In The Lights

The Book of Mormon on Broadway

2011-03-05T23:00:00.000-08:00

Why does society flock to stories of hope, forgiveness, accepting imperfection and overcoming weakness? Because it gives us hope, brings communities together, diminishes evil and helps us believe in a better tomorrow…as shown in a fabulous ensemble number “Tomorrow is a Latter-day,” near the end of one of Broadway’s newest musicals, The Book of Mormon. This show might not be for all Mormons out there or the right-wing conservative, but if you’ve ever chuckled at even one South Park episode then you should head to Broadway to see what will definitely be a top contender for a Tony Award this year.

As a believer in the Mormon faith I did not find the musical to be mean spirited or horribly offensive. I went into the show expecting the worst, but laughed (sometimes at the uncomfortableness) and cheered (the acting and direction is amazing) just as loud as everyone around me. I adore the missionary songs and ensemble pieces. The opening Book of Mormon song is energizing, the Two by Two song made me feel nostalgia toward my mission experiences, Turn it off – a nifty little Mormon trick - is a melody I’ve been humming since Tuesday, the I am/We are Africa song might make you pee your pants a little, and the lineup of the last few songs really might bring a tear to your eyes (they didn’t have a song list in the program during previews so I don’t know the exact name of the songs). I wouldn’t be surprised to see a few of the appropriate songs turn up in ward talent shows.

So is the show irreverent? Absolutely - but not all of it! The first half of the show only has one horribly offensive song. Upon arrival to Africa, Elders Prince and Cunningham meet the villagers where they will be living. The villagers quickly dismiss their message of hope by explaining that they address their issues by singing a phrase (making fun of Lion King’s hakunamatata) that translates to and is visually carried out with choreography that gives God the middle finger. Because of the missionaries’ horribly offended reactions when they figure out the translation, you can’t help but laugh, but equally feel like you might get struck by lightning for laughing at this song – which any religious person would be offended by, not just Mormons.

The second half of the musical crosses the line even further with sexual gestures that are sure to offend more conservative viewers, but there is no nudity as other Broadway shows have included. The crude jokes in the musical are no worse than you might hear on an average day and of course should be expected from the creators of this show.

Some might also find the jokes in regards to how the teaching of the church are ridiculed - Joseph Smith finding gold plates, the origins of a third book and people testifying of Christ on the American continent, blacks and the priesthood, Kolob – as a bit insensitive, but if you are a Mormon and can’t admit that some of our beliefs are a little crazy…then you’re not realistic. There are unbelievable teachings and miracles within all religions; and also an undeniable power behind faith. I do love how the script and songs after anything that is offensive, or a little over the top, seem to be the most touching scenes of the show and the heart is quickly softened.

The gem of this show, and the aspects I felt also shed a charming light on the Mormon faith, is the strong message of hope and forgiveness in the show. Key to Mormon beliefs is the teachings that we are not perfect, we make mistakes, each of us has our own understanding of faith and religion, and our relationship with God is individual.

As a huge Broadway fan I loved the show, I love the last number before the intermission, I love the ending and the final number…the reprise is even better. I left the show with a smile on my face and still proud to be a Mormon. Even better, everyone who walks out of the theater watching this show have smiles on their faces. The Book of Mormon, the musical, is not a credible source for the teachings of the church, but I don’t believe anyone going to the show is going with the intent to find a true record of the Mormon faith. I wouldn’t be surprised if this show will help break the ice and prime the field for more discussions about The Church of Jesus-Christ of Latter-day Saints with friends and colleagues, where Mormons will have the opportunity to share the true doctrines.

I hope that no Mormon will criticize the show without seeing it…and I encourage Mormons everywhere to brave it and see the show to form your own opinion…and I really hope you’ll share your experience with me.

Note (updated March 19): I would like to clarify that I chose "brave it" to encourage those on the fence and interested in seeing the show to do so. This show is crass and would be R-rated. Read what is out there and decide what is best for you - a quick study of South Park material will give you a good idea of what you're in for. A couple of my close friends who recently saw the show, mentioned that they went into it expecting the crassness and offensiveness to be minimal, based on what I wrote in my post. I went in expecting the worst..and specifically wrote my thoughts based around the fact that the offenses taken at this show are not directly related to the Mormon faith and would offend many, regardless of religion. Anyone who opposes South Park humor may not like this show.

Dance Animation

2011-01-11T06:59:00.000-08:00

So there is a good debate going on out there among arts presenters (particularly dance) about how we help audiences learn that dance is more than 2-3 minute "thrills" as presented on DWTS and SYTYCD. Think of how much more difficult it is to create an evening-length work - Swan Lake, Nutcracker, Ailey's Revelations...the list of stunning works is lengthy but rarely a platform arises for anything more than 5 minutes to get viewed by the mass public. A blogger the other day asked me if my client Dance New Amsterdam has seen a rise in new students in their ballet classes because of Black Swan, and maybe they will. When DWTS came on the scene most of the ballroom studios here in NYC saw about a 30% increase in new students. I'm a huge supporter of getting dance viewed anywhere and everywhere and little by little the audience to new evening-length works will increase, that and they need to hire a smart public relations strategist (hint, hint).

So one of those mediums to get dance viewed anywhere - my alumni association sent out this new dance animation short film that BYU animation professor Ryan Woodward collaborated with Dance professor Kori Wakamatsu to create a touching number. I think its pretty cool, so wanted to share.

Thought of You from Ryan J Woodward on Vimeo.

A Perfect NYC Day

2010-12-20T18:28:00.000-08:00

So if you're looking for something unique to do in NYC let me provide you with some details for a perfect day. My roommate Jami introduced me to the Turkish and Russian Bathhouse a few years back and last weekend I went for my 8th time. There are other bathhouses in the city, but the Lower East Side location (an original bath house from the tenement days) has the best "community." You'll find plenty of people to talk to and you move from room to room and it is worth every penny. Now, I am a clean freak, but I just have to let go of that when I go to the bathhouse. They try to keep it clean, but with the amount of people that go, the water, sweating, etc...I wouldn't consider it the cleanest place. This is not a serene spa experience. Think rugged, raw, "Old Testament," and just let go of all your inhibitions. Plan to stay 4 hours and you'll leave feeling relaxes, detoxed, clean, and your skin will feel as soft as a baby for days.

You'll work up an appetite at the bathhouse but I've found the best thing I've even ate at a nearby restaurant, Luzzo's. Mala and I found it after a previous bathhouse outing and the reviews said the pizza was better than Grimaldi's and I'd have to agree. The pasta, pizza, and everything about this place is YUMMY, YUMMY, YUMMY. I crave this restaurant, specifically the Pappardelle Speck E Porcini homemade pasta with speck, porcini mushroom and truffle oil. OMG - this is the most amazing dish I've ever had. I even raved about it so much to the owner that he took me back into the kitchen, showed me how to make it and then packed up a 2nd dish to send home with me. AMAZING! Only problem, the homemade pasta and perfect cooking of it is what truly makes the dish and I don't have a pasta maker yet, so it will have to way until I can recreate this on my own and figure out the perfect measurements.

So try it out and tell me what you think of my idea of a perfect day in NYC. I promise you that you'll have a blast.

If you'd like to try some of the other bathhouses check out this link as a reference. You should also try out the Korean Spa Castle (plan for 8 hours there).

Dance for better health in 2011

2010-12-20T17:58:00.000-08:00

So its been a while since I've blogged, just been cooking away and busy with work. But I'm committed to updating the blog with some theater reviews and more over the holiday.

Here are some fun facts to encourage some dancing in the New Year. Mayo Clinic reported that dancing helps to reduce stress, increase energy, improve strength, and increase muscle tone and coordination. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) says that dancing can
lower your risk of coronary heart disease, decrease blood pressure, help you manage your weight and strengthen the bones of your legs and hips.

Here is the full story.

So get up and dance, it will make you happy.

Dance = Happiness - Step Up 3D is Fabulous

2010-08-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight was an awesome night of dance for me. My client, Young Dancemakers Company had their final showing and it was a one-of-a-kind performance with four fabulous dancers from the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company (more on this later, I'll share some press hits). I had to RUN out of the reception to make it to the Empire theater to see a premiere of Step Up 3D! In fact, I had reserved seats (through my client DNA and some networking we started with Disney). Honestly, it was a perfect night.

Step Up 3D is UNREAL!!! It has some killer dance scenes. I particularly like the dance off in water, the Tango scene, and the skeleton lights scene. The dancing is definitely over the top amazing and the stunts are equally fantastic (especially with the 3D which makes it a completely new experience). The cinematography is top notch the way they capture the movement, lighting and personalities. I absolutely love the Lombard twins who I've danced Tango with a few times. When they told me a year ago they were in the film I didn't realize they would be one of the main attractions. They add quite a few laughs and they are perfectly in sync (as probably only twins can be).

If you enjoy watching dance just a little bit, I think you'll be able to enjoy this movie. Dance is its asset, the story line and acting are non-original and a no better than the previous two versions. Just sit back and enjoy the dancing and hope that maybe someday a dance movie will actually have an original plot to match. I love that Step Up 3D highlights the quaintness of NYC and I wish a club like the one in the movie actually existed here. Maybe this movie will help it be forthcoming.

What did you do for National Dance Dance?

2010-08-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

Producers from So You Think You Can Dance worked with congress to institute a National Dance Day, which was this past Saturday, July 31. Put it on your calendar for next year.

I celebrated the day with a beach trip followed by a client performance. Young Dancemakers Company took to the stage at the Ailey Center Saturday night for their Finale and Gala performance. These 16 youth dancers and choreographers are phenomenal and truly created some stunning works for the 15th Season. Themes of their dances ranged from power struggles and domestic violence to the seven deadly sins and freedom. Check out this video put together by NY Examiner reporter Jennifer Rathbone.

If this post puts you in the mood to dance, check out this creative and simple choreography from Napoleon and Tabitha D’umo, choreographers on SYTYCD.

