Broadway After Dark

Discovering the Hudson by Ward Morehouse III
The Hudson Theatre, which opened in 1903, is much more than a beautiful facade, much more than a landmark Broadway playhouse with Tiffany glass mosaics and Roman friezes -- complete with verde-antique in Greco-Roman marble -- all of which recently and painstakingly restored by Millennium Hotels. With as much drama going on off-stage as beneath its historic proscenium arch, The Hudson has been the theater home for such titanic 20th century actors as George M. Cohan, Ethyl Barrymore, Laurence Olivier, Alfred Lunt, and Jason Robards Jr. As if that weren't enough of a resume, the storied Broadway palace has also played the big time as the studio where Jack Paar and Steve Allen did their nationally broadcasted TV shows. Elvis, Bob Hope, Sammy Davis Jr. and many others not instantly associated with Broadway have been celebrated Hudson guests too. Ward Morehouse III, whose family has been identified with theater for generations, uses the Hudson as a launching pad to write about the golden age of Broadway, live TV and beyond into the new, international age of corporate-theatre synergy.

Broadway After Dark by Ward Morehouse III, Ward Morehouse
"Broadway After Dark is a compilation of columns, stories and never-before-published profiles by my father, Ward Morehouse, and myself. The profiles were originally intended for a book called Stars I Have Known. The columns of his are representative of those he did for the New York Sun from 1926-1950 and after for other newspapers. I started writing sporadically about show business for The Christian Science Monitor in the 1970's and continued as a reporter and theater columnist for the New York Post, Reuters, New York Sun, amNew York, and the Epoch Times. It's my hope that these columns and stories, taken together, will be a portrait, however sketchy, of some of theater for the last and current century through some of their biggest stars, including Katharine Hepburn."

Life at the Top: Inside New York's Grand Hotels by Ward Morehouse III
Veteran Broadway columnist WARD MOREHOUSE III (formerly with the New York Post and New York Sun, whose "Broadway After Dark" appears in AM New York) has written a fascinating and entertaining new book "Life At The Top: Inside New York's Grand Hotels" (Bear Manor Media), a book that has no heroes, great history or noble purpose. It's simply a masterpiece of storytelling.

MOREHOUSE chronicles the of some of the 20th Century's literary and artistic giants, many of whom made their permanent domicile at some of New York's grandest hotel, including The Waldorf-Astoria, Chelsea, St. Regis, Algonquin, Pierre, Astor and Carlyle. He paints a unique portrait of their colorful, romantic, and sometimes tragic lives during the golden era of New York hotels and theatre, bringing the two worlds together in a work that reads like great fiction. The fast-paced volume reconfirms MOREHOUSE's status as a superb chronicler of celebrity high life during the last century as well as one of our most engaging storytellers.

Inside The Plaza: An Intimate Portrait of the Ultimate Hotel by Ward Morehouse III
From Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald cavorting in the Pulitzer Fountain to Ivana Trump patrolling the halls to inspect the rooms, this is the Plaza Hotel as no one has ever seen it, or been permitted to see it. The Plaza is the place where the Beatles headquartered when they invaded America. It's where George M. Cohan held court during the golden era of Broadway. It's where Marilyn busted a strap on cue, where Cary Grant started out from when he traveled North By Northwest, and where Macauley Culkin stayed after staying Home Alone. From the railroad tracks in the basement to the vast luxury suites overlooking Central Park, this is the full story behind the gilded doors, the inside scoop direct from the people who have cavorted there and worked there.

Mention in "The Plaza Lives", New York Magazine (May 2, 2005)

The Waldorf-Astoria by Ward Morehouse III
"The grand cities of the world have their grand hotels, the bed-and-breakfasts for the mighty and moneyed. Ward Morehouse III explores one of New York City's grandest in 'The Waldorf-Astoria: America's Gilded Dream' ... Morehouse writes of pleasures and scandals, of the hard facts of running a hotel and of its romance. The hotel comes off well in the hands of its appreciative Boswell and one will find 'The Waldorf-Astoria' to be a pleasant buffet"
- The New York Times

The Caedmon School: An Anecdotal History and Appreciation by Ward Morehouse III, Gregory A. Minahan
Book Description
Set against the colorful tapestry of Manhattan's ever-changing East Side, this entertaining and insightful history traces the journey of dedicated parents and teachers as they create a school for young children. "The Caedmon School," offers an intimate glimpse into the rebirth of American Montessori education during the second half of the 20th century. The story's memorable characters are the parents, administrators, teachers and students whose heartwarming stories of hard work and achievement have helped to make a unique contribution to the educational landscape of New York City.

If It Was Easy: A New Comedy by Stewart F. Lane, Ward Morehouse III

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Vivid sets a Torch to Touch

Touch will never recover. Four of Vivid’s most classy ladies AJ Bailey, Monique Alexander, Savanna Samson and Meggan Mallone left California’s sunny climate to come to New York and attend Vivid’s promotion party at Club Touch on West 52nd Street, in the heart of the theater district.

Unfortunately Mallone’s plane was delayed and arrived too late to attend. However, even though she was terribly missed by her fans, show business troopers Alexander, Samson and Bailey carried on to the delight of a packed house of faithful admirers.

