By Great Performances

This month, Celebrate Fashion, Film, Music, Literature and more at our Partner Venues.

Apollo Theater

Supreme Glamour: An Evening with Ms. Mary Wilson

Tuesday, September 17 at 7:30 pm

One night only – celebrate music icon Mary Wilson and the unforgettable fashions that chronicle the evolution of The Supremes.

Hear Mary Wilson, in conversation with WQXR’s Terrance McKnight, reminisce about the history of The Supremes, their hit songs and their glamorous gowns that defined an era of style. This event coincides with the publication of Ms. Wilson’s new book, Supreme Glamour. Get your tickets here.

Ta-Nehisi Coates in Conversation: The Water Dancer

Monday, September 23 at 7:00 pm

New York Times best-selling author Ta-Nehisi Coates returns to the Apollo stage to kick off the national book tour for his boldly imagined first novel, The Water Dancer. This in-depth conversation will be held with a very special surprise guest, to be announced the morning of the event. Get your tickets here.

ASIA SOCIETY

Fall Friday Leo Bar

Friday, September 13 at From 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Celebrate the fall exhibition openings and the return of Free Fridays. Be among the first to see Asia Society Museum’s new exhibitions at the first Friday Leo Bar of the season. Enjoy free admission, exhibition tours, drink specials and more! Learn more here.

JLF New York: Each Other’s Stories

Wednesday, September 18 from 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Celebrating books, ideas, and dialogue, the Jaipur Literary Festival—described as “the greatest literary show on Earth”—returns to New York, featuring internationally acclaimed authors and thinkers in a range of provocative panels and debates. This year’s edition includes the launch of William Dalrymple’s latest book, The Anarchy, on the rise and significance of the East India Company. You can purchase your tickets and see the full lineup here.

Brooklyn Academy of Music

Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater: Legacy

Friday, September 13 – Saturday, September 14 at 7:30 pm

Join BAM for a shared evening featuring dancers cultivated and nurtured through Deeply Rooted Dance Theater and Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet. Legacy is a collaboration of artists inspired by JUBILATION! Dance Company’s mission, established in Brooklyn during the 1980s and 90s. Learn more here.

N. K. Jemisin + Ijeoma Oluo

Tuesday, September 24 at 7:00 pm

Three-time Hugo Award winning author N. K. Jemisin and writer Ijeoma Oluo celebrate their respective paperback releases of How Long ’til Black Future Month?, a collection of short fiction about destruction, rebirth, and redemption, and So You Want to Talk about Race, a book for anyone who wants to talk about race, or doesn’t want to but knows we need to.

The two share the stage at BAM for an expansive discussion about the present and future of race and challenging the status quo of oppressive societies by imagining the experiences of the individuals who live within them. Learn more here.

Madonna: Madame X Tour

Tuesday, September 17 – Saturday, October 12 at 8:30 pm

Madonna kicks off a series of rare and special performances celebrating the release of her new album Madame X, giving fans an opportunity to see the artist in a uniquely intimate environment. Learn more here.

Brooklyn Museum

Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion

July 20, 2019 – January 5, 2020

Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion is the first New York retrospective in forty years to focus on the legendary couturier. Drawn primarily from Pierre Cardin’s archive, the exhibition traverses the designer’s decades-long career at the forefront of fashion invention.

Stop by The Norm at Brooklyn Museum before (or after) the exhibit for Maxim’s at The Norm, an homage to Pierre Cardin’s restaurant, Maxim’s de Paris. The menu features classic dishes from the Maxim’s de Paris cookbook and seasonal dishes inspired by the iconic restaurant.

dapperQ Presents Pursuit

Thursday, September 12 from 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Kick off New York Fashion Week with dapperQ’s sixth annual queer fashion show. Mix and mingle at a happy hour sponsored by Henrietta Hudson, New York City’s longest-standing brick-and-mortar lesbian bar, and check out pop-up shops from some of the evening’s featured designers before the runway showcase. Learn more here.

Art History Happy Hour: Future Fashion

Thursday, September 12 from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Join the Brooklyn Museum for an evening of entertaining and informative lectures in honor of their special exhibition Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion. Drawing on Cardin’s legacy as an innovator, scholars and experts reflect on the history of fashion and imagine its future. Learn more here.