They encouraged fans everywhere to learn it and perform the choreography at central location in what is called a "flash mob" demonstration on July 31. Fans could also upload videos of themselves learning the dance to youtube and SYTYCD's facebook page. They showed quite a few of them during their results show this past Thursday.

Yeah for National Dance Day and thank you SYTYCD producers for initiating the movement.

My Old Spice Man Keeps Getting Better

2010-07-09T08:29:00.001-07:00

Yet another fabulous ad from Old Spice features the fantastic Isaiah Mustafa. The 1st ad was nominated for an Emmy. The ad firm is on the right track, these commercials are doing what commercials are suppose to do - draw you into watching them just as intently (maybe even more) than the TV show you're watching.

Grandiose - Typical Dubai Fashion

2010-07-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

I left Dubai before the Burj Dubai, renamed the Burj Khalifa (good move to give credit to their Abu Dhabi cousin who bailed them out), was finished. I sure would love to see the finished product and how it lights up their skyline. I particularly would like to see this fountain live, I guess now I have a reason to go back. I really love the music paired with the beautiful dancing water in this video. The technology behind this is something that fascinates me. I also love watching the fountains at the Bellagio in Vegas.

Memphis Wins!

2010-06-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

Unlike other critics (who hope to sway opinions to concede with their less than glowing reviews and couldn't vote on Tony nominees this year, to their dismay), I'm pleased that Memphis, the only nominee with original music, won Best New Musical. Look at the other options: American Idiot - not original music and even though Greenday rocks, the show sucks; Million Dollar Quartet - based on a true event that honors four legends but doesn't deliver the millions or consists of original music; and Fela!, - the only true contender for Best Musical stills lacks original music and the documentary style of the show can be a little difficult to follow.

Let's review 2009 awards - Billy Elliot won over Next to Normal which was EXTREMELY disappointing, yet I understood why: 1) Billy Elliot has a bigger cast, thus larger production numbers; 2) The incredible talent of the young Billy is inspiring and encourages youth seeking to have a career in dance/theater; 3) Billy has the potential to do better on tour; 4) I haven't seen Next to Normal without Alice Ripley, but she makes the show one of the best performances I've seen on Broadway, is she replicable?. 5) Next to Normal is a "Debby Downer" and might not appeal to a mass public who feel musicals should be light and fluffy like the classic Rogers and Hammerstein series.

What similarities can be applied to the 2010 winner from the previous list: 1) I presume it would be fairly difficult to replicate Sahr Ngaujah regionally, he's a one-of-a-kind; 2) Music, story and history of Memphis has potential to do better on tour even if the theme has been overplayed where as Fela's story is clouded with chancy messages. Ultimately, recognition and awards play a large role in recouping investment and making theater profitable. Investing in the arts is risky, the business and politics behind acting ends up taking center stage and I'm not completely against that reasoning. No profits? No arts!

Maybe the Tony Committee also wanted to send the message they are fed up with the movie to musical concept as well as shows creating a mediocre story based on a playlist of one particular artist/band - original musicals (purists) will be awarded? While I agree with this message, I disapprove of the other message sent last night - in each category where a Hollywood star was nominated they beat out a more deserving nominee. I suspect lots of Broadway fans are ticked Catherine Zeta Jones won Best Actress after her glaringly awful performance of "Send in the Clowns" during the Tony program. Whether or not Jones, Scarlett Johansson and Denzel Washington's wins are deserved will remain debatable, but there have been many Hollywood to Broadway disasters in the past many years. Theater launched the careers of many successful film/TV actors (Audrey Hepburn, Angela Lansbury...), will this new trend diminish opportunities for Broadway stars?

On a separate note, Sally and I decided to take our Annual Tony's Party to Times Square this year. The Times Square Alliance set up a big screen and broadcast the Tony's live, including the creative awards. With rain threatening our plans, we stuck it out and enjoyed a unique New York experience. However, it won't be too difficult to convince me to swap out the uncomfortable chairs for a comfy couch next year. I was almost interviewed by NY1's Stephanie Simon, but the limited time slots ended up going to Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child and Constantine.

And the Tony for Best New Musical goes to....

2010-06-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the 64^th Annual Tony Awards and the top two contenders for Best Musical are “Memphis” and “Fela!.” Both shows have great appeal and would tour well.

When I talk to other Theater lovers about “Memphis” I hear a lot of hating, and I honestly don’t understand why. I really enjoyed the musical, which is the only true original show this year, in fact, I’ve already seen it twice and I highly recommend it to friends and tourists. The music is catchy, fun, lively, and sticky. There is good character development. “Memphis” is a charming story about a white DJ (Chad Kimball) going against the odds to put a black female singer (Montego Glover) on the pop charts. He not only makes her famous but falls in love as well – of course there is the slight problem that they really can’t get married because it is a bi-racial relationship and they’re in the heart of “Memphis”. I’ve heard criticism that it is just another “Hairspray,” I disagree, especially since the bi-racial relationship and subject matter is more mature and realistic rather than the fluffy high school innocence of “Hairpray.” I’d also like to note that I’ve listened to quite a few interviews and pod-casts about the creation and development of the show which has taken more than six year to make it to Broadway. Most of the cast has been with the show since inception and their passion for the show, the music, the director and entrance to Broadway is evident in their performances. There could be other actors out there, who would do better in the roles, but everyone on the stage is giving it all they’ve got and it’s infectious.

Then you have “Fela!,” a show about Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, a Nigerian revolutionary and the man attributed to the creation of Afro-beat. The show chronicles his journey around the world to find his “song” and voice within his Nigerian homeland. Full of political undertones, the essence of this show is the lead Sahr Ngaujah. His stage presence draws in the audience and without him and the phenomenal dancers I don’t think this show would have much to stand on. Ben Brantley of the New York Times said “there has never been anything like this production on Broadway” and I support that critic. The cast encourages audience participation in a unique and appropriate way, the stunning choreography and difficult dancing is awe inspiring. The show really is a dance party and full of energy that I’ve rarely seen in a show. The party continues after the show as well, check out this clip.

The political messages of both of these shows (un underlying “black power”) begs a question – “shouldn’t we be past all of this?” Even with Obama in the White House, any American traveling the world, and especially our own country, will find that love can’t always conquer all the odds, prejudices still occur, and we still have a way to go in order to break the mentality and biases inherit with race. What is it going to take? All people, all races, all cultures, all religions being humble to realize that it is up to each of us individually to make the change. To except all, to treat everyone equal, to not tolerate injustice. Really, it takes each and every one of us to reach out to our neighbor and love and serve.

I still can’t decide whether I want “Memphis” or “Fela!” to win the Tony. I think both deserve it and I feel they each brought something to Broadway worthy of celebrating…something so many of the other shows lack.

How do you become a Sondheim?

2010-06-04T10:15:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine who is in the film industry asked me the other day how I’ve become an “expert” on theatre? I’d really like to be know as an expert someday, but for now I’ll claim that the 123 shows I’ve seen (yes, I actually counted all my Playbills and yes, I’ve kept every single one) in the past 7 years give me some credibility, right? That number doesn’t include the number of dance concerts and operas I’ve been to. I’ve invested more money into the arts during my life than anything else. Of all the hobbies and interests in my life I think I can really sum it all up in one word: I’m an ENTERTAINER.

So how did Sondheim become Sondheim? He’s known as one of the most brilliant composers and lyricists for musical theater in the 20^th century. His shows include: Saturday Night, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Anyone Can Whistle, Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, The Frogs, Pacific Overtures, Sweeney Todd, Merrily We Roll Along, Sunday in the Park with George, Into the Woods, Assassins, Passion and Road Show. He also wrote the lyrics for West Side Story and Gypsy. I’ve seen six of these shows on Broadway and hope to someday see them all (so we need a few more revivals, please). I can attest that his shows and songs have a way of griping your emotions. He has done well to share his brilliant gift with the masses.

Sondheim on Sondheim, a tribute show currently playing on Broadway, is a musical documentary of sorts. Daily News said the best thing about Sondheim on Sondheim is Sondheim. I couldn’t agree more, the beauty of this show is the media (interviews with Sondheim about his life and the creation of his works), the unique and modern set design by Beowulf Boritt, and the intriguing way the media is projected – designed by Peter Flaherty. The best and most memorable performance of the show is by Euan Morton (originated role of Boy George in Taboo) when singing “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” from Merrily We Roll Along.

I really loved learning more about Sondheim, the inspirations behind his masterpieces, how his career started and blossomed, his mentors, and the relationship with his mother, as well as glimpses into his failures. Interestingly, the show ran full production numbers on a few of his “failed” songs, which begs the question, if it wasn’t good enough to make it into a show, why are you doing the full number on this occasion? The shorter highlights of failed songs and a glimpse into how they transitioned into hits was the better approach. The casting of the show was okay, no real all star performances even with big billed names (Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams and Tom Wopat). I kept wishing that they had convinced top names in the industry to sing the difficult ballads or represent songs from shows they originated roles in (such as Mandy Patinkin).

Overall, if you’re a Sondheim lover you’ll appreciate this show and what you’re able to glean from it, even though at times it seems little more than a college production.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Hot tip: if you’re under 35 you should sign up for Hip Tix, a special ticket program through Roundabout Theatre Company which provides the opportunity to get tickets for $21.50, in advance, for most of their shows.

4th Annual Dance Parade New York

2010-06-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

On May 22, 2010 the 4^th Annual Dance Parade New York took to the streets of New York, dancing down Broadway and brightening up almost every corner of Tompkins Square Park. I’ve been involved with the parade since it’s inception in 2006, but rather than dance in the parade this year (photos below), I lead the publicity team.

This meant that I actually got to watch the parade this year and can now finally attest to its uniqueness and beauty. We instituted a Grand Stand section this year and I watched the full parade from the stands after checking in press at the start of the parade. I was able to sit with a few press reporters and point out highlights of the parade. It was great fun, and I was happy to see an even larger spectator crowd turn out. We garnered a lot of great press this year. We were listed as “top picks” for weekend events in NY 1, New York Post, Village Voice and Time Out NY. We had a few highlight stories featuring a few of our amazing Grand Marshals: Ellenore Scott, finalist from season six of “So You Think You Can Dance;” Amy Marshal, founder of Amy Marshal Dance Company; media critic Elizabeth Zimmer; and international DJ phenomenon DJ Jellybean Benitez who produced and mixed hits for Madonna, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, among others.

