10 HOLIDAY TABLE DECORATING TIPS TO TRY AT HOME
By GP Event Design Manager, Randy Ballesteros
WE BELIEVE THAT LIFE REVOLVES AROUND FOOD, WHICH IN MANY (EVEN MOST!) INSTANCES MEANS IT IS REVOLVING AROUND A TABLE.
Like a fine painting, marvelous food presentations are further enhanced by a worthy frame in the form of tabletop settings. Few occasions call for more festive tabletops than holiday entertaining, so we asked Event Design Manager Randy Ballesteros to come up with Ten Tips for Holiday Table Decorating. He rose to the challenge by designing an enchanting tablescape that mixes and matches various intriguing elements to produce a cosmopolitan look with a captivating sense of rusticity and nod toward sustainability.
HOLIDAY TABLE DECORATING TIPS
1. A collection of seasonal plants – such as juniper, helleborus, lavender, cyclamen – mixed with various ferns in an assortment of pots lends a fresh, natural focal point to the center of the table. And they can serve as a lovely favor for your guests at the end of the evening.
2. Keep the conversation going by placing taller décor items in between place-settings so guests’ sightlines of each other are not blocked.
3. Seasonal fruits in bowls add a splash of color to the table, as well as tasty palate refreshing bites for your guests between courses.
4. Adorn your table with runners as an alternate tablecloth. We used eco-friendly Chilewich runners.
5. Mix wood, ceramic matte, and gloss to yield an array of eye-capturing textures.
6. Don’t be afraid to mix metals as well. Copper and gold play surprisingly well together!
7. Colored candles are an easy way to add decorative depth and height to a table
8. Specialty cocktails deserve a specialty glass! Showcase a delicious drink with etched glassware.
9. Have fun with place cards by displaying them in unexpected placement.
10. Graphic tiles, such as Moroccan ones we used, add a colorful patterns to the tabletop mis and act as efficient, yet decorative risers or trivets for hot food.
HOLIDAY SEASON FESTIVITIES
By Sarah Prawl
Looking For Something To Do This Holiday Season? We’ve Got You Covered With A List Of The Best Entertainment Taking Place!
IRISH REPERTORY THEATRE’S BOX OFFICE
The Dead 1904
November 17, 2018 to January 13th, 2019
For the third year, Great Performances is playing a co-starring roll in the Irish Repertory’s production of The Dead, 1904 and getting rave reviews! The adaptation of James Joyce’s beloved short story The Dead immerses the intimate audience (only 57 people per show) in the Morkin Sisters’ Feast of the Epiphany celebration as the drama it generates unfolds in an elegant 19th century mansion. Indeed, the audience actually attends the story’s centerpiece dinner party, sharing the celebratory meal – inspired by Joyce’s description and prepared on-site by GP – with the cast as the play’s action continues. Melissa Gilbert reprises her critically acclaimed performance as the female protagonist in this truly singular theatrical experience, which appeals to all the senses, including taste with the likes of Cocoa & Fig Glazed Tenderloin and Parsley & Thyme Roast Turkey with Cranberry Pineapple Relish. For tickets and ticket information, please go to: https://irishrep.org/show/2018-2019-season/the-dead-1904-3/
METTA BROOKLYN
Mettā X GrowNYC – Greenmarket Grains Benefit Dinner
December 10 at 6PM
Metta, one of Brooklyn’s most celebrated restaurants, is hosting a dinner on December 10th to benefit GrowNYC’s Grain’s Project. Tickets are $75 each and the evening will feature two seatings at 6pm and 8:30pm Get your tickets here.
BROOKLYN ACADEMY OF MUSIC
The Hard Nut
December 14 – December 23, 2018
Mark Morris Dance Group’s beloved retro-modern reimagining of The Nutcracker comes back to BAM for the holidays. Learn more.
APOLLO THEATER EVENTS
Coca-Cola Winter Wonderland
Saturday & Sunday, December 15-16, 2018
2pm – 6pm
Hosted by Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell
The Apollo Theater and Coca-Cola invite you to bring the family for holiday-themed activities including picture taking with Santa Claus and amazing performances from local choirs. This event is hosted by the Apollo Theater’s Tour Director and Ambassador, Billy Mitchell. Learn more.
