Broadway | Bronx Bombers

It's rare that I see a play on Broadway (though if you're a new OpenLetter2NYC reader you may have been deceived by my recent No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot post). Nonetheless, I had the opportunity to catch the show Bronx Bombers yesterday, and wanted to share my thoughts as soon as I could since it's closing this Sunday, March 2nd. If you're able to read this post before the show is closed, I hope you find it helpful!

Bronx Bombers is a play all about the New York Yankees. A mix between reality and fiction, the story centers around Yogi Berra and journeys through the Yankees organization from the days of Lou Gehrig to those of Derek Jeter. Peter Scolari plays Berra, and is joined with a great cast of other actors including his real life and onstage wife, Tracy Shayne. If you are a Yankees fan, baseball fan, or simply a fan of the theater, I think you would have a great time at this show! It's funny, touching, and a solid play.

I did enjoy my Bronx Bombers experience, though I can understand why the show has had such a short Broadway run since opening on February 6th of this year. The story is a bit confusing. Maybe it's because I'm not a native New Yorker and thus not well-versed with all things Yankees, but I felt a bit lost at times despite the great acting. I think the show also struggled because the diehard Yankees fans that would enjoy the show aren't usually the first to head to a Broadway play. I will mention that the audience was an interesting conglomerate of retirees and teenagers, but perhaps that's the normal Wednesday matinee crowd.

If you have the chance to catch Bronx Bombers this weekend, I would recommend doing so, especially if you're a Yankees fan. (I know I've repeated that already, but it's true!) The show is good, and I'm really glad I had the chance to see it. Bronx Bombers is playing at the Circle in the Square Theatre, where every seat is good, and you're never more than a few rows away from the action. For more information about the show, check out the Bronx Bombers official website HERE.

Bite of the Apple | 9/11 Memorial

What: 9/11 Memorial

Where: World Trade Center

Price: Free, $2 service fee for online reservations; donations accepted

About: Visit the site of the Twin Towers to see the tribute built in honor of the victims of the 9/11 attacks. In the spring of this year, a museum will be opening at the site as well. Currently, the memorial consists of two reflecting pools, with the names of the fallen inscribed on panels around each pool. There are also informational computers that share more about the memorial, and allow you to locate a name on the panels.

Sweet or Sour: The memorial is a place for quiet reflection, and I would label it as somber rather than sweet or sour. The site is beautiful, and something I recommend visiting at least once to spend a few moments in quiet remembrance. The view of the Freedom Tower is also remarkable.

Seeds: I highly recommend visiting the memorial's website before you go, as there are several security regulations (understandably), and it's easy to reserve your ticket in advance. Also keep in mind that you will be going through airport-like security before entering the memorial, and that the memorial is all outdoors.

Core: If you plan to visit lower Manhattan, take the time to visit the 9/11 Memorial. The length of your visit is up to you, but the emotional experience is profound.

Official Website: http://www.911memorial.org

Broadway | Chicago

For whatever reason, I've never been too excited to see Chicago on Broadway. Maybe it's because the movie wasn't my favorite, or because it's one of those shows that will most likely be running until the end of time. That all ended this past weekend when I got the opportunity to sit in the third row and enjoy the action up close and personal. I'm so glad I finally saw this Broadway classic!

Most of you probably know a bit about Chicago already, but for those of you who don't, it's a musical set in the 1920s that tells the story of two murderesses both hoping to break out of jail and make it big as vaudeville dancers. Filled with big dance numbers, catchy show tunes, and scantily clad performers (leave the kids at home, folks), Chicago is lots of fun. I highly recommend it for NYC newbies who are looking to get the full "Broadway experience" for the first time. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my night at the Ambassador Theatre, but Chicago isn't the best Broadway show I've seen. It has that razzle dazzle (see what I did there), but there's just something missing that I can't quite put my finger on. I will say that Bianca Marroquin, currently starring as Roxie Hart, is phenomenal. She is truly hilarious, and has a great interaction with the audience. The rest of the cast, including Bebe Neuwirth, is wonderful as well. Like I said, Chicago is a great Broadway experience, but now that I've seen it, I can cross it off my Broadway bucket list. 