Film: Rudeboy: The Story of Trojan Records

Thursday, September 26 from 7:00 pm – 10:00pm

Catch the Brooklyn premiere of Rudeboy: The Story of Trojan Records (Nicolas Jack Davies, 2018, 85 min.). The documentary presents a visual and musical account of Trojan Records, the iconic Jamaican-British record label that introduced reggae, ska, and rocksteady music to a global audience. Followed by a Q&A with Don Letts and DJ set with a special guest from Trojan Records. Learn more here.

Caramoor

Rachel Podger, violin

Sunday, September 22 at 3:00 pm

Praised as “Britain’s finest period violinist” (BBC Music Magazine), Rachel Podger has injected new life into the Baroque tradition. See her perform live at Caramoor this month. Lean more here.

Anaïs Mitchell

Friday, September 27 at 8:00 pm

Named “one of the greatest songwriters of her generation” by NPR, Anaïs Mitchell brings her world of narrative folksong, poetry, and balladry to the intimate Music Room. Learn more here.

Dizzy’s

Lessons from Our Masters: Victor Lewis with the Josh Evans Quartet

Friday, September 6 at 7:30 pm

Legendary drummer and composer Victor Lewis is set to play alongside a group led by trumpeter Josh Evans, a rising star in the jazz scene who, despite his relatively young age, has also consistently been called on by modern icons like Christian McBride, Jackie McLean, Cedar Walton and Gregory Porter. Learn more here.

Jazztopad Festival: Aga Derlak Quintet

Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30 pm

The annual Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy’s Club is a must-see showcase for anyone interested in the world of jazz and improvised music. Created earlier this year, the band gathers experienced musicians from all around the world under the leadership of pianist and composer Aga Derlak. Derlak’s trio has earned international acclaim over the past few years, and her brand-new quintet is sure to turn some heads as well. Learn more here.

Juan Andrés Ospina Big Band

Monday, September 30 at 7:30 pm

Composer and bandleader Juan Andrés Ospina brings his Big Band back to Dizzy’s almost one year after blowing audiences away with his debut album release show. For this globally influenced project, Ospina has assembled a dream team of 26 New York City-based musicians hailing from 10 different countries. Join the fun at Dizzy’s Club to experience this soulful, larger-than-life, and beautifully cross-continental music. Learn more here.

Hauser and Wirth

Opening Reception

‘Personal Private Public’

Tuesday, September 10 at 6:00 pm

Hauser & Wirth invites you to the opening reception of ‘Personal Private Public,’ a group exhibition exploring the idea of the inner life in three main themes: introspection, intimacy, and voyeurism. Learn more here.

‘Amy Sherald. the heart of the matter…’

Tuesday September 10 at 6:00 pm

Amy Sherald debuts a suite of new paintings that reinforces the multiplicities of African-American life and invites viewers to reconsider commonly accepted notions of race and representation. The artist documents contemporary black experience through arresting, otherworldly paintings. Learn more here.

NY Art Book Fair

Thursday September 19 at 6:00 pm – Sunday, September 22 at 7:00 pm

Held at MoMA PS1 in Long Island City, the 2019 NY Art Book Fair will host 353 exhibitors from 31 countries, including a broad range of artists and collectives, small presses, institutions, galleries, antiquarian booksellers, and distributors.

Visit Hauser & Wirth Publishers at booth G01 to discover titles that range from traditional exhibition catalogs to artists’ books as well as publications of primary source materials and collections of writings. Learn more here.

Jazz at Lincoln Center

The South African Songbook

September 12 – 14 at 8:00 pm

The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis kicks off Opening Weekend in Rose Theater with a musical celebration of South African democracy, 25 years after Apartheid’s end. A diverse group of top South African musicians will join the orchestra to perform essential South African music, with each song chosen by a guest performer and newly arranged for the show by the JLCO. Learn more here.

Wave Hill

Family Art Project: Herds, Schools and Bevys

Saturday, September 7 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm 

Celebrate collaboration, community and power in numbers as we explore the many ways animals exist and work together in herds, schools, flocks, bevys and more. Create animal puppets, then join your Family Art Project neighbors for some group storytelling to help your puppets find their packs.

Free, and admission to the grounds is free until noon. Learn more here.

Annual Wave Hill Gardeners’ Party

Saturday, September 14 at 7:00 pm

Hosted by the Friends of Horticulture, the Gardeners’ Party celebrates the importance of plant nurseries to gardens. This year, the event honors Rosedale Nurseries and The Taylor Family.

