The 14th annual Lower East Side Film Festival returns to the Big Apple from May 2 to 6. The festival has recently announced its feature film lineup and opening night events.
The 14th annual LESFF at Village East Cinema and DCTV Firehouse Cinema in New York City features the innovative work of creative, up-and-coming filmmakers, and showcases their films in the heart of New York City’s vibrant and historic Lower East Side.
This year Lower East Side Film Festival welcomes Lizzy Caplan, Beanie Feldstein, and actress Susan Kelechi Watson. Academy Award nominated producer and co-founder of Killer Films, Pamela Koffler, actress, singer, filmmaker Brittany Snow, writer, comedian and actor, Julio Torres, and many more will also be present at the events.
In addition, special screenings at Village East Cinema celebrate the 25th Anniversary of 1999, akathe Greatest Year of Movies – Ever!. Retrospectives include “Cruel Intentions” with Q&A with Director Roger Kumble on May 3.Chris Smith’s 1999 documentary debut “American Movie” on May 4 and “But I’m A Cheerleader” plusQ&A with Director Jamie Babbiton takes place May 5.
Over the four-day span, various films are showcased and discussed with a panel of artists, writers, and “jurors.” Village East Cinema and DCTV Firehouse Cinema are set to present these works and discussions beginning at various times throughout the festival. Opening night tickets, 25th anniversary screenings and festival all-access passes are on-sale now. Feature films, 30+ shorts, panels and parties tickets are available on April 15.
For more information on the festival and to purchase tickets to the various events, click here.
The new musical HELL’S KITCHEN will officially premiere on Broadway on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Broadway’s Shubert Theatre, located at 225 West 44th Street.
photo credit:
Marc J. Franklin
HELL’S KITCHEN is directed by four-time Tony Award nominee Michael Greif, with choreography by Tony Award nominee Camille A. Brown, a book by Pulitzer Prize finalist Kristoffer Diaz, and the music of Alicia Keys, featuring new songs and her greatest hits.
The “powerhouse cast” (Variety) is led by Shoshana Bean, Brandon Victor Dixon, Kecia Lewis, Chris Lee, and Maleah Joi Moon. It features Chad Carstarphen, Reid Clarke, Chloe Davis, Nico DeJesus, Timothy L. Edwards, Desmond Sean Ellington, Badia Farha, Vanessa Ferguson, David Guzman, Gianna Harris, Jakeim Hart, Takia Hopson, Jackie Leon, Raechelle Manalo, Jade Milan, Onyxx Noel, Susan Oliveras, Sarah Parker, Aaron Nicholas Patterson, William Roberson, Niki Saludez, Nyseli Vega, Donna Vivino, Lamont Walker II, Rema Webb, and Oscar Whitney Jr.
The story revolves around Ali, a 17-year-old girl full of fire, searching for freedom, passion and her place in the world. How she finds them is a New York City coming-of-age story from 16-time GRAMMY Award winner Alicia Keys, whose life and songs inspire an experience made for Broadway.
Set in the rhythm of the 90s, Ali is rebellious and stifled by an overprotective single mother until she meets her mentor: a neighbor who shows her how to cultivate the power of piano and opens her mind and heart. This is an intergenerational story everyone can love, one of finding yourself, your purpose, and the community that lifts you. Come remember where dreams begin.
The creative team for HELL’S KITCHEN includes, Robert Brill (Scenic Design), Dede Ayite (Costume Design), Natasha Katz (Lighting Design), Gareth Owen (Sound Design), Peter Nigrini (Projection Design), Mia Neal (Hair and Wig Design), Michael Clifton (Makeup Design), Heidi Griffiths and Kate Murray (Casting), Danny Maly (Production Stage Manager), and Foresight Theatrical (General Management).
The music team of HELL’S KITCHEN includes orchestrations by Tom Kitt and Adam Blackstone, arrangements by Alicia Keys and Adam Blackstone, music consulting by Tom Kitt and music direction by Lily Ling.
HELL’S KITCHEN made its world premiere October 24, 2023 running until January 14, 2024, including a five-week extension—at The Public Theater this past fall.
