Broadway To Vegas

Copyright: October 12, 2025
By: Laura Deni
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YOUR DESTINY WITH THE DEAD

Sooner or later you'll join them - the dead. You might just as well get a little head start practice.

Halloween is the special time of year when eerie remnants of the dead whisper from forgotten places and spirits walk among us. The Witches of Salem - the witchiest center of the country - honor this time with Festival of the Dead, an annual event series that explores death’s macabre customs, heretical histories, and strange rituals. Presented by Salem Warlocks Christian Day and Brian Cain hosted by the foremost authorities on the spirit world, Festival of the Dead beckons guests to step through the veil into a realm where spirits await.

Festival of the Dead explores death’s mysteries through events that investigate the favored and forbidden ways in which people have honored, celebrated, and secretly delved into life’s inevitable destination.

Daily October 1 to October 31:
Discover your destiny with an authentic psychic reading at The Salem Psychic Fair and Witches' Market
Nightly Throughout October:
Hear from Departed Loved Ones delivered by gifted psychic mediums at Messages from the Spirit World: An Authentic Salem Séance
Thursday, October 30, 2025: Work the sorcery of the cemetery in Graveyard Magic
Friday, October 31, 2025: Join in The Salem Witches' Magic Circle
Friday, October 31, 2025: Join the Witches of Salem and revelers from around the globe for The Official Salem Witches‘ Halloween Ball, Salem's most magical Halloween event! Celebrate the afterlife with food, dancing, ritual, live music, free psychic readings, and prizes where the dead cavort with the living and powerful spells are cast for the Witches’ new year!
Sunday, November 2, 2025: Share stories of you your loved ones at The Mourning Tea
Sunday, November 2, 2025: Honor Your Loved Ones Who Have Crossed Over at the Salem Witches' Most Sacred Event, The Dumb Supper: Dinner with the Dead Defying the boundaries of religion, culture, and continent, death captivates our imaginations and ensnares our minds, beckoning us to journey to destinations beyond the tattered shroud of mortality.

Halloween gets a Mardi Gras twist with the Krewe of BOO! This two-day event is highlighted by a parade that has been spooking its way through the French Quarter since 2007. Over a dozen floats masterminded by Kern Studios bring ghastly theatrics to the parade route as 450 riders and 35 marching bands and dance krewes pass by. Giant paper mache creatures toss out locally made treats, voodoo doll pins and yes, light-up bead necklaces. The festivities kick off with the New Orleans Zombie Run—be sure to dress up like the living dead so you can escape the Big Easy Rollergirls as they hunt down zombies on skates. The two-mile race starts at 9a.m. in the Warehouse District and goes through the French Quarter before ending on Frenchmen Street.

The 2025 Krewe of BOO! Halloween parade in New Orleans is scheduled for Saturday, October 25th, at 6:30 PM. The free, public parade features Mardi Gras-style floats with 3-D monsters and will roll through the French Quarter and into the Warehouse District, withthrows like candy and plush toys.
Floats: Elaborate, Mardi Gras-style floats with 3-D fiberglass and papier-mâché figures of monsters, ghosts, and ghouls, built by Kern Studios.
Throws: Candy, plush toys, beads, and other Halloween-themed items will be thrown to the crowd.
Atmosphere: A festive and spooky atmosphere, encouraging attendees to wear costumes.
After-Party: The official after-party, called the Monster Mash, will feature costume contests, live entertainment, a DJ, and more.
Related Events: The Krewe of BOO! weekend also includes activities like the New Orleans Zombie Run and a Royal Luncheon.

Now in its 52nd year, the Village Halloween Parade has become a NYC institution, attracting over 80,000 costumed participants and more than 2 million spectators every October 31st. Think giant puppets, outrageous costumes, live bands, dancers, and an energy you can only find in New York.

The parade starts at Canal Street & Sixth Avenue and marches up Sixth Avenue all the way to 15th Street.

If you’re planning to join, remember: only those in costume can march!

Every year the parade picks a special theme — and in 2025, it’s all about "Potluck." Organizers describe it as a "collective feast" celebrating community, creativity, and connection in a time of division.

