at Bronx Documentary Center. Could not have hoped for more. Five New York Times reporters spoke about their series called "Murder in the 4-0" and answered questions. Many issues explored, the role of government in poor communities---interaction of police and citizens----reasons for the Times choosing this precinct and the changes in the community in the last 20 or so years. Also I met two interesting people, Sonda and Carol (one white one black) and had conversations with them. Afterwards shared a vision with Mr. Mckinley, one of the panelists, about the current mayoral administration. The five Times people were very bright, articulate, and had a great understanding of what was going on. I would love to participate in more discussions of the ilk, especially since this is an election year---the public has more say then ever. Great energy inside the place.
Afterwards, took the 2 to 96th and thought I would go to the Dive Bar, but it was packed---did not want to compromise and go to a Greek diner or pizza place---so took the bus to 106th and went to the beer hall there. I liked the energy, not too crowded, a good size tv in front of me to watch basketball---and the bartender was friendly. Lots of conversations going on---none with me,however, but it did not matter--I wanted to be in bar territory, and I was. Returned home feeling very good.
A few sessions today and tomorrow, but not sure about evening plans. Should go to Jack and see the play there---need to get that out of the way (everything has to be gotten out of the way, these days---since there is so much out there.) But what about a simple movie? Possible.
Will report tomorrow.
Friday, March 31, 2017
Thursday, March 30, 2017
cityboy is downtown....
or at least was. Left my apartment at a little after 8 in the morning with the goal of going to protest outside of City Hall. It was a protest against broken windows, the policing policy that many feel undercuts the mayor's vision of a "sanctuary city". Arrived at City Hall park a little after 9--a small crowd was up on the stops. Cityboy felt very ambivalent about joining, did not see anyone there that he knew. Watched outside for a while---then turned away. But hold on, there just happened to be another protest a few blocks away---outside the court house, a group called Make the Road had organized a protest against any rent increases at all. This was a group of mostly latino folks with a small smattering of whites and blacks mixed in. The theme was real---stop landlord harassment for low income people. This is a very serious subject. Cityboy listened to the stories and speeches of people there. Some seemed superficial, but others told of brutal landlord harassment of people who could not fight back. Landlords have so much more power, and despite the fact that they can be taken to court, there are still many ways to harass a tenant, particularly if that tenant is poor and old, before the court rules on the case.
It's a tale of two cities: and cityboy lives in both--but why should the realtors have so much power. The Mayor is still in debt to them--City Council members receive money from them and then try to create a balancing act between their "constituents"---those who have no money to offer them, but who need services, and their backers---usually real estate developers. So far, the balancing act has failed, and the community groups are angry. Can it be changed? Recent developments are hopeful, but there is still a long way to go.
So where is cityboy in all this? Wouldn't he like to just walk away----after all, he is protected, let the other people solve their problems, our hero wants to go to plays, talk theater, and hang out. But he can't. He believes that the underdog should win out over the vicious. So, at times, he rejects art and tries to commit to the activist groups that he has joined. And he has made contributions that help these groups. Cityboy hopes that he will not be too tired on Monday to attend the next BAN meeting. He still wants to set up a flyer telling people that they should pay attention to whom their city council person is, and how he or she effects them.
But that is the other issue. In this city of well informed people, of art lovers, theater makers, etc., many people refuse to focus on any of these issues---they just can't or won't get involved. Frustrating!
So this is the valley that we find ourselves. Got to push on, read as much as possible, about civic involvement.
Brief change of pace: last night, went to Lansdowne Fall,s visited my friend the "twins", really good to see them---they are very vivacious and alive young women---nice to see them again. Restaurant itself was fairly quiet---well baseball does not begin until Sunday, and final four does not resume until Saturday. A slow week for sports lovers.
Tonight: plan is to go to Bronx Doc for discussion about 40th precinct with the New York Times writers who wrote the series. Should be interesting---wonder who else will show up, will report on this tomorrow.
It's a tale of two cities: and cityboy lives in both--but why should the realtors have so much power. The Mayor is still in debt to them--City Council members receive money from them and then try to create a balancing act between their "constituents"---those who have no money to offer them, but who need services, and their backers---usually real estate developers. So far, the balancing act has failed, and the community groups are angry. Can it be changed? Recent developments are hopeful, but there is still a long way to go.
So where is cityboy in all this? Wouldn't he like to just walk away----after all, he is protected, let the other people solve their problems, our hero wants to go to plays, talk theater, and hang out. But he can't. He believes that the underdog should win out over the vicious. So, at times, he rejects art and tries to commit to the activist groups that he has joined. And he has made contributions that help these groups. Cityboy hopes that he will not be too tired on Monday to attend the next BAN meeting. He still wants to set up a flyer telling people that they should pay attention to whom their city council person is, and how he or she effects them.
But that is the other issue. In this city of well informed people, of art lovers, theater makers, etc., many people refuse to focus on any of these issues---they just can't or won't get involved. Frustrating!
So this is the valley that we find ourselves. Got to push on, read as much as possible, about civic involvement.
Brief change of pace: last night, went to Lansdowne Fall,s visited my friend the "twins", really good to see them---they are very vivacious and alive young women---nice to see them again. Restaurant itself was fairly quiet---well baseball does not begin until Sunday, and final four does not resume until Saturday. A slow week for sports lovers.
Tonight: plan is to go to Bronx Doc for discussion about 40th precinct with the New York Times writers who wrote the series. Should be interesting---wonder who else will show up, will report on this tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
where will it...
end? What? Your imagination, cityboy? Seems to exploding every minute. Well let' talk about last night.
Arrived at the Met, picked up my ticket---amazed to find out that it was in the orchestra. Wow! Went in, looked at the exhibit about the first year at the new Met in the basement (not the right word for the lower level of the Met) Not really detailed, just some pictures of the plans leading up to it, and some pictures from the new productions. What about the other seventeen or so? Well, enough of that, let's get to the opera.
Fidelio by Beethoven---a serious woman, disguised as a man----saves her husband from death at the hands of a political martinet. A passionate story---almost seems like a fairy story for our times. The villain, Don Pizarro, is representative of every conservative, every fascist, every non feeling person in creation. How full is the world of his type today? So should one be sad while viewing the passion that Beethoven has created---the sense that a decent human being should be able to find justice and free an idealistic prisoner.? Yet the performance was brilliant---Adrianne Pieczonka, the Leonore (the woman who disguises herself as a man to save her husband) gave a brutally strong performance. Her affect for most of the play was masculine, one really could see others being fooled into thinking her a man. Fidelio is her story and her commitment and great singing carried us (the audience) through the journey to its exultant finale. At her curtain call I screamed "Bravo!" along with so many others in this audience---thanking her for leading us on this remarkable journey. We loved her for that.