PHOTO CREDIT: Joon Shin

This year Martha Graham’s artistic director caught the vision of the parade and therefore had performances on the stage during the post-parade Dance Fest in Tompkins Square Park by Martha Graham II and students from the Graham school danced in the parade.

the spirit of martha graham @ dance parade 2010 from Chauncey Dandridge on Vimeo.

Dance New Amsterdam’s choreographers Teri and Oliver Steele created a new work especially for the parade to Madonna’s “Revolver.” It was quite a beautiful spectacle to see 50 of their dancers fill the street dancing this wonderful work.

Dance Parade New York is a one-of-a-kind tribute to and celebration of dance. It’s a BIG event, pulled off by an amazing volunteer staff. We had 165 groups dance in the parade comprising of nearly 7,000 dancers. Additionally we had 34 performances on two stages in the park during the DanceFest. The Dance Parade is a dance spectacular that only happens once a year so keep it on your radar for May 2011.

(me, Kristin, Barb, Joon - PR/Marketing team leaders and the peeps I spent just about every day talking to)

Theatre for One in Times Square - Part 2

2010-06-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

I went to Theatre for One two more times before it closed on Memorial Day. I really loved it, and had a great time making friends with people in the line as well as the staff. The second time I went with Sally and we saw a tap dancer, which we LOVED. Then the third time I went ti Tim, Sally and Hil when she got into town and saw a magic show. I think it is great that they had so much variety and support. There was a videographer there the last day interviewing people as they came our of the box. So, maybe I'll be on film. :) KEEP IT GOING! Here are a few pictures.

Theatre for One in Times Square

2010-05-25T11:29:00.000-07:00

Run, don't walk, to get in line for a really "personal" experience with theater. Located in Duffy Square (where the TKTS booth is) you'll find a black box with space for one person to sit and on the other side of the wall one person to perform. I love this concept which is the brainchild of Christine Jones. My friend said he felt it was a little too intimate, but I loved it. I do agree that you feel a little odd making eye contact with a complete stranger for a few moments of a performance. I was the 1st girl to enter the box after about 5 guys and my performer said "yeah, its a girl." She performed a song she'd written that worked best for a girl. It was pretty cool. All about there being a million beautiful women in the world writing love songs...the pain that she feels...so what are you going to do about it. It was a beautiful message that rings true. When you're at the crossroads in relationships you have to figure it out and do something - "so what are you going to do about it."

Check out their site: http://www.theatreforone.com/
I think they extended it until Memorial Day, but I'm not positive about that.

Can't wait for the Tony's

2010-05-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

I'm really behind on blog posts (especially since the majority of my blog post time is going to my TEST NEST experiment). However, stay posted for my reviews of Memphis, Fela!, Promises Promises, and Sondheim on Sondheim. Tony nominations came out today and now I'm going to have to try to fit in 8 more shows before June 13th.

I want my Man to be an Old Spice Man

2010-03-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

The first time I saw Old Spice's commercial, "the man your man could smell like," my jaw dropped. Interestingly enough, when I was a "girls night" movie one of my friends expressed the same "AWE" when she saw the commercial for the first time. The commercials first launched during the Olympics but it is still getting a lot of play. I stop to watch it every time, even when fast forwarding my TIVO'd shows. The "man" Isaiah Mustafa is bold and amazingly cocky, but the commercial is perfectly believable, even though it is over the top. I applaud Ad agency Wieden & Kennedy who is responsible for the add. I believe it will be one that stands the test of time.

Contributing to NYC Eats and Treats

2010-03-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

I am contributing to a blog a group of my friends started to list our favorite restaurants in NYC. Everything from cheap to fine dining. When I first moved to NYC I wanted to try every restaurant in the city - well, I realized that is impossible (especially since the open and close rate is frequent). I could probably appropriately try all the restaurants highly recommended by friends. I just posted two great options: Danny Meyer Restaurants and B.R Guest Restaurants. My Sugar Daddy Chef Aaron Brown worked at Gramercy Tavern (Danny Meyer) and with him I also tried a few other Danny Meyer restaurants. Shake Shack is a staple in NYC, especially once the weather warms up. The main location, in Madison Square Park, is a perfect option for a night out and to enjoy the beautiful weather and parks of Manhattan. One of my best 1st dates was at Blue Water Grill, a B.R. Restaurant. The food was great and it was a perfect evening. I've returned a few times.

I'll be contributing a few more posts, specifically features Times Square restaurants. As an avid Theater goer (and one who is always trying to Lottery and Rush tickets) my friends and I have found quite a few cheap and quick eats that we can grab before hitting up a show. Stay tuned.

A View From the Bridge - Scarlett Johansson and Liev Schreiber

2010-02-19T14:05:00.000-08:00

Arthur Miller’s A View From the Bridge is quite a surprising performance from Scarlett Johansson and an expected dynamic performance from Liev Schreiber. Johansson noticeably gives all she can to her role. The entire cast is compelling; drawing the audience into the drama, wonder, fear, and anticipation of what tragedy will occur within a close knit family who welcomes distant immigrant cousins into their small one bedroom tenement. Miller’s brilliant writing, Gregory Mosher’s stellar direction, and the actor’s keen ability to portray sentiments of anguish, obsession, jealousy, and betrayal are tantalizing.

I suppose there is always at least one theme with which the audience can relate. Whether it be A View From the Bridge; the book I’m currently listening to, Angel in Harlem by Kuwana Hausley; movie/play Billy Elliot; or Charles Dickens – each of these portray men waiting at the docks, mines and construction sites to get a job for the day. That job might lead to another day, or a week, or longer – if they were lucky. The color of your skin or your immigrant status would affect your ability to get these hard working blue collar jobs. I imagine the current economic climate allows individuals everywhere to relate to these feelings of desperation to put food on the table (I can) – but the living conditions, the labor intensity, the desperation and often lack of education or opportunity, I can’t relate. My ancestors sacrificed in these ways to allow me to be where I am today and to that I am so thankful.

Whether you are interested in Johansson, or Schreiber (I'll take a strong man who is good on stage and screen anyday), or Arthur Miller’s gripping script, A View From the Bridge should be on your TO SEE list.

NOTE: The producers graciously offer a general rush for $27.00. But word to the wise, their website (which they have since changed) said the seats are front row (false). The line starts early. We went on a Tuesday night and the first person in line arrived at 7:30 AM, we were a couple people behind. Upon arriving to the show that night we realized we had been given worse seats than those who were behind us in line (yes, we recognized and talked to everyone who is in line with us). They were in the mezzanine boxes and we were in the balcony boxes. Believe me – it makes a big difference, so make sure if you are front of line that you get the best seats first.

Record Snow Fall

2010-02-19T11:20:00.000-08:00

I haven't minded all the snow and cold this year - in fact I kind of missed it last year while in Dubai. I might feel differently if the cold and dreary weather continues into April (after all I like wearing my peep toe shoes), but for now I'm enjoying it.

I was down in DC visiting best friend Hilary to meet my new unofficial niece Emiko during the blizzard. You must visit Hil's blog to see videos and pictures of us jumping out of their bedroom window into the snow.

I barely made it back to NYC within an hour of the snow plummeting down for two days. Central Park was gorgeous.

I haven't seen this much snow since I was a little girl and a huge snow storm in Idaho piled snow to the top of our front door (at ground level). I don't remember it well (I was 4 or 5 yrs old), but I do remember we didn't go anywhere for about a week and made lots of snow ice cream (which I wouldn't advice with the environment these days).

Sondheim's A Little Night Music

2010-02-16T20:25:00.000-08:00

A Little Night Music flaunts two premiere leading ladies – Catherine Zeta-Jones and Angela Landsbury. Landsbury's witty portrayal as Madame Armfeldt, an outspoken grandmother, is absolutely delightful. Zeta-Jones is not new to the live stage, as a youth she appeared on West End, and I found her to be very pleasant in her Broadway debut. Her role as Desiree is well suited for her; she brings the smokiness from her award-winning Chicago role as well as her classy beauty to the stage. The 19^th Century costumes are also pure elegance.

Growing up I loved my mom’s jewelry box which played one of her favorite songs, “Send in the Clowns.” Made famous by Barbara Streisand, the tune is beautiful but the lyrics a little awkward. Within the context of A Little Night Music I found the song more touching and sentimental.

Desiree’s two lovers Frederic and Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm keep the audience entertained with their dualistic and comic nature. Frederic, played by Alexander Hanson, a decorated British actor on loan through an Actors’ Equity exchange program, is solid. Hanson has great inflection and pose and a natural ability to connect with the audience. Aaron Lazar plays the Count and is just as charming as he is cocky. I saw Lazar in A Light in the Piazza and really enjoyed seeing him in this memorable and stand out performance.

Sondheim has a unique ability to grip emotions and capture personal experiences when it comes to relationships in his shows. I found myself irritated with the blatant relationship errors; love – we all need it, long for it, crave it, but yet we often don’t appreciate and recognize when we have something good. Listen to the lyrics of songs “Later,” Liaison,” “Every Day a Little Death,” and “The Miller’s Son.” Miraculously (and appropriately) everything works out at the end of the play, but there is plenty of frustration along the way (sound familiar?).

A Little Night Music is adapted from the movie “Smiles of a Summer Night” (1955). My ballroom background left me wanting cleaner effort and professionalism in the Viennese Waltz choreography, but over all I was pleased with the show.

You can get Standing Room Only student tickets for $27. You will need to wait out a couple hours before box office opens, the first in line arrive around 8:00 AM.