Think of it as NYC’s most surreal dinner party — where you’re the dish.

The Village Halloween Parade started back in 1973 as a small neighborhood walk led by Greenwich Village mask-maker Ralph Lee. Today, it’s a full-blown NYC tradition recognized as the “Best Event in the World” for October 31st by Festivals International.

Through the decades, it has also become a symbol of NYC’s resilience — from honoring 9/11 with a Phoenix puppet rising from the ashes to marching on in 2017 just hours after a terrorist attack.

As Parade Director Jeanne Fleming once said, "The parade speaks to the soul of NYC — it says yes to everyone."

What to expect: 50+ bands, hundreds of giant puppets, dancers, artists, and more than 80,000 costumed marchers.

Oldest and most haunted hotel in Las Vegas is offering one brave soul $5K to investigate potential paranormal activity The oldest and possibly "most haunted" hotel in Las Vegas is hosting a contest just in time for spooky season according to Casino.org.

Thrill-seekers up for the challenge will have the opportunity to apply to spend a weekend inside the El Cortez Hotel & Casino hunting down ghosts — in the hopes of winning a $5,000 prize.

Only one lucky soul will be chosen to participate.

The legendary El Cortez, the longest-running hotel casino in Vegas, has seen it all since it first opened its doors in 1941: mobsters, murders and even paranormal activities.

In a hotel that is 84-years-old — it’s almost expected for guests to see and hear some creepy things, like phantom footsteps and shadowy figures.

“We’re sending you to investigate, fully equipped with ghost-hunting gear, to see if the stories are true!" Casino.Org promises.

"The chosen ghost hunter will check in to the El Cortez for a haunted weekend stay, where you’ll explore the casino’s oldest and eeriest corners, searching for signs of ghostly activity."

The ghost hunter will be tasked with walking through the hotel’s corridors, casino floor and any other areas that are thought to be haunted using ghost-hunting equipment such as EMF meters, EVP recorders and thermal sensors to detect unusual activity — at night. The ghost hunting contest runs through Oct. 31, and the trip is expected to take place in early December.

If anything spooky is found, the ghost hunter will be expected to take photos and videos for evidence and to journal a short report of the scariest, funniest or mysterious findings.

Its safe to say that every berg in America has their haunted house - be it a permanent standing or a Halloween only structure. If your location is more in Houston area, the 13th Floor Haunted House Houston is listed among USA Today’s "Top 5 Most Terrifying Haunted Houses in the USA." This year’s lineup includes "Summer of Shadows," a cursed camp stalked by a masked killer; "Infestation," where a toxic leak creates insect-like mutants; and "Rise of the Kraken," a haunted voyage ruled by a monstrous sea captain. Guests can also step into a secret bar, race against the clock in mini escape games or battle actor zombies in "Zombie Apocalypse Live."

Houston Scream Fest -the annual Halloween festival - offers unlimited entry to several haunted houses along with live music, carnival games, midway food and complimentary drinks. Attractions include "Sanitarium," where asylum patients take control; "Castle of Doom," a medieval maze with a disorienting vortex; "Casa de La Llorona," where the legendary weeping woman searches for her child; and "The Graveyard," filled with restless spirits. Admission also includes H-Town Paintball’s "Nuketown," a life-size replica of the "Call of Duty" map. Paint is sold separately.

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Thank you for your interest.

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This is not your typical, totally boring textbook.

In the pages of How To Earn A Living As A Freelance Writer (the first to be lied to and the last to be paid) you'll find sex, celebrities, violence, threats, unethical editors, scummy managers and lawyers, treacherous press agents, sex discrimination; as well as a how-to for earning money by writing down words.

