still a kind of shaking off of the Fringe activity. Admit it, cityboy, it is strange to have much less structure in your days. But things are looking up. Lots of interesting movies on the horizon (that is the weekend). As for yesterday:
Went home after stay at library and slept. Awoke, somewhat tired, determined to see the movie at the Bunin, by Ira Sachs, "Little Men" . Caught the 5:15 showing, theater only about one third full.
I found the movie annoying. There are some good scenes in it, but there is something in Sachs' world view that turns me off. Plot centers around a family whose father owned a house in what is now a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood in Brooklyn (what neighborhood isn't ?) But Sachs never gives us specifics. The plot turns on the dress shop on the first floor of the house, run by a hispanic woman who is paying for lower rent then what the neighborhood is charging. Of course, the father could have put it in his will that she remain at that rent, but that is never considered in the movie. Instead the well meaning father is pitted against his sister in trying to be fair to the shop owner. It is also about the relationship between the son of the owners and the son of the shop owner, coincidentally the same age. In the end, father and son reconcile, the woman is forced out (where does she go? Never explored) and I guess gentrification is here to stay. No input re neighborhood people or how they perceive the shop---other forms of gentrification in the neighborhood, the store and the house are totally isolated. A real chance to explore and make a statement about gentrification that Sachs missed completely. Does he think his audience does not want to think about that? it is also a slow framed movie, each frame seems alone, no flow, as I found in the great "Sudden Fear".
Left, thought I might go to Brooklyn or La Flaca, but again fatigue set in. So what to do, I did not want to return home at an early hour. Luckily the Met outdoors was showing The Daughter of the Regiment, and though it is an opera that in no way interested me, I decided to stay and watch it, after all it was free. Glad that I did, it was really enjoyable---Natalie Dessay and Juan Diego Flores performed with such gumption and commitment; they had no problem with being goofy and looking "clunky"; they were always in motion. I can't imagine Sutherland and Pavarotti in their hay day doing more than making this opera into a beautifully sung concert while Dessay and Flores (loved his energy) gave it everything they had. Stayed long enough to see the late (and great) Marian Seldes do her role in the beginning of Act II. Did not stay till the end, but saw enough to keep me going, I returned to the apartment around 10, which was basically the right time.
Again did not have a good sleep, woke up a few times, was at loose ends (what else could I be at 4 in the morning?) and wandered about my stamina for today. Not sure what the rest of the day will bring. Film Forum has Stray Dog---I really should see it, but might try just for an interesting evening without a movie. Also, final time to go to Staten Island to see the young Yankees, just don't know if I am up for it.
Possible meeting with my friend Adam about starting a discussion group tomorrow, will fill you in....
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Second day...
after Fringe, still in a recovery mode. Strange day yesterday, tired most of it, nevertheless, by the evening felt strong enough to go to Standings to watch some games---friend Sam was the bartender, bar was empty at first---had my beer, focused on the games watched for about two hours, as some others joined the group.Nothing special, but did see the Royals score on the Yankees in the first inning by running on Sanchez. Left, not sure of where I was going; I settled on the ice cream-coffee place on second between eighth and ninth, and though I was not comfortable with it, having just had a beer and a sugar fix, I opted for the cookies and cream gelato---really delicious, but did I really need some more sugar. Paid for it last night, did not sleep well, seemed that my "fullness" was preventing me from sleeping, even now, stomach in a strange place, have to remember not to add ice cream to beer in the future, but some time it simply seems necessary.
I started Philip Roth's second novel, When She Was Good, last night---this is the only novel that he wrote that takes place in a completely non Jewish environment---I remember reading it when it came out---1967--an incredibly transitional year for me---I was working evenings in the post office, feeling extremely isolated, still a little focused on the woman from Goucher who was then a senior, anyway, spent most of my time before going to work around 5 (I sorted mail---believe it!) in the apartment reading---other books that come to mind that I read there that spring---The Fixer by Malamud, and 37 Children, a book about radical teaching in a Spanish Harlem school by Herbert Kohl. It was a strange time for me---three years earlier I had been passionately involved in theater at Hopkins, now I was just trying to get things straight after leaving the Department of Welfare, and trying to be an actor---but I hated the lack of structure--also things in the theater at that time were falling apart. Eventually solved the problem by getting a job with a social work agency and entering the "real world" 1967-68---admitting that auditioning around the city was far beyond me. That was also the spring that I "savagely" devoured as much of the music of Mozart as I could---I really became infatuated with his musical vision. Some good talks with Richard G at the time. Also that winter-spring was the beginning of my strong friendship with Fred K, a friendship that lasted about 30 years. Still, I was flying blind, as they say----now as I look back on it there is a kind of calm in my vision---still an interesting time.
Also reading a book on the "Elizabethan Hamlet" a very interesting take on the play, it talks about the Elizibethan Protestant vision of heaven and hell, and that there was no purgatory for protestants, therefore the ghost must have been considered by the Elizibethan audience, to have been an instrument of the devil. Strange vision that I have never encountered before but viable in some ways. Anyway, it is meaningful to re-examine the play again at this time, which the book is forcing me to do.
Rest of day: not clear, lots of options, also will depend on how strong I feel---would like to get out to Brooklyn---maybe Cobra---even thinking of participating in a trivia contest, but maybe a movie. Lots of them around that are interesting---nothing that I feel compelled to see, although I really should see Little Men.
Anyway, time to move on--will report more tomorrow.
I started Philip Roth's second novel, When She Was Good, last night---this is the only novel that he wrote that takes place in a completely non Jewish environment---I remember reading it when it came out---1967--an incredibly transitional year for me---I was working evenings in the post office, feeling extremely isolated, still a little focused on the woman from Goucher who was then a senior, anyway, spent most of my time before going to work around 5 (I sorted mail---believe it!) in the apartment reading---other books that come to mind that I read there that spring---The Fixer by Malamud, and 37 Children, a book about radical teaching in a Spanish Harlem school by Herbert Kohl. It was a strange time for me---three years earlier I had been passionately involved in theater at Hopkins, now I was just trying to get things straight after leaving the Department of Welfare, and trying to be an actor---but I hated the lack of structure--also things in the theater at that time were falling apart. Eventually solved the problem by getting a job with a social work agency and entering the "real world" 1967-68---admitting that auditioning around the city was far beyond me. That was also the spring that I "savagely" devoured as much of the music of Mozart as I could---I really became infatuated with his musical vision. Some good talks with Richard G at the time. Also that winter-spring was the beginning of my strong friendship with Fred K, a friendship that lasted about 30 years. Still, I was flying blind, as they say----now as I look back on it there is a kind of calm in my vision---still an interesting time.
Also reading a book on the "Elizabethan Hamlet" a very interesting take on the play, it talks about the Elizibethan Protestant vision of heaven and hell, and that there was no purgatory for protestants, therefore the ghost must have been considered by the Elizibethan audience, to have been an instrument of the devil. Strange vision that I have never encountered before but viable in some ways. Anyway, it is meaningful to re-examine the play again at this time, which the book is forcing me to do.
Rest of day: not clear, lots of options, also will depend on how strong I feel---would like to get out to Brooklyn---maybe Cobra---even thinking of participating in a trivia contest, but maybe a movie. Lots of them around that are interesting---nothing that I feel compelled to see, although I really should see Little Men.
Anyway, time to move on--will report more tomorrow.
Monday, August 29, 2016
so it is.....
over! First day of "freedom"! Should contact a few of my students,but have not yet, simply deposited my check and came to the library. What happens next?
Final day ended with my venue director "helping me" break down the Event brite system---actually very easy, but in my head I was not able to put it together myself. Always a little nervous around machines----if I return to the Fringe next year, will try to shoot for a "pod" rather than a normal box office. Might be less money or less work, but might create a more workable system for me. I also should investigate paying options that have changed in the past year---only learned about it this year, but next year, if I do it should explore all work options. Really had to grind my way through this year---very little gets me angry, but when the "audience ambassadors" were called up to take a bow at the party---had to stand next to two women who did much less work than I did and made their own hours. That got me angry. Left right after that, grabbed a pizza slice on first avenue, made my way home slowly on the subway. A bit of walking in the Sunday evening haze between Avenue A and first avenue, streets not too crowded, but still some people in bars. Earlier in the day, after leaving the Fringe lounge where I dropped off the Eventbrite supplies--I took the bus to the mid-Manhattan library, got off around 35th and Madison, looked at the Murray Hill architecture as I walked toward 39th street. It creates a world of its own. It is as if every block has a series of memories for me.