Tickets for HELL’S KITCHEN are available at HellsKitchen.com and Telecharge.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the Shubert Theatre box office. Ticket prices range from $59-199.
Playhouse Stage Company announced the opening of a brand new production of the celebrated musical Spring Awakening, playing at Cohoes Music Hall through April 28, with 7:30 p.m. evening performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. matinee performances on Saturdays and Sundays.
Playhouse Stage has produced free outdoor summer musicals at Albany’s Park Playhouse since 1989 and has been presenting musicals year-round at the historic Cohoes Music Hall since 2016. Spring Awakening is a rock musical based on a 19th-century German play of the same name and explores the challenges of adolescence and coming of age in a repressive world. The production plays April 12-28, 2024.
The winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening features a book and lyrics by Steven Sater, and a rock-infused score by Duncan Sheik. About its original 2006 Broadway production The New York Observer wrote, “Once in a generation, if we’re lucky, an unexpected new musical comes along and changes everything. That is the thrilling achievement of Spring Awakening.” With electrifying music that Entertainment Weekly called “the most gorgeous Broadway score ofthe decade,” and a fearless approach to important, often taboo topics, including suicide, sexual assault, and child abuse, Spring Awakening grips audiences with an intense emotional journey.
We are excited to give our very talented teen students a chance to work on such a relevant, challenging, and exciting piece of theatre. Many themes and topics explored in Spring Awakening are often referred to as adult subject matter, but these are things that teenagers deal with daily, and it is important to shine a light on them. We are extremely proud of both our students and our creative team for handling the mature subject matter in such a professional manner, and rising to the occasion to tell this vital story so effectively.
Playhouse Stage Producing Artistic Director Owen Smith
The production is directed by Playhouse Stage Managing Director, Chuck Kraus, with choreography and musical staging by Director of Education Ashley Simone Kirchner, and musical direction by Brandon Jones. The trio has helmed the Playhouse’s advanced teen productions since 2016. Rounding out the Creative Team as Intimacy Director is Yvonne Perry in her first Playhouse Stage Company collaboration. The youth roles in the production are performed by advanced teen students from the Playhouse Stage Academy theatre training program, alongside local professional performers Ellen Cribbs and Nick.
Tickets for Spring Awakening are on sale through The Cohoes Music Hall Box Office, by phone at 518-434- 0776, or online.
Proctors Theatre in Schenectady is proud to host Golden Oldies Spectacular on April 13. The show is headlined by the Doo Wop Project and includes a multitude of talented, authentic acts.
The Doo Wop Project consists of five Broadway stars from smash hit shows like Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical. This supergroup of Broadway stars transforms hits from the classic and modern American songbook into revamped renditions of your favorites. The group is excited to play hit-songs from the classic American squalls of Doo Wop, Motown, and other golden oldies.
The Golden Oldies Spectacular sees four other spectacular acts including co-headliners The Brooklyn Bridge, who perform a slew of 1950s defining hits. Also performing in the event are The Capris, Bobby Brooks Wilson, and E’stefano DiStanto. Together, the acts set to encapsulate the authenticity and originality of the 50s and 60s music boom.
The Golden Oldies Spectacular takes place 7 pm on April 13 at Proctors Theatre in Schenectady. Tickets range from $45 to $75 and can be purchased on the Proctors Theatre website. To learn more about the upcoming show and to purchase tickets, click here.
Albany’s Spectrum 8 Theatre has found new management and will reopen this spring, potentially in late April, per multiple reports last week.
photo via Spotlight News
As reported in February, Spectrum 8 was slated to close, with owner Landmark Theatres withdrawing from management after nearly 9 years. Scene One Entertainment has stepped in to take over management, bringing back a few notable aspects of Spectrum 8 that regulars missed in the past decade.
Scene One Entertainment owner Joseph Masher said in a press release, “The overwhelming response to the theatre’s closing last month prompted me to move faster with the building’s owner to get the cinema reopened. I’ve been working very closely with [Spectrum 8 co-founder] Keith Pickard to bring the heart and soul back into the Spectrum. The art gallery will be reactivated and the calendar that was published monthly will return.”
