The Notebook Hits Broadway Hitting All Notes To Perfection

                  My girlfriend, whose love of Ingrid Michaelson knows no bounds, made me go see "The Notebook" on Broadway and I cried for 2 1/2 hours straight. The much anticipated premiere of "The Notebook" a new musical by Ingrid Michaelson at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre brought a captivating and emotional experience to the audience. Everyone knows both the 1996 Nicholas Sparks novel as well as the 2004 film staring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. The film has become ubiquitious when talking about great love stories and the unwavering eventual end of every love story.   The seamless transition between the modern nursing home

The Hamilton Mocumentary We Needed Lincoln: The Musical

        I'm a huge fan of satire and parody when it comes to comedy genres. Recently, I had the pleasure of viewing "Lincoln: The Musical," by Artie Brennan with a cast of hilarious improvisors and actors. Lincoln: The Musical was filmed on location in NYC. This comedy delves into the world of making it on Broadway, adding a fresh take to the mockumentary genre. Drawing parallels to classic mockumentaries like "Waiting for Guffman," "Best in Show," and Robert Townsend's "Hollywood Shuffle," "Lincoln The Musical" is a laugh-out-loud journey. Artie Brennan and Anthony Giordano the film's directors do a superb job of double helming. Artie

Jackie Martling: Joke Man –The Grandfather Of Long Island Comedy

Photo: Courtesy of Newsday and LIMEHOF "Joke Man: The Jackie Martling Story" delves into the life and career of Jackie Martling, offering insights into his contributions to the world of comedy and his impact on the Howard Stern Show and beyond. As the onlooker we are provided a unique perspective on the documentary's portrayal of Jackie's comedic journey. I first met Jackie in 1998 while interning for SONY Pictures. Within 48 hours of meeting him he sent me several of his Joke Man products and books. Over a decade years later I interviewed Jackie for my Talk Show "Welcome Back To

A Christmas Carol Brings Holiday Joy At The Charles Dickens Festival at Theater Three in Port Jefferson

  Jeffrey Sanzel's direction and performance as Ebeneezer Scrooge in Theater Three's rendition of "A Christmas Carol" offered a delightful blend of comedy and drama, showcasing impeccable timing and seamless stage movement that captivated the audience. The vintage theater itself, complete with a basement speakeasy and the nostalgic scent of aged wood, contributed to the overall charm and provided a truly immersive holiday experience. The production showcased an incredible attention to detail, with Brad Frey's superb musical direction, Randall Parsons' scenic design, and Robert Henderson Jr.'s masterful lighting and sound design, all adding depth and enhancing the atmosphere. The cast,

A Delightful Revival of Arms and the Man Charms Audiences with Laughter And Folly

Gingold Theatrical Group's recent production of Bernard Shaw's hidden gem, "Arms and the Man", at Theatre Row, is a delightful revival that captivates theatergoers with its infectious humor and engaging performances. While it may not enjoy the same level of recognition as Shaw's renowned works like Pygmalion and Mrs. Warren's Profession, this lively rendition, skillfully directed by David Staller, successfully showcases the play's timeless anti-war theme, infusing it with campy humor that resonates with modern audiences. From the moment the curtains rise, the production exudes an air of comedic brilliance. The cast, after a introduction, fully embraces the laughably exaggerated characters

The State of “The State” Address

"The State's Dipping Balls and Breaking Hearts Tour" finished up its 3rd night in NYC at The Palladium in Times Square on October 18th. It was an unforgettable evening which paid tribute to over thirty years of history of one of the greatest sketch comedy troupes in the pantheon of sketch comedy. As the first day of The Hall of Fame induction ceremony approached, it became evident that "The State", alongside legendary groups like Monty Python, Key and Peele, The Kids In The Hall, and Little Britain, rightfully deserved their place among the sketch comedy elite. Wait! Whats that? I'm sorry?

Oppenheimer: A Cinematic Journey Into The Depths Of Creation & Destruction

Oppenheimer, directed by Christopher Nolan, is an ambitious and thought-provoking film that delves into the life of renowned physicist Robert Oppenheimer and his pivotal role in developing the atomic bombs that would eventually bring an end to World War II. With an immersive use of music and a stellar cast, the film takes viewers on a journey that explores the complexities of scientific discovery, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of wielding such immense power. Let's not forget I saw this little diddy in 70 MM Filmstock, making for particularly special sound and visually unstoppable.   Christopher Nolan, known for his masterful storytelling

Captivating! Intimate! Hilarious! “The Shark Is Broken” Takes A Bite Out Of Broadway 

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars) The Broadway production of "The Shark Is Broken", written by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon, is a mesmerizing theatrical experience that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the iconic trio from the movie Jaws. Starring Ian Shaw, Alex Brightman, and Colin Donnell, this play captivates audiences with its exploration of the complex relationship between Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw, as well as the tumultuous backdrop of the drug-riddled set of "Jaws" in 1973. Photo By: D.B. Frick One of the most remarkable aspects of "The Shark Is Broken" (aside from the fact

Title: A Playful and Thought-Provoking Ride: Barbie (2023) Review

Rating: ★★★★☆ Barbie, the latest film directed by Greta Gerwig, takes a playful and satirical approach to the beloved doll franchise and delivers a surprisingly poignant commentary on societal stereotypes. As someone who grew up surrounded by Barbie but felt left out of the playtime, I was intrigued to see how this movie would handle the subject matter. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.   The film understands the importance of not taking itself too seriously, much like the classic TV show did with the film version of  "The Brady Bunch" years ago. It embraces its parody nature and goes

BroadwayCon 2023: A Theatrical Extravaganza That Hits Close to Home

As the annual celebration of all things Broadway, BroadwayCon has become a cherished event for theater enthusiasts from across the globe. This year, BroadwayCon returned to the iconic Marriott Marquis on July 21st, 22nd, and 23rd, bringing together a vibrant community of fans, cosplayers, Broadway stars, and industry professionals. For many attendees, this convention is an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of theater, meet their favorite performers, and gain insights from the best in the business. For me this year's event held a special significance. Having covered BroadwayCon on multiple occasions in the past, I have been absent since

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