New Format/Design

2010-02-14T21:59:00.000-08:00

So what do you think of the new format and design? I wanted to keep it simple but take it up a notch and try to match my website and business cards (still under construction but has a start). I purchased inthelights.com many years back, but I let it slip for a year. When I finally got serious about getting my website started I found that the .com had been purchased (and its really expensive to have services find who owns it and bid for you - maybe when I start making the big bucks I can do it), so I have the .net for now.

I was convinced by my roommate and friends to move my TEST NEST posts to a new site. I've spent way too much time over the past two days creating a new blog and updating this one, but it will separate the two blogs so they can continue to meet specific interests.

So check out recipetestnest.blogspot.com and follow me or add me to your blog lists. I've got quite a few reviews that I'm working on so stay tuned.

Finian's Rainbow

2010-01-21T15:07:00.000-08:00

This past week two shows closed on Broadway – Finian’s Rainbow and Ragtime. This coming Sunday Bye Bye Birdie will close. All three shows had a shorter run than I’m sure was hoped and expected (especially Finian’s as it was Critic’s choice from the New York Times). Thankfully I caught the revival of Finian’s Rainbow before Christmas. The show premiered in 1947 and was made into a movie starting the fabulous Fred Astaire in 1968.

Overall the story is a lame, unrealistic love story (the producers describe it as whimsical) made delightful by fabulous dancing, spectacular music, magical tricks and appealing scenery. The stand out in the cast was Christopher Fitzgerald, who just might be one of my favorite Broadway actors. If he is on the bill you know he will give a top notch performance. As the leprechaun Og, Fitzgerald adds a one-of-a-kind enthusiasm and creativity to the show. His role provides him the opportunity to be whitty, charming and funny, as he does so well. Fitzgerald originated the role of Boq in Wicked and should have received the Tony Award for his role as Igor in Young Frankenstein (he stole the show).

I’ve seen Cheyenne Jackson in a few Broadway shows and so far I enjoy his role on NBC’s 30 Rock. Interestingly enough, I’m not sure he has the skills to be more than the hunky guy – but he does hunky so well that it is good enough for me. His wonderful voice is an added bonus. I enjoyed seeing Jim Norton as a cheesy, happy Irish father versus the scattered old man dropping the F bomb in The Seafarer (for which he won a well deserved Tony Award in 2008).

Broadway is suffering! These shows need to run longer in order to make money (typically 12-16 months to recoup costs of production). The amount of talent that goes into producing these shows is mindblowing and they deserve to stay alive, especially in an economic crisis. Support the arts - go see a show! There are discount tickets (TKTS, Theatermania.com, hitshowclub.com, broadwaybox.com), lotteries and rush tickets (check out regularly updated story at Playbill.com). You can afford it!

Test Kitchen

2010-01-12T07:57:00.000-08:00

In 2010 my new hobby is going to be starting a test kitchen. Concept: I cook a gourmet menu, invite 5 diners to cover the cost of the food, test out/perfect recipes and cooking skills, rate recipes, throw away bad ones.

I've wanted to do something like this for a while but never had the time. Since I'm currently freelancing I have a little more flexibility. I'm going to track all of the recipes in an excel sheet and I think it will be very interesting to see the results at the end of the year. How many Martha Stewart recipes were 5 stars (I swear she never fails me), how many Real Simple recipes did I throw away (usually they are so bland). I might even rate difficulty. I really enjoy creating dynamic menus (it's just so fun to bring out hidden flavors, sweet vs. salty, etc... when putting together a full menu). Maybe I have a nack for it? I figure the test kitchen will help me learn how to better prep and prepare the full menu so that I have meals ready on time. It will help me improve techniques and it's no fun to cook for only me. I love to entertain.

So, I need help deciding on a name for the concept. Here are my top three - which is your favorite?

1) Cuisine a la Mode
2) Test Nest
3) Harlem Kitchen

Career Transition for Dancers - 24th Anniversary Jubilee

2009-11-14T17:04:00.000-08:00

I write reviews for exploredance.com, and online dance community resource. I recently went to and reviewed the 24th Anniversary Jubilee concert celebrating the mission of Career Transition for Dancers which enables dancers to define their career possibilities and develop the skills necessary to excel in a variety of disciplines.

Here is the review for your reading pleasure: http://www.exploredance.com/article.htm?id=2945

Solar Decathlon

2009-10-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to go down to DC and work at the DOE's Solar Decathlon. While positioned as the representative for the Anatomy of House exhibit, I learned so much about solar panels, electricity, water heaters, windows, R-value, etc... Unfortunately, I don't have much of an ability to change my current apartment to be more energy efficient, but I do believe in this purpose. If you want to learn about important ways you improve the energy efficiency of your home - visit www.energysavers.gov. Remember to research tax credits and rebates.

20 different universities created concept homes to show how new homes can be constructed with unique and livable architecture while also creating homes with solar roofs and completely efficient systems. Each one of us should try harder to do our part to be more green and make changes in our lives and homes to use less energy. I need to do more.

Click here to see a virtual tour of my favorite home, Alberta.

Also check out this applicable TED Talk about building cities/communities that provide opportunity for innovation. A smart concept to look at for improving the world: http://www.ted.com/search?q=Paul+Romer&x=0&y=0

Burn The Floor

2009-09-15T16:13:00.001-07:00

I recently saw Burn the Floor on Broadway. The show which focuses on Ballroom dancing is a hit with the press and public. Towards the end of the summer the show was grossing the largest revenue out of the other 19 Broadway shows and playing at 98%. Thanks to the help of TV shows "Dancing With The Stars," and "So You Think You Can Dance" Ballroom dancing is on the rise. Ballroom studios in the NYC area have enjoyed increased enrollment (especially the first couple years these shows graced TV).

Burn the Floor is two hours of non-stop beauty, creativity, and daring tricks. Adrenaline packed, all 32 dancers (each with a bio full of various championship titles within the amateur and professional ballroom industry) captivate the audience with fluid transitions between dance forms and dynamic technique. During the length of the show the dancers don't get much time to rest. I'm astounded by their stamina as I'm aware of how difficult it is to dance at their intensity for the duration of this show.

Choreographer and World champion Jason Gilkison starting dancing as a young boy in his grandfather's studio. Less and less we hear of cultural and family traditions such as this being passed down through generations. My parents grew up with Fred and Ginger and followed the same style in their high school dances. I pray this show and the TV shows will help the world move away from the "teddy bear hug" dance forms.

While most of the ballroom dance styles were briefly represented the focus was on the Latin dances. I would have liked to have seen the same intensity that was brought to the Latin choreography displayed in the complexity and grace of the Standard dances - rather than putting the Standard dances on the backseat. There was only one couple whose core discipline was Standard, the other couples were focused in the Latin discipline.

Burn the Floor does reinvent Ballroom - but it is not a typical Broadway show. There is no story line, plot, or script. The show is 100% dance, and to be honest I'm surprised yet ecstatic that the show made it to such a high bill as Broadway. The limited engagement was extended from October to January 3, 2010 - so come to Broadway and watch one of the greatest displays of Ballroom dance to ever hit the stage.

Just have to share

2009-09-10T11:59:00.000-07:00

So while I've been unemployed I spend a lot of time surfing the Web, watching TED talks and trying to keep up with the news. I can definitely find better things to do than watch the ghost/vampire special on Maury Povich (that is seriously what the show was today).

So I thought I would share a few of my favorite things that I've come across.

David Pogue, NY Times Technology columnist, created this one of a kind music video about the iPhone (okay, many years ago, but I just watched a talk where he sang the song). I would like to get an iPhone but won't leave VERIZON's great network. Oh, and for you more seasoned bloggers, how do I import a YouTube video?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vniMR6Ez9cE

I read on Thrillist about a new site called "My Fridge Food." You check the boxes of what you have in your fridge/pantry and it creates a recipe. I LOVE THIS CONCEPT!!!
http://www.myfridgefood.com/

Here are a few TEDTalks that are worth your time...seriously, listen to them while you're doing your laundry and cleaning.
Helen Fisher: http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/helen_fisher_tells_us_why_we_love_cheat.html
Barry Schwartz: http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/barry_schwartz_on_the_paradox_of_choice.html
Wade Davis: http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/wade_davis_on_endangered_cultures.html

Reel It In

2009-08-23T22:22:00.000-07:00

Since returning home to NYC I’ve been booked solid. But tonight I finally had time to cook up my self-caught Alaskan Halibut (Alaska’s favorite Chef Al’s Peppered Halibut with Ginger Butter). It was heaven!

Two months ago I would never have suggested that fishing could be fun. I went to Alaska expecting to fish, the true Alaskan experience. Starting down at Ship Creek, downtown Anchorage, I watched my brother and other fishing comrades yell “fish on.” The energy was contagious, even though I was grossed out watching them knock out, rip out gills and even gut the fish in the river. Not to mention the surroundings of dense “bad” mud.

Upon arriving home I got my first lesson in gutting a fish. I was grossed out at first, but then I got used to it.

A camping trip to Hope, the home of the Humpy (pink salmon), resulted in a new addiction. I’ve been know to be a determined women - I don’t give up easily – attributes that come in handy when fishing. Catching my first fish took me 7 hours over two days. I persevered after falling into the ice cold river. Mike would hook a fish and give me the pole to reel it in, but I kept loosing them. Eventually I had it down and I was hooking. Similar to dating – it might be easy to hook, but reeling ‘em in is a completely different story. Then it FINALLY happened…I did it and it was invigorating.

Fishing in Alaska’s rivers is a unique experience depending on where you are. I was becoming a pro and I appreciated the beautiful landscape along the way.

I couldn’t leave Alaska without Halibut, and I was determined to catch it. I found the best fishing partner – Tori Rogers. Our amazing day started with a drive at 4am to Ninilchick. Captain Al was highly recommended by the Kendalls and our prayers for a beautiful day were granted. In fact, in was a PERFECT day! We saw Puffins, Orcas, sea otters and volcanoes. Deep sea fishing is no joke – its extremely hard work. The lines were 215 feet deep – reeling up a catch took a good 10 minutes if not more. My right hand was swollen for a few days afterward. I caught three sharks (can only keep one) and four halibut (can only keep 2).