Among the changes are the return of the theater’s locally-sourced cakes, pastries, cookies, mint brownies, and real butter on the popcorn. The Spectrum reports it will also serve alcoholic beverages once it obtains a liquor license.
Spectrum 8 has been in operation since 1983, beginning as a single screen theater before expanding to eight screens, offering a wide number of independent movies, Oscar nominated films that are hard to find in theaters, including foreign language films and live and animated short films, in addition to Hollywood blockbusters.
The Music is Art Festival announced its grand return to Buffalo‘s AKG Art Museum after a seven-year hiatus on September 21 at Buffalo State University.
This year’s festival promises an eclectic mix of music, live performances, art installations, and interactive experiences. The Music is Art Festival has always been a beacon of artistic expression and cultural gathering in Buffalo. The festival showcases what the creative and bright community has to offer. The scenic AKG and Buffalo State campus provide a canvas for Buffalo’s artistic prowess and vibrance.
The festival includes various diverse musical performances of many genres, choreographed dances, dazzling art exhibits, and unique, original vendors. The festival also includes theatrics, interactive experiences designed to engage, inspire, and entertain attendees of all ages.
Over 100 bands and acts are set to perform. Hundreds of art exhibits are set to dazzle attendees. Various other games, performances and displays of artisanship look to encapsulate the beauty of multiple art forms at once.
“We are thrilled to bring the Music is Art Festival back to the AKG where it really grew into the encompassing event that it is today. AKG Buffalo and Buffalo State are not just venues; they are symbols of the rich artistic heritage and vibrant community spirit that this festival celebrates. We’re committed to creating an immersive experience that highlights the incredible talent of Buffalo’s artists, musicians, and creatives.”
Robby Takac, Festival Founder
For more information about the Music is Art Festival, including how to participate or attend, please visit their website at MusicIsArt.org/festival.
The Broadway Green Alliance and Times Square Alliance are proud to announce the return of the Broadway Celebrates Earth Day Concert on Saturday, April 20th from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET in the heart of Times Square.
Perkiomen Valley High School.
This unique star-studded concert will feature live performances from Broadway’s top talent and young performers from around the region and interviews with environmental thought leaders. The concert will be held on Broadway between 45th and 46th Streets and is one of the key events for the NYC Department of Transportation’s “Car-Free Earth Day.”
Broadway Celebrates Earth Day underscores the Broadway community’s commitment to raise awareness about the climate emergency and inspire steps towards a more sustainable future. The concert will be simultaneously live-streamed, offering audiences the opportunity to join this musical celebration of sustainability.
The Times Square Alliance is thrilled to partner once again with the Broadway Green Alliance and the Department of Transportation to present a free Broadway Earth Day concert in the heart of Times Square as part of Car-Free Earth Day. Broadway in Times Square has been a leader in providing more space to pedestrians and we look forward to joining all the other neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs as we celebrate our public spaces and the great programming we can bring to them.
Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance
Founded in 1992, the Times Square Alliance works to improve and promote Times Square, cultivating the creativity, energy, and edge that have made the area an icon of entertainment, culture, and urban life for over a century. It keeps the neighborhood safe and clean, promotes local businesses, manages area improvements, and produces major annual events.
Broadway performers joining the event include host Ben Cameron (Broadway Sessions), Tony Award Winner Ruthie Ann Miles (Sweeney Todd), Tony Award Nominee Anika Larsen (Almost Famous), Michael Maliakel (Aladdin), Jelani Remy (Back to the Future), Alexandra Socha (Wicked), Nik Walker (Spamalot), and more to be announced.
Young performers taking the stage include students from Epic Players, Marymount Manhattan College, NYU Steinhardt, Perkiomen Valley High School, R.Evolución Latina, and Wolf Performing Arts Center. The event will also feature guest speakers from Headcount and Julie Tighe, Director of New York League of Conservation Voters. David Alpert serves as the director of the event and Rick Hip-Flores provides musical accompaniment.