What next? Well tonight, might see a movie and then head down to Standings to watch the two very important baseball games that are being played by the New York teams. Or, could do it the opposite and see the movie later. Also should at some point stop off at Bobby's restaurant. La Flaca at Grand Street---have not been there for a while. Plenty of movies to catch up on the in the next few days---also may try to go to a Minor League game at either Brooklyn or Staten Island. Brooklyn is easier to get to but prices there are grotesquely expensive.
Seems to be all I have to say now, will continue as the week progresses...
Final day ended with my venue director "helping me" break down the Event brite system---actually very easy, but in my head I was not able to put it together myself. Always a little nervous around machines----if I return to the Fringe next year, will try to shoot for a "pod" rather than a normal box office. Might be less money or less work, but might create a more workable system for me. I also should investigate paying options that have changed in the past year---only learned about it this year, but next year, if I do it should explore all work options. Really had to grind my way through this year---very little gets me angry, but when the "audience ambassadors" were called up to take a bow at the party---had to stand next to two women who did much less work than I did and made their own hours. That got me angry. Left right after that, grabbed a pizza slice on first avenue, made my way home slowly on the subway. A bit of walking in the Sunday evening haze between Avenue A and first avenue, streets not too crowded, but still some people in bars. Earlier in the day, after leaving the Fringe lounge where I dropped off the Eventbrite supplies--I took the bus to the mid-Manhattan library, got off around 35th and Madison, looked at the Murray Hill architecture as I walked toward 39th street. It creates a world of its own. It is as if every block has a series of memories for me.
What next? Well tonight, might see a movie and then head down to Standings to watch the two very important baseball games that are being played by the New York teams. Or, could do it the opposite and see the movie later. Also should at some point stop off at Bobby's restaurant. La Flaca at Grand Street---have not been there for a while. Plenty of movies to catch up on the in the next few days---also may try to go to a Minor League game at either Brooklyn or Staten Island. Brooklyn is easier to get to but prices there are grotesquely expensive.
Seems to be all I have to say now, will continue as the week progresses...
Saturday, August 27, 2016
can't believe it....
but here I am in neighborhood library---my first day here since before the Fringe. Why? Don't have to get to work at theater until 12:45. Kind of an odd feeling, but this is our next to the last day---not a very heavy schedule, a nice sense of freedom and liberation floating around in my head. And yet, when I woke up this morning, contemplating the extra time on hand I felt very empty. I am so looking forward to my "fringe freedom" in the coming week, but wonder if I won't feel a slight void as well. To go from a full structured day to creating one's own structure can sometimes be very difficult. Well, I have to get in touch with some of my students---also some movies to catch up on. And of course, there are the walks (and possibly new bars) in Brooklyn. Of course, if I had money, just might get on a plane or train and head to Chicago or Baltimore for a day or so, but there is a lot to organize here, in the last week before summer ends. (I know that summer doesn't officially end later, but for me Labor Day is definitely the end of summer)
So where do we go from here?
Yesterday, normal day at Fringe, did see one play, Ariadne on this Island, by an ambitious group of twenty somethings. Very strong first fifteen minutes of the play, which then deteriorates very quickly. Group that produced it must have fell "in love" with it (as producers often do) but they should have been more aware of its flaws. That is also the problem with the Fringe itself, it does not encourage performers or creators to be inquisitive about their own works, the emphasis is on putting it on--so a kind of "we're all geniuses" attitude emanates from the performer. But, the Fringe is the Fringe---whatever else it is here to stay--and there seems to be a core audience that is willing to put down money for ten shows, hoping only to see two or three good ones. So that is the way it is.
Today, a few shows, tomorrow, two and by 1:30 tomorrow, I should be a "free man" Party is Sunday evening, I expect to go (have not missed a closing night Fringe party in the last ten years)--perhaps some adventures or encounters that will happen there, worth reporting. Will check in on Monday.
So where do we go from here?
Yesterday, normal day at Fringe, did see one play, Ariadne on this Island, by an ambitious group of twenty somethings. Very strong first fifteen minutes of the play, which then deteriorates very quickly. Group that produced it must have fell "in love" with it (as producers often do) but they should have been more aware of its flaws. That is also the problem with the Fringe itself, it does not encourage performers or creators to be inquisitive about their own works, the emphasis is on putting it on--so a kind of "we're all geniuses" attitude emanates from the performer. But, the Fringe is the Fringe---whatever else it is here to stay--and there seems to be a core audience that is willing to put down money for ten shows, hoping only to see two or three good ones. So that is the way it is.
Today, a few shows, tomorrow, two and by 1:30 tomorrow, I should be a "free man" Party is Sunday evening, I expect to go (have not missed a closing night Fringe party in the last ten years)--perhaps some adventures or encounters that will happen there, worth reporting. Will check in on Monday.
Friday, August 26, 2016
much improved....
relationships with the group---I may have overreacted to my venue manager's "tartness" yesterday, since everything for the rest of the day went very smoothly. Still, a lot of coordination to work out for today (much easier tomorrow) I want to see a play this afternoon, but it will be cut close as I have to return to my box office immediately afterwards for a very heavy show. Another heavy one coming in at 4:30, but this one sits by itself. Just let things run their course, things should probably go smoothly.
Last night, after Fringe, I felt entitled to a nice meal, but everywhere I thought of going was over $10.00. Finally settled on Two Boots and their $3.75 pizza slice. Not exactly what I wished for, but I was tired, and the idea of just spending over ten made me angry. Today, when I leave here, same problem---also I like to eat fast when I am working, So we will see what happens.
Kind of mellow when I returned home, so why did I have such a startling dream. Most of it had two people in it: a black man and a white woman---he was coming on to her---but nothing in the dream came of it---also a little bit in the dream about playwright John G reading a monologue from one of his plays and a walk around a park (in Baltimore? New Haven?) to a new side of it. Woke up feeling very angry---tried to explain the dream to myself, could not only feel that including a black man in it meant that I was angry. What followed was a lot of thinking about "things" but all this seems to have dissipated into the real action of the afternoon.
Not much else, can't believe that two weeks ago, the Fringe was just beginning, and that two weeks have passed. Two more days after this----then freedom!
Last night, after Fringe, I felt entitled to a nice meal, but everywhere I thought of going was over $10.00. Finally settled on Two Boots and their $3.75 pizza slice. Not exactly what I wished for, but I was tired, and the idea of just spending over ten made me angry. Today, when I leave here, same problem---also I like to eat fast when I am working, So we will see what happens.
Kind of mellow when I returned home, so why did I have such a startling dream. Most of it had two people in it: a black man and a white woman---he was coming on to her---but nothing in the dream came of it---also a little bit in the dream about playwright John G reading a monologue from one of his plays and a walk around a park (in Baltimore? New Haven?) to a new side of it. Woke up feeling very angry---tried to explain the dream to myself, could not only feel that including a black man in it meant that I was angry. What followed was a lot of thinking about "things" but all this seems to have dissipated into the real action of the afternoon.
Not much else, can't believe that two weeks ago, the Fringe was just beginning, and that two weeks have passed. Two more days after this----then freedom!
Thursday, August 25, 2016
the calm has.....
ended, at least for a while. My venue manager was very sharp with me as I left on my break. Not good. And yet I am determined to let it pass. Attitude is "don't worry about it; in four days this will all be over". Still, wish there was a way that I could point out that her last comment was very cutting. Well, she blows hot and cold---this could be over by the end of the afternoon. Still, feeling angry and a little annoyed with myself for just "going with the flow."
Yesterday continued on a good pace---no real problems, happy that I chose to have a pizza slice before going home, rather than a large meal---saved some money, which is good. No movies, or anything else, and have not seen anything at the Fringe either. Tonight may see the Ariadne play in the upstairs venue---it will be my third fringe play of the year---any more? Not sure.
Really looking forward to Sunday and the Fringe's finish---first time that I have worked the full sixteen days---pretty good. We will see what happens.
Yesterday continued on a good pace---no real problems, happy that I chose to have a pizza slice before going home, rather than a large meal---saved some money, which is good. No movies, or anything else, and have not seen anything at the Fringe either. Tonight may see the Ariadne play in the upstairs venue---it will be my third fringe play of the year---any more? Not sure.
Really looking forward to Sunday and the Fringe's finish---first time that I have worked the full sixteen days---pretty good. We will see what happens.
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
all is calm,....
after a tough night. Last performance at Fringe, I was so rushed that I put the sales of one play on the template of another. Luckily, the mistake was obvious---and all parties will be successfully reimbursed---but I had a rough night---but the day has been pretty easy--my box office has been shared, making it a lot easier for me to function. I think it should be calm sailing for the rest of the Fringe run.
And speaking of that, how I long for Sunday to come. Freedom at last.
Not much else to say, will continue to report from the Fringe....
And speaking of that, how I long for Sunday to come. Freedom at last.
Not much else to say, will continue to report from the Fringe....
