Thursday, May 23, 2013

NYC.  Chris and I just returned from a trip to the Big Apple, always a treat.  As Will Rogers noted, the “passing scene” is constantly changing, always amusing.  We went on a 4-day visit with long-time friends, the couple who introduced us many years ago.  We thoroughly enjoyed three plays: Ann, Motown, and Once.  

To appreciate Ann you have to be “of a certain age,” else much will be unknown, ancient history.  However, if you are of that age, the comments of Ann Richardson, the late, former TX governor will ring true and elicit more than a few belly laughs.  Governor Richardson was played by Holland Taylor, a Broadway veteran and, unlikely, the current star of TV's 2 ½ Men.  A stunning performance!

In Motown, it was immediately obvious that the audience, young and old, were “into” the music.  A fast-paced kaleidoscope of past musical hits and the interplay in the recording business.

Once, winner of the 2012 “best musical” Tony award, was of a different genre.  The rip-roaring setting was an Irish pub where the musicians were also the actors.  Before the show and during intermission, a limited number of the audience were allowed on stage to purchase/enjoy their libations, temporary patrons to set the stage; it fit nicely.   Our thanks to Chris and Jerry, as the play was well worth their stand in line at the 'Tix' discount ticket outlet.

We also enjoyed our first visits to Staten Island and the 9/11 memorial; we did a short walkabout in Central Park with lunch at the Boat House.  Chris and I had tickets for the taping of David Letterman's Monday (May 21st) Late Show, with Will Smith as the featured guest.  Alas, there was no “face time” for the Abells.  Aside from the actual show, it was most interesting to see what happens “behind” the scenes, what the TV audience does not see.  It's quite a production, fittingly in the Ed Sullivan theater – home of Ed's long ago “really, really big shews”.

And what trip to NYC would be complete without a slice of cheesecake at Junior's!  We actually visited twice, for dessert after Ann and again for dinner with Chris's young cousin, a dance major juggling seven jobs as she works up to “bigger and better things.”

Enjoy the coming weekend; thanks for tuning in.