Amateur Night Holiday Special
Saturday, December 15th
Special Guest Performance by The Walls
The Apollo Theater lights up this holiday season with the Apollo Amateur Night Holiday Special, the annual event under its signature program Amateur Night, showcasing recent winners of the show’s “Apollo Stars of Tomorrow” category. This showcase will feature an incredibly talented array of instrumentalists, singers, and dancers from ages 11-18, this program captures the spirit of young performers all hoping to follow in the footsteps of Apollo Legends like Michael Jackson and Ella Fitzgerald, whose careers were launched on the stage of the Apollo. Learn more.
Night Devine
Monday, December 17 at 7:30PM
Tony Award Winner Cynthia Erivo and Billboard #1 recording artist Shoshana Bean star in a one-night-only Holiday Concert Event – NIGHT DIVINE – at Harlem’s World Famous Apollo Theater. Learn more.
Hezekiah Walker & The Love Fellowship Choir, CeCe Winans
Saturday, December 22 at 2 pm
Hosted by Marcus Wiley
Lift your Holiday spirits with an afternoon of soul stirring Holiday gospel music! Cece Winans will warm your soul and Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Choir will take you higher. Marcus Wiley, host and comedian, promises to delight you and your loved ones throughout the afternoon. Learn more.
CARAMOOR EVENTS
Holiday Tea Musicale
Wednesday, December 5 – Thursday, December 13
Join Caramoor’s great tradition of holiday music with charismatic musicians, festive decorations, and tea service in the majestic Music Room. Enjoy an assortment of finger sandwiches, scrumptious holiday treats, and a variety of teas (hot chocolate with marshmallows for the little ones). Learn more.
New York Polyphony
Saturday, December 15
This a cappella vocal quartet brings their exquisitely blended voices to the Music Room in Sing Thee Nowell, a program of sacred Christmas music spanning seven centuries. The Rosen House, splendidly decorated for the holidays, will be open for self-guided tours between the two performances. Ring in the holidays with New York Polyphony’s “rich, natural sound that’s larger and more complex than the sum of its parts” (NPR). Learn more.
Santa Visits The Rosen House
Sunday, December 16
Santa comes to Caramoor to fill the Rosen House with holiday cheer. The little ones will be in for an adventure with I Spy a Santa or Two in the Music Room followed by a 30-minute concert of favorite holiday songs, then Santa Claus appears to delight the whole family. Santa’s favorite snack — milk and cookies — will be served in the Summer Dining Room. Bring your cameras and begin the festive season with joy! Learn more.
DIZZY'S CLUB EVENTS
Riley’s Red Hot Holidays
Tuesday, December 13 at 7:30 pm
Join trumpeter and music director Riley Mulherkar for this swinging holiday show featuring a collective of New York’s finest rising stars. Learn more.
Christmas Eve with Barry Harris
Monday, Dec 24 at 7 pm
Legendary pianist and staple in jazz, Barry Harris, treats us to an iconic performance on Christmas Eve that you don’t want to miss! Learn more.
New Year’s Eve with Carlos Henriquez
Monday, Dec 31 at 7:30 pm & 11 pm
Carlos Henriquez and his all-star octet will ring in the New Year with a series of energetic concerts. Hailing from the Bronx, Henriquez is a rare virtuoso in both jazz and Afro-Cuban traditions. Learn more.
Photo Credits: ©BAM (Julieta Cervantes), ©Caramoor, ©Dizzy’s Club, ©Metta Brooklyn, ©Carol Rosegg
THE JOY OF GIVING BACK!
By Liz Neumark
IT’S SIMPLE: WE ENJOY AND CELEBRATE THE BLESSINGS OF A PLATE FILLED WITH DELICIOUS FOOD.
That’s why having the opportunities to bring nourishing food to hungry New Yorkers is so meaningful. Here are a few organizations we know well and respect that could use your help any day of the year – and during the holiday season.
Support them with your hands, hearts and funds!
WEST SIDE CAMPAIGN AGAINST HUNGER
West Side Campaign Against Hunger is an emergency food pantry that provides assistance to people who struggle to meet the food needs of themselves and their families. They offer fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy in a supermarket-style pantry, where they can choose the food that is best for them, thus serving our community with dignity. They also offer various social services to connect customers to benefits and other community resources, a Chef Training Program, and a new Mobile Food Pantry which is bringing healthy food directly to NYC neighborhoods with high rates of poverty and food insecurity.
To learn more about WSCAH and see their current volunteer opportunities click here.