Join us for cocktails in Wave Hill’s world-renowned gardens and take in spectacular views of the Hudson River and Palisades, followed by a seated dinner and a live auction by Christies. Purchase your tickets today and RSVP by Friday, September 6. Learn more here.

Wave Hill History Walk

Saturday, September 21 at 1:00 pm

Discover the fascinating history of Wave Hill’s architecture and landscape on a walk with a Wave Hill Garden Guide. Hear about the people who once called Wave Hill home, among them Mark Twain, Theodore Roosevelt, Bashford Dean and Arturo Toscanini. Free with admission to the grounds. Learn more here.

Wellness: Autumnal Equinox Sun Salutations

Sunday, September 22 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Celebrate the sun with Sara Hart from iHart Lens. This energizing outdoor class consists of 108 salutes to the sun, a sacred number and symbolic tradition. Class moves indoors if it is raining. Bring your own yoga mat and water bottle and please be on time. Registration not required. Learn more here.

By Chef Saul Bolton

When cooking at home, we often are more focused on the process and getting the food out in time than on the final presentation. Great Performances’ chef and Michelin-star winner Saul Bolton shares his tips for beautiful presentation.

1. Choose your plates. Before you even begin to cook, make sure you have the plates you’ll need on hand. Consider form, function, color and size. Make sure the plates are clean and ready to use.

2. Keep your work area clean. A clean area promotes clean plating. Make sure you clean your work area and you organize your prepared ingredients prior to plating.

3. Less is more. If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it. Choose a dish that will allow for a ½-inch border between the food and the plate. You want your plate to look full, but not overflowing. The white space will help frame your food.

4. Let your ingredients shine. Make sure not to cover up important ingredients; everything should be seen, even if it’s just peeking out.

5. Shoot for natural symmetry. Your dishes shouldn’t be overly precise and symmetrical. You want order, but natural order

6. Consider dimension. Try adding some extra height to your food by twirling pasta or zoodles so they mound in the plate. Allow foods to rest on each other, such as resting a piece of fish on some greens or on a root vegetable puree.

7. Invest in tools. Adding textures and shapes by using graters, zesters and squeeze bottles provide extra touches that can elevate the appearance of a dish.

8. Garnish wisely. Garnishes can add extra color and texture. Drizzles of oil, dollops of purees and circles of sauces add visual interest to a dish.

9. Clean again. Wipe your plates and serve. Your guests are sure to appreciate your efforts!

Image Credits: ©Georgi Richardson, ©Chip Klose, ©Amanda Gentile, ©Ben Hider

By Great Performances

Stargazing, live-music and a multi-Sensory Food Experience are Just some of the Exciting things Taking Place at Our Partner Venues this Month.

Apollo Theater

Apollo Uptown Hall: Harlem’s Culture – Past. Present. Future.

Thursday, August 15 at 7:00 pm

This Harlem Week edition of Apollo Uptown Hall gathers thought leaders from some of Harlem’s most influential arts organizations to celebrate milestone anniversaries in the arts community and discuss what role these cultural organizations will play in either preserving traditions or advancing change. Enjoy a live performance by the Marching Cobras Drumline and Danceline and sounds by Kool DJ Red Alert. RSVP for your free tickets here.

Brooklyn Academy of music

R&B Festival at MetroTech 2019

Third World

Thursday, August 8 at 12:00 pm

Longstanding reggae-fusion band Third World celebrates 45 years of sharing their music with the world. Mixing elements everything from R&B, funk, and pop, to rock, dancehall, and rap, Third World’s unique sound and uplifting spirit has earned them fans across the globe, and they’ve toured alongside musical legends including Bob Marley, Stevie Wonder and Santana. Learn more here.

Van Hunt / &More (Chill Moody & Donn T)

Thursday, August 15 at 12:00 pm

The Grammy-nominated Hunt brings his charisma, crafty songwriting and engaging live performance to the MetroTech stage. Donn T, Questlove’s sister, and rapper Chill Moody, who come together in the new hip-hop and R&B collective &More open. Learn more here.

Brooklyn Museum

Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion

July 20, 2019 – January 5, 2020

Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion is the first New York retrospective in forty years to focus on the legendary couturier. Drawn primarily from Pierre Cardin’s archive, the exhibition traverses the designer’s decades-long career at the forefront of fashion invention.