Monique Alexander, who was born in Sacramento, California, grew up as a shy and private person and blossomed as a superstar in the industry. As an avid football fan, she was recently named sportswriter for the Phil Show on The National Lampoon Radio Network of XM Radio Network. Each Monday, after the weekend games, Alexander does a commentary with show host Phil Lazzetta. Since 2008 she also has been writing a sex advice column for 30 Million members of www.Adultfriendfinder.com.
“Being with Vivid allows me the prestige, security and freedom to indulge in my other passions,” said Alexander.

AJ Bailey grew up in the suburbs of St. Louis and as a child she loved to dance and perform in plays for friends and family. At 17 she dropped out of high school and moved to Australia. Two years later AJ, deciding to continue with her education, returned and earned her bachelor’s and master’s degree in anthropology. To support her studies she worked as a model and afterwards, due to the recession in 2009, joined the adult industry.

“I don’t think people realize how vital the industry is as cultural phenomena,” she said. “When you think abut it, the main function of humans is to reproduce through sex, so we might as well do it with style while getting the most pleasure from it.”

Multi-talented Savanna Samson, a highly trained ballet dancer, who was one of the most sensational dancers to ever perform at the world famous Scores Gentlemen’s Club in Manhattan, became a favorite of radio personality Howard Stern while appearing on his show many times.

Owner of Savanna Samson Wine Co -- which now takes up most of her time -- has earned the title of Oenophile after creating her own Sogno Uno (Dream One), which was highly praised by wine expert Robert M. Parker, who gave it a 90-91 rating.

In addition to her many talents she has been a radio commentator on WNYC and has signed a recording contract with Koch Entertainment. Her f1rst single Possession is currently available on ITunes.

Monique Alexander

AJ Bailey, Savanna Samson and Monique Alexander

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

We’re still searching for the Fountain of Youth

About a year ago Friar Len Cariou became involved with the Methuselah Foundation, a non-profit medical charity dedicated to extending healthy human life.

Realizing the importance of the Foundation’s work, Cariou hosted the presentation of the foundation’s special Methuselah Mprize (Mouse Prize) Rejuvenation Award at the Friars Club.

Dr Max Gomez, one of TV’s most respected medical journalist acted as the evenings emcee.

In 2000 Chief Executive Officer David Gobel founded The Methuselah Foundation, a non-profit medical charity dedicated to ending age related disease through awareness, education and scientific research.

“Our mission is to reverse or pre-empt the damage of aging,” said Gobel. “Typically, now if one has a cold or flu conditions the Dr. will prescribe a medication also suggesting, ‘try this. If it doesn’t work call me’. If it’s your car and you were told that, you wouldn’t stand for it. That’s exactly where we are in the health field today.

“Today we’re working to develop genetic kits where a swab is done and then we know exactly what is wrong. What we’re now striving for is to be in the position that if you need a new kidney, a heart or any organ, we can then go to the parts department and get a new one.”

Kevin Perrott, the owner of Riverside Honda -- the largest Honda recreational vehicle dealership in Canada, who serves as the Mprize Competitor Development Director, presented the Mprize-award and a $10,000 check to Dr. Sharp for finding the first pharmaceutical intervention to successfully extend the life of laboratory mice by using the drug Rapamycin.

Chief Marketing Officer/Creative Director for Methuselah, Roger Holzberg, who previously served 12-years as Vice President/ Creative Director at the Walt Disney Company, said that it would be wonderful if we could live a longer and healthier life.

Enjoying the after partyafter party were Dr. Huber Warner, Associate Dean for the University of Minnesota’s College of Biological Sciences; Chief Executive Officer Keith Murphy of Organova, one of the world’s most innovative regenerative medicine companies; Joe Landi, a considerate photographer that allowed me to take a few photos and Merle Benny, coordinator and publicist of the event with daughter Joy Pilkins.

Dr. Max Gomez, Len Cariou, and David Gobel

Len Cariou and David Sharp, PhD

Roger Holzberg, Giuseppe Tarillo (Friars Food Director) and Keith Murphy

Joe Landi, Merle Benny and Joy Pilkins

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Broadcasting Has Its Own Giants

When giants are mentioned in print or spoken about, one immediately thinks of The NY Giants football team. There are other giants possibly bigger and more important than the football Giants.

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation, originated 37-years ago by a dedicated band of Radio and TV pioneers wishing to preserve their accomplishments before being lost to history.

Now in partnership with the University of Maryland, the Giants of Broadcasting held their 2009 Awards’ Luncheon at New York’s Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Receiving the Giants of Broadcasting Awards were: Katie Couric, anchor and managing editor of CBS Evening News with Katie Couric; Ken Burns, award winning documentarian for Brooklyn Bridge, The Civil War, Baseball, and Jazz; Dr. Woo Paik, president and chief technology officer, LG Electronics, the Father of HDTV; Barbara Cochran, veteran print and broadcast journalist and president of the Radio & Television News Directors Association; Norman Patriz, founder and chairman of Westwood One and Christopher J. Rohrs, president of Television Bureau of Advertising.

Broadcast awards were also given posthumously to Bea Arthur, actress of Maude and Golden Girls and Ed McMahon, announcer of The Tonight Show and host of Star Search.

Legendary broadcasting icons Walter Cronkite, Paul Harvey and Don Hewitt, who no longer grace us with their talents and presence, received special tributes for their dedication and devotion to the Broadcasting Industry.

Among the previous prestigious 116-Awardees are Fred Allen, Lucille Ball, Walter Cronkite, Jackie Gleason, Arthur Godfrey Don Hewitt, Bob Hope, Chet Huntley & David Hughes, Edward R. Murrow, David Sarnoff, Frank Stanton, Ed Sullivan, Danny & Marlo Thomas and Mike Wallace.