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
grinding on.....
second Tuesday of the Fringe. Two "difficult" pairings of plays in the two venues. But we got through it okay. Everything running smoothly, everybody cooperating. Not much else to say--hope not to go home immediately after the work load this evening, but if I am tired, I guess I will.
Wish I had more to say, but really I don't. By next week, real life should return, and I probably will have some interesting musings to report.
Wish I had more to say, but really I don't. By next week, real life should return, and I probably will have some interesting musings to report.
Monday, August 22, 2016
much improved....
the coldness seems to have ended, and the last two days saw my being part of a much more friendly and welcoming group, it is possible that I just confused a little tiredness with coldness, anyway, now the eight or so of us are working well together, as we enter the last week of the fringe. Have an extra two hours off because one show canceled, so time is going at a different pace.
Last night, really saw my first fringe show--Power, based on the life of Stokely Carmichael, my Bronx Science classmate, Very disappointing---just hint of Stokely's vision, the rest of the play was more about black rage (justified, of course, but covering ground already covered) and the actor's ability to morph into other personas. Very little about the man, how Howard changed him, his initial forays into the Civil Rights movement---no complexity, or anything that made him the man he became after his leadership in SNCC. Amazed that the writer and the director allowed this to happen, simply clumsy theater.
Not much else to say---do not have the computer for long, so must move on, hopefully tomorrow will have more time to write in detail.
Last night, really saw my first fringe show--Power, based on the life of Stokely Carmichael, my Bronx Science classmate, Very disappointing---just hint of Stokely's vision, the rest of the play was more about black rage (justified, of course, but covering ground already covered) and the actor's ability to morph into other personas. Very little about the man, how Howard changed him, his initial forays into the Civil Rights movement---no complexity, or anything that made him the man he became after his leadership in SNCC. Amazed that the writer and the director allowed this to happen, simply clumsy theater.
Not much else to say---do not have the computer for long, so must move on, hopefully tomorrow will have more time to write in detail.
Saturday, August 20, 2016
at an impasse...
or so it seems---I continue to sell tickets at the space, but not terribly happy about it. Long waits between shows difficult and dogged. Today, the girls---all very friendly to each other (I have no problem with that) simply did not talk to me. This morning woke up and thought that I desperately needed a day off, but now not sure. I will do my best to stick this through; maybe if I have some conversations we can open things up a bit.
Trains very slow today, frustrating.
Everything is changeable, maybe this is just a moment that can pass, and all the problems will be worked out. Don't like a sense that I am being taken advantage of, but also don't want to play the heavy. Contradiction
Trains very slow today, frustrating.
Everything is changeable, maybe this is just a moment that can pass, and all the problems will be worked out. Don't like a sense that I am being taken advantage of, but also don't want to play the heavy. Contradiction
Friday, August 19, 2016
the grind.....
continues, Friday, the beginning of the second week. Slow day today, only four, but lots of room between them----need a break, possibly a movie afterwards. Relationships with people that I am working with a little "iffy" but maybe things will improve as we move along. I myself am a little annoyed at the way that I am treated, but again, could be remedied soon. Otherwise, I just grind it out.
Nothing much else to report---Fringe seems to be my whole life at this point, sorry to miss the day long forum about gentrification at Mayday tomorrow, but, have to work it through. Hoping that I can give someone else my late Sunday assignment at Players and see Power, the play about my classmate Stokely Carmichael. If that is possible, it will be the only play that I will have seen at the Fringe this year, such is my schedule.
Not much else to say, will report either tomorrow or Monday...
Nothing much else to report---Fringe seems to be my whole life at this point, sorry to miss the day long forum about gentrification at Mayday tomorrow, but, have to work it through. Hoping that I can give someone else my late Sunday assignment at Players and see Power, the play about my classmate Stokely Carmichael. If that is possible, it will be the only play that I will have seen at the Fringe this year, such is my schedule.
Not much else to say, will report either tomorrow or Monday...
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
are you feeling better...
today----seems like it. I had a nice energy in my first show, and I am feeling positive about the rest of the day. A little tired, but pretty up. Not much else to report, it is simply fringe and all that happens with it. I did make a reservation for a play called The Wolves, for the first Thursday after the fringe; it sort of fell into my lap---so there is one evening that first week planned for.
Last night after work, needed a beer, headed over to Riviera, because I know they have a sports bar in the back of the restaurant, and knew that they would be watching baseball. They were, but there were some very loud Red Sox fans there---really obnoxious, probably regulars, act as if they own the place. Yelling and screaming, not respect for the others at the bar. Very put off by it, but that is what I came for. Had my beer and did watch a little baseball, then jumped on the 1 and hurried home.
Not much else to say---very much in the middle of all things fringe---will report tomorrow..
Last night after work, needed a beer, headed over to Riviera, because I know they have a sports bar in the back of the restaurant, and knew that they would be watching baseball. They were, but there were some very loud Red Sox fans there---really obnoxious, probably regulars, act as if they own the place. Yelling and screaming, not respect for the others at the bar. Very put off by it, but that is what I came for. Had my beer and did watch a little baseball, then jumped on the 1 and hurried home.
Not much else to say---very much in the middle of all things fringe---will report tomorrow..
Tuesday, August 16, 2016
Intense couple of ....
days, as Fringe now begins its 5th day. Have been working very hard---some of it fun, other times simply exhausting. When I wake up in the morning, I am kind of annoyed---but as I get closer to the beginning of the Fringe day, things get better. Today there are six shows that I am box officing----tomorrow seven, then it goes down for a couple of days. Spending hours around the MacDougal Street area, must be at least four chocolate or ice cream shops in a short proximity. Getting to know them all. Next meeting in about an hour and a half.
Last night, after last fringe assignment, needed a break so went to the Film Forum to see Sudden Fear with Joan Crawford and Jack Palance. A preposterous plot but so well made and so well filmed that it doesn't really matter. Remarkable camera work in the final fifteen minutes. Movies were made so differently in those days (forties, fifties) The unreality of the world they were creating was taken for granted--but within that unreality directors and camera men could do wonders.
That will be all for now...will try to report tomorrow on how things progress...
Last night, after last fringe assignment, needed a break so went to the Film Forum to see Sudden Fear with Joan Crawford and Jack Palance. A preposterous plot but so well made and so well filmed that it doesn't really matter. Remarkable camera work in the final fifteen minutes. Movies were made so differently in those days (forties, fifties) The unreality of the world they were creating was taken for granted--but within that unreality directors and camera men could do wonders.
That will be all for now...will try to report tomorrow on how things progress...
Saturday, August 13, 2016
wow!
First day of the fringe over---how to describe it---action everywhere. My cohorts and I (they actually have a more difficult job than I do) got through it very well---a little adjustment between workers , but I think we have passed that, and can all work together well. Highlight (if you can call it that) was getting in about 160 spectators into Players Downstairs theater for our second show, Dream Ticket, with very little problems and starting the show basically on time. What for today? A little easier I think, since we all know each other, but many shows, and the heat is brutal. How will it all play out?
Will find out later---almost time for me to leave for my box office.
Will find out later---almost time for me to leave for my box office.
Friday, August 12, 2016
This is it!
Fringe begins, on what figures to be the hottest weekend of the year, with a strong possibility of thunderstorms. Wow! Am I ready? I guess I must be. What will the weekend be like, how will we stumble through it with about 20 performances to box office before the last one Sunday evening. Will anyone be left standing? Nothing to do but let it happen---after I leave here will go to the first meeting at the Fringe. That will be from 12 to about 2---first performance at 5. Hold your breadth!
That is all the report for now---sorry I am missing the march tomorrow---hang tough!
That is all the report for now---sorry I am missing the march tomorrow---hang tough!
Thursday, August 11, 2016
in Brooklyn on this...
last day before the Fringe. So it begins as it has for the last nine yearss. Tomorrow, in the midst of this incredible heat wave, I will be working the two box offices at the Players Theater. Wow! Eight shows on Sunday, when the temperature is supposed to be close to 105---will I stick it through----I think I can. Will try to blog during the Fringe, but it may not be possible on some days.
I was in Brooklyn because a press conference was scheuduled for 12, regarding the march, but it has been canceled. Oh well, saves me another "ordinary" day in Manhattan and this library (the Central Brooklyn one) is very cool. At some point will leave here and head to Fringe headquarters on 2nd and 4th and see if I can get some questions answered and maybe a little more training. Then to do my session in the library later in the afternoon. That should be the day---maybe something in the evening, but have to get my rest. Not sure if there is an pre opening night get together that I might attend (there usually is). At any rate, all will be revealed to me later.