ART AND ABOUT

THE BIGGEST COLLECTION OF OASIS MEMORABILIA—VALUED AT £1M—COMING TO MARKET IN PROPSTORE’S 'SUPERSONIC' MUSIC AUCTION OCTOBER 23-24 will spotlight the biggest collection of Oasis memorabilia to ever go to public auction to date, led by Noel Gallagher’s guitars that defined the band’s sound on stage and in the studio. Featuring over 170 items, this incredible Oasis collection is estimated to bring in more than £1 million.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: One of the most significant instruments in Britpop history is Noel’s Takamine FP460SC Acoustic Guitar, the very instrument used to record the band’s most enduring anthem, “Wonderwall”. With an estimate of £200,000 - £400,000 ($264,000 - $528,000), this piece of recording history is unrivalled in its cultural resonance. The guitar also carries its own story: after Liam mistakenly smashed an acoustic belonging to producer Nick Brine, Noel gifted him the Takamine as an apology. That destroyed guitar, a 1970s Fender F-35 Acoustic wrecked during the Be Here Now recording sessions, is also included in the catalogue with an estimate of £10,000 - £20,000 ($13,200 - $26,400).

Among the other highlights is an Autographed Man City Blue Epiphone Signature Supernova Guitar, played by Noel Gallagher and donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust after his 2007 Royal Albert Hall performance. Produced between 1997 and 2005 in five colourways, the Supernova has become highly sought-after among collectors. This "Manchester City" blue guitar, signed by Noel, carries an estimate of £3,000 - £6,000 ($3,960 - $7,920), with 25% of the hammer proceeds benefiting the Teenage Cancer Trust.

MONET AND VENICE is the first exhibition to focus on Monet’s luminous Venetian paintings—a radiant yet underexplored chapter in the artist’s late career—since their debut in 1912. New York’s largest museum show dedicated to Monet in over 25 years, the exhibition features more than 100 artworks, books, and ephemera.

The artist’s singular vision of Venice is also set in dialogue with portrayals of the city by renowned artists such as Canaletto, Paul Signac, John Singer Sargent, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

See these gorgeous paintings together. Journey to this fabled place with us. Monet and Venice at the Brooklyn Museum through February 1, 2026.

. "Monet and Venice" is organized by the Brooklyn Museum and the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. The exhibition is curated by Lisa Small, Senior Curator of European Art, Brooklyn Museum, and Melissa Buron, Director of Collections and Chief Curator, Victoria and Albert Museum. Original symphonic installation by Niles Luther, Composer in Residence, Brooklyn Museum.

Significant support is provided by the Ford Foundation, Constance Christensen, Mr. and Mrs. Alan Howard, the Arnold Lehman Exhibition Fund, and Jessie and Charles Price.

Generous support is provided by The Achelis and Bodman Foundation, Catherine Hannah Behrend, the Norman and Arline Feinberg Exhibition Fund, Leslie and David Puth, Kerry and Jeffrey Strong, and David E. Weisman and Jacqueline E. Michel.

Additional support is provided by the Gladys Krieble Delmas Foundation and Joan Krotenberg.

BOB ROSS'S HAPPY LITLE PAINTINGS will be auctioned to benefit public TV.

Thirty canvases, many created for viewers of Ross's PBS series, "The Joy of Painting," will be sold beginning in November.

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SWEET CHARITY

THE FOUNDATION FOR NEW AMERICAN MUSICALS (FNAM) will present a one-night-only concert production of the Tony Award-winning musical comedy Woman of the Year by John Kander, Fred Ebb, and Peter Stone. Starring Sandy Bainum as Tess Harding, Jason Graae as Gerald, and Vicki Lewis as Jan, the concert will be directed by Glenn Casale, with choreography by Karma Camp, and musical direction by Brent Crayon. The performance will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica, CA.

All proceeds from the event will benefit FNAM’s ShowSearch program, a nationally recognized musical theatre competition and mentorship initiative for high school and college writers in Southern California. ShowSearch pairs emerging creators with established industry professionals, providing young artists the guidance and platform to develop their own original works.

Based on the classic MGM Tracy/Hepburn film, Woman of the Year follows Tess Harding, a sharp and ambitious television news anchor, and Sam Craig, a celebrated cartoonist whose worlds—and egos—collide. What begins as a public feud evolves into romance, marriage, and the timeless struggle to balance career, love, and identity. First produced in 1981, the musical’s exploration of gender roles, media influence, and the challenges of partnership remains as relevant today as ever.