Acting at the Met has become so much stronger---Falk Struckmann, who sang Rocco the jailer, gave a most detailed performance. He seemed to be living the role to his core, amazing that he will sing Pizarro in a production later this year. Yes, opera at the Met has become a evolved into a musch stronger visual experience than it was 50 years ago. Direction so much more detailed. Speaking of which, the direction and production worked, while being a little over fussy. Jacqino, the second tenor, usually just a wisp of a man, is here turned into a gun loving intense guard. And how about the second scene of Act II, the deux ex machina scene where all the prisoners are pardoned. Well, even the music is a little bit of a humorous take on a celebration (Beethoven was no fool) and the staging follows it. Marcellina, who usually accepts the revelation that the man she loves and hopes to marry is a woman, here has a sad scene almost stage center while the others are proclaiming the braveness of Leonore. And the prisoners, who only moments ago were starved, are happily dancing with their wives and sweethearts---even a few children are jazzing it up, dancing in time to the music. A little bit insane? Did not matter for the energy and the opera was so great. The audience really loved the singers and the conductor, who was amazing. An evening that really resonated with me---hope to see a few more operas at the Met before it closes down for the summer (and resumes in the fall with a very ordinary schedule).
That's it---not sure about tonight, plan is to visit the Twins at Lansdowne---hope I can make it, will report tomorrow.
Arrived at the Met, picked up my ticket---amazed to find out that it was in the orchestra. Wow! Went in, looked at the exhibit about the first year at the new Met in the basement (not the right word for the lower level of the Met) Not really detailed, just some pictures of the plans leading up to it, and some pictures from the new productions. What about the other seventeen or so? Well, enough of that, let's get to the opera.
Fidelio by Beethoven---a serious woman, disguised as a man----saves her husband from death at the hands of a political martinet. A passionate story---almost seems like a fairy story for our times. The villain, Don Pizarro, is representative of every conservative, every fascist, every non feeling person in creation. How full is the world of his type today? So should one be sad while viewing the passion that Beethoven has created---the sense that a decent human being should be able to find justice and free an idealistic prisoner.? Yet the performance was brilliant---Adrianne Pieczonka, the Leonore (the woman who disguises herself as a man to save her husband) gave a brutally strong performance. Her affect for most of the play was masculine, one really could see others being fooled into thinking her a man. Fidelio is her story and her commitment and great singing carried us (the audience) through the journey to its exultant finale. At her curtain call I screamed "Bravo!" along with so many others in this audience---thanking her for leading us on this remarkable journey. We loved her for that.
Acting at the Met has become so much stronger---Falk Struckmann, who sang Rocco the jailer, gave a most detailed performance. He seemed to be living the role to his core, amazing that he will sing Pizarro in a production later this year. Yes, opera at the Met has become a evolved into a musch stronger visual experience than it was 50 years ago. Direction so much more detailed. Speaking of which, the direction and production worked, while being a little over fussy. Jacqino, the second tenor, usually just a wisp of a man, is here turned into a gun loving intense guard. And how about the second scene of Act II, the deux ex machina scene where all the prisoners are pardoned. Well, even the music is a little bit of a humorous take on a celebration (Beethoven was no fool) and the staging follows it. Marcellina, who usually accepts the revelation that the man she loves and hopes to marry is a woman, here has a sad scene almost stage center while the others are proclaiming the braveness of Leonore. And the prisoners, who only moments ago were starved, are happily dancing with their wives and sweethearts---even a few children are jazzing it up, dancing in time to the music. A little bit insane? Did not matter for the energy and the opera was so great. The audience really loved the singers and the conductor, who was amazing. An evening that really resonated with me---hope to see a few more operas at the Met before it closes down for the summer (and resumes in the fall with a very ordinary schedule).
That's it---not sure about tonight, plan is to visit the Twins at Lansdowne---hope I can make it, will report tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
a quiet night....
for cityboy--after a few sessions---not much energy, but did go to bar restaurant on 143rd and Broadway for dinner--had a nice Caesar salad with chicken---filling and not too expensive, but the two guys next to me were pretty gross, and so no good conversation. Still, I like that place, will return, staff very friendly. Afterwards, stopped off at coffee place on 95th street and Broadway, new ownership, coffee still very good, this is opposite the Symphony Space---a long line crowded outside of it as I left---I looked at the programs, apparently all week they are having a Broadway comes to Symphony Space set of programs. Amazing! Build a musical comedy program and they will come!
Isn't there anyone who does NOT want to go to the theater at this point?
Today, Fidelio at the Met, in what I guess will be staff standing room. Fine with me---maybe will meet some other "staffers" and join in some interesting opera conversation. Anyway, should be meaningful.
Last night, as I said, early, but I awoke around 1, full of energy. I could have gone out for a beer, my stomach could have handled it, but decided to keep myself in. Why? Bars that are walkable to from my apartment are very impersonal---have no real identity with them--I wonder if I lived in Williamsburg or Bushwick whether I would simply go and hang out if I was up at that time. Well, it is not happening, you are stuck on the upper west side, cityboy; of course you could take the subways into Bushwick or Williamsburg at that time if you dared, but that is kind of impossible.
That is the thought for today, who knows how I will feel after the opera tonight, or where I will want to go, in the interim between Tuesday night, and Wednesday day. Will report tomorrow...
Isn't there anyone who does NOT want to go to the theater at this point?
Today, Fidelio at the Met, in what I guess will be staff standing room. Fine with me---maybe will meet some other "staffers" and join in some interesting opera conversation. Anyway, should be meaningful.
Last night, as I said, early, but I awoke around 1, full of energy. I could have gone out for a beer, my stomach could have handled it, but decided to keep myself in. Why? Bars that are walkable to from my apartment are very impersonal---have no real identity with them--I wonder if I lived in Williamsburg or Bushwick whether I would simply go and hang out if I was up at that time. Well, it is not happening, you are stuck on the upper west side, cityboy; of course you could take the subways into Bushwick or Williamsburg at that time if you dared, but that is kind of impossible.
That is the thought for today, who knows how I will feel after the opera tonight, or where I will want to go, in the interim between Tuesday night, and Wednesday day. Will report tomorrow...
Monday, March 27, 2017
just donated around...
25.00 to E4Flatbush dinner on Thursday, But I will probably not attend. Why? Too many other choices. I still think the best choice is Bronx Doc Center, where the writers of the articles about the 40th precinct that the Times wrote last winter. and the changes that they brought about, will be discussed. Still there is a Shakespeare trivia game at the Clemente Center (where I worked two summers at the Fringe) and the dinner. Options, options, options, pretty good, cityboy. But what of the weekend/
Saturday evening, saw The Terrifying at Abrons Arts, a major disappointment. I found it totally without any meaningful content, far away from the tremendous visceral excitement that I experienced the night before at Frontiers Sans Frontiers, Nothing much else to say--yes, tremendous technical dexterity, but so what? Luckily, Abrons is close to La Flaca, so went in afterwards, watched much of the Oregon-Kansas game and had a good chat with bartender Tom, about theater and what it is.Left feeling very fulfilled.