Stop by The Norm at Brooklyn Museum before (or after) the exhibit for Maxim’s at The Norm, an homage to Pierre Cardin’s restaurant, Maxim’s de Paris. The menu features classic dishes from the Maxim’s de Paris cookbook and seasonal dishes inspired by the iconic restaurant.

Pop-Up Performance: Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra

Sunday, August 18 from 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Drop by Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra’s new series of intimate pop-up performances, highlighting members and featured musicians as the Orchestra in Residence activates our Beaux-Arts Court with a family-friendly range of classical music from across the globe. Learn more here.

Celebration: Happy Birthday, Marsha!

Thursday, August 22 from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Celebrate the life and legacy of activist Marsha P. Johnson with screenings of Happy Birthday, Marsha! (Sasha Wortzel and Tourmaline, 2018, 14 min.) and Pay It No Mind: The Life and Times of Marsha P. Johnson (Michael Kasino, 2012, 54 min.). Afterwards, enjoy a champagne toast and cake to commemorate her 73rd birthday. Learn more here.

Dizzy’s

Sounds for Sculpture: Christian Tamburr Septet with special guest Clint Holmes

Friday, August 16 at 7:30 pm

Vibraphonist, bandleader and composer Christian Tamburr returns to Dizzy’s Club for the world premiere of his latest original project—a musical soundtrack to the works of famed sculptor Seward Johnson. Learn more here.

Trio da Paz and Friends, with Maucha Adnet, Harry Allen and Claudio Roditi

Saturday, August 24 at 7:30 pm

Keeping an unprecedented streak alive for the 12th consecutive year, Trio da Paz comes to Dizzy’s Club for a two-week summer residency. Formed in 1990 by three of Brazil’s most in-demand master musicians, Romero Lubambo, Nilson Matta and Duduka da Fonseca, Trio da Paz updates the infectious spirit of jazz-oriented Brazilian music. Learn more here.

Signature Theatre

Happy Hour

Tuesday, August 13 from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Signature Theatre is excited to host a happy hour for theatre industry assistants on Tuesday, August 13th from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at the Signature Café + Bar. Discounted food and drinks will be available as well as the chance to enter your name in a special raffle. RSVP today.

Wave Hill

Sunset Wednesday: Bronx SalsaFest – Chino Pons and Grupo Irék

Wednesday, August 7 at 7:00 pm

One of New York City’s quintessential Salsa groups, Chino Pons and Grupo Irék, launches SalsaFest at Wave Hill. Learn more here.

Twilight in the Garden thursdays

(Explore the garden through a customized nature program or experience the gardens through sound)

Sonic Experience – DJ Lightbolt Global Stereotype

Thursday, August 8 at 7:00 pm

Global Stereotype is a sonic journey of Outernational music. Multi-instrumentalist with a global headset DJ Lightbolt mashes up sounds from both hemispheres and all manner of contemporary fusion. Learn more here.

Full-Moon Nature Walk

Thursday, August 15 at 8:00 pm

Traverse Wave Hill’s garden and woodland paths under the light of the “Sturgeon Moon,” the last full moon of summer. Expert naturalist Mike Feller leads this after-hours adventure along woodland edges and pocket meadows where fireflies, moths and other insects rendezvous for some evening revelry. Learn more here.

Stargazing in the Garden

Thursday, August 22 from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Prepare for an out-of-this-world experience with Irene Pease and a team of sidewalk astronomers. Learn what it takes to be an amateur astronomer in New York City, get oriented to the night sky, test out a telescope in the garden and observe the starry night high above Wave Hill. Learn more here.

By Carina Hayek

We’ve scoured social media, consulted clients and assessed articles to identify the top trends for weddings and events.

Vegetables are taking center stage. Vegetarian dishes are no longer an afterthought – more and more hosts are relying on plant-based dishes to feed all of their guests. From our Eggplant Chermoula with Cauliflower Couscous to our Za’atar Roasted Portobello Steak and Spring Roots, we’ve got a variety of tastes to satisfy even the most meat-loving guest.

Be sensitive to food sensitivities. People with food sensitivities should know which foods they can enjoy

and which they can’t. Consult with your planner to ensure you have a variety of dishes, including ones that are free of some or all of the eight major allergens (eggs, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, shellfish, and fish).