Contact Info:
263 West 86th Street New York, New York 10024
Phone:(212) 362-3662
Volunteer Coordinator: Maria Valdez, mvaldez@wscah.org.
NEW YORK COMMON PANTRY
New York Common Pantry is dedicated to reducing hunger throughout New York City while promoting dignity and self-sufficiency. NYCP’s whole-person approach starts with food provision through the distribution of nutritious, fresh food pantry packages in Choice Pantry and hearty balanced breakfast and dinner in the Hot Meals program. Supplemental food is provided to seniors aged 60 and older through Nourish. The third vital element in their whole-person approach is education offered through our Live Healthy! program, which teaches children and adults about the importance of a nutritionally sound diet and active living, as well as provides them with the skills necessary to make healthier choices for their families.
NYCP is looking for volunteers for the month of December! Check out their calendar to see available volunteer shifts in their Choice Pantry and Hot Meals programs.
For additional information contact Stacy Gonzalez at sgonzalez@nycommonpantry.org.
Contact Info:
8 East 109th Street New York, NY 10029
Phone: (917) 720-9700
THE SALVATION ARMY — GREATER NEW YORK DIVISION
The Salvation Army Social Services of Greater New York (SSGNY) manages an extensive network of 46 social service programs designed to assist vulnerable adults, families and children: community centers, homeless shelters and outreach programs; soup kitchens, food pantries and mobile street feeding; foster care, group homes and adoption services; residences and programs for the developmentally disabled; AIDS casework centers; employment training and many other programs
They are always looking for volunteers for the many programs that they offer, and you can signup to register here.
Contact Info:
120 W. 14th Street New York, NY 10011
Phone: (212) 337-7200
THE BOWERY MISSION
One of New York City’s oldest homeless services organizations, The Bowery Mission has served homeless, hurting, and hungry New Yorkers since 1879. Today, The Bowery Mission provides a full continuum of care, with the goal of ending and preventing homelessness. These services include: basic needs and emergency care to people experiencing homelessness, long-term recovery programs where adults overcome homelessness, collaborative social services for the unemployed and working poor, and mentoring and enrichment programs for children.
There are many volunteer opportunities available at The Bowery Mission, and openings can be viewed on their calendar.
Contact Info:
432 Park Avenue South, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 684-2800 x107
Email: volunteer@bowery.org
FOOD BANK FOR NEW YORK CITY
FBFNYC aims to end hunger by organizing food, information and support for community survival, empowerment, and dignity. Food Bank For New York City has been working to end food poverty in our five boroughs for 35 years. As the city’s largest hunger-relief organization, we employ a multifaceted approach centered on helping low-income New Yorkers overcome their circumstances and achieve greater independence.
For a complete list of open volunteer opportunities, check out their calendar.
Contact Info:
39 Broadway, 10th Floor New York, NY 10006
Phone: (212) 566-7855
Fax: (212) 566-1463
CITY MEALS ON WHEELS
Citymeals on Wheels provides a continuous lifeline of nourishing meals and vital companionship to New York City’s homebound elderly.
Learn more about their volunteer opportunities here.
Contact Info:
355 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10017
Phone: (212) 687-1234
Email: info@citymeals.org
HOLY APOSTLES SOUP KITCHEN
As New York’s largest emergency food program, Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen serves a hearty and nutritious meal to 1,000 homeless and hungry New Yorkers every day. They offer guests a refuge from the streets, a safe place they feel welcomed, connection to additional services and food for the soul as well as the body.
Contact Info:
296 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
Phone: Revere Joyce Volunteer Manager at (646) 998-6118
Email: rjoyce@holyapostlesnyc.org
Not All Heroes Wear Capes
How Sous Chef Ira Brown's Quick Thinking Saved the Day!
By Sarah Prawl and Ira Brown
WHEN IT COMES TO ANY EMERGENCY, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE, AND GP’S SOUS CHEF, IRA BROWN, WASTED NO TIME IN RUSHING TO THE AID OF SOMEONE IN NEED.
We would love to know more about you!
I’ve worked with Great Performances for 6 years now. For the last 5 years I have worked mostly on-site at events, but have recently moved into the kitchen where I oversee kitchen assignments, prepare food for events and make sure that all food items are labeled correctly for each event.
Can you tell us about your thoughts on the day the incident occurred?