Yesterday, followed the plan, and ended up at 2 at Morris Avenue, near Fordham Road in the Bronx, for my journey into the Bronx Anti-gentrification movement. Morris Avenue, itself, fascinated me---across the street from Fierce---the venue where the meeting was held, all those art deco apartment houses---yes, they still bring back memories and a kind of hunger for my childhood past. Maybe at some point this spring, will actually take a long walk down Morris, from Fordham, as far south as I can go---maybe as far as 161 street. The group itself was mixed, they are just starting out---I came with no real idea of how I wanted to participate, really more to share information. About a quarter of the way through, one of the participants, a latina, made very strong anti-white sentiments, picking on a young man (white) who was living in Spanish Harlem now and accusing him of being a gentrifyer. This was stopped by the gentleman at whose venue we were having the meeting, but the content changed---it was now what was the role of white people going to be in the group. Very different from BAN, where all are welcome, if they contribute. For the first time, I felt assaulted by the rhetoric, have never experienced that before, and although I did contribute, held back a little, feeling under siege. This is a group that is just starting out and they are trying to craft their own identity---certainly the Bronx is mostly latino and black, and it is that group that would be brutalized the most by what they feel is the coming encroachment of their land. So it is understandable that they would want people of color to lead. Still, my feeling is that I won't contribute further---I don't know if I really have the time to do so anyway---and let the group take the shape that it wants. Certainly this is different from BAN which encourages participation from all, and by doing this, also encourages its members to donate to the causes (bail for wrongly accused arrestees, lawyers for displaced people) that it sponsors. It took me a long time to process what happened, not unhappy that I went, my friend from FUREE Michael was there, so it was good to have his support. Will see how this develops.
Amazingly enough, that was not the end of my day---did want to make a trip to South Fourth, I had missed several Sundays--and so, after coming back to the apartment from the Bronx, putting on a much warmer coat, I embarked for Williamsburg. Sadly, Olivia, the bartender whom I like very much, was not there---still I stayed for a while and spoke to her replacement---sat around and listened to the comics (Sunday there is comic night) and left feeling rather good.
Rest of the day, not sure---second week of my break---beginning to establish a pace that is different from when I am working---this will continue for the next week, I guess, and I will report on it soon.
Saturday evening, saw The Terrifying at Abrons Arts, a major disappointment. I found it totally without any meaningful content, far away from the tremendous visceral excitement that I experienced the night before at Frontiers Sans Frontiers, Nothing much else to say--yes, tremendous technical dexterity, but so what? Luckily, Abrons is close to La Flaca, so went in afterwards, watched much of the Oregon-Kansas game and had a good chat with bartender Tom, about theater and what it is.Left feeling very fulfilled.
Yesterday, followed the plan, and ended up at 2 at Morris Avenue, near Fordham Road in the Bronx, for my journey into the Bronx Anti-gentrification movement. Morris Avenue, itself, fascinated me---across the street from Fierce---the venue where the meeting was held, all those art deco apartment houses---yes, they still bring back memories and a kind of hunger for my childhood past. Maybe at some point this spring, will actually take a long walk down Morris, from Fordham, as far south as I can go---maybe as far as 161 street. The group itself was mixed, they are just starting out---I came with no real idea of how I wanted to participate, really more to share information. About a quarter of the way through, one of the participants, a latina, made very strong anti-white sentiments, picking on a young man (white) who was living in Spanish Harlem now and accusing him of being a gentrifyer. This was stopped by the gentleman at whose venue we were having the meeting, but the content changed---it was now what was the role of white people going to be in the group. Very different from BAN, where all are welcome, if they contribute. For the first time, I felt assaulted by the rhetoric, have never experienced that before, and although I did contribute, held back a little, feeling under siege. This is a group that is just starting out and they are trying to craft their own identity---certainly the Bronx is mostly latino and black, and it is that group that would be brutalized the most by what they feel is the coming encroachment of their land. So it is understandable that they would want people of color to lead. Still, my feeling is that I won't contribute further---I don't know if I really have the time to do so anyway---and let the group take the shape that it wants. Certainly this is different from BAN which encourages participation from all, and by doing this, also encourages its members to donate to the causes (bail for wrongly accused arrestees, lawyers for displaced people) that it sponsors. It took me a long time to process what happened, not unhappy that I went, my friend from FUREE Michael was there, so it was good to have his support. Will see how this develops.
Amazingly enough, that was not the end of my day---did want to make a trip to South Fourth, I had missed several Sundays--and so, after coming back to the apartment from the Bronx, putting on a much warmer coat, I embarked for Williamsburg. Sadly, Olivia, the bartender whom I like very much, was not there---still I stayed for a while and spoke to her replacement---sat around and listened to the comics (Sunday there is comic night) and left feeling rather good.
Rest of the day, not sure---second week of my break---beginning to establish a pace that is different from when I am working---this will continue for the next week, I guess, and I will report on it soon.
Saturday, March 25, 2017
Did get out to...
Bushwick yesterday to see Frontieres Sans Frontieres---and I am very glad I did. A stimulating evening---a bit of an uneven play, but one with a brutal ending that was very wrenching. Also, a mostly cast of color, enormously talented, dominating the stage. In addition, an incredible use of the small space at the Starr, in terms of lighting and scenery, and great costumes. It is amazing how much pure talent exists in the downtown theater. Expectations from me are very high. The play is essentially about the adventures of three survivors in an unknown part of Africa, besieged by repulsive tourists and an advancing army that is predatory. Moments of self-indulgence in the writing---two of the second act monologues go on too long, but the visceral creation of the lives of the three protagonists and their strengths and fears is remarkably strong. Really glad that I went---afterwards, went to Starr Bar, donated $15.00 to fund for bail for the wrongly jailed person, and spoke to Tony, one of the actors, and Dustin, the director. Not much else after that, so returned home to prepare for today. I have one more session at around 3, this may give me some time to listen to Idomeneo at the apartment.
Tonight, not sure, might be tired, might try to see the Terrifying at Abrons Arts, should check out Dixon Place schedule as well. Decision to be made soon. Tomorrow, still hope to attend Bronx Gentrification meeting around Fordham Road. Will report on all that soon.
Tonight, not sure, might be tired, might try to see the Terrifying at Abrons Arts, should check out Dixon Place schedule as well. Decision to be made soon. Tomorrow, still hope to attend Bronx Gentrification meeting around Fordham Road. Will report on all that soon.
Friday, March 24, 2017
well, the good news is...
that I finally did get out last night--did not get home till around 10, which is quite an improvement from the two days before. Tonight, no choice, a ticket is waiting for me at the Bushwick Starr for the play there-afterwards, I will go across the street to the Starr Bar and donate my $10.00 to the fund for bail for Davonte Jones, the man still in jail after being beaten by the police. I feel pretty rested now, so I should be in good shape to experience the evening.
Last night---after a session, took the D west 4th then the F to Delancey. Thought it might be possible to see The Terror at Abrons Arts, but as I left the station, intense hunger set in, and since time was short, and the pizza alternative not inviting. I decided to watch Final Four basketball and have a meal at La Flaca. Good idea, had a nice BLT and salad, and bartender Samantha was very friendly. Always have a good time at La Flaca. Also had a chance to immerse myself in the Oregon-Michigan basketball game, two teams I had never seen play before. Lots of action, kind of sloppy play throughout the first half---the teams seemed evenly matched. Even if I did not know the idiosyncrisies of the individual players, plays were easy to follow. Still, I decided to leave, rather than watch the second half---too predictable, maybe. When I left, I was slightly tired, still it was too early to simply jump on the subway and return home. Time to walk. Followed Essex up to Houston, then right, passed Orchard where grotesque new housing is going up on the corner of Orchard and Houston. How much of it do we need? My destination was the Bean, my non-alcohol home away from home---I usually have a light sugar snack there with coffee, but stomach told me I could handle more, so I opted for a large Oreo cake---enormous amount of sugar; I rarely allow myself to handle that much. Sat and read the biography of Ryan Speedo Green, a black opera singer who had a troubled childhood. Really good biography---very focused and non-indulgent. Some good insights about the Met---still enjoying it and much to go. After leaving, I felt very full, but I walked from 2nd and 3rd street to 14th and second. Then took the cross town bus to seventh and the subway home. Hope that I did not overeat; I think everything will turn out all right.