LAB Foundation’s President and CEO Don West, LAB Author/Journalist and broadcast personality Dr. Judy Kuriansky and LAB Dennis Wharton took a moment from their conversation to pose for photos at the kick-off party held at New York’s Redeye Grill

Charles Osgood, Dr. Judy Kuriansky and Katie Couric

Dr. Woo Paik, Norman Pattiz, Katie Couric, Ken Burns, Barbara Cochran and Christopher Rohrs

Katie Couric and Ken Burns

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

The Torch Has Been Passed On

During Hollywood’s Golden Years of Musicals, MGM boasted that it had more stars than in heaven. Well the torch has been passed on to New York, thanks to Executive Director & Producer Isaac Robert Hurwitz of the New York Musical Theatre Festival.

Tony Award-winner Donna McKechnie of Cross That River said at her introduction of The NY Musical Theatre Festival, held at the New World Stages located at 50th street off Eighth Avenue, that Chorus Line presented by Joseph Papp tried to continue with the introduction of new musicals but it was to expensive to go on.

Hurwitz announced that they have partnered with South Korea’s Daegu International Musical Festival headed by Chairman Bae Sung Hyuck and have selected Korea’s new musical My Scary Girl to kick off the festival of 48-plus shows to be presented within a period of 3-weeks.

After cast members from Under Fire, Fat Camp, Judas & Me, Anjou, The Happy Embalmer, All Fall Down, Street Lights, The Cure and Hurricane performed several numbers from their shows, I was highly impressed with the talents that were displayed and recommend that you order tickets to see the musical festival before they’re completely sold out.

Isaac Robert Hurwitz

Donna McKechnie

Carly Jibson and Ryah Nixon (Fat Camp)

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Divas With a Divo Tossed in Makes a Great Mix

Producer/Singer Randie Levine-Miller has done it again. Through her ability and charm, she has gathered together an extremely talented group of Divas at The Friars Club, including Tony Award-winner Donna McKechnie, Tony nominees Beth Fowler and Anita Gillette, Jackie Hoffman, Victoria Mallory, Christine Pedi, Melinda Sullivan and Levine-Millers’s favorite Musical Director Paul Chamlin.

Levine-Miller also convinced Divo Kurt Peterson to forgo his sexuality, for one evening, and become a Diva, which turned out to be a brilliant move, He and Victoria Mallory starred many years ago in West Side Story. And they stole the show when they re-created several of the songs they did in the legendary musical as youngsters.

It was an evening that will be remembered for many years to come.

Victoria Mallory and Kurt Peterson

Randie Levine-Miller and Victoria Mallory

Kendrick Jones & Melinda Sullivan

Matthew Ward & Christine Pedi

Dr. Gwen Korovin and Christine Pedi

Anita Gillette, Jack Wittam and Beth Fowler

Jana Robbins and Her Mom

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Little House on the Prairie

Little House on the Prairie – The Musical opened its month long engagement at Millburn, New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse’s starring Melissa Gilbert as Ma before embarking on a yearly Multi-National tour.

Based upon the hit TV show Little House on the Prairie which starred Gilbert as the rambunctious daughter Laura and the late Michael Landon as Pa, the Musical is now starring: Melissa Gilbert, as Ma; Steve Blanchard, as Pa; Kara Lindsay, as Laura and daughters Alessa Neeck and Carly Rose Sonenclar, which also includes a cast of eighteen and an ensemble of fifteen, is an highly entertaining and enjoyable show that left the audience cheering wildly.

Considering that The Paper Mill Playhouse has a limited budget, I must compliment director Francesca Zambello who had the patience and talent to direct a cast of 38 performers ending up with a tremendously entertaining show. Also I must compliment Scenic Designer Adrianne Lobel, who using simple boards and planks that created an attractive and believable backdrop which depicted the barren wilderness of the Dakotas during the early 1880’s.

Little House on the Prairie’s month long engagement is nearly sold out. I suggest you hurry and order your tickets. The musical is that sensational.

After the show cast members plus 400 guests including, actors Mark Linn-Baker, Bruce Boxleitner and actress-singer Charlotte Fleming attended the after-party held in and out front of Martins Restaurant.

Francesca Zambello and Melissa Gilbert

Charlotte Fleming

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Frankie Negron Goes Non-Salsa

Paul Simon discovered Frankie Negron, who was only seventeen at that time. He took an interest in this talented youngster, and now 13-years later Negron has developed into a major platinum selling Latin Music recording artist.

To promote his first English album Independence Day, an Airgo Music release, Negron opened at Joe’s Pub in the Village to a standing room audience including many of his loyal fans that screamed uncontrollably as he gave an electrifying one hour performance.

Backed by his outstanding group he performed his chart-topping new singles Torn and Holding On To Love, performed recently on ABC’s One Life To Live. In addition he also treated his fans to a sensitive acoustic rendition of his classic hit Comerte a Beso from his Grammy-nominated Salsa catalogue that blew me away.

After the show I met with Frankie Negron an extremely handsome man who looks like he’s in his early twenties, and his lovely wife Nancy Santiago-Negron.

I wondered how she felt seeing him surrounded by so many women. “It’s difficult to keep from being jealous and annoyed when all his female fans come on to him, but since we’re still very much in love I can handle it.”

