Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Wrapping Our Sneezes in Tissue Is One of the Best Gifts We Can Give to Our Fellow Man and Woman

Ecoleaf Recycled Facial Tissues are BUAV and Vegan Society-approved as well as biodegradeable and come in fully recycled packaging. They are available at Ethical Superstore. http://www.bit.ly/2i415HQ

BY VW

SOME
advice is so old, so tried-and-true. So ingrained in our psyches that it is buried; we tend to forget it because it is covered over by other good advice.

One such is to cover our mouths when we yawn, cough, sneeze. Everybody knows what to do, except everybody doesn't know what to do, except everybody doesn't do it.

But winter and cold and flu season comes around like clockwork and we need gentle reminders to keep a tight leash on our germs, lest they infect others.

Do cover your mouth when you sneeze, preferably with a tissue. Archive photo.

To help, some folks at the Texas A&M Health Science Center undertook an experiment using dye to determine the best way to keep as many germs at bay as possible when sneezing. Do watch the video to see graphic illustrations.

Of course the worst, which should go without saying but won't, is to sneeze without covering your mouth. It's gross, it's ill- mannered and inconsiderate and it gives germs carte blanche to travel hither and yon, spreading illness.

The vampire sneeze has its merits and demerits. Archive photo.

Covering your mouth with your hand(s) is markedly better than hands-free but still gives germs to much free reign. Then your hands go on to touch this, that and the other.

Placing your nose and mouth at the crook of your elbow and sneezing into your sleeve, resulting in a Count Dracula-like pose, is significantly better. Alas, germs are now living high on the hog; that is, on your sleeve. But as the experimenters point out, far fewer people will come into contact with your sleeve than with your hand.

At press time, Brooks Brothers Pure Cotton Handkerchiefs (package of seven) are marked down to $26.95 (from $35.) http://www.bit.ly/2iAoaD1

By far the best way to handle the errant germs is to sneeze into a tissue and throw it away immediately.

Do note that a handkerchief can serve the same purpose as a tissue. However, it would have to be folded and stored in a secure location until it can be laundered. In the end, then, the tissue is the best option.

Hitchoooooo!!!!!

Saturday, December 24, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016, BOOK BAG - 'Curlee Girlee': the Mane Lesson a Little Girl Learns; 'the Coveteur: Private Spaces, Personal Style', or Nooks & Crannies of the Rich and Famous



Two for your personal library, "Curlee Girlee" (top) and "the Coveteur: Private Spaces, Personal Style."

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY VW

TWO
books that launched last month in New York City at Dylan's Candy Bar and Bergdoff Goodman, respectively, with no small amount of fanfare are certain to capture the collective imagination.

One, an illustrated children's book, concerns a little girl who realizes that she and her hair are beautiful. The other, a coffeetable affair, ventures into the spaces of the richer and more famous.

"Curlee Girlee," written by Atara Twersky and illustrated by Karen Wolcott, recounts the adventures of a little girl with curly hair.

Curlee does not like her hair because when it finally grows it is not straight like spaghetti. It doesn't "look like other people's hair at all." It is "swoopy and loopy ... bouncy and flouncy."

Author mother and subject daughter at the launch of "Curlee Girlee." Photo from "Curlee Girlee" Facebook page.

Curlee goes to great lengths to straighten her hair, including using a rolling pin. Then, one day she realizes that her hair is unique and beautiful.

Christian Louboutin ties one on. Photo by Coveteur/Jake Rosenberg.

Both a work of empowerment and a love letter, "Curlee Girlee" grew out of the author's experiences with her curly-haired daughter, a member of a family that is mainly of the wavy- and straight-hair variety.

AT, an attorney, observed that her youngest daughter, Ariela (Ari, for short), was having issues with her hair, though the little girl had not verbalized them. To counteract what she believed might morph into a self-esteem problem, she embarked on a mission to ensure that her child, whom she started calling Curlee Girlee, would see the beauty of her mane. Mother wanted daughter to "embrace her curls and not feel the need to conform."

Cindy Crawford is sitting pretty. Photo by Coveteur/Jake Rosenberg.

"Curlee Girlee," which AT has said she hopes will resonate with the reported 1.6 billion curly-haired females in the world, is a book that every person should have and gift/recommend to others. It can help save women in particular a lot of money that would otherwise go on unnecessary hair products, hairstylists and psychologists.

On a much lighter note is the Coveteur: Private Spaces, Personal Style.