Source local, eat global. Locally sourced produce tastes better, helps preserve the environment, and contributes to the local economy. But that doesn’t mean our flavors need to remain local. We’re seeing hosts looking for an international experience from their hors d’oeuvres through their desserts. We use spices and cooking techniques from Asia, North and South America and Europe in dishes like our Pulled Chicken; King Trumpet Oyster Mushroom Carpaccio; and Five-Spice Beluga Lentils and Roast Butternut Squash; and Soft and Chewy S’mores.

Have fun with food. Finger foods, sharing plates and a unique spin on cocktails can help set a relaxed, fun tone for an event. Keep guests moving – and guessing – with a variety of hors oeuvres and snacks. From passed English Pea Blini to Pretzel Trees, providing guests with different food presentations can help make your event even more memorable. And don’t forget the cocktails! We kept our guests cool with these ice pops in sparkling wine, a refreshing and fun way to kick off an outdoor gala.

Waste not, want not. Whether you call it zero-waste, frond-to-root, or nose-to-tail cooking, it all boils down to using the entire ingredient. We call it tradition, cooking the way our grandparents cooked to ensure nothing was wasted. Look for dishes that incorporate some of the less-often used parts of plants like carrot tops, pea tendrils and kale stems. These are delicious, nutritious, and ensure we honor our ingredients.

By Chef David Heredia

Squash blossoms bring back memories from twenty to twenty-five years ago, when I was sent to live with my paternal great grandfather in Xochihuehuetlan, Guerrero (south-western Mexico).

He had a huge field of corn—at least, that’s how it seemed to me back then. It was my first pizca, or corn harvesting, with a bunch of cousins, uncles and family members I never knew I had.

After such a long day, my great grandmother began to wash these yellow-orange squash flowers she had picked in the fields, preparing them for dinner along with huitlacoche (corn smut fungus). The aunts were busy making hand-made tortillas, surrounded the clay stove, talking and laughing as they prepared quesadillas with string cheese and either the bright, delicate squash flowers or the pungent, earthy huitlachoche. I didn’t get to see the whole process because this was the domain of the women of the house—or as I remember, the gossip circle.

With the tables set up, I finally got a chance to try these delicacies. I’m not sure if it was the lingering smell of the burning wood or the muskiness from the huitlacoche, or perhaps the tiredness of being outside under the scorching hot sun or that I was just starving, but the squash blossom quesadillas were just heavenly. It’s perhaps the best thing I have ever tasted and a fitting reward for a long day of work

My great grandparents are gone and although I never had the chance to get the recipe from them, I’ve attempted to recreate the dish as I can remember.

Squash blossoms remind me of the family working together and the indelible memory of all the women gathered around the stove cooking for everyone and the house full of chatter and laughter.

With a busy life in New York City, this priceless memory transports me to earlier days and is a reminder of a distant and simple, yet fulfilling, past.

Try Chef David’s delicious Quesadilla de Flor de Calabazas recipe here.

By Sarah Prawl

Celebrate the first full month of summer with a great line-up of entertainment and Activities taking place at our partner venues!

Apollo Theater

Fally Ipupa: All White Concert

Saturday, July 13 at 8:00 pm

Award-winning Congolese singer-songwriter Fally Ipupa electrifies the audience with his sonorous voice and unique dance steps. Learn more here.

Asia society

Asian American International Film Festival: Yellow Rose (Opening Night Film Screening and Reception)

Thursday, July 25  from 7:00 – 11:00 pm

Part of the 42nd Asian American International Film Festival, Yellow Rose is the story of an undocumented Filipino girl who dreams of one day leaving her small Texas town to pursue her country music dreams. Learn more here.

Brooklyn Academy of music

Dapper Dan

Wednesday, July 10 at 7:00 pm

High-end streetwear icon, Dapper Dan, graces the BAM stage to celebrate the launch of his stunning new memoir, Dapper Dan: Made in Harlem. Learn more here.

Brooklyn Museum

The Market at the Brooklyn Museum

Saturday, July 13 from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Shop one-of-a-kind, handmade items from local artisans and vendors. Learn more here.

Pop-Up Performance: Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra

Sunday, July 21 from 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Stop by the Beaux-Arts Court for the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra’s new pop-up performance series, featuring a family-friendly range of classical music from across the globe. Learn more here.

Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion

July 20, 2019 – January 5, 2020

Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion is the first New York retrospective in forty years to focus on the legendary couturier. Drawn primarily from Pierre Cardin’s archive, the exhibition traverses the designer’s decades-long career at the forefront of fashion invention. Learn more.