Just read Brantley's review of The New Yorkers, the current musical revival at Encores. It sounds like a lot of fun---a part of me would love to check it out---explore the style, etc---my only chances would be Saturday night (might be too tired) or Sunday evening (want to spend it hanging out at South Fourth) Sunday afternoon is a possibility, but I have promised myself I would attend the anti gentrification forum in the Bronx. Interesting choice---a frivolous musical re statement, or dealing with a hear and now problem in the city, especially one that threatens minorities. Also, Encores could be replaced by the many interesting movies that are now in the city---that I hardly have time for.
Thought of a short play: a middle aged couple, Jewish, tell a friend how they had an extra ticket for The New Yorkers, and offered it to a friend named Bob, but to there somewhat frustration, he prefers to go to an anti-gentrification forum in the Bronx, "Who goes to the Bronx anymore? the gentleman says. Then they offer it to another friend who refuses to go because in times like this, "The New Yorkers" is too frivolous. "Too frivolous," the man says. "Life still goes on" says the woman. "We like musicals. So sue us!" End of play
Last night---after a session, took the D west 4th then the F to Delancey. Thought it might be possible to see The Terror at Abrons Arts, but as I left the station, intense hunger set in, and since time was short, and the pizza alternative not inviting. I decided to watch Final Four basketball and have a meal at La Flaca. Good idea, had a nice BLT and salad, and bartender Samantha was very friendly. Always have a good time at La Flaca. Also had a chance to immerse myself in the Oregon-Michigan basketball game, two teams I had never seen play before. Lots of action, kind of sloppy play throughout the first half---the teams seemed evenly matched. Even if I did not know the idiosyncrisies of the individual players, plays were easy to follow. Still, I decided to leave, rather than watch the second half---too predictable, maybe. When I left, I was slightly tired, still it was too early to simply jump on the subway and return home. Time to walk. Followed Essex up to Houston, then right, passed Orchard where grotesque new housing is going up on the corner of Orchard and Houston. How much of it do we need? My destination was the Bean, my non-alcohol home away from home---I usually have a light sugar snack there with coffee, but stomach told me I could handle more, so I opted for a large Oreo cake---enormous amount of sugar; I rarely allow myself to handle that much. Sat and read the biography of Ryan Speedo Green, a black opera singer who had a troubled childhood. Really good biography---very focused and non-indulgent. Some good insights about the Met---still enjoying it and much to go. After leaving, I felt very full, but I walked from 2nd and 3rd street to 14th and second. Then took the cross town bus to seventh and the subway home. Hope that I did not overeat; I think everything will turn out all right.
Just read Brantley's review of The New Yorkers, the current musical revival at Encores. It sounds like a lot of fun---a part of me would love to check it out---explore the style, etc---my only chances would be Saturday night (might be too tired) or Sunday evening (want to spend it hanging out at South Fourth) Sunday afternoon is a possibility, but I have promised myself I would attend the anti gentrification forum in the Bronx. Interesting choice---a frivolous musical re statement, or dealing with a hear and now problem in the city, especially one that threatens minorities. Also, Encores could be replaced by the many interesting movies that are now in the city---that I hardly have time for.
Thought of a short play: a middle aged couple, Jewish, tell a friend how they had an extra ticket for The New Yorkers, and offered it to a friend named Bob, but to there somewhat frustration, he prefers to go to an anti-gentrification forum in the Bronx, "Who goes to the Bronx anymore? the gentleman says. Then they offer it to another friend who refuses to go because in times like this, "The New Yorkers" is too frivolous. "Too frivolous," the man says. "Life still goes on" says the woman. "We like musicals. So sue us!" End of play
Thursday, March 23, 2017
so what happened last....
night? Absolutely nothing! Tired after two sessions, returned home and decided to stick it out there. Wanted very much to visit the twins (wiatresses) at Lansdowne Road, but the cold was overpowering---if it was around 60, I might have found a way to go---and fatigue was setting in. Rested, read a little bit of the Bernhard Schlink novel--kind of a half mystery-half romance---enjoyable---and fell asleep.
Hopefully this evening will be a little more animated---really must move around, or see a movie or do SOMETHING.
Just got a post from my friend Michael about an anti gentrification conference in the Bronx on Sunday afternoon. I think I will try to go. I would like to see what is happening there, how the community groups envision the "onslaught" of gentrification. From my point of view, it will be very different from that of Brooklyn. Much slower, if at all. Why? I think the vision of poverty and of people of color, maintaining their space is much more defined in the Bronx. It is a different zeitgeist!
Will I be right? Maybe Sunday's event will reveal more facts---important to get the vision of people already living there-involved in the struggle. The event is right off Fordham Road, near the former Alexander's--a well known clothing store that remained in the Bronx, probably until the eighties. A place that I was taken to often as a child. Similarly the streets that surround the meeting house---they resonate with me---I could have had friends there, growing up as a child.Not far from the old Bronx Science, the one that was abandoned in the spring of 59---I spent half a year there--then went to the "new" building. The Bronx always evokes these kind of memories---a very different world now---well, we will find out all about it on Sunday.
That is all for now---will report tomorrow.
Hopefully this evening will be a little more animated---really must move around, or see a movie or do SOMETHING.
Just got a post from my friend Michael about an anti gentrification conference in the Bronx on Sunday afternoon. I think I will try to go. I would like to see what is happening there, how the community groups envision the "onslaught" of gentrification. From my point of view, it will be very different from that of Brooklyn. Much slower, if at all. Why? I think the vision of poverty and of people of color, maintaining their space is much more defined in the Bronx. It is a different zeitgeist!
Will I be right? Maybe Sunday's event will reveal more facts---important to get the vision of people already living there-involved in the struggle. The event is right off Fordham Road, near the former Alexander's--a well known clothing store that remained in the Bronx, probably until the eighties. A place that I was taken to often as a child. Similarly the streets that surround the meeting house---they resonate with me---I could have had friends there, growing up as a child.Not far from the old Bronx Science, the one that was abandoned in the spring of 59---I spent half a year there--then went to the "new" building. The Bronx always evokes these kind of memories---a very different world now---well, we will find out all about it on Sunday.
That is all for now---will report tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
activism or art....
which is more important? Trying to make a decent schedule to see the plays and movies that I want to see, while trying also to participate in the actions of the groups that I belong to. Just found out that I can see the play at Bushwick Starr on Friday without hassle, which means that I can also go across the street to Starr Bar and contribute to an important fund. Tomorrow? Not sure---and Saturday may be too "knocked out" from my sessions to do anything. On Sunday, among other things is an anti-gentrification forum in the Bronx---would like to go but still need to know more about it. Next Thursday was the day I thought I would take advantage of my friend Emily's offer to see Eugene Onegin at the Met (for free), but Bronx Documentary Center is hosting a really interesting meeting with four NY Times reporters who covered crime in the 40th Police Precinct in the Bronx, and by doing so, made some changes in policy. Want very much to be there for that.