The question is whether Christian Louboutin is wearing Christian Louboutins. Meanwhile, Ariana Huffington is in possession of some kicka_ _ slingbacks. Ah, here is Cindy Crawford in a chill-out moment. And a shelf in Amar'e Stoudemire’s house is laden with treasures.

Ariana Huffington rests her soles. Photo by Coveteur/Jake Rosenberg.

The first book from the luxury brand,Coveteur, is a photo diary of ... well ... the personal style and/or spaces of some folk more well-known and better financially situated than you, you, you and you.

Lots of eye candy.

Knickknacks from a shelf in the home of former New York Knickerbocker Amar'e Stoudemire. Photo by Coveteur/Renée Rodenkirchen.

Visit the websites that follow to learn more about "Curlee Girlee" and "the Coveteur: Private Spaces, Personal Style":
http://www.curleegirlee.com/
http://www.coveteur.com/book-the-coveteur-private-spaces-personal-style/.

Friday, December 23, 2016

'Fences' Extends From the Stage to Film, Bringing With It All of Its Intensity and Verbosity

Viola Davis and Denzel Washington reprise their Tony-winning roles as Rose and Troy Maxson in the film adaptation of "Fences." Photos courtesy of Paramount Pictures.

BY VW

NEAR
the beginning of "Fences,"  Troy (star, director and producer Denzel Washington) delivers a long monologue during a backyard scene.

My first thought was "Oh, Lord, it's going to be a play on the big screen." I wasn't prepared for this, thus prepared to be bored, for "Fences" is a very loquacious play.

It feels less like a play as the film unfolds, but never sheds that imprint. This is intentional.

"Denzel went back to the original screenplay, and he wanted to stay close to spirit of the stage play," Constanza Romero disclosed to the New York Film Critics Online (NYFCO) after its screening of "Fences" at Walter Reade Theater.

CR, a Tony-nominated costume designer, is the widow of August Wilson, the creator of "Fences," the Pulitzer Prize-winning play from which the film is adapted.

When DW phoned to get her blessing to direct the film version, she said she obliged.  "I felt like a green light  all the way, " CR said during the NYFCO Q&A.

"Fences," AW's slice of Americana set in 1950s Pittsburgh concerning the life of Troy Maxson, a onetime baseball great and garbage collector, as well as his family, opens widely on Christmas Day.

For those laboring under the assumption that "Fences" marks DW's directorial debut, it does not. That distinction goes  to "Antwone Fisher."

It has taken a while for "Fences" to come to the big screen mainly because of AW's edict  that it be directed by a black person. He produced a script, which was touched up by an uncredited Tony Kushner.

In his third outing as a director,  DW excels, particularly with himself by not overwhelming the proceedings with his consequence as the main character. The pacing is brisk  enough. "Fences" does not seem overlong at 139 minutes. Characters have organic movements,  seamlessly distractimg from all of the talk, for "Fences" is a loquacious film.

Emotions are on a tight coil, though the medium of film allows the players to let it rip. The camera subtly lingers on important details, such as an image of Pittsburgh steelworkers sans any black men, without looking askance. 

No doubt, DW admonished production designer David Gropman to keep the sets spare in deference to his source material. Surely, he had the budget to be more lavish.

The tension present in the play is as papable on screen. Viewers will find it difficult to watch at their ease, for almost every interaction is a tinderbox on the point of exploding. Even the most innocuous-seeming, as when best friend, Jim (Stephen McKinley Henderson), tracks Troy to a favorite haunt where they have a conversation heavy laden with meaningful nonverbal communication.

Troy (Denzel Washington) and Jim (Stephen McKinley Henderson) return from a day's work in "Fences."

Incidentally, the performances are generally stellar. The actors deliver like cogs in a well-oiled machine. All of the principals are reprising their Broadway roles, except the two youngest, Cory (Jovan Adepo) and Raynell (Saniyya Sidney).

Virtually every scene is powerful and significant. Two in particular stand out. The one between Troy and youngest son, Cory, is one. The boy stubbornly refuses to exhibit the manners he has been taught - Strike 3. Consequently, Troy is forced to demonstrate who is the man of his house.

A young lady with whom this reporter chatted during the reception following the film's New York premiere (at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center Rose Hall) at Tavern on the Green, judged Troy's treatment of his son harsh.