Complete your experience with a meal at “Maxim’s at The Norm”, a homage to Pierre Cardin’s restaurant, Maxim’s de Paris, and featuring classic dishes from the Maxim’s de Paris cookbook and Maxim’s inspired seasonal dishes.

CARAMOOR

Caramoor Takes Wing! Celebrating Birdsong

Saturday, July 13 at 8:30 pm; Sunday, July 14 at 4:30 pm

Convene with the birds through the universal language of music. Built around Pierre-Laurent Aimard’s performance of Messiaen’s complete Catalogue d’Oiseaux over three concerts, the weekend will also include bird walks, a panel discussion and family activities celebrating our feathered friends. Learn more here.

Jazz Festival (Presented in Collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center)

Saturday, July 20 All Day

Celebrating its 5th year in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, Caramoor’s Jazz Festival is a highly anticipated highlight of the summer with jazz performed by phenomenal talent amid lush gardens and distinctive venues on 90 acres of grounds. Learn more here.

Summer Season Finale: Orchestra of St. Luke’s

Sunday, July 28 at 4:00 pm

Caramoor’s summer season comes to a close with the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, led by their Principal Conductor Bernard Labadie and violinist Christian Tetzlaff. Learn more here.

Dizzy’s

Emoción: The Sounds of Tango

Wednesday, July 10 at 7:30 pm

Multinational quintet, Emocion, celebrates the universal power of music and the sounds and rhythms of Tango Nuevo. Learn more here.

Brasil Summerfest: Amaro Freitas Trio

Wednesday, July 31 at 7:30 pm

In collaboration with Brasil Summerfest, Jazz at Lincoln Center presents the New York City debut of the Amaro Freitas Trio, who are on the cutting edge of fusing Afro-Brazilian rhythmic traditions with genre-defying modern jazz. Learn more here.

Signature Theatre

Happy Hours

July 11 – July 25

Come to the Signature Café + Bar to network and mingle while enjoying Happy Hour specials. RSVP today.

Spotlight on Design: A Casebook on Octet

July 13

Join an in-depth discussion with the design team of Octet, showcasing the creative collaboration involved in bringing this acclaimed chamber choir a cappella musical to life. RSVP now.

Wave Hill

Mokuhanga: A Japanese Woodblock Printing Intensive

Thursday, July 11 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Learn the time-honored techniques of “mokuhanga”, or relief printing, with 2019 Winter Workspace Artist Nandini Chirimar. Print using traditional Japanese woodblock techniques for two full days while exploring the basics of image preparation, transfer, registration, carving and multi-color printing. Learn more here.

Gallery to Garden Walk: Figuring the Floral

Saturday, July 27 at 2:00 pm

Tour the exhibition Figuring the Floral with an exhibiting artist and a Wave Hill horticultural interpreter, then venture out into the gardens to see how some of the flowers are used symbolically by the artists to express representations of identity. Learn more here.

By Great Performances

We appreciate all of the dads here at GP and wanted to take a moment to hear some of their thoughts on fatherhood and plans for Father’s Day.

Justin Schwartz, Executive Sous Chef

I have never loved anyone or anything so selflessly and so completely. It is a wonderful feeling to put someone else first. The best part of fatherhood is in my efforts to become a better father, I have become a better man.

Ronnie Davis, Managing Director

I have always enjoyed Father’s Day, and enjoy it even more so now that I have grandchildren; But Father’s Day 2012 was very special. Father’s Day is always preceded by D-Day, that infamous June day when, during World War II, the Allied Forces launched a seemingly impossible invasion of German occupied France by storming the beaches of Normandy. The attack was spearheaded by the US Army Rangers who were the elite soldiers of their day and it was their job to “lead the way.”  My father, Harry Davis, was one of them. He never talked about what has been infamously referred to as “The Longest Day.” We all knew that a part of him was left on those beaches that day and we were sure that the remainder of his adult life was influenced by it.

By chance, I found myself in Europe in June of 2012, so I decided to detour to Normandy on the way home–a pilgrimage of sorts, hoping to learn a little about what shaped my father’s thoughts in his adult life. As I found myself staring at the sea above the very cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, there was no doubt that I was now in my father’s footsteps. A local Frenchman born not too far from there suggested that I visit a small museum in Grandcamp-Maisy, a few miles from Omaha Beach. Seeking some more information, I entered the little beachfront building called “Musée des Rangers” and there, something special happened.  