At the age of thirty Negron felt it was the right time to grow musically and reach a broader audience market as an, artist, performer and songwriter by releasing Independence Day his first English non Salsa album. And yet to be loyal to his Latin audience he added a Salsa version of Adicto A Tu Piel.

He also intends to, in the not to-distant-future, record another Salsa record.

Nancy Santiago-Negron and Frankie Negron

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Jilly's World: Family, Friends and Associates

There was only one place in New York for Jilly’s family and friends to have a kick-off party introducing Scott Allen Nollen’s new book Jilly! also featuring William and Joseph Rizzo’s participation.

Yes, that place was Pasquale, Joseph and Sal Scognamillo’s family owned Patsy’s Italian Restaurant which was Frank Sinatra’s favorite place whenever he was in New York.

The book is fascinating, informative entertaining and at times brutal as it reveals how an unending number of friends, celebrities and notables remembered how Jilly touched their lives. They all reiterated that if Jilly accepted you as his friend, it was for life. He would do anything and everything to help you.

It also covers the exciting world of Frank Sinatra and his infamous Rat Pack consisting of Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. At times the Rat Pack also included Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Lauren Bacall, Angie Dickinson and Shirley MacLaine.

“In 1984, at the age of 19, I owned a limousine service business,” said Johnny Pizza. I was invited to a party for Jilly and from that day on we became good friends. “He had a great influence on my life and I’ll never forget how generous and most caring he was.”

“While we were at the Resorts International in Atlantic City during the filming of The Pick Up Artist starring Robert Downey Jr. and Molly Ringwald. Milton Berle, who was starring there, Jilly and I went to the coffee shop during a break. At the next table we overheard an old man telling his friend that his wife had passed away a week ago and found it extremely difficult to live without her.

“Jilly sent us over and had Milton tell him that he reminded him of an old friend that just passed away and to gave him 2 tickets for the show and invite him to come to his dressing room to have his picture taken with him. The man thanked us for our kindness and started to cry. As we walked away Milton, with tears in his eyes couldn’t get over Jilly’s thoughtfulness.”

Pizza would like the world to remember how Jilly’s efforts and caring made the world a happier place while helping the little guy get to where he could only “dream’ of getting.

Jilly also touched my life. I went to his club in Miami with a stunning blond. He joined us and we drank, joked and laughed the entire evening. As we were leaving he kissed the young lady. Jokingly I said, “how come you kissed her goodbye and not me?” What a mistake I made. “He chased me all over his place and finally caught me and kissed me.”

He was quite a guy.

Johnny Pizza, Sal Scognamillo, William Rizzo, Charles Farruggia and Merrill Kellem

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Women Are Continuously Being Recognized

President of AWRT National Board of Directors Maria Brennan graciously welcomed Award winning author, journalist, teacher and speaker Courtney Martin, who set the tone at The American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT) Gracie Awards Luncheon to honor women in the electronic media at Central Park’s Tavern on the Green.

During Martin’s inspirational speech to the women being honored, she informed the Award-winning students, “It’s not necessary for women to use their bodies any more to make an impression.”

“You have arrived. You’re well-educated, well-trained and knowledgeable. The opportunities are out their waiting for you to make your mark in the industry.”

Before introducing the award winners, host Nancy Giles excitingly announced that she has a great secret. “For 2010 we’re going to Hollywood. And I’ll be there to host the show.”

Among the professional winners were: Sarah Moulton, for Individual Achievement accompanied by her executive Producer Natalie Gustafson; Outstanding talk show, The Hour; Outstanding Feature-Soft News, Stalking a Killer: The Search for an Aids Killer (Bloomberg Radio).

Among student winners: Outstanding Reporter/Correspondent Denise Tejada for Youth Radio; Outstanding Anchor, Ellen Burke of WFUV Radio.

Established in1951, AWRT is a non-profit professional organization of women and men that work in media and allied fields.

Nancy Giles
Photo credit: Larry Busacca/ Wire Image

AWRT's President Maria Brennan; Ambassador for Dove Self Esteem Fund, Courtney Martin; Dove Brand Manager, Jennifer Mandler, AWRT & Dove Student Scholarship Winner, Elly Park and Elly's Associate Professor at NYU's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute Marcia Rock
Photo credit: Larry Busacca/ Wire Image

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Federico, Master Hairstylist to the Stars and Royalty

Robert Blume, Executive Producer of the Drama Desk Awards and President of Media Group Ltd, and William Wolfe, President of the Drama Desk, have been working diligently for many years, improving the presentation of the Drama Desk Awards held at F.H. LaGuardia Concert Hall in Lincoln Center.

While waiting in the press room for Award-winners to be photographed and interviewed, I noticed actor Jim Dale who looked years younger and more handsome then he did the week before at The Friars Club when he and Faith Prince announced the Drama Desk nominations.

I was amazed when he told me that he only had a haircut. Later I noticed in the program that Federico Calce of Federico Salon was credited as official hairdresser to the stars.

Sensing a ‘human interest’ story, I contacted his publicist Miriam Silverberg who arranged a meeting.

I found Federico, who prefers using only his first name, to be extremely talented, handsome and fascinatingly likeable.

Federico, who is one of the most desired hairstylists in the world and is known as ‘Master Hairstylist to the Stars’ is still having a remarkable career.

At the age of twelve, Federico started working for his brother, who owned a beauty salon in Milan. Becoming fascinated with women, he decided to become a hairdresser.