Yesterday evening, headed to Lansdowne Road to visit with the twins---I had seen their play last Thursday. They were really happy to see me, and I had some good conversations---especially with Mel (one of the two twins) I am really happy that they have done so well with the multiple roles that they play---but when you look at it, they really do have to move back and forth into several different roles with no time for change---a lot of skill is required, and they really show that they have it. Standing on tenth avenue, waiting for the bus, I really felt a surge of joy for them---glad to be as supportive as I am. Looking forward to seeing them again at the bar in Setpember.
Just read about Baltimore's reaction to the Justice report, condemning police practices especially against people of color. So many liberals and decent people in that city, yet because the areas in whick black people live are so isloated---these polcies were allowed to continue. Hopefully there will be real communication now and something will change.
That is it for now---will report soon,...
I was in Brooklyn because a press conference was scheuduled for 12, regarding the march, but it has been canceled. Oh well, saves me another "ordinary" day in Manhattan and this library (the Central Brooklyn one) is very cool. At some point will leave here and head to Fringe headquarters on 2nd and 4th and see if I can get some questions answered and maybe a little more training. Then to do my session in the library later in the afternoon. That should be the day---maybe something in the evening, but have to get my rest. Not sure if there is an pre opening night get together that I might attend (there usually is). At any rate, all will be revealed to me later.
Yesterday evening, headed to Lansdowne Road to visit with the twins---I had seen their play last Thursday. They were really happy to see me, and I had some good conversations---especially with Mel (one of the two twins) I am really happy that they have done so well with the multiple roles that they play---but when you look at it, they really do have to move back and forth into several different roles with no time for change---a lot of skill is required, and they really show that they have it. Standing on tenth avenue, waiting for the bus, I really felt a surge of joy for them---glad to be as supportive as I am. Looking forward to seeing them again at the bar in Setpember.
Just read about Baltimore's reaction to the Justice report, condemning police practices especially against people of color. So many liberals and decent people in that city, yet because the areas in whick black people live are so isloated---these polcies were allowed to continue. Hopefully there will be real communication now and something will change.
That is it for now---will report soon,...
Wednesday, August 10, 2016
still no finish....
to that scene that I wrote yesterday called "dialogue" ---seem blocked by it now, maybe return to it later.
Yesterday; after session, took B train out to Cortelyou Road library to work on posters with the BAN group for Saturday's march. Late but glad that I came. Will go to press conference tomorrow--about not having a permit for Saturday's march. Nervous...? Perhaps---but must go---will not be on the march Saturday as the Fringe is happening and I must be there all weekend. Also will miss conference on gentrification at Mayday Space a week from Saturday---that I really would have liked to attend---any possibility I could get a day off from Fringe? I have never taken one in the past (we are talking nine years here) but this is the first year that my job there goes right through the 16 days, without a break.
Still a lot of questions about Fringe organization and how the changes will be handled---weekend should be full of revelations---and hopefully not a lot of problems.
Last night---on way to library, got off the B at Church---walked the three blocks to Cortelyou down Argyle Road---the houses on the first block---between Church and Albermarle are utterly amazing. Walking down that street, and also the one between Berverly Road and Albemarle, one experiences an almost suburban removal of life. Architecture on that street is totally amazing. A world unto itself.
After the meeting, spent time on Cortelyou between Coney Island Avenue and the subway. Totally diverse neighborhood---all sorts of people and colors--wandered down one of the blocks, south of Cortelyou---apartment houses---people outside, felt very at home. But did not find a bar that I wanted to enter, so took the Q back to 7th Avenue stop, went to Plan B--the sports bar on Vanderbuilt, closest to Eastern Parkway---okay time there, watched both ball games, listened as the woman sitting at the bar in front of me bitched about her roommate situation. Finally left---walked north on Vanderbuilt to Fulton, then west on Fulton to Nevins on the 2 and 3. Long walk but my body could handle it. On the train back started to read Modiano's short novel a second time, may be more interesting this time. Returned home and slept, as usual awoke early---went down to Union Square to pick up Fringe brochure and grid---probably that is why I am tired now. Should try to see Richard's performance at Geffen tonight, also visit the twins at Lansdowne Road---not sure how many of these things I will get to.
That's about it---continue to be haunted by Brooklyn streets---wonder how the Fringe will deal with what they have set up the first weekend---we will see.
Yesterday; after session, took B train out to Cortelyou Road library to work on posters with the BAN group for Saturday's march. Late but glad that I came. Will go to press conference tomorrow--about not having a permit for Saturday's march. Nervous...? Perhaps---but must go---will not be on the march Saturday as the Fringe is happening and I must be there all weekend. Also will miss conference on gentrification at Mayday Space a week from Saturday---that I really would have liked to attend---any possibility I could get a day off from Fringe? I have never taken one in the past (we are talking nine years here) but this is the first year that my job there goes right through the 16 days, without a break.
Still a lot of questions about Fringe organization and how the changes will be handled---weekend should be full of revelations---and hopefully not a lot of problems.
Last night---on way to library, got off the B at Church---walked the three blocks to Cortelyou down Argyle Road---the houses on the first block---between Church and Albermarle are utterly amazing. Walking down that street, and also the one between Berverly Road and Albemarle, one experiences an almost suburban removal of life. Architecture on that street is totally amazing. A world unto itself.
After the meeting, spent time on Cortelyou between Coney Island Avenue and the subway. Totally diverse neighborhood---all sorts of people and colors--wandered down one of the blocks, south of Cortelyou---apartment houses---people outside, felt very at home. But did not find a bar that I wanted to enter, so took the Q back to 7th Avenue stop, went to Plan B--the sports bar on Vanderbuilt, closest to Eastern Parkway---okay time there, watched both ball games, listened as the woman sitting at the bar in front of me bitched about her roommate situation. Finally left---walked north on Vanderbuilt to Fulton, then west on Fulton to Nevins on the 2 and 3. Long walk but my body could handle it. On the train back started to read Modiano's short novel a second time, may be more interesting this time. Returned home and slept, as usual awoke early---went down to Union Square to pick up Fringe brochure and grid---probably that is why I am tired now. Should try to see Richard's performance at Geffen tonight, also visit the twins at Lansdowne Road---not sure how many of these things I will get to.
That's about it---continue to be haunted by Brooklyn streets---wonder how the Fringe will deal with what they have set up the first weekend---we will see.
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
dialougue
where are they now
they are on flatbush
flatbush and where
Linden boulevard
and.....
nothing has happened...
so far.....(a pause) and...
they are walking up flatbush to Church
church and flatbush---arnie meyerowitz used to live there
listen to him
anything new
what do you mean, anything new..?
I mean the police---are they following them
I don't see any police...
I am so nervous...
Relax---Anna is smart, she knows how to take care of herself
She is my sister's granddaughter, that is enough---they always stayed with me during the summer...I don't want to see her hurt
so, she wants to take part in a march...
this is not any march, it is a march against the police...
it is not a march against the police, grandma, it is a march against police brutality and it is a march against gentrification
so what, she is in danger---
she has a cause----
what cause, two years ago and black man whom she knew from the neighborhood gave her a lift and he was stopped by the police---since then it is all about changing things---I should have given her a room in my apartment, here on the upper west side. I should have never let her move to that place on
Nostrand Avenue...
Nostrand avenue, we used to play stickball there
oh please....
what next----
okay--they are going east on Church---uh oh, the police are following them
oh, my God
Holy shit!
What!
I thought for a minute the police were hitting them---they wern't they were just marching close--now they just got off Church---thank God, too crowded---they are going down Rogers---everything is cool...
here, let me take a look.....
reminds you of where you grew up....
yes, where I grew up---and where I moved away from as fast as I could
how many blocks away from there did you live, grandma
a long way, past the parkway---Saint Marks Avenue and believe me, it was no picnic living there then
they are on flatbush
flatbush and where
Linden boulevard
and.....
nothing has happened...
so far.....(a pause) and...
they are walking up flatbush to Church
church and flatbush---arnie meyerowitz used to live there
listen to him
anything new
what do you mean, anything new..?
I mean the police---are they following them
I don't see any police...
I am so nervous...
Relax---Anna is smart, she knows how to take care of herself
She is my sister's granddaughter, that is enough---they always stayed with me during the summer...I don't want to see her hurt
so, she wants to take part in a march...
this is not any march, it is a march against the police...
it is not a march against the police, grandma, it is a march against police brutality and it is a march against gentrification
so what, she is in danger---
she has a cause----
what cause, two years ago and black man whom she knew from the neighborhood gave her a lift and he was stopped by the police---since then it is all about changing things---I should have given her a room in my apartment, here on the upper west side. I should have never let her move to that place on
Nostrand Avenue...
Nostrand avenue, we used to play stickball there
oh please....
what next----
okay--they are going east on Church---uh oh, the police are following them
oh, my God
Holy shit!
