Here in my little world we go to the theatre. We drink. We smoke. We eat. We take cabs and subways. We go to museums. The list is endless. In my world I review everything that happens to me on the day that I go to the theatre. Nothing is sacrosanct and everything is subject to my contempt or acclamation. Give me the hook or the ovation but remember it's my world and you're just living in it! Welcome to my world...

Last Tuesday around 3:30, I walked over to Joe Allen's to meet a fellow Talkin' Broadway columnist for a late day nosh. Joseph was waiting outside the restaurant for me when I arrived, and said that he didn't feel like dropping that much for a snack. I agreed and we strolled down "restaurant row" looking for a place that suited us.

We chose the Happy Hunan a few doors down from Joe Allen's. The place is rather small and pretty much looks like any other Chinese restaurant you've ever seen. Mmm, the brisk little chill in the air always puts me in the mood for a nice little bowl of soup to warm my bones. The eggdrop soup sure did the trick, so much so I decided to have another. Joseph had the lemon chicken which he said was tasty. Guess what? Those people don't speak a word of English. Surprising, isn't it? I think they're recruiting children for The King And I, as they were dancing and prancing about constantly. Maybe, it's a camp or something?

"Getting to serve you, not knowing one word of English."

Afterwards, we went to Joe Allen's for coffee and dessert. Did you actually think I'd be so close and not go in? The charming bartender, Bradley, was there. He's so pleasant, short cropped platinum hair (only his hair dresser knows for sure) is a lovely staple at Joe's. It's so rare that you actually meet people who are genuinely delightful, don't you think? Joseph and I split the banana cream pie, very Laugh-In, I thought. It was so damn good, so light and fluffy. Lord knows I'd rather eat a good piece of pie over a nutritious meal, any day. I'm salivating just thinking about it! Joseph pointed out that practically all of the theatre posters in the restaurant were actually flops. Hmm, you know I think he's right. Perhaps the proprietors thought they'd anti-jinx the place that way.

Joseph, had to get to work so I headed over to the TKTS booth on the way home. Even though we'd already charged our tickets, I always like to look at the board. And I'll be damned if 1776 wasn't on the boards, and it was 6:15! Oh well, at least we got third row seats!

Let me tell you, I stumbled across one of the best book stores in the city. You're thinking, "In Times Square? Yeah right, Tina, what kind of books are you reading anyway?" No darling, not those kinds of books! Get your head out of the gutter! Filthy, filthy people! This book store has everything, such as tons of books on the theatre and a plethora on poetry. I bought a hilariously intriguing book called "Broadway Anecdotes" by Peter Hay for only $12.50! Most all of the books there are in "gently used" condition and are very cheap. While standing at the register I asked the gentleman if he's ever had a copy of "D.V.," Diana Vreeland's memoirs. OH good lord, he had a copy! Now, if you love fashion like I do this book is a MUST! The book is a delicious romp through Mrs. Vreeland's life as editor of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar; to her position as curator at the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum Of Art. This is such a hard book to find as it's been out of print for years. I'm on several lists around the city for it and was quoted a price of $75.00 to $150.00, if it could be found. Imagine my surprise when the clerk told me it was TWENTY-FIVE DOLLARS! Hard cover, fourth edition, and perfect condition! While walking home, I was so engrossed in the book that it's a wonder I wasn't struck by a cab.

At 7:30 Stephanie and I headed down to the Roundabout to see 1776. We've been wanting to see this show since we first heard all the hoopla. We were starving, so we popped in a bodega and grabbed some Combos, (they really cheese your hunger away), and some Pringles and, surreptitiously, noshed on them in the theatre before the show began.

I really enjoyed 1776, though I do not believe it quite lived up to it's hype. As you all may know, Peter Stone's book takes place during the events leading up to the eventual signing of The Declaration Of Independence with great tension. The production has many enlightening facts about the pre-American revolution that will have you running to the history books.

Let's dissect a little, shall we? Pat Hingle gives a charming portrayal of the curmudgeonous Ben Franklin, especially when he fights for the honour of the turkey to be the national bird. In my book, he is Mr. Franklin. Brent Spiner plays the irascible Mr. John Adams as he struggles with the Continental Congress for the independence of the thirteen original colonies. It is Mr. Spiner's interpretation, or perhaps it's Scott Ellis' direction which shapes John Adams into a more than exasperating character. His presence is annoying, but that is the show's intention. Linda Edmon who plays Abigail Adams lacks an enjoyable singing voice, though her role is appealing, nonetheless. Paul Michael Valley makes a perfect Thomas Jefferson. He plays his part with ease and grace, and I found him most enjoyable. Mr. Jefferson's wife, Martha, played by Lauren Ward, grates with her rendition of "He Plays The Violin" as she spun around bug-eyed with an annoying trill of a voice. Suffice it to say that I did not enjoy her in this production. The last number of the first act ends with a song delivered by Erik J. McCormack as the Courier. Even though the young Mr. McCormack's delivery of the tune was well executed, I did not for a second see the need for this number. "Momma Look Sharp." What the hell was that about? I was dumbfounded. It seemed to attempt to show the heart of the people who were wounded or killed in battle against the British. Perhaps, it was meant to display some sort of patriotism, through the eyes of the young. Whatever it meant to do, I just thought, "Where the hell did this come from?" The best aspect of this scene is Brian Nason's lighting which darkened the entire theatre and focused a tiny pin spot on the actor's face creating a luminous, almost holographic effect. Astonishing!