My biggest catch…and the biggest catch of the day, was a 60 pounder.

We had a blast! By the time we drove back and packed up the fish it was almost midnight. If only all long days were so rewarding! Next time you’re looking for the best Captain, book with Alan Goins.

Alaska's Unique Style

2009-08-17T20:08:00.001-07:00

Alaska may be part of the U.S. of A, but many aspects feel foreign. Here are a few of my top favorites:

1) Anchorage airport is the first place I've ever seen coolers coming off the belt as luggage.
2) There must be some extra cash in the water...I've never seen more personalized license plates EVER!
3) The front page of Anchorage Daily News typically "breaks" a fishing story.
4) Bachelorette parties consist of a camping trip with mom and Grandma...
5) Fishing is the official spoken language (I learned a whole new vocabulary).
6) Alaskan's refer to the rest of the United States as the "lower 48."
7) There are no billboards on the roads and electric line requirements result in an uninterrupted Alaskan view.
8) A leisurely stroll = good walking shoes, dog and a gun.
9) The new resident welcome book should include the following vehicle requirements in the first paragraph - As a new resident, you will need more than one vehicle. It is suggested that you own a 4-wheel drive, ATV, snowmobile, boat and camper.
10) Alaskan made products really mean that it was produced in Alaska, but processed either in Canada or the lower 48 (as is the case with gas, fish and many other items).
11) Duck tape is man's best friend...but in Alaska it is everyone's.
12) Leaving Alaska? Unless you are checking a fish box you haven't had a "real" Alaskan experience.

Next time you are in Alaska (or maybe you live there) keep your eyes open for the above - during the summer you'll have nearly 20 hours of sunlight to notice.

On A Clear Day

2009-08-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

It must be the luck of the Irish (after all, there is gold in Alaska), but I am now among the 10% of tourists that actually SEE Mt. McKinley (or Denali as the Alaskans call it). Mt. McKinley is the highest point in North America and the third highest in the world (after Everest and Aconcagua). Of the 40 days I was in Alaska, our trip to Denali was the only crystal clear sky day.

View from Talkeetna (I don’t think it would be so horrible to wake up to this every morning)

View from South, looking North

View from East

View from North, looking South

After our majestic views we drove the Denali Highway which opened in 1957 and was the only access to Denali National Park until the 70’s. It is a dirt/gravel road and the 2 highest road in Alaska. We were hoping to see an abundance of wildlife, but forest fires in the north must have driven the bears, mouse, eagles and sheep somewhere else. However, we still had many picturesque views.

Hiking Alaska

2009-07-20T00:52:00.000-07:00

My first hike in Alaska was a three mile hike to Flat Top. My friend Jeff Kendall was my gracious host. Flat Top has great views of Anchorage so it was a beautiful intro. Closer to the top the hike is pretty much strait up so you’re scaling the rocks.

We decided to take the “old way” down…which means strait down. (The earth map shows our route...completely off the designated path. The second map is the elevation and distance)

I’ve been working out pretty regularly and getting back into shape, but I cleverly asked for “view” breaks - especially as the altitude increased. After three miles I was pretty exhausted and my quads and arms hurt the next day…but it sure was fun! I’d recommend it if you’re ever in Anchorage.

My second hike was a little day trip with the family to Girdwood, AK. Ya know, one of those small, quaint, picturesque types of town with a swanky resort. The coolest part of the hike was a hand tram (the kids loved it - it was fun and scary at the same time). There is also a very beautiful waterfall and amazing views of Alaska’s stunning landscape.

Girdwood is about an hour south of Anchorage and is home to the beautiful Alyeska Ski Resort. It looks like a great resort which offers a ton of enjoyment year round, including easy access to some beautiful trails. There is also a gold digging mine, but it was closed by the time we got there so we didn't get to try our luck.

Welcome to the Last Frontier

2009-07-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

The past month has been a whirlwind of events. I flew to Utah for a mission reunion (this year marks eight years since I was in Bolivia). It was great to see many missionaries I had lost touch with; I only wish more could have joined us.

(Elder and Sister Shumway)

(closest mission friends - Tiana Andrews Aplanap and Lindsay Clark Hart)

I also took advantage of the opportunity to spend time with cousins, aunts and uncles and friends – although I wasn’t able to see everyone. One of my highlights was a long drive out to Toelle with my aunt Toni to see my Uncle Scott’s dress rehearsal of My Fair Lady. Uncle Scott is a drama teacher and when I was at BYU I choreographed a couple shows for him…but I’ve never seen him in action. I was so proud!

(My closest cuz Malena and her husband's skate park in Ogden)

(Aunt Laurie, Jenica, Kaitlin, Shay and husband

(Cousins Glen and Rachel, with her husband Josh and beautiful kids)

(Uncle Jim)

Next I headed home to North Carolina for a small family reunion. We picked up the Dubai family in Atlanta, who sadly moved back to America. We headed to our family land in western NC – Chogie. Many wonderful memories have been had in this special place where my mom was born and raised. After the reunion I was in Charlotte for a week with my parents. My dad, for the first time in his life and my parents marriage, bought season tickets to all of the shows coming to Charlotte (12 total). They were very excited to have me join them for Phantom of the Opera. I’m so proud of them!

(A typical morning view in the great smoky mountains)

(Its not go karting at Dubai's Autodrome, but Henrie family competition is quite the show)

(one of our favorite things to do is play at Shot Branch)

(we knee boarded and rafted on Natahala, it was quite the entertainment)

(4-wheel drive is a must for getting up my brother Mike's road to his cabin. Ty was pretty happy about his dirt bike skills)

I’m currently in Anchorage, Alaska with my brother Mike's family. He’s one of the best drummers I know and I always enjoy watching his gigs. This is the farthest north I’ve ever been and it is beautiful. I’m sure I’ll have a few fun things to blog about (like gutting a fish, which grosses me out). Here’s a picture to document my first MOOSE spotting (in the backyard).

SING FOR YOUR TONY TICKETS

2009-07-14T01:10:00.000-07:00

Every year Macy’s Department Store runs a regional contest called “Sing for your Tony Tickets.” While I’ve known about it for many years, I’ve never seemed to make it to the competition. My friend Rachel Smith was going this year so I decided to go and support her. She did great and was among the final contenders. Before the hosts (Hunter Bell from Title of Show and announcer from XM’s Broadway station) turned to the judges (Danny Burstein, Laura Osnes, Mandy Gonzalez, and Priscilla Lopez) for final decisions, they asked the audience for last minute singers. With Rachel’s encouragement I found myself on the stage nervously singing “Tomorrow” from Annie. The prize for the final winner includes a substantial shopping spree at Macy’s and prime tickets to the Tony’s show - so maybe next year I’ll prepare in advance and take the contest more seriously. I applaud Macy’s for doing the contest, which they do on a regional level.

(Look at how professional Rachel is!)

Missing Broadway

2009-07-13T01:12:00.000-07:00

I’ve been running around the country for reunions the past few weeks with limited access to Internet, so let me start updating with a recap. Just shy of two months back in NYC, I took off yet again to Utah, North Carolina, and now Alaska. I need to start with a recap of the second week of my Broadway frenzy, which included:

Billy Elliot: I ventured with David Caine and most of Hilary’s tour group to see Billy Elliot. At intermission David said he was “under whelmed” and I have to agree. The dancing was phenomenal, the young Billy (I saw Trent Kowalik) was amazing, the set and staging was well done, the big production numbers were breathtaking - but for all the talk behind the show I expected it to knock my socks off. Other than Billy and his friend Michael (David Bologna), there weren’t any other standouts in the cast. My biggest criticism is the placing of the older and younger Billy dance scene. Anyone who hasn’t watched the movie might not understand the older and younger Billy duet. The placement of this scene is off, but the choreography is dynamic and emotional. The movie ends with an older Billy dancing in front of a grand audience – applauding the sacrifice and talent of a passionate dancer who followed his dream and broke barriers.

Mary Stuart: Phenomenal! One of the best plays currently on Broadway. I believe it closes end of July, a shame it can’t run longer. Both actresses, Janet McTeer and Harriet Walter gave a passionate performance. Each member of the cast captivated me. The dreary lighting added intensity. The staging of the rain scene was simple yet extremely effective (especially when sitting on the front row). The show won a Tony for costuming over Exit the King (naturally elaborate). I applaud the visionary (was it the Director?) who established an intense focus on the period dressed women by having the male dominated cast simply dressed in a basic business suit.

God of Carnage: The background of this show is two couples meeting to discuss what should be done about their two sons who got into a fight. At first they are cordial to each other and then the gloves come off. The whole 90 minutes of the show is comical, riveting and a roar. From the time Hope Davis throws up on stage the laughing doesn’t end. This show breaks all barriers, is extremely well written, and connects with the audience (who probably wouldn’t dare to repeat half of the low blows in this show). I’m happy this play won the Tony and I hope it will have a long run.

Joe Turner’s Come and Gone: President Obama attended this show exactly one week before I did. We left the show unsure of what the playwright August Wilson wanted us to take away since it was loaded with topics. I think my friend Troy Danka said it best, in addition to obvious themes of racism and religion, I really sensed the identity struggle from all the characters. They each had very defined things they were known for…"finding people", "fixing things", "money", "guitar player" ... There was also the struggle with past, present and future identities that some could not let go of and others wanted to create.” This show leaves you thinking and I always appreciate a show that promotes deep analysis.

Hair: Ann Marie England and I decided to brave the nudity of Hair (a favorite for the Tony for Musical Revival and the winner). Other than being high spirited this show was not phenomenal for me. The cast involves the audience at various points and during the final number, “Let the Sunshine In,” I joined the cast on the stage for my BROADWAY DEBUT! I was pushed to the front of the stage and took ending bows holding hands with Hud and others in the cast.