What!
I thought for a minute the police were hitting them---they wern't they were just marching close--now they just got off Church---thank God, too crowded---they are going down Rogers---everything is cool...
here, let me take a look.....
reminds you of where you grew up....
yes, where I grew up---and where I moved away from as fast as I could
how many blocks away from there did you live, grandma
a long way, past the parkway---Saint Marks Avenue and believe me, it was no picnic living there then
last night ban
meeting, very well attended, very passionate---lots of talk re the anti-gentrifcation forum two Sundays ago, and plans for this Saturday's march through Flatbush. I will not be there, because of my fringe commitment, maybe kind of relieved about that, but also would like to be on that march. Lots of interest, which is very good. Lots of talk about neighborhoods under siege---the woman sitting next to me was from a group in Sunset Park---they are very frightened about the inroads from Industry City. A new realty company has just taken over---their expansion will bring in a lot of wealthier people to work in the area---and of course the fear is that they will also want to live there---raising housing prices, encouraging displacement and poor services---anything to move the people who are living there out. When I consider the vision of this company, there is something frightening about it. A total lack of concern for the feelings of those who they want out. I spent most of last night, after the meeting, just thinking about this---there are still so many "good people" on the upper west side, who know nothing of this, and who probably don't want to know. After the meeting, went to Dive Bar, for a meal, the third visit I have paid there this week. Why? Nothing great about the place, the staff is nice, all the time, but recently have had very few interesting conversations, nevertheless, it seems to be my "go to" place on the upper west side. Anyway, the bartender, who I had not seen in a while, gave me a very warm greeting---I felt very greatful for that---but his warmth seemed completely separate from the content of the ban meeting---could I explain to him that I was enraged by the goals of the Industry City people? Of course not---felt like I had to be "jolly" , just to go along with his warmth. But he did mean well---anyway, the split screen version of my life seems to be taking hold. Had the buffalo wings at the bar; had to because it was the only "realistically" cheap item on the menu---did not want to end up paying $16.00 for a blt with tax on tip.
After the meal, walked from the bar (96th and Amsterdam) the twenty blocks up Broadway to my apartment---filled with the five pieces of chicken---had no trouble making the walk.
Not a great sleep night, woke up at around 3, did not get back to sleep until around 5.
Three more days before the fringe---how to describe how I feel, remind yourself, cityboy, that you are not the only one working to stop the juggernaut that is threatening all New Yorkers of limited income--that elected officials can be talked to---but more people need to become aware and join the fight. Well, we will see what happens.
Today, will attend last work session of march on Saturday in Flatbush after my session at the library---then perhaps will stay around there and watch some baseball. Would like to try a bar that I have never been to---well we will see what happens...
After the meal, walked from the bar (96th and Amsterdam) the twenty blocks up Broadway to my apartment---filled with the five pieces of chicken---had no trouble making the walk.
Not a great sleep night, woke up at around 3, did not get back to sleep until around 5.
Three more days before the fringe---how to describe how I feel, remind yourself, cityboy, that you are not the only one working to stop the juggernaut that is threatening all New Yorkers of limited income--that elected officials can be talked to---but more people need to become aware and join the fight. Well, we will see what happens.
Today, will attend last work session of march on Saturday in Flatbush after my session at the library---then perhaps will stay around there and watch some baseball. Would like to try a bar that I have never been to---well we will see what happens...
Monday, August 8, 2016
Quite a lot....
has gone on since I sat in the 145th street library Saturday early afternoon and wrote the last blog post.
So, to begin:
Saturday afternoon: did go to the rally at the Heights on Sherman Avenue and Broadway. Good strong turnout, people are very angry at the proposed site which is supposed to be mostly luxury housing. The usual complaints: wealthier people in the neighborhood, stores closing, harassment of tenants in nearby buildings--and of course, they are all true. How do we stop this? More and more people are waking up to the fact that they are being left behind, as the builders show their strength. This administration has been completely in league with the developers---very frustrating. Heat was grueling, but I stayed about an hour and a half, and gave out a few flyers for the march in Brooklyn on Saturday.
Returned to Men in Boats Saturday evening, really to see Kristen and her performance. Play is not very deep but performances and dynamics or very impressive. Great cast, though I missed Becca and Jess B.
Afterwards, waited for Kristen, then walked her over to the 3 train---we talked a lot about gentrification, what the newcomers to the community could contribute if they valued the community they were moving into. Said goodbye to Kristen on the downtown 3 stop---she was going to Crown Heights, I too Dive Bar. At the latter, had a blt (good but expensive, of course); did not want french fries, but got them anyway, gorged myself on them, in spite of my best intentions. Stomach heavy. Returned home and woke up early on Sunday. Sunday morning, the usual, Daily News and Coffee and then the "Alex" revelation---left about 12, headed to Standings for some baseball before hitting the fringe lounge. Watched games for two hours, nice talk with a guy named Nick, somewhat new to the city, lives in the Pacific Park area, tells me that rents are being lowered because of lack of tenant interest. Good to hear.
After that, visited the Fringe lounge for some info (got most of it) walked to J and F station from 2nd and 4th street---went to South Fourth, nice time there, said good bye for three weeks to bartender Olivia (a really nice person) and headed to Bean for some desert and coffee. Bean was hot--no air conditioning, knew I could not stay there, opted instead for some chocolate ice cream from the truck on Bedford off seventh, really good filled my stomach wandered around the newly built apartments that line north 8th and the other streets between Bedford and Roebling, and finally hit the subway around 9.
Dream last night: intense; a Baltimore dream, I am there for the summer to participate in some kind of helping project (at least that is what I think) first staying in the downtown area--fairly safe, then all of a sudden find myself living in a large apartment house (project, I think) on west north avenue, a few blocks from where Freddy Gray was first chased. I look outside, across the street---the north side is the more gentrified side of North Avenue---see police standing there with guns. What are they doing? Protecting the people on the north side of the street from the poorer people on the South Side. How did I wind up on the south side? Awake with a start! 3:15 A.M. All alone---amazed and frightened by the dream, can't sleep, the next hour filled with visions, recriminations, trying to figure things out, a memory: at the last reunion (2014) a thirty something woman arrives with her mother---the widow of a classmate of mine, who has just recently passed away. While I chat with the daughter, the woman wanders around the front of the hall---distracted, a look of sheer emptiness on her face---totally unreachable. One extreme to another. It is strange that after such a "good" weekend, and my final weekend before the Fringe, that I should have such an intense dream. But the morning arrives, and events return to their normal selves.
That is it for now----have a few things before tomorrow, will report on it then...
So, to begin:
Saturday afternoon: did go to the rally at the Heights on Sherman Avenue and Broadway. Good strong turnout, people are very angry at the proposed site which is supposed to be mostly luxury housing. The usual complaints: wealthier people in the neighborhood, stores closing, harassment of tenants in nearby buildings--and of course, they are all true. How do we stop this? More and more people are waking up to the fact that they are being left behind, as the builders show their strength. This administration has been completely in league with the developers---very frustrating. Heat was grueling, but I stayed about an hour and a half, and gave out a few flyers for the march in Brooklyn on Saturday.
Returned to Men in Boats Saturday evening, really to see Kristen and her performance. Play is not very deep but performances and dynamics or very impressive. Great cast, though I missed Becca and Jess B.
Afterwards, waited for Kristen, then walked her over to the 3 train---we talked a lot about gentrification, what the newcomers to the community could contribute if they valued the community they were moving into. Said goodbye to Kristen on the downtown 3 stop---she was going to Crown Heights, I too Dive Bar. At the latter, had a blt (good but expensive, of course); did not want french fries, but got them anyway, gorged myself on them, in spite of my best intentions. Stomach heavy. Returned home and woke up early on Sunday. Sunday morning, the usual, Daily News and Coffee and then the "Alex" revelation---left about 12, headed to Standings for some baseball before hitting the fringe lounge. Watched games for two hours, nice talk with a guy named Nick, somewhat new to the city, lives in the Pacific Park area, tells me that rents are being lowered because of lack of tenant interest. Good to hear.
After that, visited the Fringe lounge for some info (got most of it) walked to J and F station from 2nd and 4th street---went to South Fourth, nice time there, said good bye for three weeks to bartender Olivia (a really nice person) and headed to Bean for some desert and coffee. Bean was hot--no air conditioning, knew I could not stay there, opted instead for some chocolate ice cream from the truck on Bedford off seventh, really good filled my stomach wandered around the newly built apartments that line north 8th and the other streets between Bedford and Roebling, and finally hit the subway around 9.