Yesterday, simply came home and slept the night away. Tonight, after sessions (I expect at least 2) my first choice is to visit the twins at Lansdowne Road. Don't like traveling away from the subway (the bar is on tenth and 44th) on a cold night such as this one promises to be, but could enjoy the open warmth of Melissa and CC.
Just e-mailed, Meropi, the woman who ran the forum at Jack on the afternoon that I attended Home/Sick (still a great production!) suggesting that this forum be continued about once a month. Wonder if she will respond. Forums and activist meetings are all over the place, now, but if you don't find out about them in time; not much that you can do. Also, there is little coordination among the groups. Where do we go from here? This is an election year. How do you educate so many people who though bright, seem not to be aware of so many issues going on in the city? Good question.
That's where things stand now---will report in tomorrow.
Yesterday, simply came home and slept the night away. Tonight, after sessions (I expect at least 2) my first choice is to visit the twins at Lansdowne Road. Don't like traveling away from the subway (the bar is on tenth and 44th) on a cold night such as this one promises to be, but could enjoy the open warmth of Melissa and CC.
Just e-mailed, Meropi, the woman who ran the forum at Jack on the afternoon that I attended Home/Sick (still a great production!) suggesting that this forum be continued about once a month. Wonder if she will respond. Forums and activist meetings are all over the place, now, but if you don't find out about them in time; not much that you can do. Also, there is little coordination among the groups. Where do we go from here? This is an election year. How do you educate so many people who though bright, seem not to be aware of so many issues going on in the city? Good question.
That's where things stand now---will report in tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
here I am....
at Lincoln Center library, second day of the break. What is new? Well, last night I attended the Performateria, put together by TDF at Baruch. Interesting smorgasboard of avant garde or ":downtown theater projects. Saw my friends, Assembly at the theater. But perhaps the most interesting part of the trip was getting off the R at 28th street and Broadway, in the past, a mostly deserted area, and exploring. The block between Broadway and 5th, in the past which had mostly lofts, has about 4 bars on it. Where do all those people come from. Walking down 28th even more bars,and some high end restaurants. A few were filled, a few were empty, but the filled beat the empty. How do they do it? Is there such a need for so many bars? Who are all those people going to them? Anyway, the walk from Broadway and 28th to Baruch between third and lexington on 25th was interesting. Always something new to see.
The performateria was successful on its own terms, but there were some problems. Audience and performers were really not encouraged to dialogue, even if the conceivers of the evening hoped that they would. Since a lot of these projects defied logic (one of the things that makes them interesting), some feedback with the audience on how they perceived these projects might have been effective. And why not a booth for the seven or so theater presenters with flyers and mission projects, in the bar part of Baruch, again, which would have encouraged dialogue. Still, had some nice conversations with the Assembly people; it was good to touch base with their incredible lighting designer Miriam.
Basically, I am glad that I went.
Tonight, some free choices, a few bars I might check out---a bartender whom I met works at the Brooklyn Barcade, and it might be nice to say hello to her. Also, always nice to check out Mayday space. Movies? Maybe---but maybe not. Time will tell, and I will report tomorrow.
The performateria was successful on its own terms, but there were some problems. Audience and performers were really not encouraged to dialogue, even if the conceivers of the evening hoped that they would. Since a lot of these projects defied logic (one of the things that makes them interesting), some feedback with the audience on how they perceived these projects might have been effective. And why not a booth for the seven or so theater presenters with flyers and mission projects, in the bar part of Baruch, again, which would have encouraged dialogue. Still, had some nice conversations with the Assembly people; it was good to touch base with their incredible lighting designer Miriam.
Basically, I am glad that I went.
Tonight, some free choices, a few bars I might check out---a bartender whom I met works at the Brooklyn Barcade, and it might be nice to say hello to her. Also, always nice to check out Mayday space. Movies? Maybe---but maybe not. Time will tell, and I will report tomorrow.
Monday, March 20, 2017
have been up since....
around 4---in preparation for my visit to the Whitney for my friend Sibyl's project each solstice. Second time in the morning, took a taxi (something I never do) to the Whitney, looked at West End and 11th at around 5:20---totally deserted streets. How do I feel about Sibyl's "extravaganzas"? They are meaningful in a certain way---part of a large group experiencing it---what is my place with them? Many people there that I know----many reflections and memories during the "quiet" periods.Some good conversations---out of the Whitney and on the streets of the far west village at 8.Still much beautiful architecture there---can forget all the "craziness" of NY for a minute while I look at them. But the world of the celebration itself. Almost like entering a dream world---participating in a ritual that one knows is not really real---but. Hard to put all these thoughts into a coherent pattern. Maybe later.
Last night: went to see the movie: P.S. Jerusalem---a telling and upsetting movie about the daughter of Amos Elon---a well known progressive Isreli thinker---uprooting her family from Brooklyn (where else? ) and moving to Jerusalem. She does not flinch from the brutal conflicts there---a real look at the Isreli hard liners who hate the leftists. She also enrolls her two sons in the only school in the city serving both Arabs and Isreli families. Lots of interesting information---hard to take all of the ugly footage---no end to the conflict there---ultimately as her marriage is disintegrating she has to admit (at least I think she does) that moving and living there was a self indulgence (that may be putting it a bit strong) and the film ends as she prepares to return to.....well it is never said, but we can assume it is Brooklyn. Very glad that I saw the movie, for all its discomfort, I got a lot of information that I really needed and was made aware of a lot of things.
Saturday evening: The Penitent----Mamet's new play---did not really want to see it---interesting---for most of the play, the audience is very distanced from the actors. Some interesting point, some good use of language---the denouement---a surprise---I found phony and unnecessary. A hard play to discuss if you have not seen it, because so much depends on its presentation.
Today, possibly will attend a performateria at Baruch---several "downtown" theater companies doing selections from their work---my buddies, the Assembly among them.Should be good to see them again---I recommended Home/Sick to a playwright whom I met at the solstice celebration---will any of the students I sent from Friends see it. Hard to know.Will find out in about two weeks.
Two weeks of off time from Friends---finally mornings without expectation or planning. Should be interesting---will report soon.
Last night: went to see the movie: P.S. Jerusalem---a telling and upsetting movie about the daughter of Amos Elon---a well known progressive Isreli thinker---uprooting her family from Brooklyn (where else? ) and moving to Jerusalem. She does not flinch from the brutal conflicts there---a real look at the Isreli hard liners who hate the leftists. She also enrolls her two sons in the only school in the city serving both Arabs and Isreli families. Lots of interesting information---hard to take all of the ugly footage---no end to the conflict there---ultimately as her marriage is disintegrating she has to admit (at least I think she does) that moving and living there was a self indulgence (that may be putting it a bit strong) and the film ends as she prepares to return to.....well it is never said, but we can assume it is Brooklyn. Very glad that I saw the movie, for all its discomfort, I got a lot of information that I really needed and was made aware of a lot of things.