Wolf Performing Arts Center.
The Broadway Green Alliance (BGA) educates, motivates, and inspires the theatre community and its patrons to implement environmentally friendlier practices. Launched in 2008 as an ad hoc committee of The Broadway League it is a fiscal program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, bringing together all segments of the theatre community, including producers, Broadway and Off-Broadway theatres in New York and around the country.
“We are thrilled to collaborate again with the Times Square Alliance to harness the power of theatre to cultivate courage and community around the most pressing challenge of our time,” said Molly Braverman, Director of the Broadway Green Alliance.
For more information about Broadway Celebrates Earth Day, visit here.
On March 23, 2024, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomed one of its own, the illustrious composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, with an induction ceremony that will be remembered for years to come.
Held at the LIMEHOF in Stony Brook, this evening was a testament to Schwartz’s immense contributions to the world of music and theater, as well as his profound influence on countless artists.
Stephen Schwartz
Hosted by the legendary Paul Shaffer and directed by Paul Kreppel, the event was a star-studded affair, filled with heartfelt tributes, captivating performances, and a palpable sense of admiration for the honoree. From the opening remarks to the final curtain call, the evening was a fitting tribute to a man whose talent knows no bounds.
Before the ceremony began, Paul Shaffer, in a conversation with the press, eloquently expressed his admiration for Stephen Schwartz. Reflecting on their collaboration over the years, Shaffer praised Schwartz’s ability to immerse himself in characters when composing music, citing his magical touch and profound impact on Shaffer’s career. He emphasized Schwartz’s willingness to share his knowledge and mentorship, underscoring the importance of talent and dedication in the industry.
Paul Shaffer
As the show commenced, Shaffer took the stage to introduce the house band and Hall of Fame director Ernie Canadea. The atmosphere was electric as the audience prepared for an unforgettable evening. Performances of iconic songs from Schwartz’s repertoire, including “Prepare Ye!” from Godspell and “Magic To Do” from Pippin, showcased the timeless appeal of his music and the versatility of his compositions.
The house band, comprised of seasoned musicians, added a layer of magic to the performances. Doug Quinn, known for his work with the Quinn Brothers, graced the stage on guitar, alongside Steve Mayness on bass and Rick Shutter on drums. Their impeccable musicianship complemented the vocal performances, creating an unforgettable musical experience.
One of the evening’s highlights came when Stephen Reinhardt took the stage to share his personal story of how Schwartz changed the trajectory of his life. With heartfelt gratitude, Reinhardt recounted how Schwartz’s mentorship and belief in his talent opened doors and paved the way for his success in the industry. His heartfelt words resonated with everyone in attendance, underscoring the profound impact Schwartz has had on countless lives.
Teal Wicks
As the night progressed, the stage was graced by an array of talented performers, each paying homage to Schwartz with their stirring renditions of his most beloved songs. DeMarius R. Copes mesmerized the audience with his rendition of “Magic To Do” from Pippin, while Teal Wicks captivated hearts with her performance of “Wizard and I” from Wicked. Carrie St. Louis and Max Grossman delivered a show-stopping rendition of “Popular” from Wicked, showcasing their vocal prowess and stage presence.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as Paul Shaffer had the honor of inducting Stephen Schwartz into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF). With heartfelt words, Shaffer presented Schwartz with the prestigious award, symbolizing the culmination of a lifetime of achievements.
Paul Shaffer
In his acceptance speech, Schwartz expressed his gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the significance of being recognized by his hometown. He thanked his friends and collaborators for their unwavering support and paid tribute to the performers who had brought his music to life throughout the evening.
As the final notes of “Day By Day” from Godspell filled the air, there was a sense of collective joy and appreciation for the man whose music had touched the hearts of millions. The induction of Stephen Schwartz into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame was not just a celebration of one man’s talent but a testament to the power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all.