Dream last night: intense; a Baltimore dream, I am there for the summer to participate in some kind of helping project (at least that is what I think) first staying in the downtown area--fairly safe, then all of a sudden find myself living in a large apartment house (project, I think) on west north avenue, a few blocks from where Freddy Gray was first chased. I look outside, across the street---the north side is the more gentrified side of North Avenue---see police standing there with guns. What are they doing? Protecting the people on the north side of the street from the poorer people on the South Side. How did I wind up on the south side? Awake with a start! 3:15 A.M. All alone---amazed and frightened by the dream, can't sleep, the next hour filled with visions, recriminations, trying to figure things out, a memory: at the last reunion (2014) a thirty something woman arrives with her mother---the widow of a classmate of mine, who has just recently passed away. While I chat with the daughter, the woman wanders around the front of the hall---distracted, a look of sheer emptiness on her face---totally unreachable. One extreme to another. It is strange that after such a "good" weekend, and my final weekend before the Fringe, that I should have such an intense dream. But the morning arrives, and events return to their normal selves.
That is it for now----have a few things before tomorrow, will report on it then...
Saturday, August 6, 2016
had my....
first lesson in a while---worked hard, glad I did it---had forgotten that this could be fulfilling---it was.
Today: first will try to go to the protest march in the heights---maybe give out a few flyers for Saturday's march in Brooklyn---after that come home and rest, and then go to see Men In Boats, a last minute decision that I made on Thursday night, but do want to touch base with my friend Kristen, who is in it, and look at the play again. First time I saw it as a kind of successful conceit---will be interesting to re-evaluate it and also see how an audience that is not mostly friends and comrades receives it. I will look for people that I know in the audience, but I have a feeling that most people are there to see the play, not to give support. Prices are far more expensive---should be good to observe all that is going on.
Yesterday: after library, went out to Brooklyn to flyer on the Newkirk Plaza for next Saturday's march. Very hot. With a flyer in my hand I immediately withdraw, but my partner was very assertive in a nice way, and she did most of the talking to the shop owners. Many requests to put flyers in the window were met with approval. Traversed the plaza (many small shops selling the same thing) and walked north to Cortelyou Road for a final run with a few stores, Saw people of all kinds there, from black jamaicans to hispanics to muslims (many) to what appeared to be white yuppie parents and established people to a group of white "artists" who appeared to have no money. They were all in the area. Had a fantasy about moving in there. Possible? Probably not.
Met my friend Katie, of BAN on the subway station on the way home, we had an interesting talk before she got off on Canal Street to return to her apartment in Bushwick. My original idea was to try to get into the 600 Highwaymen's project at the Public, but figured I was really too tired. Came home and slept--then ready to go out---most bars had the Olympics on, which I did not want to see. Settled on seeing the movie Indignation---I had wanted to see it before the Fringe began.
I found the movie to be very interesting. It keeps the flavor and feeling of Roth's short novel, but actually expands on many issues in the book. The role of Olivia, the woman Mark goes out with in the book is much more in the forefront here. The more I think of it, the more away from Roth it moves. Well made with very good performances. Linda Emond has an incredible monologue where she insists that her son reject the girl he is dating. I wanted to boo; I hate that kind of pushiness---not clear how believable that was. The scenes that frame and end the movie are all James Schamus, not Roth in any way. Yet even if they out conceive Roth, you never feel that they are distorting his original vision. Would like to discuss this with someone who has seen the movie and read the book. Possible...? Not sure---see if it happens.
That is all for now, getting a little fatigued, may ( I know this is superficial) miss the march--or just stay briefly to lend support. Would love to just head over to the neighborhood bar here, Wallace's and watch the Yankee game. But life is more complicated than that, isn't it? Stay tuned.
Today: first will try to go to the protest march in the heights---maybe give out a few flyers for Saturday's march in Brooklyn---after that come home and rest, and then go to see Men In Boats, a last minute decision that I made on Thursday night, but do want to touch base with my friend Kristen, who is in it, and look at the play again. First time I saw it as a kind of successful conceit---will be interesting to re-evaluate it and also see how an audience that is not mostly friends and comrades receives it. I will look for people that I know in the audience, but I have a feeling that most people are there to see the play, not to give support. Prices are far more expensive---should be good to observe all that is going on.
Yesterday: after library, went out to Brooklyn to flyer on the Newkirk Plaza for next Saturday's march. Very hot. With a flyer in my hand I immediately withdraw, but my partner was very assertive in a nice way, and she did most of the talking to the shop owners. Many requests to put flyers in the window were met with approval. Traversed the plaza (many small shops selling the same thing) and walked north to Cortelyou Road for a final run with a few stores, Saw people of all kinds there, from black jamaicans to hispanics to muslims (many) to what appeared to be white yuppie parents and established people to a group of white "artists" who appeared to have no money. They were all in the area. Had a fantasy about moving in there. Possible? Probably not.
Met my friend Katie, of BAN on the subway station on the way home, we had an interesting talk before she got off on Canal Street to return to her apartment in Bushwick. My original idea was to try to get into the 600 Highwaymen's project at the Public, but figured I was really too tired. Came home and slept--then ready to go out---most bars had the Olympics on, which I did not want to see. Settled on seeing the movie Indignation---I had wanted to see it before the Fringe began.
I found the movie to be very interesting. It keeps the flavor and feeling of Roth's short novel, but actually expands on many issues in the book. The role of Olivia, the woman Mark goes out with in the book is much more in the forefront here. The more I think of it, the more away from Roth it moves. Well made with very good performances. Linda Emond has an incredible monologue where she insists that her son reject the girl he is dating. I wanted to boo; I hate that kind of pushiness---not clear how believable that was. The scenes that frame and end the movie are all James Schamus, not Roth in any way. Yet even if they out conceive Roth, you never feel that they are distorting his original vision. Would like to discuss this with someone who has seen the movie and read the book. Possible...? Not sure---see if it happens.
That is all for now, getting a little fatigued, may ( I know this is superficial) miss the march--or just stay briefly to lend support. Would love to just head over to the neighborhood bar here, Wallace's and watch the Yankee game. But life is more complicated than that, isn't it? Stay tuned.
Friday, August 5, 2016
much better...
night last night then the one before, this one had no waking up in the middle of the night, and some attempts to stay awake until I was really tired.
Last night--went to the three one acts at 59 east 59 called selected shorts--because my two waitress friend, Mel and CC were in the last one. Theaterat 59 east 59th is cramped and the plays were presented without a break. Did not like that. First play dealt with two roommates, one white one black, in college, trying to settle their differences. Well meaning, a little forced, could have been longer---ending very abrupt. On first, why? Second play, written by the writer of Birdman well acted, and the third play, written by his partner was a noir---where the identical twins, (my friends) played many characters, duping the audience.Well acted, kind of fun----afterwards,,said hello to both twins, they were very happy to see me, hugs all around, also had a nice conversation with the actress who was in the second play. Nice to be there, afterwards, walked to 66th and Madison, wanted to walk longer but had to pee, crosstown bus was there so took it to the west side. Stopped in at the Irish bar on 72nd street and had some wings (cheapest item on the menu---hate the prices at these places) but did not stay long. Returned home, full (so no more wandering) and was able to sleep without incident.
Today, scheduled to flyer in Brooklyn for the march next Saturday---expect a text from my flyering partner shortly. Then not sure, only chance I have to see the open workshop of Michael and Abbie's piece is tonight. Tomorrow, just got tickets for Men In Boats---not that anxious to see it, but want to touch base with my friend Kristen, who is in it---and this is my only chance. Tomorrow could be very busy, a lesson early in the morning, and then I want to participate in a march against gentrification in Washington Heights. Could be tired for the play---but I have made my choice. Can rest (I hope) on Sunday.
Will report all later...
Last night--went to the three one acts at 59 east 59 called selected shorts--because my two waitress friend, Mel and CC were in the last one. Theaterat 59 east 59th is cramped and the plays were presented without a break. Did not like that. First play dealt with two roommates, one white one black, in college, trying to settle their differences. Well meaning, a little forced, could have been longer---ending very abrupt. On first, why? Second play, written by the writer of Birdman well acted, and the third play, written by his partner was a noir---where the identical twins, (my friends) played many characters, duping the audience.Well acted, kind of fun----afterwards,,said hello to both twins, they were very happy to see me, hugs all around, also had a nice conversation with the actress who was in the second play. Nice to be there, afterwards, walked to 66th and Madison, wanted to walk longer but had to pee, crosstown bus was there so took it to the west side. Stopped in at the Irish bar on 72nd street and had some wings (cheapest item on the menu---hate the prices at these places) but did not stay long. Returned home, full (so no more wandering) and was able to sleep without incident.