He came to this country in 1983. Bergdorf Goodman recognized his talents and immediately appointed him Artistic Director of their salon. Five years later he opened his own salon. Three years ago he relocated to his new salon on East 57th Street, New York City.

During his remarkable career, he has cut and styled many of the most famous actors, models, dignitaries and royalty throughout the world.

Sarah Furgeson, Nicole Kidman, Liza Minnelli, Christy Turlington, Sarah Furgeson, Michelle Pheiffer, Alec Baldwin, Sophia Loren, Mel Gibson, Meg Ryan, Farrah Fawcett, Elizabeth Taylor, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas are just a few of the countless he’s styled.

Every few months he’s summoned to the Peninsula Hotel to cut and style Saudi Arabian princesses.

All his customers are special to him. But if he has to pick his favorite it would be Sophia Loren. “I’ve ways been in love with Sophia Loren,” he said. “She’s not only beautiful on the outside but also in the inside.

“When I asked Sophia how she would like her hair cut, she said ‘just give me what you think is best for me.’ Whenever she’s in New York for a special occasion she always has me cut and style her hair.”

His feelings haven’t changed. “I love being around women,” said Federico, “and always feel satisfied when I’m able to improve a woman’s looks. We not only create the most attractive look but we also create two different styles, one for the winter and one for the summer.

“I’ve been coming to his salon for many years,” said Susan Lindenbaum. “Federico gives you more than just a cut and styling. Afterwards you feel more confident.”

Federico and his lovely assistant Olga

Federico and Susan Lindenbaum

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Yanni, what Took You So Long?

After a hiatus of four years, the extremely talented Yanni and his 22-piece orchestra has graced our shores, once again, with an ambitious 50-city tour that included his ‘beyond believable’ Voices at the Radio City Music Hall featuring his four new singing discoveries.

Why now and not earlier?

In the past he refused to allow singers to interpret his musical creations, until he realized that many of his creations cried for lyrical interpretation. After considerable auditioning he and Grammy/Academy Award-winning producer Ric Wake discovered Nathan Pacheco, Chloe, Ender Thomas and Leslie Mills that not only possessed incredible voices but were also credible lyricists.

“The human voice is the most expressive instrument known to man,” said Yanni. “If used correctly it can evoke an enormous amount of emotion.”

He than came up with the idea of having each singer create lyrics for his melodies that inspired them the most. After spending two years in his recording studio creating and perfecting many songs he decided to tour the United States covering 50 plus cities and also release his new CD, a Disney Pearl Series release, featuring his protégés and their lyrical interpretations.

“I was quite fortunate to be taken under Yanni and Ric’s wing and have them as my mentors.” aid Pacheco.

“Working with them has been beyond expectations,” said Mills. “My dream has finally been recognized.”

“Yanni has taught me so much about myself as and artist and more importantly as a person,” said Chloe. “I want to try everything. “The road may be bumpy but it’s going to be fun.”

“I feel passion and love when I hear music,” said Thomas.” Ric and Yanni have guided me and given me the opportunity to finally share all that I’ve been holding inside.”

Ender Thomas, Chloe, Yanni, Leslie Mills and Nathan Pacheco
Photo Credit: Tanya Sakolsky

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

A Song and Dance Man

Broadway Theaters Song and Dance Man Lee Roy Reams (Applause, Hello Dolly, 42nd Street and The Producers) was honored with a Musical Tribute at The Friars Club, The Bastion of Show Business.

In 1966 Reams made his Broadway debut in Sweet Charity. In 1980 he earned a Tony and Drama Desk nomination as best featured actor for his performance in the original production of 42nd Street.

Dean of The Friars Club and master of comedy Freddie Roman acted as Master of Ceremonies and as always was hilariously funny.

Once again Producer Randie Levine-Miller lent her expertise in collecting a group of Reams star-studded theater and film friends as Jim Dale, Penny Fuller, Robert Cuccioli, Christine Pedi, Pamela Meyers, Beth Fowler, Lewis J. Stadlen, Patricia Neal, Leslie Uggams, Donna McKechnie, Lauren Bacall and Brad Oscar, who lent themselves to an unforgettable evening of entertainment.

The highlight of the evening was Brad Oscar’s hilarious rendition as he performed, rather quickly, every role from The Producers.

In response to being honored by The Friars Club and his friends, Reams who loves to entertain, closed the show with a lengthy, highly entertaining performance.

I believe that Le Roy Reams is a reincarnation of Al Jolson, who was a famous performer during the golden age of entertainment. Jolson, who never seemed to tire, as Reams, also loved to perform.

Bob Donahoe, Pamela Myers, Randie Levine-Miller and Lee Roy Reams

Christine Pedi, Jim and Julie Dale

Lauren Bacall, Lee Roy Reams and Freddie Roman

Michael Gyure (Director of The Friars Club) and Patricia Neal

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Talent Comes From Everywhere. Not Only Broadway

The Friars Club, the Bastion of Show Business, was the scene for the announcement of the 54th Annual Drama Desk Awards-Nominations that will culminate with the announcement of the Award-winners on May 17 at a Gala Ceremony hosted by Harvey Fierstein in The LaGuardia Concert Hall at Lincoln Center.

The forthcoming winners, as always, will be chosen from this season’s Broadway, Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway Theater.

Faith Prince and Jim Dale were joined by Drama Desk President William Wolf, Nominating Committee Chairperson Barbara Siegel, Executive President of the Awards Ceremony Robert R. Blume and Director of Special Events Randie Levine-Miller as the talented, admired couple read all nominations at the breakfast reception.

