New York Shorts:
My rating system: 1-5 Stars
1- only if nothing else to do and tickets are cheap or free
2- a bit better than 1
3- the middle- worthwhile
4- good, solid theater experience, worth the ticket
5- exceptional, must see
Theater:
New play by Lynn Nottage, (Ruined), about the relationship between black maids and Hollywood actresses in the 1930’s. Part GWTW spoof, part reminder of the inequities in film and elsewhere. I saw it in previews and think it could use some editing. ****
WarHorse: “Mechanically brilliant.” (Matthew’s quip), otherwise manipulates emotions. Trite plot and characters, interspersed with dreary British folk tunes. But the puppetry makes it stand out. It’s the sort of experience I hope is around to take grandchildren to when they’re older. ***
The MotherF* With the Hat
Ninety minutes of rapid fire profanity yet a poignant story with believable characters. If your ears can handle the battering, snag a seat. ****
Galleries- Chelsea
Why am I first discovering art galleries? I’ve been a museum goer for decades and have memberships to a few. I had some time before a matinee- perfect to wander into galleries in Chelsea- the West 20’s area of NYC. What’s great about galleries: one exhibit instead of the entire spectrum of art so small enough to see in a short time; and they’re free. The downside: no gift shop!
Picasso and Marie-Therese: L’amour fou
Gagosian Gallery, 522 W21 (June 25)
Picasso’s love affair with a young French woman, Marie- Therese captured in sketches, those line drawings that look so simple yet we all know are impossible, cubist portraits and bold paintings with asymmetrical faces. There’s sculpture, collages and even a tapestry. And if the art isn’t enough to convince us of his love, an excerpt from a letter makes him look like a bumbling teenager. Here’s an excerpt from the excerpt: “…I love you more than the taste of your mouth, more than your look, more than your hands, more than your whole body…”
Charles Moore: Civil Rights and Beyond
Steven Kasher Gallery, 521 W23 ( May 7)
Life magazine photographer Moore (1931-2010) captured images of the conflict, the known and the unknown. I don’t think we can ever see too much of how people were treated by police, crowds, and dogs.
I’d like to see the Civil Rights exhibit.
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