Point taken, Father might have spared the rod a bit more, after all, the boy was not without some righteous indignation. Further, the punishment did not fit the crime. However, the young pup needed to be taught some facts of life. Specifically, some  respect; a non too-gentle reminder about who pays the bills; a refresher on to whom he owes his surly, ungrateful existence.

Rose (Viola Davis and Gab (Mykelti Williamson), far left, are spectators as Cory (Jovan Adepo) and Troy (Denzel Washington) talk football.

The other scene is Rose's (Viola Davis) confronting Troy about the fallout from his infidelity. Her dissertation is so passionate that viewers will be jolted by her pain, anguish and fury; an utter betrayal of one who has been unwaveringly loyal.

"In all of his plays, August tried to pay homage to his mother, CR responded when I asked her whether he would be pleased with the film.

The short answer is yes. However, she alluded to the aforesaid and a companion scene by way of a fuller answer. "He was very reverent of his mother," she added.

"Fences" is an important work in the pantheon of American artistic expression and important for numerous other reasons.

My preference is that it remained a play only. Alas, as such, far too few would have an opportunity to see it. As a film, it opens up to the world. One hopes the world will embrace it.

Jim (Stephen McKinley Henderson), Troy (Denzel Washington) and Cory (Jovan Adepo) in the Maxson backyard where a fence construction is in progress.

"Fences" has myriad teachable moments. About dreams destroyed. About extremely limited opportunities sanctioned by the State. About injustice. About the basic unfairness of life. About brokenness. About forgiveness. About love. About the black experience in America. About black history.  About American history. 

Just as important, it is a fine entertainment, showcasing fine performances.

"Fences" is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, language and some suggestive references; visit www.fencesmovie.com to learn more about the film.






Thursday, December 22, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: At Judie's Bungalow, A Beret for You and Only You

A beret with flower attached from Judie's Bungalow can brighten a winter day. Photos by Marie Driscoll.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY MARIE DRISCOLL

IN
case you didn’t notice, flowers are in!

From Andy Warhol to Gucci embroidered and painted handbags and accessories, to the prints at Zara. They seem to be everywhere.

The display window at Judie's Bungalow provides a glimpse of some of its unique wares.

If hats are your thing, then a trip to Cold Spring, New York (about 60 miles from midtown New York City via NY-9A) is well worth it. Judie’s Bungalow, a house of handcrafted accessories has an assortment of one-of-a-kind berets with wool-felted flowers that are just so girly and incredible artisanal in this age of massive scale. Take note, this old-school boutique does not have a website, Facebook page or Twitter feed.

I fell in love and bought two; one for me and one for … me? So hard to gift this. At $40 each, they are a deal and bound to make your day brighter.

Who said a flower a day?

One-of-a-kind hats and berets are a specialty of Judie's Bungalow.

Judie’s Bungalow is at 90 Main St. Cold Spring, NY 10516. Telephone: 845-265-1032.

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: AliveCor Mobile ECG Can Be Great Comfort for Those With Troubled Hearts

The Alive Cor Mobile ECG is a pocket lifesaver. Photos from Alive Cor website.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY NEIL WOLFSON

I
was somewhat overwhelmed by the many impressive gizmos and gadgets about to come onto the world market at the recent Pepcom Wine, Dine & Demo holiday technology show in New York City.

However, one device in particular resonated with me as a person living with cardiovascular issues. It's called the AliveCor Mobile ECG. This user-friendly tiny miracle provides an accurate electrocardiogram to your smartphone or tablet. Results can be quickly relayed to your cardiologist.

The lifesaving implications of this product are mind-boggling. It retails for around $100, though the device is 25 percent off online until 31. Dec. At checkout, use code, LASTCHANCE2016.





Visit http://www.alivecor.com to learn more about the AliveCor Mobile ECG.

Monday, December 19, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: Under Armour for Men in Blue as Well as You, You and You

The ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid Jacket is lightweight and warm. Photos from Under Armour website.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

By Marie Driscoll

THE
early read is that this winter will be cold. To that end, help the guy in your life stay warm with some Under Armour.

Guys are reluctant to buy a puffer jacket for themselves, ergo, God created Eve. The UA ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid Jacket has UA storm technology that repels water and the ColdGear reactor intelligent insulation adapts to any activity for nonstop comfort and total versatility. For $184.99, the sniffles and sneezes can be kept at bay.

The ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid Jacket comes with a pouch for easy transport.