I have no stage door tips for you this time, as it was just too snowy and cold the evening I attended. The door, however, is conveniently located just to the left of the main entrance to the Ambassador, which is definitely on the small side of all the Broadway theaters I've been to (with the exception of the Helen Hayes, where Rock of Ages plays). 

Chicago does have general rush at $37 per ticket, but this time around I actually stood in line for TKTS. You'll definitely get a better deal if you're up to the rush line, but I can't shed any light on where your seats will be located. I loved my third row seats! Any time I can hear the actors singing without the aid of microphones I get really excited! 

Overall, Chicago is a staple Broadway experience, and I recommend everyone see it even if you didn't enjoy the movie. You can get more information on the show's official website HERE.  

Bite of the Apple | Radio City Stage Door Tour

Welcome to the first edition of Bite of the Apple, a new series where I'll feature some of the tourist attractions that I visit around the city. NYC locals often stay away from tourist traps, but as a New England native, I love visiting the unique places that New York has to offer whenever I can. Back in March of 2011, I learned that it is okay to be a tourist sometimes, and I definitely still believe that today. Whether you're visiting the city, or simply looking for something fun to do, I hope you'll enjoy my Bite of the Apple posts!

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What: Radio City Stage Door Tour

Where: Radio City Music Hall

             1260 Avenue of the Americas

Price: $19.95 ($15 with your student ID!) 

            20% off coupon HERE

About: Learn all about Radio City Music Hall's history, as well as the theatre's unique features on this hour-long tour. You'll be taken all throughout the building, including areas such as the Rockette practice rooms, that are not typically open to the public. You'll also get to meet a Rockette as a part of the experience! 

Sweet or Sour: Sweet! I really enjoyed this tour! If you love the Rockettes as much as I do, this is definitely for you. I learned a lot on this tour, and really enjoyed it. Plus, my tour guide was very nice, and answered any questions we had honestly and to the best of her ability. The one sour point of the tour was not being able to take our own photo with the Rockette we met. Radio City, of course, wants you to purchase a print for $30 (twice what I paid for the tour itself). 

Seeds: This tour includes a lot of stairs. While our tour guide informed us that anyone who couldn't climb the stairs could take an elevator, you might end up missing out on some of the fun. Plus, the staircases are lined with great photographs, and even some Rockette costumes. Just something to keep in mind. 

Core: The Radio City Stage Door Tour is money well spent, and a great way to escape the elements for a while if NYC weather's got you down. 

Official Website: http://www.radiocity.com/tours/stage-door-tour.html 

Broadway | No Man's Land & Waiting for Godot

It was back to Broadway for me this past weekend when I finally saw my first shows of 2014! My friend was in town, and we made plans to rush No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot at the Cort Theatre to see none other than Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart on stage. Our rush experience was interesting – read all about it HERE – but we were able to snag front row seats to both shows. Was it worth the three hour wait in the cold? You bet! 

It might be helpful to explain a bit about how this Broadway experience differs from other plays. Instead of performing the same show eight times a week, the cast is putting on "two plays in rep" and performing No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot four times each per week. Audience members can catch both shows in one day on Wednesdays and Saturdays by attending both the matinee and evening performances. So if you're in town for just the weekend, have no fear – you won't have to choose one play over the other! 

On Saturdays, No Man's Land is up first for the matinee, with Waiting for Godot on at night. Both plays are quite different, yet have parallel themes running throughout. They're mysterious, they're funny, and they make you think. The experience of seeing McKellen and Stewart perform together live is truly magical. Along with cast mates Billy Crudup and Shuler Hensley, they put on a performance that demonstrates the art of acting to the fullest. 

I won't say much about each show as I don't want to divulge much about the story lines, but I will say that you will leave the theatre entertained and wanting more. Being in the presence of such renowned actors is a privilege, and I will always cherish my memories of seeing these shows from the front row, just feet (sometimes inches!) away from McKellen and Stewart. 