Saturday evening: The Penitent----Mamet's new play---did not really want to see it---interesting---for most of the play, the audience is very distanced from the actors. Some interesting point, some good use of language---the denouement---a surprise---I found phony and unnecessary. A hard play to discuss if you have not seen it, because so much depends on its presentation.
Today, possibly will attend a performateria at Baruch---several "downtown" theater companies doing selections from their work---my buddies, the Assembly among them.Should be good to see them again---I recommended Home/Sick to a playwright whom I met at the solstice celebration---will any of the students I sent from Friends see it. Hard to know.Will find out in about two weeks.
Two weeks of off time from Friends---finally mornings without expectation or planning. Should be interesting---will report soon.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
no more melancholy.....
quite a contrast from the week before, cityboy was at Friends four times this week---ending with a day in which he worked almost the whole day. Grueling! But what is amazing is that one week could be so different from another. My vision of life is so straightforward---it seems impossible that after a productive day at the school, I would not be called the next day. But maybe the next day no one is needs a sub. Possible? Sure, but somehow at times it is hard to process. Two week vacation now, and three days (or close to that) already planned for the first week after spring break. Cityboy is very much a part of Friends world. So now we can relax.
Have not done much in the outside world except Sunday, decided at the last minute to attend Home/Sick, mainly because the discussion afterwards seemed so interesting. I was not disappointed, Home/Sick is in amazing shape---it is great to have Luke back---he brings a true force to it. Is it possible that I first encountered this work in August of 2011--with the exact same cast? Amazing! Afterwards, a really nice and fruitful hour long discussion of the arts in the age of the new President.
I made what I thought were some solid contributions---interesting to hear others point of view, all were younger than myself, I thought at times things were a little "pie in the sky" with them, but nevertheless a good feeling went through the whole discussion. Wish that something like this could happen once a month, just a bunch of interested people trying to sort out the political from the artistic. I will mention this once I see some of the people who were involved.
Tonight, the Penitent, not thrilled about it, but might have some interest. Next week should go to Bushwick to see their play---everything else will be improvised, will report soon.
Have not done much in the outside world except Sunday, decided at the last minute to attend Home/Sick, mainly because the discussion afterwards seemed so interesting. I was not disappointed, Home/Sick is in amazing shape---it is great to have Luke back---he brings a true force to it. Is it possible that I first encountered this work in August of 2011--with the exact same cast? Amazing! Afterwards, a really nice and fruitful hour long discussion of the arts in the age of the new President.
I made what I thought were some solid contributions---interesting to hear others point of view, all were younger than myself, I thought at times things were a little "pie in the sky" with them, but nevertheless a good feeling went through the whole discussion. Wish that something like this could happen once a month, just a bunch of interested people trying to sort out the political from the artistic. I will mention this once I see some of the people who were involved.
Tonight, the Penitent, not thrilled about it, but might have some interest. Next week should go to Bushwick to see their play---everything else will be improvised, will report soon.
Friday, March 10, 2017
melancholy.....
this will be only the second week in which i have worked only one day at Friends. This has left me feeling very melancholic---next week there is one day definite, but wonder if I will be called the others. The place is very much part of my life--other things are working well, lots of session scheduled for tomorrow, but feel a sadness at being "excluded" from the energy of the school. Well, I do have a three day commitment scheduled for the first week the school is reopened, after the spring break, and also a few other assignments. Probably should take it easy---who knows what could happen next week. Still, it was not so long ago, that I took two full assignments and was offered a third. Strange contrast.
Tomorrow, as I said, a full day of sessions, Sunday an easy day, hope to spend the early evening at South Fourth, something I have not been able to do for two weeks. Will probably see something today, but not sure what. Will be guided by the moment.
Austers' novel continues to amaze. He is trying to novelize the beginning of the writer's vision of himself. Coming towards the end now, about 100 pages left.
What is left for today's blog? How about one memory, one vision from the past--something to move out of this funk that I feel now.
What about Hopkins? Four different years, four years of being a different person. If I were novelizing it, I would begin on the first day I arrived there, late in September (for in those days the first semester began October 1st and went until mid January) -my first memory is that of the heat---outside the dormitory. Baltimore heat seemed more intense then Bronx heat. Maybe because the landscape was far more low lying. Better? How about the Friday evening in early March of my freshman year, when it seemed like spring was about to break---feeling restless--almost running through parts of the campus. Again looking for something from Baltimore totally different from my New York experience. How would Auster recreate those experiences? Differently than myself? Thoughts that might be worked through---I am in such a different place now---will continue the report tomorrow.
Tomorrow, as I said, a full day of sessions, Sunday an easy day, hope to spend the early evening at South Fourth, something I have not been able to do for two weeks. Will probably see something today, but not sure what. Will be guided by the moment.
Austers' novel continues to amaze. He is trying to novelize the beginning of the writer's vision of himself. Coming towards the end now, about 100 pages left.
What is left for today's blog? How about one memory, one vision from the past--something to move out of this funk that I feel now.
What about Hopkins? Four different years, four years of being a different person. If I were novelizing it, I would begin on the first day I arrived there, late in September (for in those days the first semester began October 1st and went until mid January) -my first memory is that of the heat---outside the dormitory. Baltimore heat seemed more intense then Bronx heat. Maybe because the landscape was far more low lying. Better? How about the Friday evening in early March of my freshman year, when it seemed like spring was about to break---feeling restless--almost running through parts of the campus. Again looking for something from Baltimore totally different from my New York experience. How would Auster recreate those experiences? Differently than myself? Thoughts that might be worked through---I am in such a different place now---will continue the report tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
another day without work.....
and one of my sessions was cut---a little disappointed about that, I had challenged myself to get to know the material, but maybe Saturday.
Yesterday evening--finally got to a movie---Wolves, by Bart Freundlich---his son was someone I liked very much at Friends---there is some good stuff in the movie---camera work is good, and colors are interesting---I think the director seems to feel that every scene needs to reach a climax---so there are very few quiet transitions, which I think the film needed. Lots of basketball---the father is a little too much of an animal to be believable. Still, glad that I saw it.
Afterwards---debated between Cornelia Street cafe---a restaurant whose bar I used to know well, but where I have not been in a while, and old favorite, La Flaca. I chose the latter---it was quiet--the bartender was friendly and I had a few buffalo wings that were nice. Went home feeling good.
This morning, continued reading 4321---the Paul Auster novel. Just went through an amazingly well written section of the book, pages 638-656---which details in full, the activities and events leading up to the student takeover of Columbia University in 1968. Auster is so clear (I believe he was a student at Columia at the time) , as he details these events. All that passion and power among the students. Where did it all go? How did it morph into this political "passive liberalism" that we had until the election.? What about...? Anyway, I would like some of the more politically aware students at Friends to read this---I think they would find it very interesting. Is any of this taught as part of the "60's curriculum"? Who knows---I was shocked to find out last year that the three civil rights workers who were killed in 1964, were not taught at Friends. And yet the teacher there is very good.
Auster's writing is really so skillful---how long must it have taken him to put together this novel which spans the years, 1947 to at least the early seventies. I still have about 175 pages left, and I really can't wait to get back to it.
So what will tonight bring? Not sure---might be a good time to head to Brooklyn if I am not too tired. We will see....