William Wolfe

Robert R. Blume, Jin Dale, Faith Prince and Randie Levine-Miller

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Divo Night at the Friars

Randie Levine-Miller is an amazing woman. She has served as the Friars Club Special Events Producer Since 2002 and has produced over 60 specials events.

She remembers her very first one. “It was star-studded tribute to famous song-writer Ervin Drake.

“I also sponsored Drake as a new Friars member. And he recently celebrated his 90th birthday at the Club

In answer to her extremely popular Diva Nights, Levine-Miller recently responded with Divo Nights that allowed the men to prove they’re just as talented, but maybe not as lovely, as the women,

The evening’s Divo’s included well established performers from the Broadway and Cabaret Scene as, Norm Lewis, Bill Boggs, Daniel Reichard, Larry Stevens, Stan Gilbert, Kurt Peterson, Myles Savage and Sal Viviano accompanied by Musical Director Paul Chamlin.

To show her appreciation for her guest’s outstanding performances Levine-Miller displayed an exceptionally fine voice as she serenaded them with Long Before I Knew You.

The next day she started working on her upcoming Musical Salute to Broadway’s Song and Dance Man Lee Roy Reams to be held at the Friars Club on April 20th.

Ted and Randie Levine-Miller and Friars Club Assistant Executive Director Michael Caputo

David Kogut, Sal Viviano and Claudia Haughn

Bill and Carol Boggs

Darryl Kojak and Myles and Karen Savage

Paul and Rochelle Chamlin

Daniel Reichard and Kurt Peterson

Stan Gilbert, Carol Stuchberry and Larry Stevens

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

The Invasion of the Celtic Woman (And we’re better off for it)

Attending the Celtic Woman’s Isle of Hope Tour at Radio City Music Hall was one of the best decisions I had ever made, entertainment wise. I’m now a fan for life.

How did it come about?

As I was relaxing at home one evening from my busy schedule, I was flipping from station to station while reading the NY Times and not paying attention to the TV screen.

Suddenly I heard incredible voices and exciting sounds of a violin that immediately captured my attention. I looked up and saw five lovely women performing on WLIW (13).

Unfortunately a few minutes later the show ended. Fortunately it was announced that the Celtic Woman is opening at Radio City Music Hall in several days. I quickly secured tickets.

Now at theater the show had just ended to thunderous applause.

I had just witnessed one of the most phenomenal and enjoyable shows that I had ever seen, which included new music composed by Music Director David Downes for his 19-member ensemble that highlighted the wondrous voices of Celtic Woman; including Chloe Agnee, Lynne Hilary, Lisa Kelly, Alex Sharpe and the energetic musical dexterity of violinist Mairead Nesbitt as she pranced around the stage.

Of the 29 songs performed by Celtic Woman, the ones that impressed me the most were Fields of Gold, When You Believe, Isle of Hope Isle of Tears, Granuaile’s Dance and You Raise Me Up.

The Celtic Woman Isle of Hope ensemble is now completing its 70-city tour throughout the United States.

Mairead Nesbitt
Photo credit: Agata Stoinska

(Left to right) Lisa Kelly, Lynn Hilary, Chloe Agnew, Alex Sharpe, (on floor) Mairead Nesbitt (violinist)
Photo credit: Agata Stoinska

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

100 Black Men

At the 100 Black Men annual event held at the Hilton Hotel, I had the pleasure of sitting next to Edward Lewis, Chairmen and former founder of Essence Magazine before the Awards Ceremony started.

“I’m here to accept an award on behalf of Bruce Llewellyn, who was one of the founders of 100 Black Men,” said Lewis.

I wondered how Lewis keeps himself busy these days.

“At this time I’m involved in what I call Educational Civil Rights. One project is the Harlem Military Academy, the best charter public school in New York. They’ve accomplished tremendous results for the Black and Latino kids that will allow them to compete in the world that we’re now facing.”

He has no regrets giving up Essence. “It’s my baby. I brought it into the world. Seen it prosper and even though we’re facing difficult times, Essence is still thriving as it continues to serve the needs of black women.”

“We are extremely excited, after our historic presidential election and inauguration, to honor four giants in the world of business, finance, real estate and healthcare,” said OHBMNY president Philip L. Banks Jr.

The evening’s host WNBC-TV Anchor and Reporter DeMarco Morgan presented The Distinguished Service Award to New York State Comptroller Hon. Thomas P. DiNapoli; CEO/Chairman of The Peebles Corporation R. Donahue Peebles received the Corporate Citizen Award; MD/MPP Chairman Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at St Lukes/Roosevelt Hospital Center Malcom D. Reid, accepted the Distinguished Physician Community Service Award and Chairman/CEO of Ariel Investments John W. Rogers was presented with the Corporate Education Award.

Guest of honor Mayor Michael Bloomberg lent a little levity to an extremely serious evening by thanking everyone for the opportunity of covering this event. “It’s my second best gig of the week,” said Bloomberg. “The first was Hugh Jackman’s.”

“Also this is a much better reception then the one I received on Groundhog Day. The groundhog welcomed me by biting my finger.”

Also guest of Honor Governor David Paterson said that the plight of Black men has improved tremendously. “I’m also having a difficult time trying to straighten out our budget.”