Leading the concert is Sandy Bainum, bringing her signature warmth, wit, and vocal prowess to the role made famous by Lauren Bacall in her triumphant Broadway return. Joining her are Jason Graae as Gerald and Vicki Lewis as Jan, both celebrated performers whose careers span Broadway, television, and beyond.

The Foundation for New American Musicals (FNAM), now in its 18th year, is dedicated to educating, mentoring, and showcasing emerging creators of original musicals for stage, screen, and new platforms. FNAM supports the creation of new content and provides a voice for the next generation of creators. Embracing four powerful disciplines — story, song, dance, and visuals – musicals have uniquely and memorably inspired deeper empathy and understanding across cultures, ethnicities, and generations. Today, musical theatre has earned a top spot in the cultural conversation.

However, while there are many opportunities for performers and technical teams to learn and grow, there are very few programs that introduce musical theatre show writing to high school through college age students and develop promising story tellers, composers, and lyricists. The keystone of all FNAM programs is to provide opportunities for talented newcomers to create and showcase their art.

NEXTGEN SPOTLIGHT raised record $22,333 for Broadway Cares. The annual event showcases rising stars in the industry with performances by up-and-coming stars, alongside theatre veterans and mentors.

On the heels of her Tony-nominated Broadway debut in "BOOP! The Musical", Jasmine Amy Rogers hosted the evening, at NYC's The Green Room 42, which included performances by Charlotte D’Amboise, Tshidi Manyem, Caroline Bowman, Josh Dela Cruz, Tatianna Córdoba, David Merino, Phil Colgan, Ravyn Calderon, Lili Froehlich, Andre Malcolm, Johanna Moise and Julian Ramos, Tabitha Lawing, Katerina Papacostas, and Joey Sorge.

The event held at The Green Room 42.also offered a glimpse of original works currently in development, including Starting Up: The Musical by Troy and Garett Press, and the rock opera Blood/Love by Carey Sharpe.

This year's NextGen Spotlight was directed by Jelani Remy, with music direction by Jeremiah Ginn. The band featured Britton Matthews on drums and Sean Murphy on bass.

The stellar lineup shared songs and stories from their journeys into the industry, joined by theater veterans and mentors who champion their success.

Those mentors included two-time Tony nominee Charlotte D’Amboise, who, after sharing stories from her celebrated career, joined Rogers for a heartfelt duet of A Chorus Line’s "What I Did for Love." Tshidi Manye, Broadway’s longest-running Rafiki in The Lion King, offered a stirring "Send in the Clowns" from A Little Night Music, accompanied on piano by Joshua Turchin.

Caroline Bowman, who captivated audiences last season as Norma Desmond’s standby in "Sunset Blvd." and as the original Karen in "SMASH", following a run as Elsa in the national tour of "Frozen", delivered a show-stopping mashup of songs from the three beloved shows.

Josh Dela Cruz, now making his Broadway debut as Aladdin, paid tribute to Gavin Creel’s Tony-nominated turn in Thoroughly Modern Millie with a charming "What Do I Need with Love." Tatianna Córdoba, who made her Broadway debut last season in Real Women Have Curves, shared a deeply moving "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Misérables.

David Merino, one of the final Emcees in the most recent Cabaret revival, delivered a haunting rendition of "I Don’t Care Much" from the show. And the limited space of a cabaret stage couldn’t contain the energy of Hamilton’s Phil Colgan, who choreographed a dynamic dance number to David Bowie’s "Fame," performed by Ravyn Calderon, Lili Froehlich, Andre Malcolm, Johanna Moise and Julian Ramos.

Rising young star Tabitha Lawing, currently playing The Little Girl in Broadway’s Ragtime, charmed the audience with a sweet and spirited "What It Takes to Be a Friend" from 13: The Musical. The spotlight turned to Broadway’s invaluable understudies and swings as Katerina Papacostas, appearing in this season’s Chess, shared a crowd-pleasing performance of "Love Will Come and Find Me Again" from Bandstand.