Today, scheduled to flyer in Brooklyn for the march next Saturday---expect a text from my flyering partner shortly. Then not sure, only chance I have to see the open workshop of Michael and Abbie's piece is tonight. Tomorrow, just got tickets for Men In Boats---not that anxious to see it, but want to touch base with my friend Kristen, who is in it---and this is my only chance. Tomorrow could be very busy, a lesson early in the morning, and then I want to participate in a march against gentrification in Washington Heights. Could be tired for the play---but I have made my choice. Can rest (I hope) on Sunday.
Will report all later...
Thursday, August 4, 2016
very sad....
to read an article that a facebook friend of mine posted about gentrification in Harlem and one man who is getting rich by selling developments now at the height of the real estate boom. Seems so unfair---I don't understand how people only think in terms of their own gain. (That sounds naive; I know, but still, you wonder...) Anyway, feel like I am in a funk at this moment---just makes stronger the need to participate in protests and share the word with others.
Last night---a totally different world---went to see Eliza's play at the Ohio Space---a very delicate two person play about a relationship and its ultimate break up. This is an easy kind of play to write as a kind of indulgent naval gazing---but this play avoids all that; is really skillful---wonderfully structured as it moves in and out of time, and totally fair to the two characters. Beautifully acted by Noel and Ebony---overall a very meaningful experience---so many people I knew in the audience---almost was as interesting observing them during the play. I am very happy for Eliza---of the four plays of hers that I have seen, this is definitely the strongest.
Afterwards, group of us went to the nearby Italian restaurant---had conversations with many people that I know---all very interesting and meaningful---said my goodbyes and then left. Wanted a little more than my slice of pizza, so went to Elephant and Castle, a restaurant that has been in the same place (Greenwich Avenue just as it turns into seventh) for at least 25 years. Nice, quiet place, no tv, food is extremely good, and only "relatively" expensive. Had a terrific BLT and nothing else, but the cost after tip was $15.00. Amazing! How often can I go there---not too often. After that, went home, fell asleep quickly, but awoke only to find that it was just about midnight. Felt healthy, strong, but did not want a beer (stomach too full) so found myself in a quandary---should I go out or not. Ultimately I optioned for staying in, but for the next hour or so, found myself at odds with everything. Very restless---this is the "problem" of living on the Upper West Side, no late coffee shops or friendly bartenders who will let me sit with a coke or a sprite at that late hour---if I lived in South Williamsburg that would be different, but I don't. And though the area is so convenient to my work---well, what can you say. At times, I wish I could just hang around in a bar from about one to two, just to see what is happening there, but at this point, the way my body functions, it totally escapes me. Once the night is over, it is over---I move easily on to the next moment but----well we will see.
This evening, off to 59 east 59th street for the one acts that two friends of mine are appearing in. Should be fun, and interesting to be in that neighborhood---I really never go there. Two more theater projects are possibilities for the two days after that, but let's see how today plays out.
Will report tomorrow..
Last night---a totally different world---went to see Eliza's play at the Ohio Space---a very delicate two person play about a relationship and its ultimate break up. This is an easy kind of play to write as a kind of indulgent naval gazing---but this play avoids all that; is really skillful---wonderfully structured as it moves in and out of time, and totally fair to the two characters. Beautifully acted by Noel and Ebony---overall a very meaningful experience---so many people I knew in the audience---almost was as interesting observing them during the play. I am very happy for Eliza---of the four plays of hers that I have seen, this is definitely the strongest.
Afterwards, group of us went to the nearby Italian restaurant---had conversations with many people that I know---all very interesting and meaningful---said my goodbyes and then left. Wanted a little more than my slice of pizza, so went to Elephant and Castle, a restaurant that has been in the same place (Greenwich Avenue just as it turns into seventh) for at least 25 years. Nice, quiet place, no tv, food is extremely good, and only "relatively" expensive. Had a terrific BLT and nothing else, but the cost after tip was $15.00. Amazing! How often can I go there---not too often. After that, went home, fell asleep quickly, but awoke only to find that it was just about midnight. Felt healthy, strong, but did not want a beer (stomach too full) so found myself in a quandary---should I go out or not. Ultimately I optioned for staying in, but for the next hour or so, found myself at odds with everything. Very restless---this is the "problem" of living on the Upper West Side, no late coffee shops or friendly bartenders who will let me sit with a coke or a sprite at that late hour---if I lived in South Williamsburg that would be different, but I don't. And though the area is so convenient to my work---well, what can you say. At times, I wish I could just hang around in a bar from about one to two, just to see what is happening there, but at this point, the way my body functions, it totally escapes me. Once the night is over, it is over---I move easily on to the next moment but----well we will see.
This evening, off to 59 east 59th street for the one acts that two friends of mine are appearing in. Should be fun, and interesting to be in that neighborhood---I really never go there. Two more theater projects are possibilities for the two days after that, but let's see how today plays out.
Will report tomorrow..
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
walking through brooklyn....
that is what I did yesterday, before and after the BAN meeting. The meeting, by the way, was very strong--lots of interest in the march on the 13th. Wish I could be there, but my fringe work is calling me. But the meeting was well attended; there will be another meeting next Tuesday and the vision of the march seems to be building.
Got to Brooklyn early---got off at the Prospect Park Lincoln Road station, walked over to Flatbush and then south on Flatbush to the library. Flatbush still packed with people of color, most stores also seemed to serve those people, but here and there was a bar, or Italian restaurant or a coffee place that seemed more in the vein of the newcomers to the neighborhood. Wandered down Caton Avenue a bit, then back up to Linden and to the library. Stopped dead in my tracks at Caton and East 21street, why? Apartment houses like the one I grew up in are all over--wanted to see everyone who was now living there---also, as I walked down Caton east of Flatbush where it merges with Linden Boulevard, I desperately wanted the story of each building--the days in the sixties where it began to change. Haunted by that---never happened in my neighborhood in the Bronx which received a much slower transition, and even now is about 30-30-30 as far as racial mix goes. Then headed for the library and the meeting.
After the meeting it was time for a long walk. Followed Flatbush south to Church then west on Church in search of a few bars in the area that I found on yelp. Long walk, about 21 blocks, the two bars were nice, but I did not go in, by the time I reached MacDonald Avenue it was dark, but still hungry to find out more about how the neighborhood transitions into Sunset Park. Walked to the next large block called Dahill Road, then over to the beginning of 14th Avenue and 34th street. Finally tired I returned to the MacDonald subway station on the F and began my journey home. Wanted to stop off at another stop, maybe in Boerum Hill or the south slope, but by then I was pretty fatigued, so I headed home.
Today I will see my friend Eliza's play at Ohio Space at 7---not clear how to spend the afternoon--also depends on how much time I have on this computer. Oh well, will report on all tomorrow.
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
strange day...
lots going on---a BAN meeting in Brooklyn which will continue planning the August 13th protest rally in Flatbush will be this afternoon at the Flatbush library on Linden Boulevard. This is good; a return to a neighborhood that I want to know more of---should get there a little early to walk around---thought I might stop by a coffee bar in Bushwick that I have not been to for a while, and say hello to a barista friend of mine, but how do you get from Bushwick to Flatbush, without leaving Brooklyn? How do you hold a cloud and pin it down? Might be an interesting voyage.
Yesterday afternoon, at Barnes and Nobles, read an interesting and potent artcle by Connie Bruck about Obama's failure to close the prison at Guantanamo. A very measured and fair approach---illustrates all the pitfalls that prevent such a closing, but also lays some of the fault at Obama's passivity in the matter. Don't understand how some people can lack even the smallest shred of compassion for those who are being unfairly kept at the prison. Really frightening.
Evening: decision time, what to do? Decided that I would finally check out Metrograph, the newly created movie theater at the southern edge of Ludlow Street. Glad I did. Like going into a magical kingdom or something like that. Arrived early, bought a ticket and then went up to their bar-restaurant for a much needed coffee. What did I find? A "bohemian" parlor where scrubby men and women were discussing the strengths and camera angles of Antonioni and Allen? Nothing like that at all---this is a very upscale dining room (hey, cityboy---it is 2016) full of 25 to 40 somethings, all of whom looked like they could easily afford $25.00 dinners. Bar was similar. Bartender was very nice---got me the coffee and let me sit at the bar. Food that I saw being served looked ravishing---but of course, very expensive. Downstairs there is a smaller more auxiliary bar---kind of dark, in much the same manner. Considering how many books there are about movies, and all the movie brochures that are around, there are very few corners, either upstairs or downstairs with enough light to read in. I pointed this out to the very friendly manager--he accepted my criticism very cordially. Then the movie: Smithereens by Susan Seidelman--- a picture of a bizarre twenty something named Wren living downtown in the early eighties. Beautifully photographed---lots of shots of decaying, empty streets (probably all filled with high rises now) and very dynamic. Story follows Wren through a number of adventures and two lovers---she is very detached and narcissistic but for the most part, her story maintains interest. I really liked the screening room---sight lines great---very atmospheric---wandered around a little on Canal before the movie began---discovered an upscale restaurant amid the tenements on that street as well. Of course it was full. Lots of money around. As I was saying, the experience was for the most part, exciting, and I want to return to see another movie, (and hang out at the bar) again.