I really believe that everything happens for a reason. I have only been in the kitchen for a month now, and it was just like any regular day. I had just arrived at work about an hour before and heard that someone was in distress in another part of the building. Some staff members ran into the kitchen and asked if anyone knew how to perform the Heimlich Maneuver, which I had done before, and as soon as they explained what was going on I immediately ran over there. When I arrived, the individual was unconscious, and I immediately got behind them and performed the Heimlich step-by-step until the particle had come out and they regained consciousness.
Do you consider yourself a hero?
I definitely don’t have that “Hero Complex”, I am just really thankful that I was at the right place at the right time, and really do believe that everything happens for a reason. Now that I think about it, there was a reason why I moved from on-site events to full time in the kitchen.
A YUMMY SEPTEMBER
By Liz Neumark
It started with Labor Day weekend, naturally. Laboring in the field, gathering delicious fresh veggies; laboring in the kitchen, preparing a feast for family and friends. Nothing is more fun than an all local buffet – the 10-mile menu with the bounty of Katchkie Farm and the Hudson Farmers Market.
What’s next? Jewish New Year, featuring a major food-focused gathering around the table, ushering in a peaceful, delicious and hopeful new year. There have been numerous visits to restaurants, new and old, catching up post-summer with friends; Kish Kash, Blue Bird from London and abcV to name a few. There were GP parties where our clients embrace our love for seasonality. Trips to Union Square Greenmarket filled in the gaps at my city kitchen along with my weekly workplace CSA bag.
Yes, there was a mid-month Fast Day, but the evening feast more than made up for the deprivation. The bagels and fish from Sables were the stuff dreams are made of (and dream I did! I’ve been back there twice for their addictive herring).
Even the canning got out of control and at months end, the inventory is at 800+ jars. Cook, can, nibble. Cook, can, nibble. The 72 jars of concord grape jelly came out perfectly, equal parts grape and sugar – it is no wonder grape jelly is everyone’s favorite. How about this new one: Salted Brown Sugar Peach Jam? And the fermenting containers of hot sauce are bubbling away. The end is in sight (perhaps). Get your requests in!
Then there is the BEST day of the year – The Vendy Awards on Governors Island: aka the Oscars of the Food Truck World. My daughter and I have a tradition of arriving early and eating our hearts out! The Vendy’s is a fundraiser for the Street Vendor Project which works stands up for vendors rights, many of whom are immigrants and people of color. Its vital work includes lobbying for increasing the cap on food vending permits. Please, support them by feasting with food truck and street vendors often. The 2019 winners are a creative and highly motivated group of entrepreneurs and chefs.
Life does happen around food, especially when we are eating together.
MAE MAE CAFE IS HALLOWEEN HAPPY!
By Sarah Prawl
Mae Mae Cafe is serving up a batch of spooky cocktails to get you in the Halloween Spirit! Stop by during our Halloween Happy Hour before the annual Halloween Parade, or the Hudson Yard Scavenger Hunt!
WHAT’S ON THE MENU?
End of Days (Non-Alcoholic):
Lemonade with a shot of Expresso
Pome Blood & Te-Kill-Ya (Tequila) :
Silver Tequila, Lime Juice, fresh-squeezed Pomegranate Syrup, dash of Orange Bitters
MAE MAE IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE NEW HOURS, FALL MENUS, MORE SPECIALS AND HAPPY HOUR! BEGINNING OCTOBER 1ST, MAE MAE’S HOURS ARE NOW:
Monday-Friday
Lunch
11:30 AM to 4 PM
Happy Hour
4 PM to Close
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
MAE MAE CAFE'S NEW FALL MENU
Starters
Fall Produce Platter – Charred Carrots, Roasted Turnips, Broccoli Rabe, Goat Cheese Bon Bon, Farm Egg, Red Pepper Aioli
Katchkie Farm Pickled Veggies
Veggie Soup of the Day
Salads
Fall Greens – Grapes, Pecans, Apple, Maple Vin
Roasted Acorn Squash Salad – Lemony Hummus, Arugula, Pepitas, Salsa Verde
Farmers Bowl – Fall Greens, Charred Carrots, Farrow, French Lentils, Broccoli Rabe, Lemon Vin
Entrees
Flatbread – Caramelized Brussels, Onions, Bacon with Lemony Ricotta, Parmesan
Roasted Salmon – Butternut squash, Broccoli Rabe, Salsa verde
Chicken Saltimbocca Sandwich – Prosciutto, Grilled chicken Cutlet, Sage, Provolone
Avocado Toast – Sourdough Toast, Fried Farm Egg
All Day Bacon Egg & Cheese – Bacon, Tumble Weed Cheddar, Kettle Chips
Mae Mae Veggie Burger – Goat Cheese, Onion Aioli, Thunder Pickle, Kettle Chips
Nanas Meatballs – Parmesan, Garlic Toast
Desserts
Cookies
Pies
Mae Mae will launch a new selection of cocktails, beer, wine and spirits and a Happy Hour Bar Bites Menu, served weekdays from 4pm – Close. Food and drink specials will also be announced weekly to our loyal community.