On the way back from intermission, I clutched my heart and took a deep breath. It was Donna Murphy! She looked stunning! Michael Cumptsy gives a commanding performance as John Dickenson, who absolutely refuses to give into the concept of independence from Britain. Allow me to digress, Mr. Cumptsy's virile performance and matinee idol good looks reminded me of how I felt when I watched Rocky IV. It's a stretch, but bear with me. Remember during the cold war how much we as a nation we loathed the Russians? Well, as much as I wanted to hate Dolph Lundgren as the Soviet boxer, I couldn't. I still rooted for him, simply for the superficial fact that he was so damn fine! Well, Mr.Cumpsty surely gave me a case of what I term as the "Dolph Syndrome." Kudos to Mr. Cumpsty!

My favourite performance in this assemblage of actors is the gentleman who portrays Edward Rutledge of South Carolina, Mr. Gregg Edelman. His rendition of the show-stopper, "Molasses To Rum," is a tour de force! It is a spine tingling, heart riveting performance which is not to be missed! Bravo!

This production is packed with so many wonderful actors and a ton of food for thought. However, I still left wanting a little bit more. For example, when the Continental Congress finally does sign The Declaration Of Independence it is a moving moment as each member is called up for their signature. However, I really wanted a rousing patriotic number. I really had expected it. Nonetheless, it was an enthralling evening of theatre.

After the show we headed down Forty-Seventh Street to Joe Allen's. Enroute, we passed The Richard Rodgers, where Emily Skinner and Alice Ripley were chatting with fans. As we walked by Miss Skinner, I told her in passing how much I really enjoyed her in the show. She whipped around and very sincerely thanked me. She really seems delightful. I would have said something to Miss Ripley but she was enveloped by a hoard of well-wishers.

We sat at the bar at Joe Allen's and chatted about the show when all of a sudden we noticed that the actor Bruno Kirby was sitting at the table behind us. We had met Mr. Kirby awhile back when he was in Bunny, Bunny. Stephanie and he have a mutual friend which is how we met him. He was delightful and chatted with us for a while. Well, before we were getting ready to leave we met Steven Yearick. When he told me his name, I knew instantly who he was. Steven is a dress maker from South Carolina who has dressed countless Miss Americas and several Broadway stars, such as Glenn Close and Bellamy Young. We had a lovely time speaking with Steven as he doled out the dish on our favourite performers. And, I must say that he had nothing but praises for his clients and friends. As much as we wanted to stay and chat, it was getting a little late so we decided to exchange numbers and head home.

Well, guess what? Stephanie surprised me with a pre-birthday present, tickets to The Lion King! How nice is that? She had gone to the theatre to buy tickets for my birthday, but when she found out they were sold-out for all the weekends of November, she snagged them for Sunday.

So, on Sunday we strolled out in the damp drizzle to the Museum Of Modern Art to see the Egon Schiele exhibition. I have been an ardent fan of Schiele since I first stumbled upon his work in a small museum in Vienna. Schiele's popularity and involvement in the Viennese Secessionist movement propelled his popularity to its height in Vienna in the early 1900s. It was also during that time that Schiele was briefly imprisoned for his "pornographic" paintings and drawings. Schiele's expressionistic works, painted in ochres and umbers, drip with emotional intensity. His impressive body of work on display at MOMA is not to be missed.

Starving to death, we tramped out in the rain over to Restaurant Row. We, regrettably, ducked into Broadway Joe's on Forty-Sixth Street. But, when we sat down, opened our menus and saw the Shrimp Capellini for TWENTY-SEVEN BUCKS, we made a quick escape. Les Sans Culottes, two doors down, had a $20.00 prix-fixe dinner so we decided to check it out. The place looks like a French Club party. The sign in the back of the restaurant that states "Where every day is Bastille Day" pretty much sums it up. Get this. The tables are jam-packed with a stand of sausages, basket of fruit and vegetables, bread, bottle of wine, two full place settings and two terrines of God-knows-what. One word. Overkill! To be perfectly honest with you, the establishment is rather charming though excessive. Come to find out the cornucopia on the table was our appetizer. Um, excuse me, but what the hell am I to with that? Martha Stewart needs to get her ass down there and teach a class because I just don't get that. The good thing is that the entrees were large and damn tasty.

I had the salmon with rice and vegetables and loved it. For dessert, Stephanie had the Mousse au Chocolat, and I chose the Crepe Au Marron. Don't you just love what those French do to the chestnut? I mean really, who'd have thought that chestnuts pureed with sugar could be such a tasty treat? Yum, yum, gimme some!