The night also featured exclusive previews of original works in development: Starting Up: The Musical by Troy and Garett Press, and the rock opera Blood/Love by Carey Sharpe and Grammy Award nominee Dru DeCaro. Emphasizing the importance of education in shaping Broadway’s future, Bayonne High School teacher Lori Alexander was honored with a tender tribute: her husband, MJ cast member Joey Sorge, performed Billy Joel’s "She’s Got a Way" in her honor.

Broadway Cares is one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources, and generosity of the American theater community, since 1988 Broadway Cares has awarded more than $300 million for essential services for people with HIV/AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States.

JOIN PAN ASIAN REPERTORY THEATRE for a one-night-only celebration of empowerment and service at their 49th Art & Action Benefit Dinner. Thursday, October 16, 2025 6pm - Cocktails | 7pm – Peking Duck Banquet and Salutes at the Golden Unicorn in New York City.

— Festive Attire or Cocktail Chic Required — Our Honorees:
Dian Dong - Artistic Director, Chen Dance Center

Christine Toy Johnson - Actor, Writer, Advocate

George Takei - Actor, Author, Civil Rights Activist

Hosted by Erin Quill and Henry Yuk, the evening includes a wine reception, a full Chinese banquet, and inspiring tributes. Special Guest Presenters:

Stephanie Chun - Dancer, Educator
Elizabeth McPherson - Educator, Author
Pun Bandhu - Actor, Producer
Ron Nakahara - Actor, Director

THE NATION'S TOP SERVICE ANIMALS were recently recognized in Sausalito, CA, by the National Service Animals Monument (NSAM) to a crowd of service animal lovers and supporters. NSAM is the nation’s first and only Congressionally authorized monument honoring all service animals, their handlers, and the human-animal bond.

NSAM 3rd Annual Purple Poppy Award Winners, 2025

We were honored to have three representatives from the esteemed organization present to accept this award: Karen Leies, CEO of The Seeing Eye®, and Vinay Billimoria and Pluto, graduates of The Seeing Eye®.

Dogs and miniature horses are the only two recognized service animals in the U.S. However, service dogs are far more common. Any breed and any size of dog, Trained to perform a task directly related to a person's disability.

SPREADING THE WORD

INDUSTRY READING OF GRINDR MOM Tuesday, October 21 at 2:00pm at The Jerry Orbach Theater at The Theater Center, New York City.

Two-Time Tony Award Winner Judy Kaye stars as a conservative Mormon mother who misguidedly creates her own Grindr profile in a desperate attempt to connect with her gay son.

Written and directed by Ronnie Larsen who grew up Mormon.

What’s a conservative Mormon mother to do when her only son comes out as gay, confesses he’s an atheist, and starts swiping on something called Grindr? For this mom, the answer is obvious: download the app herself. In Grindr Mom, Judy Kaye brings to life a compulsively candid mother who just wants to understand her son, even if that means opening her own account. Between hiding Pepsis from her husband, debating with Siri and Alexa about sexuality, and mistaking “verse bottom” for a choir note, she stumbles into a world of lamp shade fetishes, headless torsos, and more “HappyPigs” than she ever prayed for. As she spirals between laughter and heartbreak, this well-meaning mother wrestles with God, her religion, and her greatest fear - that her son’s eternal soul is lost to damnation.

The creative team behind Grindr Mom includes Ronnie Larsen (Artistic Director), Jeff Walters (Managing Director), Dennis Manning (Board President), Jack Stein (Producer), Joseph Guidetti (Associate Producer/Grants Administrator), Steven Some (Public Relations), Dan DeMello (New York Public Relations) and Scott Jordan (Volunteer Coordinator).

The presentation runs approximately 75 minutes with no intermission, and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible.

A brief cocktail reception will follow immediately after the reading.

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THE GREAT EMU WAR book by Cal Silberstein & Paul Hodge. Music & Lyrics by Paul Hodge.

Music Direction by Angie Benson.

Directed & Choreographed by Amy Anders Corcoran.

Remember that one time that the Australian government sent their army with machine guns to wage war on emus in Western Australia? Neither do most people…but when Edith, the headstrong warbler, and her flock begin to feed on the wheat of local farmers–the humans take up arms against Australia’s favorite feathered friends. Think of it as Cats, but with emus. It’s the most emusing 90 minutes you’ll have in any theatre–don’t miss it!