To learn more, call (212) 924-5109 or email maemaecafe@greatperformances.com. And don’t forget to add @MaeMaeCafe on Instagram!
THE ART OF FOOD AND DESIGN
By Randy Ballesteros and Sarah Prawl
Pushing the envelope extends beyond great food and an amazing venue; planners, clients and guests appreciate events which offer unique and memorable experiences. At Great Performances, we strive to incorporate innovative concepts across all aspects of the planning and execution process. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how our Design Manager, Randy Ballesteros, creates breathtaking event decor.
“I Love Designing Events And Enhancing Delicious Foods With Visually Appealing Environments & Tablescapes.”
FOR A RECENT WEDDING AT THE PLAZA HOTEL, THE CLIENT WANTED A CLASSIC, RUSTIC ITALIAN CHARCUTERIE AT THE COCKTAIL RECEPTION.
We Included An Assortment Of Cheeses, Meats, And Cheeses Presented On Slate, Marble, And Wooden Boards With Touches Of Gold And Copper Accents, All Inspired By The Grandeur Of The Iconic Plaza Palm Court.
FOR THIS PRIVATE DINNER, THE CLIENT WANTED TO PORTRAY A MODERN INTERPRETATION OF THE CLASSIC CORNUCOPIA, FUSING THE BOUNTY OF A FALL HARVEST NESTLED IN AUTUMNAL FOLIAGES.
Rich aubergine plums and figs playfully intertwine with sunset hues of blood oranges, dahlias, and roses. Modern accents of black wooden chairs and prismatic glass bowls lends a modern touch to the color palette. All creating a playful garland which greets the guests with colorful visuals and refreshing bright citrus scents, all the while completely edible. A unique appetizer that creates a memorable and “all-sensory” experience.
FALL 2018 CULTURAL EVENTS
By Sarah Prawl
THIS FALL, IMMERSE YOURSELF IN A VARIETY OF EXCITING EVENTS TAKING PLACE AT OUR VENUES.
From concerts to theatrical performances to art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a preview at some of the highlights from the season ahead. While your’e there, you can enjoy GP drinks at one of the intermission bars, or book a meal at one of the cafés or restaurants.
APOLLO THEATER
Amateur Night
Every Wednesday at 7:30pm
Amateur Night is a must-attend event. Hosted by the comedian Capone, every show is unique, with great music, great vibes and the opportunity to discover amazing new talent. Learn more here.
Phil Lesh & Terrapin Family Band
Friday, September 7 at 8pm
Phil Lesh & Very Special Friends are joined by the Harlem Gospel Choir at this special concert event. Learn more here.
Suze Orman: Women And Money
Saturday, September 15 at 8pm
Ladies, this event is for you! Suze Orman walks us through all of the steps needed to take control of your finances. Learn more here.
Say It Loud: I’m Black And I’m Proud At 50!
Saturday, October 20 at 8pm
Six-time GRAMMY® Award-winning bassist/composer, Christian McBride, spearheads this concert celebrating legendary artists such as James Brown, The Tempations and more. Learn more here.
ASIA SOCIETY
Exhibitions On View At The Museum:
The Progressive Revolution: Modern Art for a New India, September 14, 2018–January 20, 2019
A landmark exhibition of spectacular oil paintings from the 1940s to 1990s, by members of the Progressive Artists’ Group. At a time of massive political and social upheaval, these artists gave visual form to the idea of India as secular, diverse, international, and united.
Tuan Andrew Nguyen: Letters from Saigon to Saigon, September 7, 2018–January 6, 2019
A recently acquired series of nine photographs by Tuan Andrew Nguyen.