In the first case I looked, among the mementos placed as homage to the heroes who freed their city, was a picture of three smiling Rangers taken in England just prior to the invasion. The third soldier on the right smiling back at the camera was my father!

So, Dad, I will do as they do in Normandy; I will light a candle in your honor on June 6th, the anniversary of D-Day, and remember you with extra pride on this, and every, Father’s Day.

Happy Father’s Day to all who serve and have served this country.

Tim Sullivan, Executive Chef, Venues

I’m so lucky to be a dad to these three crazy girls. This year for Father’s Day, I have front row seats to three soccer games and two lacrosse practices.

Rodrigo Cando, Executive Sous Chef

Being a father is one of the greatest accomplishments a man can have. Watching your child say his/her first words and take his/her first steps is such a beautiful thing to experience. I am blessed to have three kids who make me very proud to be their father. This Father’s Day, my daughter plans to take me to a spa to relax and de-stress. My wife also plans to have a bbq for the family. It is going to be a good day!

Rob Valencia, Executive Chef, Catering Production

Being that this is my first Father’s Day, and that I’ve waited 48 years to get here, feels miraculous. What do I plan on doing? Nothing different from any other Sunday–the two of us spending time with our new son; or probably a picnic at the park next to our farmer’s market in Stuytown.

I’m just happy to have a day with them and dreaming about all of the future days to come.

Bruce started working for Great Performances in 2004 and was a dedicated employee, our finest bartender and our friend. A man who’s personality radiated positivity and kindness, he cared for everyone like they were family. His hard work, humor and humility will be missed from set up, to break down.

Tim Berryman

Bruce was from a very small town called Arkabutla, Mississippi. The town was so small that not only was he was related to everyone there, but his family actually owned the entire town. As soon as he graduated high school, he left the small-town life and went away to college where he became the Bruce that we all knew and loved.

He was always up for an adventure; we had so many together I couldn’t even begin to summarize the things we got into together. His spirit was out of this world and he would do anything for anyone who needed his help. He was truly one of the grandest and most humble men in this world. If it wasn’t for Bruce, I would have never moved to NYC and work with him at GP. He was responsible for all of the fast friends I have met here. Bruce could make you belly laugh just by some of his expressions. He had a wit about him that could be matched by no other. He was an avid Chess and Backgammon player and he always beat me at Chess, every time.

There is no short way to sum up his great life in a few words, so let me just say this: he had no regrets, he lived his life to the fullest and he took control of his destiny.

He will forever be in my heart and all that knew him. The world lost a great man on April 21, 2019 at 11:09 am, on Easter Sunday, to meet all of our friends that went before him. He had to go out with his Southern flair. He’s up there having a great time and looking down on all of us and always wanting the best for us all.

To my brother, best friend and the most loyal person who I’ve ever had the pleasure to know: Godspeed my love! My buddy forever, with my whole hearted love and respect.

Michael Sanders (or as he called me, “Missy Sanders”)

There are special people in our lives who never leave us, even after they are gone. Bruce is gone from my sight but never from my heart.

Alexandra Bujor

Bruce Carlton was a wonderful person to work with and a wonderful friend, always bringing the sass and charm. He was a fun bartender and was so patient with new bartenders. He trained a lot of the bartenders we have now at GP. He would share these special ice scoops with his co-workers. He made them by drilling holes in the scoop, so melted ice water could drain out. So generous.

It was easy to become friends with him, he just liked being around good people and bourbon. It’s hard not seeing him around—at work or out socially. He had this great southern accent and a belly laugh that could make you laugh with him, just from hearing it. It’s hard losing someone so full of light. 

Kathryn Anible

When I had a surgery couple of weeks before he passed, he called me every day to ask if I needed anything.

I love how Liz called him “A Tennessee Bumpkin who made New York home in 80’s.” He had to move away from family to be himself–one more thing we have in common. The whole world is one family if you have the ability to love people for who they are. 

Daniela Dakic

Bruce was incredibly sweet, funny, smart, and generous. He was one of the first catering professionals in NYC who helped show me the ropes in our crazy business. If you were a new hire, the best possible coworker you could end up next to on a bar was Bruce. He never judged or bullied you, just guided you with southern charm and an unmatched sense of humor.