Guys and Dolls: As my 10^th show over two weeks I may have officially hit a “showed out” state of mind - but I was completely unimpressed with Guys and Dolls. Keeping with tradition this was the only show my best friends Sally Atkinson, Hilary Johnson Ayer and I were able to see together. The core ensemble and choreography was Broadway level, but the lead actors lacked (even though they have stellar resumes). Needless to say, I was not bewildered the show closed five days after the Tony Awards.

If you’re looking for a recommendation for what to see – I highly suggest finding time for Next to Normal, Mary Stuart and God of Carnage.

Broadway Frenzy - week 1

2009-06-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

Friday night I saw one of the most moving performances I’ve ever seen in my life – the new original musical Next to Normal. There is nothing normal about this show (in a good way). I am dumbfounded by Alice Ripley's performance of Diana, the bi-polar mother who is far from normal. I had chills within the first five minutes and believe this show will emotionally grip anyone who watches it. It is depressing material, but the performance and music is powerful and touches the soul. I cried throughout. This is a show that everyone can relate to on some level - fear of loss, wishing for a magic wand to take away sickness, pain or anger, I'm sure the list would go on.

After the show the mood was somber, our thoughts preoccupied with the show. We waited to see all the actors in a "normal" state with smiles on their faces. They told us they laugh and make jokes back stage to keep it light. The music is well written and orchestrated. I enjoyed the unique harmonies in many of the songs as well. We were in the front row (general rush seats, we started sitting out at 6.30 am). J. Robert Spencer plays the father and his performance is dynamic as well. I saw him in Jersey Boys and I’m happy to see his career flourishing.

This past week I also saw Exit the King, West Side Story and Blithe Spirit.

I didn’t like Exit the King and was disappointed in Susan Sarandon's performance. I didn't feel she tried to anything with her sarcastic role, and she was not interesting. Geoffrey Rush's performance was the best part of the show and worthy of his Tony nomination. I did not like the writing or premise of the show and it faulted explanation. It think it would be much improved with a funny narrator, rather than the same personality traits and plot line from the being to end.

West Side Story was great but not fantastic. I agree with the critics that the Spanish is inconsistent. However, I love the Spanish addition to the revival as it automatically added an intense cultural authenticity. I also felt the cast performance seemed over all young and inexperienced. I am not a fan of Karen Oliva. I was unimpressed with her one-dimensional performance as Vanessa in In The Heights. Tony nominated for her role as Anita I expected a lot more, but her performance was blaw. Anita needs more grit and sass...Karen's portrayal seemed fake. She's got to have more talent than her ability to flip her hair and put her hand on her hip. We ran into half the cast on the subway platform on the way home and got their signatures.

Blithe Spirit is a cute show and pleasantly entertaining. It was amazing to see Angela Lansbury live on stage at such an old age. I thought they could have done a bit more to play up the comical nature of the play and continue the murder plot for a more mysterious draw. Overall, I enjoyed the show and really enjoyed the cast - complete with Ruppert Everett, Christine Ebersole (Tony for Grey Gardens) and Jayne Atkinson (who played Karen Hayes in my favorite TV show 24).

Its been a great week and I'm very excited to see the remaining shows on my list - all in time for the Tony Awards which will take place Sunday, June 7!

Playing Catch Up

2009-05-28T09:41:00.001-07:00

May is flying by and I have so much catching up to do. I've decided to leave for a couple months of the summer and do more traveling. I'm taking the opportunity over the next couple weeks while Hilary is is town to see lots of shows in time for the Tony Awards. I've got a couple posts I'm working on regarding recent events (stay tuned). I read an article in LDS Living Magazine on 21 Things To Do Before the End of the Summer Ends. I think my summer travels will allow me to do all of the following:
- Take a Hike (in Utah's mountains, and all around Chogie)
- Read a Biography (I'd like to read a biography on Martha Graham or Alvin Ailey)
- Make Real Lemonade
- Sleep Outside
- Have a Yard Sale (preferably at my parents house to get rid of their clutter)
- Eat Homemade Ice Cream at Sunset
- Attend a Concert in the Park
- Go Horseback Riding
- Visit an Amusement Park
- Attend a Festival
- Shop at a Farmers' Market (already did this is DC)
- Pick Fresh Fruit
- Build a Fort (I'll have plenty of opportunities to do this with the nieces and nephews this summer)
- Attend a State or County Fair
- Go Stargazing (should be ideal in Alaska)

Not quite American Idol…but almost

2009-04-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Jordan, the oldest nephew, has become quite talented in music and started a band with some friends in Dubai called Under City Lights. Tyler was also part of this band for a few events I was able to attend. Jordan really has caught the fire of music – he’s always practicing and writing songs. In only 4 months I watched him improve his voice, performance and overall talent. He’s also pretty talented with making videos so I made him edit the ones below. Enjoy and join his facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Under-City-Lights/58574484433?ref=ts

This video is from Battle of the Bands

This video is from the High School Genie Awards.

Not quite the Olympics…but almost

2009-04-30T13:05:00.000-07:00

Jason and Camille had their sports day at DAA (Dubai American Academy)…bringing back wonderful memories of my competitive spirit during my elementary sports days. I was totally the competitive Aunt cheering them on in the 50 meter race, egg and water relays, and more. While they might be short/small compared to their fellow classmates, they are wicked fast! They both won almost all of their races.

JJ is the little green guy blowing away his classmates

JJ and Cami are best friends and constant companions. On the days I was home when the kids got home from school, my time was typically fully devoted to Cami and JJ. They always had a list of things they wanted me to do, with jumping on the trampoline top on the list. One day they started playing in the maids room (my room) and I couldn’t resist getting this on camera.

Not quite Comedy Central…but almost

2009-04-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

Tyler is quite the comedian. He can copy any accent and makes jokes extra entertaining. He has the best faces and really gets the laughs. One night, while looking through my iTunes (and telling me how outdated my music is), he found Savage Garden and entertained us with a dance he and his friend Oliver (a bright red head Aussie) created for a school project. Soon after starting the dance I knew we had to get it on video. We watched it over and over…it really provided many hours of enjoyment for the family. I think Carson said it best, “Ty, you always seem to be able to make me laugh.”

Not quite Broadway...but almost

2009-04-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

My normal life consists of attending lots of Broadway shows, dance performances and concerts. But during the past 4 months while in Dubai, there was nothing typical about my life. Instead I had the unique opportunity to see the next generation of artists – my amazing niece and nephews. Auntie Ains was so impressed by their talents and reveled in the opportunity to see them in various events. I’ve been home to NYC for less than a week and miss the kids and Doby terribly, but on the flip side I’ve already seen two Broadway shows and a dance performance. This “almost” series is a tribute to Jordan, Tyler, Carson, Camille and Jason Henrie and is dedicated to their Grammy and Pop Pop. I hope you enjoy their talents as much as I do, because being a part of their lives will always take 1^st place over the amazing opportunities I’m able to access in NYC.

I was thrilled to see my nephew Carson steal the show with his non-stop entertainment in the school play TWINDERELLA. The story is about Cinderella and her twin brother Bob. It was a typical school musical, but Carson ended up being on stage the whole show as one of the kids listening to the story. He’s pretty easy to find in the video as he’s the only pajama boy and one of the only true blondies. At 11 yrs. old, he is quite theatrical and creative (and stinking smart as well with a 3.7 GPA).

Dubai's Top 100 Gala

2009-04-18T20:16:00.001-07:00

Being in Dubai for an extended period of time has allowed me to enjoy various aspect of the Dubai lifestyle - from the tourist and business side to the extravagant over the top lifestyle. Nothing beats the private pool and massage rooms at the Burj Al Arab. Tammy and I enjoyed her 7 star b-day present last week with amazing views of the Palm. Another of such events was the Top 100 Gala. Ahlan!, one of the top magazine's here in Dubai, publishes yearly a list of Dubai's Top 100. They identify these people as the trendsetters, style icons, unsung heroes, and the up and coming. This year was their 5th annual party and they made it a big splash.

Dana Jallad, the owner of Sugar Daddy's Bakery here in Dubai, was elected as one of the 2009 top 100. She was out of town during the event so Aaron Brown and I went in her place. We enjoyed partying with the "who's who of Dubai."

The celebration was at the Westin in the Marina district and was a top red carpet affair. Upon entering we had to walk the red carpet for a photo shoot (photo credit ITP Publishing) then we partied the night away. It was great to network and meet various Top 100 and we enjoyed the delicious food. They had various bars set up for drinks, fruits & veggies, Shwarmas, and of course dessert. Our wonderful Sugar Daddy's mini cupcakes were among the amazing sampling of sweets. If there is a chocolate fountain, you’ll most definitely find me there.
NOTE: This event was early March, so I apologize for such a late post – but, in typical Dubai fashion, it took us this long to get the red carpet photos from Ahlan! (persistence always pays off!

Desert Safari

2009-04-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

As my time here in Dubai is quickly coming to an end, I’ve been trying to fit in various activities on my “to do/see” list. I’ve had to make new friends to assist, as understandably my family doesn’t want to pay again for adventures they’ve already done. We've enjoyed a couple family fun days at Dubai’s famous water parks. We hit Atlantis a few weekends back and went to Wild Wadi this week while the kids are on spring break (sorry, no great pictures, too busy having fun without a waterproof camera). Both parks have their perks, but Wadi is definitely more family/kid friendly.

Every city has its #1 tourist adventure – Dubai’s most popular is the Desert Safari. You can’t come to Dubai and not go on one. The Safari companies conveniently pick you up and drive an hour or more outside the city to the red Arabian sand dunes. Troy Rappleye’s mom Becky and cousin Shannon were visiting - so I jumped in on their safari, as did his co-worker Steve. Our driver was named Mohammad (as were most of the other drivers). Upon arrival we stopped in the sand with the other SUV’s to let out air in the tires and prepare for dune bashing.