Asia Game Changers 2018 Awards
Tuesday, October 9 at Asia Society
This special event honors a remarkable group of leaders who are transforming Asia and the world. Learn more here
BROOKLYN ACADEMY OF MUSIC
Next Wave Festival
October 3 – December 23
BAM is excited to start kick off its iconic NEXT WAVE FESTIVAL. The festival runs from October 3 through December 23 and comprises music, opera, theater, physical theater, dance, film/music and performance art engagements in the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House, BAM Harvey Theater, and BAM Fisher. Highlights includes works by artists across artistic genres, with new work by artists including Ted Hearne, Sasha Waltz, and Michelle Dorrance.
Make sure to stop by the BAM CAFÉ for Cocktails and Small bites before all evening performances in the Peter J Sharp Opera House, led by Great Performances Michelin stared Chef, Saul Bolton. Learn more here.
BROOKLYN MUSEUM
The Norm Restaurant Re-Opens
Friday, September 7
Located inside of Brooklyn Museum, and led by Michelin-starred Chef Saul Bolton, The Norm will re-open for the Fall 2018 Season! Learn more here.
Dance Party: Soul In The Horn
Saturday, September 15
Celebrate the “Soul of a Nation” exhibit at the ultimate dance party filled with horn-infused DJ sets. Learn more here.
First Saturdays At Brooklyn Museum
Saturday, Oct 6th
Sponsored by Target, this free art and entertainment event returns! Learn more here.
DapperQ Presents Dress Code
Thursday, September 6
Join dapperQ for their fifth annual queer runway showcase. Explore pop-up shops from some of the evening’s featured designers as we celebrate the start of New York Fashion Week. Learn more here.
CARAMOOR
In Mo Yang, Violin Concert
Wednesday, September 12 at 11am
2014 Concert Artists Guild Competition Winner, In Mo Yang, blesses us with a 45-minute concert in the Music Room. Learn more here.
Camille Thurman With The Darrell Green Trio (Presented In Collaboration With Jazz At Lincoln Center)
Saturday, Oct 20 at 8pm
Saxophonist and vocalist, Camille Thurman, is set to put on a stellar show in the Music Room. Learn more here.
Omer Quartet (2018–19 Ernst Stiefel String Quartet-In-Residence)
Sunday, November 11 at 3 pm
Join the 2017 Premio Paolo Borciani winners for their first concert in the Music Room. Learn more here.
Molsky’s Mountain Drifters
Saturday, November 17 at 8:00pm
Fiddler, Bruce Molsky, and his team bring the folk tradition to the intimate Music Room. Learn more here.
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER
Spaces By Wynton Marsalis
September 13–15 at 8pm at the Rose Theater
JALC kicks off their 31st season with this visual and audio masterpiece, combining modern dance and big band jazz. Learn more here.
Abelita Mateus And Friends: Mixed Feelings Album Release Concert
October 2 at 7:30pm at Dizzy’s Club
Rising Brazilian jazz star, Abelita Mateus, performs a special show for her new recording, entitled Mixed Feelings. Learn more here.
Joey Alexander With Strings
October 19–20 at 8pm at the Rose Theater
Grammy Award nominated Joey Alexander, at age 15, returns to JALC as a headliner to perform original compositions and his favorite jazz classics in solo, duo, and trio settings. Learn more here.
The Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra Plays Miles Davis
November 8–10 at 8:00pm at the Rose Theater
Wynton Marsalis joins The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra to perform Miles Davis’ groundbreaking music from the 1940s–60s. Learn more here.
SIGNATURE THEATER
Thom Pain (Based On Nothing)
October 23 – November 25
Drama Desk Award-winner and writer Will Eno returns to Signature for Thom Pain , directed by Oliver Butler and featuring Golden Globe Award-winner Michael C. Hall. Learn more here.
WAVE HILL
Fall Exhibitions Opening
Saturday, Sep 8 at 2pm
Meet the artists and curators of Wave Hill’s fall exhibitions! Learn more here.
Cooking Demo: Cooking With Figs
Sunday, Sep 9 at 2pm at the Wave Hill House
Join fruit expert and Senior Horticultural Interpreter, Charles Day, as he schools us on the best fig varieties for containers and offers tips for cultivating figs (Ficus carica) in urban gardens. Learn more here.
Woodland Restoration Volunteer Event
Sunday, Sep 16 at 10am
Join the Wave Hill staff in restoring and maintaining the Herbert and Hyonja Abrons Woodland. Learn more here.