Edward L Lewis

Lorraine Watson and Miss USA Crystle Stewart

Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Philip Banks

Governor David Paterson and NYS Senate Majority Leader Malcom Smith

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Patsy's Sopranos Wine Special

A strange chill overcame me when chef/owner Sal Scagnamillo told me at Patsy’s Restaurant that the table I was sitting at is where the late Frank Sinatra sat whenever he was in town.

We had gathered upstairs in Sinatra’s Room to celebrate the introduction of a special Sopranos Wine Dinner Menu complimented by several Soprano wines chosen by co-host Mark Gonsalves, managing partner for Vesuvio Import Company, named after the fictional restaurant in the HBO series.

“Our wines listed on the menu is excellent and reasonable, $10 to $12 a bottle,” announced Gonsalves.

“We’re exceptionally pleased with the ways things are going,” said Scagnamillo. “Last year we opened another Patsy’s at the Hilton Hotel in Atlantic City. Also our mail order business has increased tremendously and we’re now offering -- in addition to our sauces -- our new Pasta created especially for us.”

Patsy’s was founded in 1944 by Pasquale (Patsy) Scognamillo. And since 1954 has been located on West 56th Street. It. has been home to just about every celebrity during the past 55 years.

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Reincarnation of Meyer Lansky

Meyer Lansky, one of the most famous gangsters of the 20^th Century, has been reincarnated as stage, film and television actor by Mike Burstyn, who is now starring in Lansky at New York’s Off-Broadway’s St. Luke’s Theater on West 46^th Street.

It all came about after Richard Krevolin and director Joseph Bologna read Robert A. Rockaway’s book But He Was Good To His Mother which deals with the lives of our most notorious gangsters

Impressed with the section detailing Meyer Lansky’s life, they collaborated on a one-man show choosing one incident of Lansky’s life.

Burstyn gives a brilliantly fascinating performance as he struggles unsuccessfully to convince the Israel Government to permit him to spend the rest of his days living in Israel as an Israeli citizen and to ultimately be buried in Jerusalem next to his beloved grandfather.

This slightly unassuming man, while waiting for immigration approval in an Israeli restaurant, skims over his unusual life’s occupation as one of the most, behind the scenes, influential gangster of his time.

As youngsters in New York’s lower east side Lucky Luciano forced classmates to give him protection money.

As an Italian, Luciano became impressed with this little Jewish kid’s gumption in refusing his protection and with Bugsy Siegel became life-long friends, which led to Luciano becoming head of the Mob.

Lansky’s character has been covered in many films as Mobsters, Bugsy, Lansky, and The Godfather Part II.

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Israel Will Survive.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) held its Northeast Regional Dinner at New York’s Marriot Marquis Hotel.

Even though the evening’s event wasn’t a fundraiser, it was announced that many millions were given to support Israel's survival.

There’s one thing about Jewish Affairs. They don’t skimp on food. At the cocktail party an elaborate assortment of dishes were offered followed by a sit down dinner and mouth watering deserts.

It’s 2-days later and I still haven’t any desire for food.

The evening’s festivities opened with Israel’s and United States’ National Anthem followed by the Blessing of the Bread.

The consensus among the speakers that included honoree Stephen Rosenberg, President and CEO of Greystone & Co. who received The Tree of Life Award, and guest speaker Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg were that United States is Israel’s best friend and that Israel was justified in attacking their enemies.

“How would you feel if rockets were continually landing on your cities for many years,” they repeatedly asked.

Photo: Stephen Rosenberg surrounded by friends Linda Stanley, and Elizabeth Salvati

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

There’s More To The Friars Club Than Fun And Parties

There’s More To The Friars Club Than Fun And Parties. There’s a special side devoted exclusively to raising funds to be donated to the needy.

The other night, at the Friars Club, The Sunshine Committee held their Annual Raffle Evening that featured guest of honor and former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier, retired heavyweight Marvis Frazier, who is now a Preacher, and former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes.

All raffle gifts were donated by caring Friar Members.

The only sad note of the evening was Master of Ceremonies Stewie Stone announcing that the Chairman of The Sunshine Committee Joe Gelber had recently passed away.

“To ensure that Joe is never forgotten for his devotion and untiring efforts in bringing joy and comfort to the frail elderly and disadvantaged children, we have renamed the raffle to The Joe Gelber Sunshine Committee Raffle,” announced Stone.

Due to the Joe Gelber Raffle event, the Friars were able to entertain senior citizens and the disadvantage in hospitals and nursing homes throughout the city.

“It was most gratifying to see the happy faces of more than 2,000 children as they received their gifts at our Annual Christmas/Hanukkah party,” said Stewie Stone.

Entertainment was provided by future star comics Vince August, Esther Ku, Jeff Pirrani, John Pizzi, John Sialiano and Reese Waters.

Burt Sugar, Chuck Wepner, Lou DiBella, Johnny Russo of Godfather fame, Kathy Forman and noted skin care specialist Lisa Schorr were seen checking their raffle tickets as Stone called out the winning numbers.

Marvis Frazier, Natalie Mayer (member of the Sunshine Committee), Joe Frazier and Larry Holmes

Gianni Russo and Kathy Forman.

Joe Frazier and Lisa Schorr

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Broadway’s Palace Theater Deserves Liza Minnelli

As Liza Minnelli, wearing what appears as a white tuxedo, stepped on stage opening night at The Palace Theatre an air of electricity permeated the theater.

I sensed that mother Judy Garland, father Vincent Minnelli and Godmother Kay Thompson was looking down from above and saying, “Go girl go”.