Onward to The New Amsterdam Theatre. Good God almighty! Now, I've been to a lot of lovely theatres in my day and every theatre in the city, but this place is amazing! The theatre is virtually dripping in Art Nouveau. I was stunned at all the carvings and murals that adorn the delicious odium. As much as I didn't like it when Disney rolled into town, I must admit that if I wore a hat I'd have taken it off. Beautiful! And now there is another reason why I not only tip my imaginary hat to the Disney Corporation, but I throw it ceilingward in great exaltation to The Lion King!

The opening number, "Circle of Life," I must tell you is the most astounding first ten minutes of any production I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. The number begins with Rafiki, portrayed by Tsidii Le Loka, as she beckons the animals to join in the circle of life. It is a call to worship which lifts you from your seat and thrusts you full force into an ineffably glorious realm. The entire audience cheered and we wept in awe as Julie Taymor's creatures gracefully joined the stage. For some reason, the initial sight of the elephant had me bursting into tears as the choir of voices soared! It was completely overwhelming! Allow me to digress once more. Remember in the film Raising Arizona, when Nicholas Cage steals the little baby and hands it to Holly Hunter in the car? Then she started blubbering and crying out, "I love him! I love him sooo mu-hu-hu-huch!!!" Well, that's how I felt. I joined in the cacophony of joyous exhalations at the end of the scene screaming at the top of my lungs, "OH MY GOD, OH MY GOD!" It was truly a religious experience. Like Moses and the burning bush, I have seen the face of God and I dare say it is the work of Julie Taymor!

Richard Hudson's waterfall, and mountains that seem to grow out of the stage itself, demonstrate his great talent as scenic designer for this production. Garth Fagan's tribal choreography is an excellent accompaniment to Elton John's score which is, at times, ripe with electrifying African percussion.

The entire cast is more than stellar. My favourite is Samuel E. Wright as Mufasa. His booming voice and proficient acting made me wish I could have seen more of him, though the storyline doesn't allow for that. Scott Irby-Ranniar and Kajuana Shuford are perfectly cast as the Little Simba and Young Nala, respectively. I really enjoyed them, which is saying a lot, since I'm normally appalled by child actors. Jason Raize does a wonderful job as the adult Simba. His "Endless Nights" is poignant and is beautifully sung.

It is during this number that Julie Taymor outdoes herself once again with the re-appearance of Mufasa amid a constellation. Her direction and costumes, combined with Donald Holder's astronomical lighting, is an enormous theatrical accomplishment. Heather Headley, as the adult Nala, gives a powerhouse performance with "Shadowland". There are far too many actors in this show for a role call here. Suffice it to say that there ain't one bad apple in the bunch.

As you may know, a standing ovation is not a rarity on Broadway. I tell you the second the curtain rang down the entire audience leapt to it's feet and cheered louder than any other I've seen or heard before. It was unanimous. As much as I loved this show I must admit that I can't say it's the best production I've ever seen. Though I can tell you it has elements which far surpass any other I've witnessed. You see, it's still Disney. As much as it feels like a Broadway show, it, well, doesn't. And although I've opposed "Disneyfication" for some time now, this is one hell of a show and a must-see for any theatre lover.

After the show we jumped in a cab and went up to the Rainbow Room for a cocktail. The place was almost empty. During a clear night the bar affords a stunning view of the city, but when it's raining you can forget about seeing anything. We didn't even think about that. And you want to know the worst thing about the Rainbow Room on a slow Saturday night? No music. None. Not a sound. It was depressing, so we downed our tiny cocktails and headed for home.

As we neared the Monkey Room in the Excelsior Hotel, we decided to pop in for a night cap. Tennesse Williams died, or was murdered, in that hotel, you be the judge. The bar is decorated with a rather banal mural of, you guessed it, monkeys. But it's a cute little place for a cocktail if you're in the neighborhood. I tried what the bartender refered to as a "creamsicle." It's a delicious conncoction of Stoli Orange and Stoli Vanilla served straight-up in a martini glass. And I'll be damned, but it really did taste like a creamsicle. Who'd have thought?

In closing, if you're ever on Restaurant Row (Forty-Sixth between Eighth and Ninth Avenues), and you want some Chinese, then give The Happy Hunan a try. Don't ever step into Broadway Joe's. Personally, I rather gnaw my arm off. If you want to sit in a restaurant that looks like a parody of a French cafe on a sitcom, and you want a filling Prix-fixe then check out Les Sans Culottes. Always stop in for a cocktail at Joe Allen's, you never know whom you'll meet! If you're looking for some really good theatre books then drop into Gotham Book Mart on Forty-seventh Street between Seventh and Sixth Avenues. Jacqueline Onassis once said, "I cannot imagine New York City without the Gotham Book Mart." Well, who am I to question that? If you want to see a thrilling production that will have you on the edge of your seat (even though you know the outcome), then you really need to see 1776.

The Egon Schiele exhibition at MOMA on Fifty-Third between Fifth and Sixth Avenues is a must-see for any art lover. If you want to see a wonderful musical, but hate Disney, then get over it. You must see The Lion King! The first ten minutes alone are worth the price of admission. Get there early so you can get a good look at The New Amsterdam Theatre! It's gorgeous!

See you next Thursday,

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