Featuring: Morgan Cowling as McMurray. Jeremy Davis as Enoch. LaRaisha DiEvelyn Dionne as The Bush Bard. Taylor Matthew as Major Meredith. Ethan Peterson as Ethan. Claire Saunders as Edith.

Now Playing Through October 26 at The Terris Theatre in Chester, CT.

ENDGAME by Samuel Beckett.

Directed by Tony winner Garry Hynes.

Druid’s engagement at Irish Arts Center IAC coincides with Druid’s 50th Anniversary and acclaimed legacy of touring to America, most notably with their Broadway production of Martin McDonagh’s "The Beauty Queen of Leenane"—for which Garry Hynes became the first woman to win the Tony for Best Director.

Cast includes veteran Druid actors including Tony Award winner Marie Mullen, Bosco Hogan, Aaron Monaghan, and Rory Nolan.

Irish Arts Center (IAC), based in New York City and renowned for presenting dynamic, inspiring, collaborative experiences of the evolving arts and culture of Ireland and Irish America in an environment of warm Irish hospitality, presents Druid Theatre’s production of Samuel Beckett’s Endgame, directed by Tony Award winner Garry Hynes, October 22–November 23.

Samuel Beckett’s Endgame is the tragicomic tale of a man living with his parents and his servant in a world beyond time and place. With nowhere to go and not much to do, they spend their days telling stories and contemplating the absurdity of life.

Endgame stars members Aaron Monaghan as Clov, Rory Nolan as Hamm, and Tony Award-winner Marie Mullen as Nell, with Bosco Hogan as Nagg.

The creative team includes Francis O'Connor (Set and Costume Designer), James F. Ingalls (Lighting Designer), Gregory Clarke (Sound Designer), Gráinne Coughlan (Hair and Make-Up Designer), and Clíodhna Hallissey (Associate Costume Designer).

Endgame marks the first Beckett performance Irish Arts Center has presented since Company SJ’s site-specific work Beckett and the City: The Women Speak. Now with its own vast and adaptable theatre space, Irish Arts Center can bring one of Beckett’s most iconic visions, from one of the world’s most influential theatre companies and directors, onto its own stage.

Druid has been touring to America since 1986, most memorably in 1998 for their historic Broadway run of Martin McDonagh’sThe Beauty Queen of Leenane, which won four Tony Awards including Best Actress for Druid co-founder Marie Mullen and Best Director for fellow Druid co-founder Garry Hynes, the first woman to win the Tony for Best Director.

Druid’s other US tours include The Lonesome West by Martin McDonagh (1999), DruidSynge (2006), The Walworth Farce by Enda Walsh (2009), The New Electric Ballroom by Enda Walsh (2009), The Silver Tassie by Seán O’Casey (2011), Penelope by Enda Walsh (2011), The Cripple of Inishmaan by Martin McDonagh (2011), DruidMurphy – Plays by Tom Murphy (2012), DruidShakespeare: Richard II, Henry IV (Pts. 1&2), Henry V (2015), The Beauty Queen of Leenane by Martin McDonagh (2017), Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett (2017, 2018), DruidShakespeare: Richard III (2019), and DruidO’Casey (2023).

Druid gratefully acknowledges the support of The Arts Council of Ireland, Smurfit Westrock, University of Galway, Culture Ireland and Galway City Council.

Irish Arts Center programming is supported by a growing community of individual, foundation, government, and corporate supporters and partners, including Culture Ireland, the agency for the promotion of Irish arts worldwide; public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office and the New York City Council; the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature; National Endowment for the Arts; Howard Gilman Foundation; Season Supporting Partner funding from Tourism Ireland; the Jerome L. Greene Foundation; the Adrian Brinkerhoff Poetry Foundation; the Charina Endowment Fund; the Ireland Funds; the Shubert Foundation, Inc.; the MacMillan Family Foundation; the Arnhold Foundation; the Fan Fox & Leslie R. Samuels Foundation; the Irish Institute of New York; the Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, New York; Northern Ireland Bureau; Invest NI; Bushmills; CIE Tours; M&T Bank; The Dead Rabbit; the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Consulate of Ireland in New York; and thousands of generous private donors.