Yesterday evening--finally got to a movie---Wolves, by Bart Freundlich---his son was someone I liked very much at Friends---there is some good stuff in the movie---camera work is good, and colors are interesting---I think the director seems to feel that every scene needs to reach a climax---so there are very few quiet transitions, which I think the film needed. Lots of basketball---the father is a little too much of an animal to be believable. Still, glad that I saw it.
Afterwards---debated between Cornelia Street cafe---a restaurant whose bar I used to know well, but where I have not been in a while, and old favorite, La Flaca. I chose the latter---it was quiet--the bartender was friendly and I had a few buffalo wings that were nice. Went home feeling good.
This morning, continued reading 4321---the Paul Auster novel. Just went through an amazingly well written section of the book, pages 638-656---which details in full, the activities and events leading up to the student takeover of Columbia University in 1968. Auster is so clear (I believe he was a student at Columia at the time) , as he details these events. All that passion and power among the students. Where did it all go? How did it morph into this political "passive liberalism" that we had until the election.? What about...? Anyway, I would like some of the more politically aware students at Friends to read this---I think they would find it very interesting. Is any of this taught as part of the "60's curriculum"? Who knows---I was shocked to find out last year that the three civil rights workers who were killed in 1964, were not taught at Friends. And yet the teacher there is very good.
Auster's writing is really so skillful---how long must it have taken him to put together this novel which spans the years, 1947 to at least the early seventies. I still have about 175 pages left, and I really can't wait to get back to it.
So what will tonight bring? Not sure---might be a good time to head to Brooklyn if I am not too tired. We will see....
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
not much to report today
last night after two sessions, went to Wallace's for a beer (thirsty) and took an isolated spot, So nothing happened, and when a young woman was discussing theater on the other side of the bar, I did not go there. Bartender very nice, afterwards, toyed with going to a movie, but I lay down for a few minutes and fell asleep. Awakened by a call from my brother, David. who told me the exact date of my niece's wedding, September 3, or labor day Sunday. It is going to be in a hotel in Long Beach, and most people will be staying at the hotel. David told me I would be rooming with him---interesting, the first time we will be together in a long time. Remember, growing up, we shared a bedroom, (as did many children of my generation) and had many conversations before going to sleep. Shades of "Death of a Salesman". Now I have to figure out plane travel and inexpensive (I hope) plane fare. Rest of the evening kind of uneventful, and here I am today.
Interesting, when I fly out to Long Beach (or LA) it will be my first time in a plane since before 9/11. Yes, that was the trip to Rochester in early July of 2001---a strange vacation, I went there simply to see some minor league baseball at Red Wing Stadium---saw two games, neither very interesting---both clubs, Orioloes (whose farm team it was at the time) and Red Sox had, at that time, very poor systems. The rest of the forty eight hours I spent there was pretty uninteresting---a walk in a Rochester neighborhood only took part of the second morning. Also, a free bus returning people from downtown to the neighborhoods on the fringe of downtown, seemed to attract many people, young and old,who were either vagrants, or looked as if they had just been discharged from the nearest mental hospital. A very weird trip---also I had nothing to read at the time. The "minor league weekend" fantasy which I have carried around with me for a long time, seems to be actually kind of a drudge.
Today, a lot like yesterday---will see how I feel after two sessions----many possibilities----first theater dib is to go to Bushwick Starr and see the play that is there now. Hope to make it for one of the four performances this week.
Interesting, when I fly out to Long Beach (or LA) it will be my first time in a plane since before 9/11. Yes, that was the trip to Rochester in early July of 2001---a strange vacation, I went there simply to see some minor league baseball at Red Wing Stadium---saw two games, neither very interesting---both clubs, Orioloes (whose farm team it was at the time) and Red Sox had, at that time, very poor systems. The rest of the forty eight hours I spent there was pretty uninteresting---a walk in a Rochester neighborhood only took part of the second morning. Also, a free bus returning people from downtown to the neighborhoods on the fringe of downtown, seemed to attract many people, young and old,who were either vagrants, or looked as if they had just been discharged from the nearest mental hospital. A very weird trip---also I had nothing to read at the time. The "minor league weekend" fantasy which I have carried around with me for a long time, seems to be actually kind of a drudge.
Today, a lot like yesterday---will see how I feel after two sessions----many possibilities----first theater dib is to go to Bushwick Starr and see the play that is there now. Hope to make it for one of the four performances this week.
Monday, March 6, 2017
Saturdaynight!
Sleep! Really tired from the work during the day.
Sunday, an interesting day---not much going on during the day, sort of took it easy, read Paul Auster's book, let time pass without doing much---all because I was going to a reading at Bushwick Starr in the evening, so I left for Bushwick about 6---as usual, arrived there very early, stopped off for a coffee at Cobra Club, relaxed a bit, watched Nightmare on Elm Street, which (for some reason) was playing on their screen. Then off to the Starr, with a reading that included a number of actors whom I know, as well as the director, who is a good friend, Sarah. That being said, I really had a lot of problems with the play---an abstruse piece which seemed to glory in its vagueness. Very well done with a lot of preparation, but seemed to me like an exercise in.....I can't even say. A good conversation with Alex, the husband of Sarah, and later with Noel, the artistic director of the Starr---I hope to see the play that is on for the next two weeks---I really want to get there. Sarah was happy to see me and did not seem annoyed that I was not in love with the piece. Also saw Kate, an actress who is appearing in Home/Sick by the Assembly---one of my favorite pieces of work, which begins performances at Jack this Thursday. I have been urging many of the Friends students whom I have known over the years to see it. Not sure when I will go. Hung out a little at the Starr Bar, across the street---really like this place, bartenders always very friendly---I feel very relaxed there---before going home.
I am really enjoying reading 4321, the new novel by Paul Auster. His protagonist, Archie was born in 1947---very close to my age, and his experiences growing up in the fifties and coming of age in the sixties are very real to me, having passed through the same time period. I wonder if someone younger could appreciate the novel as much as someone who has the same references as he does, but at the same time, the writing itself is quite wonderful. Still a little over 200 pages to go, but I am really looking forward to moving through the book.
Not much else to say---not sure about tonight, where I will end up, if anywhere, will report tomorrow or soon.
Sunday, an interesting day---not much going on during the day, sort of took it easy, read Paul Auster's book, let time pass without doing much---all because I was going to a reading at Bushwick Starr in the evening, so I left for Bushwick about 6---as usual, arrived there very early, stopped off for a coffee at Cobra Club, relaxed a bit, watched Nightmare on Elm Street, which (for some reason) was playing on their screen. Then off to the Starr, with a reading that included a number of actors whom I know, as well as the director, who is a good friend, Sarah. That being said, I really had a lot of problems with the play---an abstruse piece which seemed to glory in its vagueness. Very well done with a lot of preparation, but seemed to me like an exercise in.....I can't even say. A good conversation with Alex, the husband of Sarah, and later with Noel, the artistic director of the Starr---I hope to see the play that is on for the next two weeks---I really want to get there. Sarah was happy to see me and did not seem annoyed that I was not in love with the piece. Also saw Kate, an actress who is appearing in Home/Sick by the Assembly---one of my favorite pieces of work, which begins performances at Jack this Thursday. I have been urging many of the Friends students whom I have known over the years to see it. Not sure when I will go. Hung out a little at the Starr Bar, across the street---really like this place, bartenders always very friendly---I feel very relaxed there---before going home.