This was the best part of the safari by far. I was screaming weeee, weeee, weee – all the way home. Becky didn’t share in my enjoyment and this video doesn’t quite capture the thrill. Collectively we have about 20 videos so this is the best edited version I could create.

cartwheels and handstands, playing in the red desert sand

After 4-wheeling and playing in the dunes, we were taken to a traditional Bedouin village set up for dinner and entertainment. The food and camel rides were less than wonderful, but they had free henna and traditional clothes for pictures. The belly dancer was good but she made weird faces – giving us something funny to talk about on the way home. Our driver treated us to a bit of 4-wheeling at night without headlights, guided by the moonlight. The whole day was great fun and one of the top fun things I’ve done in Dubai.

Taste of Dubai

2009-03-23T11:55:00.001-07:00

I LOVE food! Especially great gourmet and exotic foods. Not sure how it happened, as I can remember the childhood days when I would only eat Mac and Cheese. The Taste of Dubai event is more of a trade show than NYC's Taste of NY street fair. I was very impressed by the sampling menus, booth layouts and set up of the whole show. The organizers created a great ambiance. I spent the four days of the show helping Sugar Daddy's Bakery at their booth, with press at the show and networking with other exhibitors.

Give me this kind of work any day. I was in HEAVEN! Some of the top Michelin-Starred Chef's (Gary Rhodes, Gordon Ramsay, Vineet Bhatia) and best restaurants in Dubai were at the show. I enjoyed talking to the variety of people who stopped by our booth and complemented us on the best cupcakes in Dubai. I loved sampling all the fruit, juices, oils, camel's milk chocolate, hot chocolate, etc... I made friends with various chefs, staff and exhibitors, and made out like a bandit on freebies.

I tried really hard to sample everything, but I can only eat so much. Here is a list of my favorite dishes I tasted at the show, if you're ever in Dubai put these restaurants on your "to eat" list:
- White Tomato Soup [I begged and begged Gary Rhodes to divulge his secret, but to no avail. However, this is one of the most amazing things I've ever tasted] & Braised Beef with fondant potato and carmelized onions (Rhodes Mezzanine - Anglo-French)
- Thai spiced Lemongrass Gazpacho with Barramundi Ceviche & Confit Grey Snapper Seafood Dumplings and King Crab Risotto (Pisces - Mediterranean, Seafood)
- Chili fried squid with lime & Kobe seared beef with oriental dressing (ZUMA - Japenese Izakaya)
- Gazpacho Andalous, mimosa king crab salad, white alba truffle oil (Empire)
- Morsels of Chicken tikka in creamy tomato sauce with shitake mushrooms, saffron pulao (Indego - Indian, chef Vineet Bhatia)
- Foie gras on ginger-apple compote and caramelized red onions & braised shoulder of lamb with potato puree (Le Classique - French)
- Seared kangaroo and marinated prawn served with carrot orange puree, roquette leaves tossed in a truffle Parmesan dressing (Legends Steak House)

Al Ain, UAE

2009-03-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

I recently took a little day trip with Nancy Tibbits and Troy Rappleye to Al Ain, a neighboring emirate in the UAE. Al Ain is known for being a natural oasis located approximately 160 kilometers east of the Abu Dhabi capital. Its name ("the spring" in Arabic) derives from its supply of fresh water, which makes its way underground through the nearby Omani mountains. Jebel Hafeet is the main landmark of Al Ain, and where we spend most of our time. The limestone mountain is 1350 feet and provides a view of the border between the UAE and Oman, the red dessert sand and the smog of the Abu Dhabi/Dubai skyline.

We stopped for lunch at the resort on top of the mountain and enjoyed these interesting placemat creations.

There are hot spring spa pools at the base of the mountain but we didn’t bring swimsuits so we dipped our feet in the original HOT spring…oh and behind me is the “waterfall” that is a tourist attraction.

The entire mountain side is green with this honeycomb type flower/plant. We thought it was very interesting that this is what they planted as a carpet on the mountain. I have to admit I didn’t really like walking on it as I couldn’t help but think a snake could be hiding and buried under my feet and get me…but it was pretty.

Elder Holland visits Middle East

2009-03-06T22:03:00.001-08:00

Life has been jam packed since returning from Qatar, but I'm still on a spiritual high from Elder Holland's visit to Dubai on February 27. He is an apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The special memories started in Qatar when Cristina and I ran into him at the Doha airport. We shook his hand and told him that he’d see Cristina in Bahrain on Tuesday and me in Dubai on Friday. It was one of those surreal star struck moments. He asked our names so he could remember us in the other locations. We both doubted he would remember, but he most certainly did.

The LDS church here in the Middle East is very unique. There are actually 16 unites in the Manama, Bahrain Stake and the last time an apostle visited the middle east was in 1983. The Holland’s started their tour of the stake in Jetta, Saudi Arabia. The Sabbath is on Friday, the stake covers 6 different countries and the majority of the members are expats. The wives of the stake leaders are usually called to be over stake RS, YW and Primary. Women can not travel alone is some countries and men are sometimes not allowed to travel solo if they are married.

After the amazing general session of stake conference, Elder Holland conducted a special singles fireside/Q&A (about 20 singles in total). Well, after many interesting questions I asked something along the line of this: When we are at a crossroads in our lives, we have a clean plate, mid career, single and could do anything - what can we do to dig deeper for an answer? Past the pro/con lists and the fast/pray/read the scriptures answers, what other gems are there for being open minded and allowing the spirit to guide us? Well, interestingly enough Elder Holland focused his answer on loneliness; the times we feel the Lord is absent in our lives; the “Father, why hast though forsaken me” feelings. His advice was remarkable and amazingly comforting. When the fireside was over various singles in the room came over to talk to me about how they’ve dealt with similar situations/feelings. I noticed Elder Holland had left the room and I didn’t think I’d be able to thank him just as I see him return in the room saying “there you are.” He gave me a big hug and kiss on the cheek, clenched my arms, stared me in the eyes and said, “You will be okay! The Lord is mindful of you. Promise me you will write and tell me what you ended up doing and the direction you find.” With tears pouring down my cheek I could say nothing but I promise.

Sometimes I think we forget how close God can be to us and that is why he sends his special messengers. I will most definitely write him a letter and cherish this moment forever.

Qatar

2009-02-26T12:46:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Cristina’s work duties in Qatar, I was able to spend a couple days with her in Doha so I could renew my visa upon re-entry to Dubai. I arrived Saturday morning after a frustrating flight delay and no way to communicate (I don’t have a cell phone here and the airports are different. Each gate has individual security check, and the waiting area is after you’ve given your boarding pass. So there is no access to food or pay phones and you’re not supposed to leave). In Doha where Cristina had already arrived, there was no information on my flight either…but once I arrived we went exploring in the northern tip of the peninsula where we found the quaint fishing town Al Ruwals.

For some reason we love visiting forts and Qatar has quite a few. They’re so interesting - the architecture, antiquity and mystery of the unknown. We haven’t been to one fort with displays or a history of the people. We explored an old house…

…then an archeological site currently under excavation. The site was obviously a large community (this link says it was one of three fishing communities abandoned in the 1930s). A cool find was pieces of coral within their stone walls.

Next was the Al Zubara fort which was in use till 1980s. In the middle of no-where, this fort will soon be seen by all driving the largest causeway in the world, being built between Bahrain and Qatar. We saw the streets already under construction and I met some expat wives whose husbands are already at work on the bridge. The keeper of the fort, Khayal, was pretty cool and offers visitors tea and sits and chats with them…he also handed me the key to go exploring.

After Zubara we headed back towards Doha and stopped at Umm Salal Muhammad Fort which houses the famous Qatari Barzan Tower. Build in the 19^th century, they were used to ensure Ramadan was observed correctly as two observers would climb to the top of the towers, viewing the new moon and agreeing when the crescent appeared.

On empty stomachs we toured Doha’s famous Corniche and ate at the Balhambar. The food was fantastic (traditional Qatari cuisine Hilary), the weather amazing. Most around us were enjoying Shisha (flavored tobacco). Hitting the sack that night was great in our nice feather beds and duvets…ah…

Sunday and Monday I was on my own since Cristina had to work. While finding a cab and getting to locations was unbearable (they probably only have 100 cabs in Doha, def. not enough), I finally made it to a few of the stops on my list. I walked around and found some great architecture and walked the old souk. (Tim - I found me a lighthouse in the Middle East).

I visited Fanar, Qatar’s Islamic Cultural Center, where I was given a bunch of books about Islam. Then I ventured over to the new Museum of Islamic Arts, built by I. M. Pei. He designed the Louvre and came out of retirement (he’s 91) to create this museum.

Alas, the Middle East is most definitely growing on me. I understand why my best friend Hilary and her husband Nate like it so much...but, I’ve had to get out of Dubai to see that. The Qatari locals are more abundant and very nice. By the time I left I had yelled at the cab company and hotel for their inadequate transportation options, but other than that I really liked Qatar. Doha also has a lot of new development; almost every building you see in this picture is still under construction.

Visit this link for a full album of pictures: http://picasaweb.google.com/ains16/QatarWithCristina?feat=directlink

Historic Dubai

2009-02-15T10:44:00.000-08:00

While the kids are at school, Tammy and I have taken advantage of the freedom to tour the older, more historic parts of town. We went to Al Fahaidi Fort (now the Dubai Museum), the oldest building in the area (about 1800).

We saw an original Al kaimah – the primitive house built of palm tree branches (I also saw these in Bahrain). The palm tree fibers are warm in the winter, cool in the summer. The Al Arish, the modern home, is built from sandstone – the most notable characteristic is the windtowers. This style still exists in the older neighborhoods of Dubai. The windtowers were built at the corners of the homes, to catch the breeze and ventilate the house.

The more populated and oldest areas of Dubai – Bur Dubai, Deira and Al Shindagha - were developed in the 1800’s. These neighborhoods are built on the creek and were central to trade. The city’s main trade was pearl diving. Main exports included pearls, shells and dried fish. Essential imports included dates from Basra; rice, sugar, peppers and cereals from India; wood and sugar cane from Africa.

The museum had great displays of traditional clothing and lifestyle – influenced by Islam. I love this picture of the bronze burqa. Today some of the older women still wear the bronze burqa but most wear the more traditional black cloth burqa if they wear one.