Photo Credits: ©Gulnara Samoilova, ©Judith Rae, ©Amanda Gentile, ©Signature Theatre, ©Jazz at Lincoln Center, ©Asia Society
MEET ANA REYES - SEAMSTRESS GREAT PERFORMANCES
Rescue & Reuse!
By Liz Neumark and Ana Reyes
IF YOU HAVE EVER BEEN TO THE GP OFFICE, THERE IS A COLLECTION YOU WILL NOTICE: THE DOZENS OF CANVAS BAGS HANGING ON OUR WALLS – EACH ONE FROM A FARMER’S MARKET IN THE U.S. OR BEYOND.
I am a bag lady. This passion merged with another trait – I am allergic to food waste. In the kitchen we aim for full utilization of food (so beet tops are sautéed and eaten; trimmed fish scraps are made into mousse or soup).
Have you ever noticed the sacks that contain rice/potatoes/onions/grains/chicken feed/seeds? They are beautiful!
Bag lady meets food sacks and BINGO – an idea takes root! Convert these intriguing materials into functional bags, skillfully adding a few pom-poms and frills. Ana instantly got the vision. The collection of rescued and transformed food sacks are now works of art.
I am pleased to introduce you to Ana!
ANA, WE’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR STORY. HOW DID YOU START CREATING BAGS?
I’ve been sewing ever since I was a little child, back in the Dominican Republic. My mom saw my love for sewing and put me in sewing classes when I was 14 or 15 years old. I never thought that I could make a career as a designer because during that time Accounting and Business was “The Career”, so I started studying Accounting in my country and when I came to the US, I received my Accounting degree. That wasn’t my passion though. In 2010, life invited me to go back to investing my energy and time and effortlessly. After the economy crashed, my position was eliminated and I saw that as a sign to go and do something with my craft. I enrolled in FIT to learn more about the industry and what the business was about. I started to make clothing for designers as a seamstress and felt like that wasn’t what I wanted to, I felt like everything flows when I’m making bags. One day I started thinking, ‘ There are too many bags out there, I need to create a bag that can stand out from the competition.’ So I started making bags out of old recycled jeans and vegan leather and that’s the business that I am in right now. It really is an art, and it comes easily to me because I’m so passionate about it. Being here at GP has really aligned with what I am doing and I love that Liz believed in me and gave me the freedom to use my creativity, and that’s why the bags come out the way they do.
WHAT SIZE BAGS DO YOU PREFER TO MAKE?
I usually go for the size that people can use at the supermarket and I make sure that everything is well made and that the material is strong and durable.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS LIKE FROM START TO FINISH? WHERE DOES THE MATERIAL COME FROM?
These bags all come from the kitchen, they started out as sacks of rice, potatoes, onions, etc. Liz came up with the idea of bringing the sacks upstairs from the warehouse and I sort through them. I look at the colors, and when I see a color that I want to use, I immediately think ‘Oh that’s so beautiful, I want to give some life to this’ and I then I start to put different pieces together. I play with the trimmings and I try to create handles that create harmony within the sacks that I use.
IT’S MORE THAN JUST MAKING BAGS FOR YOU, WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY?
I believe in the philosophy of recycling and reusing, and Liz and I connected on that level because she shares the same philosophy that I have. So instead of throwing all of this material away, she’s using it. This has a very great purpose because you know how many things we throw out, there’s a lot of pollution in the environment. So in a way, she’s taking care of the environment and I really believe in that. Also, we are creating bags that people can see a story behind.
To learn more about Ana and to see her work, visit her website.
Intro by Liz Neumark
Stories by The Students of CS 61 Elementary
A Note From Liz
I woke up on May 8th with trepidation and headed to East Crotona Park, Bronx, wondering if I would pass muster with the kids. Would my mathematical abilities (non-existent) be vetted? Would I need to demonstrate principal-like skills?
The half day that I spent at CS 61 was enlightening, entertaining, inspiring and completely exceeded any expectations! The young girls and boys had done their homework. Our conversations were peppered with questions about the farm, healthy food, chefs and catering. They were curious about everything and impressed me with their big goals and aspirations.
The school’s principal, Marjorie Cutler Sanchez, took the helm in September 2017. She is a smart woman; an excellent administrator, team builder and strategic planner. Her connection to the community and the students, in just a few short months, is deep and productive.
It seemed obvious to turn over some newsletter space to Roger, Victoria, Paul, Dylan, Marcus, Roselyn, Aimar, Madelyn, Sidiki and Ethelyn. Enjoy their words and emotions. They restored my faith in the future!