Endgame is presented with generous support from Culture Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and Alan Klein.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, Druid is a touring theatre company, anchored in the West of Ireland and looking to the world. It began as a bold idea in 1975: to create Ireland’s first professional theatre company outside of Dublin. There were few resources with which to build a theatre company in Galway in the 1970s, but through sheer dedication, and with the support of the local community, founders Garry Hynes, Marie Mullen and the late Mick Lally made this bold idea a reality. That reality has since become an international success story of extraordinary dimensions, showcasing the best of Irish theatre on the world’s stages.

In the past five decades, Druid has presented over 300 productions, celebrating and sharing the work of more than 50 playwrights. This work has resulted in numerous accolades including Tony Awards, Irish Theatre Awards, Edinburgh Fringe First Awards and UK Theatre Awards.

Irish Arts Center, founded in 1972 and based in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City, is a home for artists and audiences of all backgrounds who share a passion or appreciation for the evolving arts and culture of contemporary Ireland and Irish America. IAC presents, develops, and celebrates work from established and emerging artists and cultural practitioners, providing audiences with emotionally and intellectually engaging experiences—fueled by collaboration, innovation, adventurousness, authenticity, and the celebration of our common humanity, in an environment of Irish hospitality. Steeped in grassroots traditions, IAC also provides community education programs and access to the arts for people of all ages and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds. In an historic partnership of the people of Ireland and New York, Irish Arts Center recently opened a state-of-the-art new facility to support this mission for the 21st century.

THE SEAT OF OUR PANTS an adaptation of Thornton Wilder's Pulitzer Prize-winning The Skin of Our Teeth by Obie Award winner Ethan Lipton.

Choreographed by Sunny Min-Sook Hitt.

Directed by Tony nominee Leigh Silverman.

A rollicking adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning The Skin of Our Teeth, this new musical about age-old problems tells the twisting, often absurd story of the Antrobus family, who have been alive for 5,000 years but live in the same existential dread as the rest of us. Mired in the hot mess of their everyday worries, the Antrobuses survive all manner of catastrophes in an endless quest to begin again, and again, and again. This bracingly original spectacle is a musical reminder that surviving is what we do best.

Featuring Ben Beckley (Ensemble), Kelly Belarmino (Understudy), Ally Bonino (Fortune Teller), Bill Buell (Turkey/Ensemble), Cole Burden (Understudy), Damon Daunno (Henry Antrobus), Micaela Diamond (Sabina), Amina Faye (Glady Antrobus), Andy Grotelueschen (Announcer/Ensemble), Shuler Hensley (Mr. Antrobus), Allison Ann Kelly (Ensemble/Musician), Michael Lepore (Telegram Boy/Ensemble), Nat Lopez (Ensemble), Ruthie Ann Miles (Mrs. Antrobus), Geena Quintos (Mammoth/Ensemble), León Ramos Tak (Understudy), David Ryan Smith (Ensemble), Ruth E. Sternberg (Mr. Fitzpatrick), and Angela Travino (Understudy)>

Begins performances in The Public’s Newman Theater with a Joseph Papp Free Performance on Friday, October 24. The production officially opens on Thursday, November 13 and runs through Sunday, November 30. 2205.

ART written by Yasmina Reza and translated by Christopher Hampton.

Directed by Scott Ellis.

Three longtime friends. One ridiculously expensive painting. Is it art, or is it just the world’s priciest inside joke? What begins as a polite debate over aesthetics and taste devolves into a clash of egos and resentments. Can their friendship survive, or will one of them finally draw the line? It’s just 100 minutes of minimalist art, maximalist laughs, and a moving look at what we really see and forgive in the people we love.

ART, starring Bobby Cannavale, James Corden and Neil Patrick Harris.

The creatives are: the design team includes David Rockwell (Set Design), Linda Cho (Costume Design), Jen Schriever (Lighting Design), Mikaal Sulaiman (Sound Design) and Kid Harpoon (Original Music).

