Clara, played with laser sharp sexiness by Gainer, convinces Bana to try Burlesque dancing. The pair create “The Medicine Show”, dubbing themselves Foxy Cotton and Clara Tin. The result is an energetic, bawdy, and amusing dance number that elicits a rousing cheer from the audience. Siegel and Gainer are a perfect combination and their chemistry-both in this number and throughout the play- is erotic and endearing. Hova also brings a smoldering allure into the trio as the jilted lover and Gina Doherty delivers some sass to the mix as the stage kitten.

Chet Siegel and Ethan Hova in MAGIC TRICK. Photo courtesy of Kacey Stamats

Tim McMath’s versatile and effective set design creates a moody atmosphere as an apartment, bar, and burlesque stage and Lois Catanzaro’s lighting adds mercurial emotion to the libidinous affairs.

From the synopsis, it sounds like Magic Trick couldn’t possibly work: A bi-sexual love triangle about a wheelchair bound girl, her hunky boyfriend, and a burlesque dancer ? And tickets are how much? Yet thanks to MacCarthy’s knack for creating authentic dialogue for her characters, the piece is hugely successful. I might suggest some occasional edits, as I did find myself checking my watch near the end but as a whole, Magic Trick is impressive, thoughtful, and worthwhile theater.

Knots finished a sold-out run at the NY fringe festival on Saturday August 29th. More information can be found at http://www.knotstheplay.com/

Magic Trick is currently playing on Theater Row (W. 42nd between 9th and 10th avenues) through September 12th. For tickets and information, visit: http://capslocktheatre.com/

The High-Low Skirt: Everyone’s Next Wardrobe Staple

by Danielle Flocco

The High-Low Skirt is going to be all the rage this fall, and I’ll tell you why- it is the best skirt for absolutely any woman. It is perfect for any body shape, it can be worn formal or casual, and best of all… prices start at just $15! It’s not very often that a versatile piece like this can fit anyone’s budget. It’s a win-win for you and your wallet, and you’re confidence will soar.

Amidst the movement for people to be more positive about their body, regardless of size, age, complexion, and so on, there’s no better time than now to introduce your wardrobe to something made for everyone. Most high low skirts are high waisted, which is great for adding length to your legs and showing off your shape. Plus, it only shows off from the knee down on one leg, so if you’re anything like me (read: shy), you’ll feel appropriately covered. It’s the perfect mix of sexy yet conservative.

It’s a great piece if you’re working on being more body positive since it will empower you and boost your confidence without taking you out of your comfort zone. You’ll be mostly covered, but still showing off. It’s the perfect introduction to loving yourself- it’ll show you all of your best assets and keep you comfortable. And for all of you who are already bold, it’ll bring that level of sophistication and sexiness that cannot be found in any other skirt. It’s great for showing an appropriate amount of leg for almost any setting, while still showing off everything you’re proud to be. This might be the only skirt that is for anybody and any body.

And, there’s really no wrong way to wear a high low skirt! Depending on your personal comfort level, you can tuck a shirt smoothly or blouse it over the waist a bit. Either way is cute and professional, perfect for the office or an evening out. For fall, complementary colored tights can be added for extra warmth that won’t take away from the awesome leg line the angle of the skirt will give you.

Because of the length and angle of the skirt, regular flats are not a good shoe to pair with it. But, ankle booties and pumps are both great options, and the choice between the two can be made depending on where you’re going.

I have two favorite styles to wear with the high low skirt. First, is the very professional and office friendly outfit. Pairing the skirt with a nice blouse, tucked in just a bit at the waist, will give you the long leg line while keeping your torso separate from your lower body. Throw on a pair of pumps and you’re ready to lead your next meeting! Second is more of a fall evening at an art gallery look. I like to tuck a long sleeve turtle neck sweater smoothly into the skirt, creating a continuous line in my body from shoulder to ankle. This look works great if you’re trying to create the illusion of a long body line from top to bottom. Pair some plain tights with your favorite pair of ankle booties, and you’ve got a sophisticated yet comfortable vibe.

High low skirts start for around $15 on Amazon and come in a variety of colors. I suggest black and charcoal for starters, and then diving into the more bold colors. Or, splurge on yourself and get a bunch! Either way, get this versatile piece in your wardrobe and start feeling your absolute best.

I purchased the one shown for myself and it is very good quality for a great price, so here’s the link to my new staple: http://amzn.com/B00ZYUGLPO

OPINION

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