One of my favorite pastimes in New York is theater, especially the off-Broadway shows.  They are usually productions put on by independent artists, rising writers, directors and actors.  The most recent Broadway show to really create a buzz was Passing Strange, which became so popular, Spike Lee decided to make it his next film subject.

Passing Strange recently premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival where Spike Lee and the cast spoke about the film after it was screened by an audience of industry and festival attendees.

A few productions on my list to see are The Newlyweds-not the game people!  This production is an Aditi Pictures presentation, - written and directed by Beverly Orozco.

The Newlyweds is a contemporary and hip production that will take audiences on a journey as deception and lies leads to love and marriage through sickness and no wealth.  Set within the hustle and bustle of affluent current day Midtown Manhattan.  The Newlyweds tells a story of a maid and street hustler over involved in their efforts to impress each other with the wealth they do not posses.  After a quick rush to the alter before their covers are revealed, this romantic comedy will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions as these imposters try to survive love without the worldly riches each one was initially set out for.  Phillip J. Smith and BE Rivers stars from the acclaimed Off-Broadway play, Platanos and Collard Greens are both featured in the play.

Following the show, there will be a private opening reception at Whiskey Park.

Brown Girls Burlesque presents "Grind High" Saturday May 16, 2009
8:00 pm.  Admission: $25.  Tickets available here:

http://kumbletheater.tix.com/Event.asp?Event=185859

In Brooklyn, For one night only, come experience what you wish your high school was like. Bandies, jocks, freaks, prom queens collide in this "Tasselistic Education" with live music by Mackie Riverside and the Street Pushers.  Hosted by Robin Cloud

Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts
Long Island University (LIU) Brooklyn Campus (1 University Plaza, Downtown, Brooklyn 11201)

The school is located across the street from Junior's Restaurant--which Diddy made popular after making Da Band walk to Brooklyn from the city for a slice of cheesecake.

After the play is the after party at FRANKS'S LOUNGE (660 Fulton Street ~ Downtown, Brooklyn)
Free admission with GRIND HIGH ticket stub.  Sister From Another Planet on the decks!

I'm also excited to see God of Carnage starring my favorite Soprano...Mr. James Gandolfini, who's joined by a cast of heavies: Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis and Marcia Gay Harden. 

The play is about "Two ostensibly civilized married couples meet up to sort out a playground fight.  The son of one couple (Jeff Daniels and Hope Davis) has broken two of the teeth of the son of another (James Gandolfini and Marcia Gay Harden). At first diplomatic niceties are observed, but as the meeting progresses and the rum flows, huge tensions emerge and the gloves come off, leaving more than just their liberal principles in tatters."

For more info: http://godofcarnage.com/

Until Next Time,

See You in the City!

Dominga Martin~