We shopped in the old traditional souks. The markets are a big identity for Dubai; in 1908 there were 400 souks throughout Deira and Bur Dubai. Here are a few pictures of the old style souks, as well as the spice and gold souks in Deira.

Traditional to Dubai are the Abra’s and Dhows used for transportation and trade. Tammy and I took an old traditional Abra across the river from Bur Dubai to Deira (much easier than dealing with the traffic).

On another day we visited the historic village which highlights the childhood home of Sheik Mohammad. They’ve turned the home into a museum of sorts, highlighting Arab culture – Arabian horses, camels, pictures of Dubai’s history, etc… The horse stables shed lots of insight into the different breeds and pride of the Arabian horse: Hejazi, Najdi, Yemeni, Syrian, Egyptian, Libyan and Moroccan. One of our favorite things to learn in the Camel stables was the various medical remedies from camel milk, urine, hump fat and dung. However, the best part of the whole historic village was the camel races – stuffed camels facing a big screen recording of the real camel races. I’m convinced my camel beat Tammy’s...either way we laughed so hard.

Last, but not least, various things about being in the Middle East remind me of my mission in Bolivia, particularly these pictures. In one of my areas transportation was by motorcycles, it was the way we got around (my companion on the back of one moto, me on another…riding sideways with our skirts). I took a picture of a family moving furniture on the back of their Yamaha, they’d fit their whole family on one moto. It was classic.

Beware of microwaved hard boiled eggs

2009-02-02T03:24:00.000-08:00

Lessons learned, don't make this same mistake!

We had some left over hard boiled eggs that have been in the fridge for a bit. So I decided I wanted to eat them after my run with Doby today. I peeled them and put them in the microwave, whole, for about a minute. I figured it was better to heat them up whole rather than smashed so the yolk wouldn't cook even more. Well, I was wrong. When I cut into the 1st one it popped, splashing all over me and the side of the fridge. I screamed, Doby barked and started eating the egg pieces on the floor. It really went everywhere. So the 2nd egg I tried putting my fork in it to release some of the pressure and...POP, egg everywhere! It even burned my hand a bit.

Fortunately, I didn't have to do a lot of mashing and it was hot enough for the butter. I decided to eat first (after all I'm always hungry after exercising) and clean up the kitchen later.

Oh, and the 2nd lesson learned. I didn't stop Doby from eating the egg pieces, I figured it was good protein for him. Well, just know that their toots will be extra stinky!

Bahrain

2009-01-24T12:25:00.001-08:00

I took advantage of easy access, cheap flights, and a kind offer from my old roommate Cristina Ramos, to take a weekend trip to Bahrain. I’m so glad I went as the reality that I am in the Middle East was more evident. We had a great time being very touristy, taking lots of fun pics, shopping for items made in Bahrain and catching up. Most everything is Dubai is new and often imported so I fell in love with the originality, antique architecture and personality of the various neighborhoods we visited. Bahrain is old, undeveloped in parts, rustic, used, historic, not as clean, not as rich, not as luxury…just different from Dubai.

I haven’t seen a lot of camels in Dubai so I very much enjoyed our visit to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s camel farm. We saw a baby camel that was born 2 hours previous to our visit, viewed camel breeding and learned how to hold a camels' neck when petting so they won't bite. We were also told that the male camels are mean so they kill them at birth. Racing camels and riding camels are most always female.

The most fun was our stop to Pottery Village. This video tells it all. A tad long but really fun to watch…I’m sure my sis-in-law Mary will get a kick out of it and hey, I think I did pretty well for my first little pot. I am pushing the wheel with my right leg – no electric switch. Can you imagine doing this all day?

Last, some things in life are guilty pleasures, and when abroad one cannot easily fulfill those pleasures. Thank goodness for the Navy base in Bahrain! Jami – this is for you!

Check out all the Bahrain pictures at this link: http://picasaweb.google.com/ains16/BahrainWCristina?feat=directlink

Ski Dubai

2009-01-19T09:38:00.000-08:00

Once Mom left, life here in Dubai went back to “normal.” The kids did have one more week off of school so the big kids and I took an afternoon to play at Ski Dubai. This really is an out of this world experience…not because it’s a great slope (similar to the Michigan slopes we grew up on), but we’re in the middle of the desert in a big structure, in snow gear and freezing. Where else can you do that? The price is even reasonable. We cleaned the house one day (I did all 6 bathrooms and was exhausted), did a lot of jumping on the trampoline, swam in the pool, did a bit more shopping and tried again to see some camel races but with no luck.

A longer stay has allowed me the opportunity to see Dubai from more than just a tourist viewpoint. They hide the poverty well here but it is evident that it’s a slave labor sweatshop (why don’t men here wear deodorant?). I feel for the many Indian and Pilipino workers who are generally not treated well and leave their families behind. Bill and Tammy on the other hand do not have any maids (except me of course) and take care of needed chores the way it should be done – teaching the kids to work.

I’ve also had the opportunity to help out at my friend Aaron Brown’s yummy bakery – Sugar Daddy’s. It’s been fun to spend time with him (he works all the time so it’s the only way to see him), learn more about entrepreneurship in Dubai, and I’ve even had the opportunity to do a little PR with the shop. They recently did a Gaza Relief press event since the bakery created a special Gaza cupcake package with full proceeds going to the fund.

I fly back to NYC through Paris this Friday, but really want to stay longer. I love spending time with the kids and helping them with their homework and I also love playing and running with their dog Doby. This region of the world is a bit addicting and I don’t want to go back to the cold…so stay tuned, things might change.

Dubai

2009-01-04T08:06:00.000-08:00

Dubai is an interesting place. I’m still not sure what to think of the place, but my current opinion of Dubai is that it is a melting pot catering to expats. You can find every chain restaurant and store that is popular in the USA and Europe. The unique Arab culture is a little more hidden but everything is OVER THE TOP and the LARGEST and the BEST!!! For fun, everyone goes to the malls, we’ve already visited 8 and there are more. Dubai is really spread out and definite seems to be competiting for more sky scrapers. Everything is new, construction is everywhere you look - one day we counted 100 cranes. You can see pictures and descriptions at this link: http://picasaweb.google.com/ains16/ParisNDubai?feat=directlink

But here is a day by day breakdown of our 8 days of fun while Mom was here:

Day 1, Christmas Eve - We went to Bab Al Shams, an amazing restaurant/resort in the dessert. They had camel rides; we ate Arabic cuisine (Indian/Morocan/Turkish); and watched a whirling dervish, belly dancers and knife dancers.

Day 2, Christmas Day - didn't go anywhere but hung out at the house all day (jet lag kicking in, took a couple naps). Bill put up the trampoline that the kids got for Christmas.

Day 3, Sabbath (Friday) – We went to church at 1pm, drove around to see

more of Dubai and then went to Hard Rock Café for dinner.

Day 4 - Tour of Burj Al Arab – the sail boat 7 star hotel. It really was miraculous. Bill knows people that work there so we got to see a 3 bedroom suite that goes for dhrs30,000/night (about $9k). It was breathtaking. After the hotel, we went to the Marina district for lunch and walked on the beach of the Persian Gulf. As evening approached we toured GM’s offices and then found my friend Aaron Brown’s bakery Sugar Daddy's.

Day 5 – Mall Day! We visited Ibn Battata (themed by regions he visited: Egypt, India, Persia , etc) and Dubai Mall (indoor aquarium and ice skating rink). At night we left the older kids as babysitters and Bill took us to dinner at the Madinat Jumeirah The Arabian Resort. The resort is created after an Arab city and has it own private waterway – it’s HUGE. To get to dinner we had to take a little water taxi. We ended the evening with Bill and Tammy's favorite way to watch a flick - the Gold Star Theater. In Dubai fashion, it takes watching a movie to the next level with lazyboy reclining chairs and a call button for a server to bring you food, popcorn, hot choco, etc…

Day 6 - Bill, Tammy, Cami, Mom and I ventured to Karama market to wheel and deal on watches, pashminas, purses and other regional treasures. We bargained well our watches, pillow cases, purses, and tablecloths. That evening the whole crew went on a on a dinner boat cruise on the Dubai Deira creek. The boats are the original Arabic style sailboats know as a “dhow.”

Day 7 - Tammy, Mom and I went on a tour of a Mosque, which was very interesting. At night we went to GlobalCity which is an outrageously huge outdoor flea market sectioned off into different countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Morocco, Thailand, Srilanka, etc... Only open in the winter months.

Day 8, New Years Eve – We went to see Bedtime Stories at the “normal” theater, prepared for Mom’s departure, and celebrated Tammy’s b-day. We rang in the New Year with many of Bill and Tammy’s friends from church. Usually Dubai has a spectacular fireworks show but all “parties” were canceled as a show of respect for the attacks in the Gaza Strip.

Still many more things on to do list - stay tuned.

What's good about turning 30?

2008-12-18T18:07:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to be excited about turning 30, I asked all my friends and family to shout out some benefits. After a couple months of being 30 I’m not sure I’m feeling much of a difference. We only came up with 25 and my brain is acting like a 30-year old so comment with other benefits not found on this list.

May this list make you feel good about your age!

Old enough to know what I’ve got and young enough to know how to use it.
30 is the new 20.
Nothing matters anymore.
More money, better clothes.
I can run for President in 5 more years, for the Senate in 2.
I can date older men and no one will look at me weird.
At least I don’t look like I’m 30, right?
Life is easier and breezier.
More confident.
More credibility.
More responsibility.
Stronger position in the job market.
Will learn that guilt is not a useful emotion.
Clothes from college are coming back into style and you can still fit them.
Only a few more years of paying off student loans.
People show more respect to a 30 something that a 20 something.
Only married people turn 30.
Can carry off a “sophisticated” look with finesse instead of being accused of poor imitations.
30, flirty and thriving.
Finally in advertisers target market.
Men like older women, enough said!
Now I can be someone’s sugar mama.
At least its not dog years.
Finally a grown up.
Doesn’t feel any different than 29.