Musical Numbers: Prepare Ye! (Godspell) performed by Paul Shaffer, Rick Shutter, Steve Manes and Doug Quinn, Magic To Do (Pippin) performed by DeMarius R. Copes, Corner Of The Sky (Pippin) performed by Sam Simahk, Bless The Lord (Godspell) performed by Alysia Velez, West End Avenue (The Magic Show) performed by Dale Soules, All Good Gifts (Godspell) performed by Demarius R. Copes, Colors of the Wind (Pocahontas) performed by Alysia Velez, Kevin Newton, and Peter DelGrosso, Wizard and I (Wicked) performed by Teal Wicks and Max Grossman, Popular (Wicked) performed by Carrie St. Louis and Max Grossman, For Good (Wicked) Performed by Carrie St. Louis, Teal Wicks and Max Grossman.
The Uncharted Concert Series returns for its 10th year to Greenwich House Music School for six Thursday evening performances. The shows from April 4 to May 9 see alumni artists from the past decade of the concert series. All shows take place in Greenwich Village, Manhattan.
Uncharted is a performance resource for New York City-based musicians seeking to develop original material and premiere first-look projects in an intimate concert setting. The 2024 season include concerts from Camila Meza with Aaron Goldberg, Queen Esther, and Alea.
Also performing are Mireya Ramos with Trevor Turla, Raquel Acevedo Klein, and Dana Lyn with We the Gleaners. This line-up of strong women headliners underlines Uncharted’s commitment to promoting female diversity in performance.
The Uncharted Concert Series sees the performances of various genres like jazz, classical, mariachi, R&B and more. The six shows take all place on Thursday nights from April 4 to May 9. Each act will be unique and ready to move the crowd in more ways than one. All performances are filled with exciting, talented, and diverse vibrations.
This is a concert series that encourages artists to take risks and work out new or existing material, collaborations, and projects for an intimate concert experience. In keeping with Greenwich House Music School’s artist advocacy work, 100% of ticket and merchandise sales go directly to artists.
“The Uncharted series has afforded some of New York City’s most original, diverse, and talented local performers with financial support and physical space to explore fresh directions. On our tenth anniversary, we’re excited to welcome back several of the series’ shining stars for a second chance at new discoveries. We can’t wait to see their ideas come to life at these one-night-only performances in the Greenwich House Music School Recital Hall.”
Rachel Black, Director of Greenwich House Music School
General entry tickets to all shows are $20. Ticket sales include access to a pre-show open wine/beer bar. For more information on the Uncharted Concert Series and to purchase tickets, click here.
Musician Paul Shaffer is emceeing a concert in honor of Stephen Schwartz’ induction into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF). Stephen Schwartz is best known for being the lyricist and composer of “Wicked,” “Godspell,” and “Pippin.”
The ceremony takes place March 23 at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame headquarters in Stony Brook. Stephen Schwartz has written and composed various musical works for both Broadway plays and Hollywood films. Schwartz is a native of Long Island and has grown up in both NYC and Long Island.
The ceremony will be followed by an hour-and-a-half concert featuring performances from Schartz’s musicals. The music concert to follow the induction will be emceed by musician Paul Shaffer, with whom he worked early in his career. Schwartz and Shaffer will perform alongside musicians from the musical “Godspell” that include Rick Shutter, Doug Quinn and Steve Manes.
“Long Island has proven to be especially fertile ground for producing major talents in the fields of music and entertainment. The list of names is long and impressive. It’s a great honor for me to be recognized as being a part of that amazing tradition.”
Stephen Schwartz
Stephen’s acclaimed career spanned over 50 years, and he consistently composed works that lasted in the hearts of many. Paul Shaffer will be alongside Schwartz as the induction ceremony ensues. What better way to honor the Long Island talent than induction into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame.
Several Broadway performers will be in attendance to honor Stephen as well. Teal Wicks, Carrie St. Louise, Dale Soules, Alysia Velez, Sam Simahk and DeMarius Copes are featured to honor Schwartz.
Tickets for the induction and concert event are available for sale on LIMEHOF’s website, limusichalloffame.org. Come see Stephen Schwartz get honored.