I am really enjoying reading 4321, the new novel by Paul Auster. His protagonist, Archie was born in 1947---very close to my age, and his experiences growing up in the fifties and coming of age in the sixties are very real to me, having passed through the same time period. I wonder if someone younger could appreciate the novel as much as someone who has the same references as he does, but at the same time, the writing itself is quite wonderful. Still a little over 200 pages to go, but I am really looking forward to moving through the book.
Not much else to say---not sure about tonight, where I will end up, if anywhere, will report tomorrow or soon.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Yay Beardo!
So last night I found myself back in Greenpoint to see Beardo for the second time. To be honest, I felt this visit was a little bit obligatory, I would not have seen it again (I enjoyed but did not love it the first time) if the director Ellie, had not offered me a comp, but now I am really glad that I did. I found the music to be better and deeper than I had thought, loved the cast's comittment (they are so talented with so much to do).Overall, this re-examination of the piece was just great---if it was running another week, I would go back and see it again.
Also, another chance to do a little exploring in Greenpoint. Ironically, the two Fridays that I saw the musical on were both extremely cold--probably the coldest of this winter. But on my way, found a really mellow coffee place on Greenpoint Avenue between Manhattan and Franklin Street---I really liked the vibe there---and got a another chance to visit this bar on Franklin Street that I have been meaning to spend time at---second time I simply asked to use their bathroom and was told "yes". I really appreciate that. When it is warmer will go back and possibly try both places. So another bar that I have "promised" myself to check out--also Crow's on Franklin, a little south of Eastern Parkway.
Not sure about tonight, depends on my "tired" quotient---tomorrow, as I said in the last blog is the 8 P.M. reading at Bushwick Starr---not sure how I will spend my time before that. May visit South Fourth in the early evening, or even in the afternoon, and see what is happening there. So everything is up in the air, but feeling kind of "groovy" at this minute.
Friday, March 3, 2017
so in the....
past 24 hours I have worked at Friends, twice, yesterday for three hours in the library and today, subbing for Noel in his sonnet class. Good work, library was taxing, but fun---and there were many attentive hard working students in Noel's class. So what did cityboy do after his three hours in the library last evening? Absolutely nothing! Tiredness set in--grabbed a slice of pizza and then had coffee and a muffin at store nearby. Fell asleep quickly when I got home, but feel rested now. One session this afternoon, but when I leave for Greenpoint at around 6 to see Beardo (my second performance) I should not be very tired. Today looks pretty unstrenous.
This weekend has some hard work tomorrow and the Reading at Bushwick Starr on Sunday. Should be fun---not sure about tomorrow evening's plans, think that I will improvise my way through it.
Not much else to say, I am anxious to return to Auster's novel...
This weekend has some hard work tomorrow and the Reading at Bushwick Starr on Sunday. Should be fun---not sure about tomorrow evening's plans, think that I will improvise my way through it.
Not much else to say, I am anxious to return to Auster's novel...
Thursday, March 2, 2017
just call me.....
Mr. frenetic! A day without work was interrupted by a call from the librarian at Friends. They need someone to cover the afternoon hours. Could I do it? Well, I had a session scheduled with someone who was very sincere, but said yes anyway (had to, more money). Still was not feeling great about it but I did call the mother of my session taker and she understood; I changed our time to Saturday morning. This means I will have four sessions on Saturday---quite a lot---wonder whether I will have any time for evening diversion. Well, we will let it play out.
Yesterday, not much to report. Went to concert at Friends; lots of talented kids, even if the concert was overlong and the room was very hot. Afterwards felt tired, so I went to the nearest place: the Gramercy Bar, that quiet bar on second near 19th street--it is getting to be a very handy place. Had my hummus (they make a very good hummus dish) and watched two basketball games---no conversation, the bartender was very dutiful but did not really want to make conversation. Beautiful night last night, so even as I was tired, I walked a bit after the meal (ended up at Barnes and Noble) and then came home.
Tomorrow at Friends, I am subbing for an english teacher who is teaching his senior class about the sonnets. Did some work on that, and will continue, when I am in the library. Also, continuing my enjoyment of 4321 Paul Auster's intense and sometimes exasperating, novel, but always very insightful with a good sense of humor.
That is all for now----who knows what the night will bring, or where I will end up.
Yesterday, not much to report. Went to concert at Friends; lots of talented kids, even if the concert was overlong and the room was very hot. Afterwards felt tired, so I went to the nearest place: the Gramercy Bar, that quiet bar on second near 19th street--it is getting to be a very handy place. Had my hummus (they make a very good hummus dish) and watched two basketball games---no conversation, the bartender was very dutiful but did not really want to make conversation. Beautiful night last night, so even as I was tired, I walked a bit after the meal (ended up at Barnes and Noble) and then came home.
Tomorrow at Friends, I am subbing for an english teacher who is teaching his senior class about the sonnets. Did some work on that, and will continue, when I am in the library. Also, continuing my enjoyment of 4321 Paul Auster's intense and sometimes exasperating, novel, but always very insightful with a good sense of humor.
That is all for now----who knows what the night will bring, or where I will end up.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
will it be?
Last night at the BAN meeting, cityboy made a proposal for a flyer that would state on it something like: Who is Your City Council Person? What Does He or She Do? Did you know that..? Primaries for City Council are September 12 (or thereabouts) How do the choices of the City Council affect you.? That is the general gist of the flyer. It would be given out at or near venues like Jack, Bushwick Starr, the Starr Bar etc. So many young people living in Brooklyn have not allowed themselves to become aware that they can be involved in the process. Anyway, a few other BAN members expressed interest, and maybe by May 1st it can happen. This would be the first idea and plan that cityboy actually conceived himself.
Other than that, not much else since yesterday. Reading Paul Auster's novel 4321---it is amazing, an attempt to tell the story of the fifties and sixties (and probably more) in three different ways. A great page towards the end of 1:3 which encapsulates the events that made things change so quickly in summer of 1964---particularly the death of the three civil rights workers in Mississippi. Amazing that in some history courses that cover the sixties--this isn't even taught. Sometimes the novel goes a little too overboard on detail, but I really cannot wait to get back to it, that is how much I am enjoying it.
Today, after a session, I will go to Friends upper school classical concert---then not sure what is happening. Tomorrow, if there is no work, I might see Rusalka,at the Met. That's all for now, will report later...
Other than that, not much else since yesterday. Reading Paul Auster's novel 4321---it is amazing, an attempt to tell the story of the fifties and sixties (and probably more) in three different ways. A great page towards the end of 1:3 which encapsulates the events that made things change so quickly in summer of 1964---particularly the death of the three civil rights workers in Mississippi. Amazing that in some history courses that cover the sixties--this isn't even taught. Sometimes the novel goes a little too overboard on detail, but I really cannot wait to get back to it, that is how much I am enjoying it.
Today, after a session, I will go to Friends upper school classical concert---then not sure what is happening. Tomorrow, if there is no work, I might see Rusalka,at the Met. That's all for now, will report later...
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