If you're wondering about the Stage Door experience, here's the good news: the actors all graciously come out and will sign Playbills. McKellen will pose for a picture with you (and Stewart allows you to take photos of him). The bad news is the barricades get filled up quickly, and if you've rushed the show you may have to sacrifice an autograph for the front row. Unfortunately we missed out on Crudup's signature, but got autographs from the rest of the cast. 

Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart signing Playbills

For more information on No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot, visit the official website HERE. The show is finishing its limited engagement on March 30, 2014.

Lesson 8: The Rules of Broadway Rush in the Winter

Until yesterday, I considered myself a Broadway rush expert. I've rushed several shows, and was only unsuccessful once.... for Once, coincidentally. I know what research to do regarding when to show up at the theater, how many tickets the show has available, and even where the seats are located. But all of my rush experiences differed in one significant way – I had never rushed a show in the winter.

The goal: get rush tickets for both No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot. Thanks to the helpful broadwayspotted.com, I knew that 7:00am was the time I needed to be in line. My friend and I woke up bright and early on a Saturday morning, and headed to the Cort Theatre. We arrived with a few minutes to spare before seven, and ended up fourth and fifth in line respectively. After just minutes had gone by, I knew my boots, scarf, hat, earmuffs, and gloves would not cut it. Plainly put, it was freezing. Literally.

I made an emergency trip to Walgreens, grabbed some hand warmers and blankets, and that helped. A bit. But I learned my lesson big time – there is no messing with Mother Nature when it comes to waiting in line for three hours in an NYC winter. So if you're heading to the box office this season, here are the things I recommend bringing along with you for the wait.

Hand Warmers

HotHands Value Pack of 10 [BUY]

My biggest recommendation is to pick up some hand warmers. Not only are they super affordable at around $1 each, but they last for several hours and will really keep your fingers feeling toasty. Hand warmers are perfect for waiting in the rush line, and double up at the stage door after the show. Yes, they'll still be warm!

Sleeping Bag / Warm Blankets

Coleman Cold-Weather Sleeping Bag [BUY]

Some of my line-mates were smart, and brought a sleeping bag along with them. I definitely had a "why didn't I think of that?" moment when I saw them. The sleeping bag will provide you with something to sit on, and something to keep you warm. If you don't own a sleeping bag, definitely take a fleece blanket. When you're standing/sitting for a great deal of time, you'll feel much comfier with something to wrap around you.

Wool Socks

Wigwam El Pine Socks [BUY]

Make sure to keep your feet warm! I was actually starting to get nervous about frostbite since my feet were truly feeling that cold. Wear wool socks, and warm snow boots if you have them. Don't take your chances in the freezing cold! 

Water / Snacks

Camelbak Eddy Bottle [BUY]

It's extremely important to stay hydrated in the winter. Your skin will be depleted of moisture while you're out in the frigid temperatures, so keep water with you, as well as some snacks. If you have a buddy with you like I did, take turns heading to Starbucks for a warm beverage, as well as some time in a heated location.

Tissues

Kleenex Pocket Packs [BUY]

Even if you aren't feeling sick, pack some tissues! I'm really glad I had a pocket pack in my purse. I ended up really needing them. The wind did not like my nose!

Entertainment

Kindle Paperwhite [BUY]

Let's face it. You won't always have a friend rushing with you, so grab a book, your eReader, or your iPod to keep you company. The hours can go slowly if you're just standing there! Of course, don't forget to be friendly to those standing in line with you as well – you'll probably be sitting next to them at the show!

Hat, Gloves, Scarf....

Isotoner Smartouch Gloves [BUY]

Last but not least, don't forget your gloves, a hat, and a scarf at the bare minimum. Make sure to bundle up. Wear long underwear if you have to! Seriously, you don't want your day to start off miserably. You'll have a great time no matter what Broadway show you see, but make your rush experience a fun part of your day as well.

Lesson 8: You can score amazing deals on Broadway shows by waiting in line for rush tickets, but make sure to dress the part in the winter to stay warm and comfortable.

Do you have any additional tips for rushing Broadway in the winter? Leave them in the comments! Stay tuned for my thoughts on No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot!

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