Wow! Smart, and it’s also purdy cool, ‘cause it packs easily into the left pocket. That means, it can easily fit into a gym bag or backpack. He will love it, it’s Under Armour! (http://www.undrarmr.co/2h8Ids3)

Hey, while you are shopping, get him a pair of gloves, too! Under Armour has 87 glove choices (and that doesn’t include color or size) OMG! There are gloves for every sport, so try to keep it simple. A good choice is the US ColdGear® Infrared Fleece Ski & Snowboard glove ($29.99).

The ColdGear® Infrared Fleece Ski & Snowboard glove doesn't have to come off if you need to tap on your device.

It packs a lot of punch, including a thermo-conductive coating on the inside that holds heat without adding bulk. It also has great functionality with Tech Touch print on the thumbs and fingers that allows the use of touchscreen devices with the gloves on. (http://www.undrarmr.co/2hWwj0Y)

I was inspired to recommend the gloves by the vision of a New York City police officer in the subway with a pair of Under Armours dangling from his back pocket.

One of New York's finest protects his hands with Under Armour. Photo by Marie Driscoll.

If they are good enough for our men in blue, they are good enough for your man, too!

Visit a store near you or http://www.underarmour.com to learn more about Under Armour.

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: When You Say, 'Alexa' - Even Above the Din of Music - Amazon Echo Dot Listens, and Handles It

The Amazon Echo Dot is an efficient little assistant. Image from Amazon.com.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY NIEL WOLFSON

ONE
of the most interesting devices I demoed at the recent Pepcom Wine, Dine & Demo holiday technology show in New York City, was the second-generation of Amazon’s Echo, Echo Dot.

Part of the Alexa Voice Service, this miniature voice-activated concierge can accomplish numerous tasks from playing music on Spotify to dimming the lights in your home to requesting Uber rides.

It's currently on sale now for a paltry $40. "Alexa ..."

Visit http://www.amzn.to/2cEXzBk to learn more about Amazon Echo Dot.

Saturday, December 17, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: Tappin' All Two of Your Left Feet Into Dance Classes


HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY TAMARA BECK

IT
feels so intuitive. You step, thumping your toes rhythmically, and voila!, you're tapping.

In reality, however, tap dancing is a vigorous and strenuous physical activity that requires mastery, precision and training.

Most are not likely to pursue tap dance professionally, but there are lessons to help you gain some proficiency. A sort of interim fix can be found at a number of studios around New York City for enthusiasts who lack skills but want them. If you are not in New York, Google “Tap dance lessons near me” for classes.

The American Tap Dance Foundation champions the all-American artform with, among other things, the annual Tap City: The New York City Tap Festival. It is billed as the world’s pre-imminent tap dance festival, featuring performances, demos, awards and a treasure show. The foundation also offers classes for young and old. (http://www.atdf.org/)


The 92nd Street Y also offers a course of study for the would-be tap dancer. The selections blend Fred Astaire styling, Broadway tap and the freestyle rhythm popularized by Savion Glover. Classes range from the "Absolute Beginner" to “Older Dancer” to “Intermediate.” (http://www.92y.org/Uptown/Classes/Adults/Dance/Tap.aspx)

Happy feet!

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide 2016: Going Coach for an Iconic Handbag and/or Soon-to-Be Extinct Rexy Wares


The Coach Dinky bag (Western Rivets Crossbody 24) is a jewel in its crown. Photos from Coach.

HEADS UP: December has rolled around again and you are shaking in your shoes. What to get Aunt? And those other hard-to-shop-for-persons on your list? Never fear, the elves at The Wright Wreport are here! As is customary, until 24 Dec., we will introduce products, items and brands that we believe are worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Happy, responsible shopping!

BY MARIE DRISCOLL

IF
you are into Americana lux, among the best is Coach

The fresh approach of executive designer Stuart Vevers to U.S. standards is creating must-have new iconic handbags, accessories and even some ready-to-wear.

A girl just can't have enough Dinky bags. From tea rose appliqué, to calf hair – in a rainbow of colors and two sizes – a Dinky is the cherry-on-top of any outfit; the perfect grab-bag for an afternoon in the park or an evening at the opera.

The Rexy intarsia knit sweater is soft and shimmery.

First introduced in 1973, it is “the little bag that could” and is a longtime Coach favorite. It also features the original 1964 turnlock designed by Coach’s first creative director, Bonnie Cashin.

Ranging from $279 (down from $395) to $795, the Dinky is a piece of precious. The Western Rivets Dinky Crossbody 24 in glove-tanned leather and black copper/heather gray is adorable. ($419, down from $595)

The Rexy charm has certain crystal accents.