One time on a gig he told me he had several private clients and would often need some extra hands for a dinner or a party and wanted to know if I’d be interested in helping whenever. This is when we got to know each other a lot better. We discussed books, history, news, music, hiking, you name it. 

He was just a joy to be around. And all of those private gigs he threw my way made a huge difference in my life financially when things were really tough. I’ll be forever grateful.

We made a great team and I miss him so much. I’ll never hike or sip bourbon without thinking of him. I do my best to spread the same joy and laughter in the workplace in tribute. I miss his hugs and his laugh.

Love you Bruce.

Wes Mason

Plenty has been said about his kindness and his sassy sense of humor. I do have one favorite story Bruce told me once. Ken Bolander and I had the pleasure of hosting him at our home for several months while he was between apartments. He and I, both being smokers and bourbon drinkers, spent many a night on our sunporch swapping tales; he of his youth on a farm in Mississippi, mine spent in a Queens suburb. One evening, after one of the many horrible mass shootings that plague our country, Bruce said to me, “I am for gun control but I also understand the gun culture. I got my first rifle when I was 12. We had a pond on the farm and we had cottonmouths and water moccasins. I was terrified of snakes. Mama had a .22 leaning up against the wall by the kitchen door. I’d go out with my rifle and if I saw a snake I’d throw the gun down and go running for the house screaming, Mama, Mama, there’s a snake. Mama would run right past her .22, grab a hoe and cut the snake’s head off”!!! I can still hear him telling that story with his distinctive and delightful Mississippi accent. I hope I’ll never forget that story or the sound of his voice telling it. He was a good man and a dear friend. He will be sorely missed.

Rick deHaan

I really enjoyed working with Bruce, and he was always the guy to organize groups in a car back to Astoria when we worked late in Brooklyn. He’ll be missed!

Barry DeBois

Bruce and I used to work bar together all the time. He was the the best listener you could imagine, and no matter the type of day you had, he was there for you.

His favorite quote was “bless your heart”. Regardless of how he felt about you, it was always the same, “bless your heart”.

Bruce was one of our top bartenders, and when I saw him on my staff list, I knew that everything would be great and I knew I could trust him to handle anything.

He was a beautiful soul and none of us at GP will ever forget him.

Kat Liz Kramer

By Sarah Prawl

Time is running out to make plans for Mother’s Day! Celebrate the mothers in your life with delicious food and exciting entertainment at our partner venues. Create new memories (and share old ones) on this special weekend.

APOLLO THEATER

Mo’Nique’s Mother’s Day Comedy Special

Saturday, May 11 at 8:00 pm

The multimedia powerhouse, stand-up artist and Oscar-winning actor hosts an evening of fun with Tone-X and Friends. Learn more here.

ASIA SOCIETY

Asia Society Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea

Sunday, May 12 at 11:30 am – 2:30 pm

Celebrate the mothers in your life with our Asian-inspired afternoon tea at the Garden Court Café located within the Asia Society Museum. Make your reservation today as seats are limited.

BROOKLYN ACADEMY OF MUSIC

BLACK VELVET: Architectures And Archetype

Sunday, May 12 at 3:00 pm

Shamel Pitts (former Batsheva Dance Company member), Mirelle Martins and Lucca del Carlo present an original multidisciplinary performance work that celebrates the textures, beauty, delicacy and power within us. Learn more here.

BROOKLYN MUSEUM

Creativity Lab

Sunday, May 12 from 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

After a delicious Frida Kahlo-inspired brunch at The Norm, explore your creative side at Brooklyn Museum’s Creativity Lab. In this drop-in workshop for all ages, take inspiration from the museum’s galleries and learn artistic techniques with a special project for the whole family to enjoy! Learn more here.

DIZZY’S

Juilliard Jazz Orchestra: Music Of Duke Ellington

Sunday, May 12 at 7:30 pm

Treat mom to a delicious meal featuring Dizzy’s new spring menu, and a spectacular performance from The Juilliard Jazz Orchestra’s celebration of Duke Ellington. Learn more here.

WAVE HILL

Mother’s Day Brunch

Sunday, May 12

Seatings at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm (Each seating is for two hours)

Celebrate the mothers in your life at a festive Mother’s Day Brunch at the historic Wave Hill House. Enjoy a pear mimosa and indulge in seconds of our Horchata French Toast at our brunch buffet. Check out the menu and make your reservation by noon, Wednesday, May 8 by purchasing your ticket here.