Liza didn’t disappoint them or the audience.

Considering her personal and medical setbacks over the years and a few minor technical opening night problems, she still gave one of her most stunning performance of her career.

The audience’s appreciation was unbelievable. After each number, during Liza’s entire 2-hour performance, many fans n the audience including a lady in front of me jumped up applauding and shouting wildly which slowed Liza’s fast paced show.

Produced by John Scher/Metropolitan Talent Presents & Jubilee Time Productions, directed and choreographed by Ron Lewis, led by conductor/drummer Michael Berkowitz and pianist/musical supervisor Billy Stritch along with a twelve-man orchestra, Minnelli devoted her first act to numbers she’s been associated with during her illustrious career highlighting Maybe This Time, He’s Funny This Way and closing with Cabaret.

In Act II, with the exceptional talents of singer/dancers Cortes Alexander, Jim Caruso, Tiger Martina and Johnny Rodgers, Liza paid tribute to the memory of her beloved Godmother, Kay Thompson’s ground breaking 1940s nightclub act with the Williams’ Brothers that included I Love a Violin, Clap Yo’ Hands, Jubilee Time, and Hello Hello written by Thompson.

It was a star-studded evening. Art Garfunkel, Mary Louise Parker, Shirley MacLaine, Arlene Dahl with Marc Rosen, Christine Ebersole, Mario Cantone, Elaine Stritch, Linda Lavin, Tony Danza, Cheyenne Jackson, Robert Osborne, Vincent D'Onofrio, Tamara Tunie, Alan Cumming, Elaine Stritch, Michele Lee, Sandra Bernhard, and James Lipton were among the many celebrities that attended opening night.

The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia is Remembered

Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia was a short nondescript man but what he lacked in stature he made up for it with a fierce determination to route our city from the evils of corrupt government officials and lobbyists that infested our great city.

After seeing Tony LoBianco give a mesmerizing and beyond brilliant performance at the opening of his one man show LaGuardia, which has been extended until December 13th at The Dicapo Theater, I for one nominate Tony Lo Bianco to run for mayor.

The transition of this tall handsome talented actor of stage, film and television into a short, overweight and ageing Mayor LaGuardia, captured the essence of this loveable man.

With all the great men that have contributed so much for our country why did you choose to do a one man show about LaGuardia?

"Italian-Americans have contributed mightily to our country and Fiorello H. LaGuardia is prominent amongst them," said LoBianco. “He was a great dreamer and a doer. A man, who encountered many challenges, took them on and triumphed.

LoBianco continued, “He came from immigrant parents, fought through prejudice of all kinds, was strong and determined and would not be dissuaded from his dream. A mathematical genius, spoke eight languages, learned to fly a plane in three months, rose to the rank of major in one year and fought against Tammany Hall and won.”

Mayor Bloomberg with Government Official Gertrudis Hernandez

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The Voice of Broadway

By Jules Peimer (with his Samsung L77 camera)

Just A Jar of Marmalade

“In a tiny village of eighty people, in the far north of France, Tea Together, now located in New York City, began Its life as a jar of marmalade,” echoed co-owners Judith Gifford and Joanna D’Angelo at a cocktail party, held at their luxurious home of introduce their vast line of new products.

The lovely and gracious owners said that they did not start with any idea of it growing into anything more than what it was, just a jar of marmalade provoked by a chance reference in an American-French novel sent by Judith’s mother-in-law in the hope of providing some light relief from what were dire circumstances.

“The jar of marmalade was a rare curiosity in this very local, very Gallic culture,” said Gifford and D’Angelo “The chauffeur of the school bus brought it to the notice of the mayor of this small town. The mayor was looking for something to feed into the just-launched regional plan to stimulate rural businesses in the villages, ideally generated by women.

“We were encouraged to make a few jars to sell at the fair that happen every weekend in French country life. We rarely sold a jar. Nothing about our marmalades rang bells with our local audience, Least of all the word Organic hand-lettered on the labels. Years later, we discovered that in French, organique is rather rude and suggests human genitalia. Not a great selling point.

One day they got a phone call from someone named Alain Ducasse. “Having been in films in our previous lives, we had never heard of the fellow. He was seeking out good stuff for his first website and someone, somewhere, had mentioned our marmalade.”

They also sent a couple of jars off to Costes, a French hotel named as the world’s ten best hotels in a British newspaper. “They became our first client supporting us through all the early mistakes - and are still a faithful customer.

“From there, we had a vision of how to grow Tea Together. Soon, making jams became a whole lot more interesting than pitching for films... Our close relationships with many top chefs all over the world made a very satisfactory substitute for what was a tight and tiny world of TV and film producers. It’s become an exciting, dynamic, and hugely pleasurable life.”

All the recipes have been created by Tea Together. They get the best fruit, the best sugar, and do the minimum of messing around with terrific ingredients. “We want clear, intense, clean-tasting products that showcase just one good strong taste. A few jams have a twirl here and there. Our Apricot and Lavender, a hot favorite, throws in a fistful of lavender leaves and halved apricots, along with a good sprinkling of the kernels that give a sharp, fragrant, almond taste to the sweet, soft jam.”

Among the notable guests seen devouring these delicious delicacies -- including yours truly -- were Executive Producer Vincent Scarza, whose new television series titled Manhunters airs in December on A & E, and his lovely wife Anne.

The show deals with the exploits of Federal Marshals.