But hey, if Dinky isn't for you, consider something from the Rexy capsule collection. The recent pre-fall 2017 show was part of the 75th anniversary celebration of Coach and the first for Rexy.

Incidentally, if you are in New York City, visit the newly opened Coach House (685 Fifth Ave. at 54th Street). Designed by SV in partnership with William Sofield (Studio Sofield), it is three magnificent floors of all things Coach. It also houses a 12-foot sculpture of Rexy, designed entirely of Coach handbags!

The Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty have a place of prominence on the Rexy postcard.

Rexy is the brand’s new mascot and a friendly dinosaur. She appears on various items, including handbags, scarves, intarsia knit sweaters ($695) and even a leather postcard ($25, featuring the New York skyline and landmarks), as well as a Rexy charm ($55) that is adorned with Swarovski crystals.

Get 'em now, ‘cause when they’re gone, they’re gone!

Visit a Coach store near you or visit the following web pages to shop for the aforementioned Coach items:

http://www.bit.ly/2hHF5jX

http://www.coach.com/coach-sparkly-intarsia-rexy-sweater/87384.html?dwvar_color=TEA

http://www.cach.com/coach-new-york-city-postcard/87586.html?dwvar_color=L38

http://www.coach.com/coach-rexy-charm/56772.html?search=true&dwvar_color=GLD

Thursday, December 1, 2016

ON THE TOWNS: Encore for The Great Gatsby Party; yasiin bey (nee Mos Def) Takes Several Bows Before He Takes His Leave; Film Society of London Center Parties Like It's 1991; in a Smashing Affair, New York City Takes on Sweden; Gelsey Kirkland Ballet Has Its 1st Crack at 'The Nutcracker' ...

Jules Minshin, Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly in a scene from "On the Town." The film will be screened at the 25th Anniversary celebration of Walter Reade Theater at Lincoln Center. Archive photo.

CAN you believe it, the artist formerly known as Mos Def is really retiring from music? Thankfully, much other music continues at the Apollo Theater and other places, including Capitale. There the ‘20s roar back with The Great Gatsby Party 2.0.

Meanwhile, the Film Society of Lincoln Center celebrates a milestone with toasts, cheap tix and revisits “On The Town.” No doubt, the Gelsey Kirkland Ballet will be on point with its first production of “The Nutcracker” ...

1-7 December

LIFESTYLE. DANCING. MUSIC. FOOD. 9 p.m. 2 and 3 Dec. The Great Gatsby Party 2016. Back by popular demand, the party inspired by the decadence described in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel of the same name returns. The Roaring Twenties reimagined for two nights. Women in flapper dresses; men in top hats. Aerialists. Flowing Champagne.Capitale, 130 Bowery St. New York. http://www.bit.ly/2hbr8No

FILM. 2-22 Dec. Life is a Dream: The Films of Raul Ruiz. The Film Society of Lincoln Center presents Part 1 of it two-part retrospective of the great Chilean director's work. Includes his feature debut, "Three Sad Tigers," works from the 1970s and 1980s, including "The Hypothesis of the Stolen Painting, as well as from the '90s, including "Three Lives and Only One Death." Walter Reade Theater, 165 W. 65th St. New York. http://www.filmlinc.org/series/life-is-a-dream-the-films-of-raul-ruiz-part-1/

MUSIC. THEATER. 8 p.m. 5 Dec. A Man of No ImportanceIn concert. The second installment of the Anne L. Bernstein Concert Series. From the Terrence McNally play about an Irish-Catholic bus driver with a secret who is empowered by the words of Oscar Wilde. Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. Music by Stephen Flaherty. Directed by Jack Cummings III. Irene Diamond Stage at the Pershing Square Signature Center. New York. http://www.transportgroup.org/man-no-importance-concert

TELEVISION. 8 p.m. 5 Dec. Showtime at the Apollo. The two-hour program hosted by Steve Harvey airs on FOX. It is billed as a "reimagining of a classic talent showcase series" and will feature elements of the Apollo's famed Amateur Night competition. Special guests.

