On Broadway, The Other Place, by Sharr White, is about a scientist suffering a mental breakdown. Although only seventy minutes, it seems a lot longer, as we watch her problems with her husband, daughter, son-in-law and doctor. Laurie Metcalf gives a fearless performance, under Joe Mantello's direction.
A revival of Picnic, by William Inge, opens on Sunday. Comments to follow in the next column.
Off-Broadway, Water by the Spoonful, by Quiara Alegria Hudes, won the Pulitzer Prize, but following this convoluted story is difficult to accept. A wounded Puerto Rican soldier returns home from Iraq and has to deal with his frustrated life and family problems. Other characters are in an internet chat room. All are suffering from drug addiction. It is a grim tale.
The Wonderful Wizard of Song: The Music of Harold Arlen has three male crooners and one female performer sing eighty minutes of the marvelous songs of this great composer. You will enjoy hearing your favorite songs, including selections from the immortal Wizard of Oz.
There was a press preview of Cinderella, starring Laura Osnes. It has a wonderful cast, and I anticipate its opening with pleasure.
There was also a press preview for Really Really, by Paul Downs Colaizzo, directed by David Cromer. I look forward to this opening also.
Studio 54 Below, Adam Moss, Ian Schrager and Munitz Travel were honored at the 11th Annual June Briggs Awards at the Hotel Pierre. It was a splendid affair. Andrea McArdle received a special award.
The 16th Annual Muscular Dystrophy Association's (MDA) Muscle Team Gala & Benefit Auction at Chelsea Piers is always an enjoyable evening with famous sports stars, and beautiful ladies like Olivia Culpo, Miss Universe.
I saw Olivia Culpo again the next day when she crowned Nana Meriwether as Miss USA 2012 in the atrium of Trump Tower. Donald Trump made the announcement.
Opera in Cinema presented a lusty version of Carmen, by Georges Bizet, from a live performance at the Royal Opera House from December 2006. Anna Caterina Antonacci was sensual and sexy in the title role, with a powerful voice and convincing acting.