To learn more about PENCIL’s Principal For A Day® click here.
by Paul Martinez
Hi! My name is Paul Martinez. I am a student in 5th Grade who attended C.S.61. Today I’ll be telling you about a meeting I had with a important person. Her name is Ms. Liz. She is 60 years old and she is one of the Top 50 most powerful women in New York. She owns her own company, it’s called Great Performances NYC Catering Company. If you need someone to cook for you like a wedding or holiday you call them and they’ll do it.
My favorite subject to learn is science because it’s based off of animals, plants, and many living things, the human body and a lot more. I’ll name my favorite animals: wildcats, bears, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals, also water creatures and crustaceans. They are based off of real thing and it’s fun to learn about.
Why Being A Scientist Is So Cool
by Sidiki Diarra
The reason why being a scientist is so cool is because you can make all kinds of machines. You can also make the future brighter. You can even make gadgets that are useful to other people. Even help people that are in need. A final one is that when you finish your creation you need some test subject so you know if it’s okay and if it’s not try again.
You can make the future brighter by making something that can make any kind of food that you want by asking. Even make an auto-pilot button that can make a car go by itself. You can even put it on a bike, but you have to steer it. If you don’t steer it, it will be out of control. Also make a watch that has video, like Netflix, YouTube etc.
So things that are useful to other people is that when you want to go to some kind of place like the kitchen or the bathroom or bedroom you can put on skate plus shoes which would help you go someplace that you want to go like stores, busses, trains, markets and other kinds of stuff that you can go to. Something that is useful to other people is that book that can read to you and when it’d done you have to read it.
You can even make a wallet that when you don’t have any money you can ask ‘can I get more money please?’ Then it will give you enough money.
One way that you can help people in need is that you can help fix their fountain if it’s not working. You can even help with their TV. If they need some help you can build something like a robot that has everything you needs for cleaning, cooking and fun. But if you want, you can help them by yourself.
A final one is that you have test subjects. Your test subjects can be paper, money, apple, fruits are all test subjects. Just make sure it is not animals because they are part of life. So life is easy but you put it to your best, so if you fail you tried your best and you can do it again.
What I Want To Be When I Grow Up
by Marcus Ancrum
What I want to be when I grow up is an all genre dancer. The reason I would like to be an all genre dancer is because I love to dance. Also, it helps with taking stressful things off your mind.
Somethings things don’t go as planned. I originally wanted to be a photographer and an actor but I decided that dancing and acting wads my thing. I apparently focused more on dancing because I had more opportunities like getting accepted at Alvin Ailey CAS dance camp. I was really thankful because I did not have any opportunities for acting or photography.
Being a dancer is not an easy task because you have to stay fit and be active. They also might have to perform for people and practice a lot. That’s why it’s no easy job. They also can get major deals like being in celebrity’s music videos or maybe even a concert. There are pros and cons to being a dancer.
There are not that many males in the dancing industry, I want to be one of those men dancing and making my dreams come true. The legacy of male dancers must continue. In the next couple of years there will be a decent amount of male dancers in this industry. Also I want to make an example for others that want to be dancers.
To conclude, if you have a dream chose it, believe it, try hard to succeed in it. Never give up because I bet one day your dream will come true. Trust and believe.
When I Grow Up I Want To Be President Of Dominican Republic
by Roger Trinidad
When I grow up I want to be President of Dominican Republic because I want to end poverty and corruption. I want to make my country a good place for citizens. I want the people to feel happy and proud of being Dominican and not feel embarrassed of being Dominican.
What I Want To Be When I Grow Up?
by Victoria Darko
What I want to be when I grow up? Hmm. Very hard question considering I only have experience with eating McDonald’s.
First, I kind of only have like three in mind. The first is a fashion designer (with my own company). Second is a cartoon animator. Lastly is a photographer.
I kinda like drawing, and I think I am pretty good at it. Like on my free time I like doodling. That’s why I want to be a cartoon animator.
The reason I want to be a fashion designer is cause I am crafty and have a very good fashion sense. Also when I make something it is unique and special. As I said before I am good at drawing so that will help designing it.
Lastly, the reason I want to be a photographer is because I like looking at the world in different ways. It kinda weird that I want to be a photographer since I don’t like taking pictures.
Anyways… this is what I want to be when I grow up. ☺
Photo Credits: Marjorie Cutler Sanchez, Sarah Prawl