8-14 December



FILM. 7p.m., 9:30 p.m. 8 Dec. 25th Anniversary of the Walter Reade Theater. The Film Society of Lincoln Center celebrates the December 1991 opening of its screening venue with two screenings that represent the society's mission. "On the Town," (7p.m.) from Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, was the very first film screened at Walter Reade. John Casssavetes' "Shadows" (9:30 p.m.) has the distinction of being the director's first film as well as being a part of Walter Reade's inaugural series, "Great Beginnings: First Films by Great Directors." The free screenings will be preceded by a Prosecco toast and introductions. Also a part of the celebration are 1991 ticket prices for a couple of film festivals. Walter Reade Theater, 165 W. 65th St. New York. http://www.filmlinc.org/series/25th-anniversary-walter-reade-theater/

DANCE. 8-18 Dec. The Nutcracker. The Gelsey Kirkland Ballet's production of the holiday classic features original choreography by co-artistic director Michael Chernov. The 70-member ensemble of thos GKB debut production will be comprised of graduates and trainees of the Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet.GK Arts Center, 29 Jay St. Brooklyn, NY. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2666504

"The First Noel: A Musical" returns to the Apollo Theater for a second year. Photo courtesy of the Classical Theatre of Harlem.

THEATER. DANCE. 10-18 Dec. The First Noel: A Musical. The Apollo Theater presents the Classical Theatre of Harlem production, which tells the story of three generations of a Harlem family and how they deal with tragedy. Directed by Steve H. Broadnax III. Original book, music and lyrics by Lelund Durond Thompson and Jason Michael Webb. Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125 St. New York. http://www.apollotheater.org/firstnoel/

LIFESTYLE. SPORTS. 6 p.m. 11 Dec. NYC vs SWE. The New York City takes on Sweden in a Holiday Ping Pong Party Tournament. It is co-presented by Marcus Samuelsson, the owner of Streetbird. Proceeds from the tournament go to Mission North, a non profit dedicated to making it possible for youth in underserved areas to participate in organized sports. Streetbird, 2149 Frederick Douglas Blvd. New York. http:// www.keyflow.com/events/35936/new-york/socialight-entertainment/nyc-x-swe

ART. CULTURE. 6:30 p.m. 13 Dec. Tibet House US 30th Anniversary Dinner Party and Benefit Auction. Fifteen one-of-a-kind items to be auctioned by Christie’s auctioneer, Jennifer Wright. Honorary chair committee includes Philip Glass, Martin Scorsese, Uma Thurman and Jann Wenner. Tibet House US, 22 W. 15th St. New York. http:// www.bit.ly/2g2fowS

15-21 December

yasiin bey says goodbye to America with four concerts with friends. Photo from yasiin bey Facebook page.

MUSIC. 8 p.m., 8:30 p.m. 21 and 22 Dec.; 31 Dec.-2 Jan. 2017. yasiin bey & friends. The artist formerly known as Mos Def will perform his last four concerts in the United States before his retirement from the music business. He is expected to perform songs from different albums at each concert and welcome special guests. Following these U.S. performances, he will journey to Africa to focus on his arts, culture and lifestyle collective, A Country called Earth (ACCE). Among his new pursuits is to be painting, some of which will be displayed anonymously at both the Apollo Theater and The Kennedy Center. Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125 St., New York. The Kennedy Center, 2700 F St., NW, on the bank of the Potomac River. Washington, D.C.
http://www.apollotheater.org/event/yasiin-bey/
http:// www.kennedy-center.org/calendar/event/MRHFN


22 December and beyond

Jalal Maghout's "Suleima" is an animation documentary in which one Syrian woman speaks for many. It will be screened on 15 Jan 2017 and is part of the Whitney's "Dreamlands: Immersive Cinema and Art, 1905–2016" exhibit. Image courtesy of Whitney Museum of American Art.

ART. EXTENDED through 9 Jan 2017. Carmen Herrera: Lines of Sight. Encompasses the 30-year period between 1948 and 1978 when the abstract artist was honing her style. The first NYC museum exhibit of her oeuvre in nearly 20 years, it features three-dimensional treatments, works on paper and paintings. Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort. New York. The exhibit moves to the Wexner Center for the Arts in Columbus Ohio on 4 Feb. (through 16 April). http://www.bit.ly/2ciWyfl

ART. Through 5 Feb. 2017. Dreamlands: Immersive Cinema and Art, 1905–2016. The title takes its name from science fiction writer H.P. Lovecraft’s alternate fictional dimension. It features the work of artists spanning a century, illustrating the numerous techniques they have used to deconstruct conventional modes of cinema to re-imagine the moving image. Includes a film series. Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort. New York. http://www.bit.ly/2e5XMgK
 
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