So that is it--much more to come this week as I try to get as much in the ten days before the fringe begins,
Will report on all this tomorrow.
Yesterday afternoon, at Barnes and Nobles, read an interesting and potent artcle by Connie Bruck about Obama's failure to close the prison at Guantanamo. A very measured and fair approach---illustrates all the pitfalls that prevent such a closing, but also lays some of the fault at Obama's passivity in the matter. Don't understand how some people can lack even the smallest shred of compassion for those who are being unfairly kept at the prison. Really frightening.
Evening: decision time, what to do? Decided that I would finally check out Metrograph, the newly created movie theater at the southern edge of Ludlow Street. Glad I did. Like going into a magical kingdom or something like that. Arrived early, bought a ticket and then went up to their bar-restaurant for a much needed coffee. What did I find? A "bohemian" parlor where scrubby men and women were discussing the strengths and camera angles of Antonioni and Allen? Nothing like that at all---this is a very upscale dining room (hey, cityboy---it is 2016) full of 25 to 40 somethings, all of whom looked like they could easily afford $25.00 dinners. Bar was similar. Bartender was very nice---got me the coffee and let me sit at the bar. Food that I saw being served looked ravishing---but of course, very expensive. Downstairs there is a smaller more auxiliary bar---kind of dark, in much the same manner. Considering how many books there are about movies, and all the movie brochures that are around, there are very few corners, either upstairs or downstairs with enough light to read in. I pointed this out to the very friendly manager--he accepted my criticism very cordially. Then the movie: Smithereens by Susan Seidelman--- a picture of a bizarre twenty something named Wren living downtown in the early eighties. Beautifully photographed---lots of shots of decaying, empty streets (probably all filled with high rises now) and very dynamic. Story follows Wren through a number of adventures and two lovers---she is very detached and narcissistic but for the most part, her story maintains interest. I really liked the screening room---sight lines great---very atmospheric---wandered around a little on Canal before the movie began---discovered an upscale restaurant amid the tenements on that street as well. Of course it was full. Lots of money around. As I was saying, the experience was for the most part, exciting, and I want to return to see another movie, (and hang out at the bar) again.
So that is it--much more to come this week as I try to get as much in the ten days before the fringe begins,
Will report on all this tomorrow.
Monday, August 1, 2016
angry because I...
can't seem to get the Fringe performance guide on this computer. Last night I learned that my post for the entire Fringe Festival would be at the Players Theater on MacDougal Street. Both theaters, as many as seven box offices a night, maybe more. No days off between the first and last day of the Fringe. Can I do it? I think so, but wanted to get schedule off the web site and as of now, this seems impossible. Will have to do it later at another computer. Anyway, now that the Fringe is in focus, everything seems to move around the next ten days, the days until the Fringe begins.
However, the rest of the weekend:
Saturday afternoon---very hot---went out to the flyering place on Church and Flatbush, The area is flooded with people of color---many were speaking in French; the few people who noticed my Brooklyn is Not For Sale tea shirt were happy to take a flyer for the August 13th march and were very friendly. Waited a while for some other flyers, but the humidity was destroying me---could only stay about a half hour, soon some other ban members arrived and I let them do most of the flyering, as I walked down Flatbush in search of a pizza place. (I had gotten very hungry) Across the street from the church where I waited there were several cops interrogating two men of color. Imani, one of the heads of BAN taped the encounter from about 20 feet behind the police. This was my first experience observing Cop Watch---really admire Imani for doing this---I doubt if I could. As walked north on Flatbush towards Prospect Park and Park Slope, could not help but noticing how both Church and Flatbush are such narrow streets, Flatbush in that area also lined with people. Both streets were made for some reason, very narrow, just two lanes, while one could see how they could be more efficient if they were wider. After stopping for Pizza, intense rain came, but so did the Flatbush bus and I took it to the Library. Got off there, thought that I might go in for a bit, but was tired so elected to simply get on the 3 back to Manhattan and go home.
That evening, went to see Don't Think Twice, the Mike Birbiglia film about improvisation. Movie began with pictures of three members of the original Second City comedy group, Andrew Duncan, Eugene Troobnick and Severn Darden. How well I remember them from 61 and onwards, when they were so present in the city. I think they all have passed but to me they are forever young and brilliant.
Movie itself was "nice" enjoyable in its own way. Had some problems with some plot turns, but found it mostly to be a decent fun like movie. Perfect way of spending Saturday evening when I was somewhat tired---much easier sitting in a movie than going to a play. Afterwards went to the Dive Bar on 96th and Amsterdam, gorged myself on buffalo wings (only 5) and had a nice conversation with a guy who is having problems with his live in girl friend.
Yesterday, not much until the meeting---needed some things worked out, finally got the information that I felt was necessary, have a solid picture of what I think the supervisory line of the fringe will be. A lot of work, for not a lot of money, but will do it. Afterwards, visited South Fourth but not a lot happening there---read a little at the Williamsburg Bean, then went home. T
Trip home was excruciating, as my subway train was stopped between Bedford and 1st avenue for about 20 minutes--not great to be stopped in a tunnel under the water---but problem was rectified, still felt a tremendous sense of frustration and anger at being trapped down there.
Came home, went to sleep easily, woke up around 3:15 this morning, felt great! So what? What can one do when one feels great at 3:15? Try to put things together until 4:15? Essentially that is what I did. I marvel that after feeling exhausted yesterday afternoon, I could feel so healthy and alive at 3 in the morning.
After this post, should try to contact WBAI about march on the 13th. Difficult, but I will do it.
Will report tomorrow.
However, the rest of the weekend:
Saturday afternoon---very hot---went out to the flyering place on Church and Flatbush, The area is flooded with people of color---many were speaking in French; the few people who noticed my Brooklyn is Not For Sale tea shirt were happy to take a flyer for the August 13th march and were very friendly. Waited a while for some other flyers, but the humidity was destroying me---could only stay about a half hour, soon some other ban members arrived and I let them do most of the flyering, as I walked down Flatbush in search of a pizza place. (I had gotten very hungry) Across the street from the church where I waited there were several cops interrogating two men of color. Imani, one of the heads of BAN taped the encounter from about 20 feet behind the police. This was my first experience observing Cop Watch---really admire Imani for doing this---I doubt if I could. As walked north on Flatbush towards Prospect Park and Park Slope, could not help but noticing how both Church and Flatbush are such narrow streets, Flatbush in that area also lined with people. Both streets were made for some reason, very narrow, just two lanes, while one could see how they could be more efficient if they were wider. After stopping for Pizza, intense rain came, but so did the Flatbush bus and I took it to the Library. Got off there, thought that I might go in for a bit, but was tired so elected to simply get on the 3 back to Manhattan and go home.
That evening, went to see Don't Think Twice, the Mike Birbiglia film about improvisation. Movie began with pictures of three members of the original Second City comedy group, Andrew Duncan, Eugene Troobnick and Severn Darden. How well I remember them from 61 and onwards, when they were so present in the city. I think they all have passed but to me they are forever young and brilliant.
Movie itself was "nice" enjoyable in its own way. Had some problems with some plot turns, but found it mostly to be a decent fun like movie. Perfect way of spending Saturday evening when I was somewhat tired---much easier sitting in a movie than going to a play. Afterwards went to the Dive Bar on 96th and Amsterdam, gorged myself on buffalo wings (only 5) and had a nice conversation with a guy who is having problems with his live in girl friend.
Yesterday, not much until the meeting---needed some things worked out, finally got the information that I felt was necessary, have a solid picture of what I think the supervisory line of the fringe will be. A lot of work, for not a lot of money, but will do it. Afterwards, visited South Fourth but not a lot happening there---read a little at the Williamsburg Bean, then went home. T
Trip home was excruciating, as my subway train was stopped between Bedford and 1st avenue for about 20 minutes--not great to be stopped in a tunnel under the water---but problem was rectified, still felt a tremendous sense of frustration and anger at being trapped down there.
Came home, went to sleep easily, woke up around 3:15 this morning, felt great! So what? What can one do when one feels great at 3:15? Try to put things together until 4:15? Essentially that is what I did. I marvel that after feeling exhausted yesterday afternoon, I could feel so healthy and alive at 3 in the morning.
After this post, should try to contact WBAI about march on the 13th. Difficult, but I will do it.
Will report tomorrow.
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