Performances on Broadway at the Music Box Theatre.

THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD by Gilbert and Sullivan.

Directed by New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players newly appointed Artistic Director James Mills.

The comic opera tells the story of a falsely accused prisoner in the Tower of London, the two girls who loved him, and an out of work itinerant jester in grand and colorful fashion – with humor and a touch of pathos. The 25-26 season marks the first under the direction of Artistic Director James Mills His first performance with NYGASP 20 years ago was in the ensemble The Yeomen of the Guard. He has since played most of the patter roles and served as Associate Artistic Director.

Gilbert & Sullivan fans, opera enthusiasts, and musical theater lovers who revel in the beauty of the scores as much as the clever lyrics, will be thrilled by The Yeomen of the Guard. The Tower of London has been a popular symbol of British grandeur since the days of William the Conqueror, so its choice as the setting for Gilbert & Sullivan’s most historical work is particularly appropriate.

A real Lieutenant of The Tower during the reign of notorious King Henry VIII, Sir Richard Cholmendely, is buried there and appears as a sympathetic character in Yeomen (portrayed in this production by NYGASP veteran Co-Director and Choreographer David Auxier). Despite the rather forbidding time and place, elements of humor and joyous celebration join with thematic pathos in this colorful and broad story of two men whose fates are the exact opposites of each other. Romantic hero Colonel Fairfax (tenor Thomas Valenti) is cavalierly resigned to his own death at the outset, while comic jester Jack Point (patter man James Mills) is hopeful of a romantic union with his beautiful performing partner. Through the gain and loss of a woman’s love, the men trade emotional places - with Fairfax achieving a fairy tale happy ending and the jilted jester left alone and heartbroken.

Joining Artistic Director James Mills (Stage Director) on the creative team are Joseph Rubin (Musical Director and Conductor), and Laura Sudduth (Assistant Director & Dance Captain).

In addition to those mentioned above, the cast includes Andrew Martens as fatherly Sergeant Meryll, Natalia Hulse as street singer and virtuous heroine Elsie Maynard, Angela Christine Smith as formidable Dame Carruthers, Matthew Wages as comic jailer Wilfred Shadbolt, and the delightful Amy Maude Helfer as flirtatious Phoebe Meryll. NYGASP veterans Sarah Hutchison as Kate and Cameron Smith as Leonard Meryll complete the principal cast. An ensemble of brilliant yeomen and citizens of The Tower include Sam Balzac, Caitlin Borek, Michael Connolly, Quinn Corcoran, Hannah Eakin, Katie Hall, Maurio Hines, Mark Hosseini, Patrick Lord-Remmert, Jack Murphy, Monique Pelletier, Darrick Penny, Helen Jane Planchet, Alex Poletti, Sarah Caldwell Smith, Tyler Tejada, Kyle Torrence, David Vogel.

The vibrant sounds of a 27-piece orchestra rounds out the picture with period costumes by Gail J. Wofford and Jan Holland and a stunning representation of The Tower of London by Rick Manfredi and Albère. The evocative lighting is by Benjamin Weill.

October 25-26 at the Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College in New York City.

PLAYING SHYLOCK written by playwright Mark Leiren-Young.

Directed by Martin Kinch.

Starring acclaimed actor and screen legend Saul Rubinek.

After a production of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice is cancelled mid-performance because of public outcries about antisemitism, the actor playing Shylock (Rubinek, as a version of himself) asks how we are to share our common humanity when we are not able to share our stories with each other. The production, fresh off an extended successful run in Canada, delivers a candid and passionate appeal about identity, public discourse, and the theatre.

In a commanding return to the stage, Rubinek delivers yet another unforgettable performance, adding to a distinguished career that has spanned more than four decades across film, television, and theatre. Known for his roles in series such as Frasier, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Hunters, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Schitt’s Creek, as well as iconic films including Wall Street, Against All Odds, Unforgiven, True Romance, The Family Man, and the Coen Brothers’ The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, Rubinek’s work continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.

Playing Shylock delivers unexpected laughs as Rubinek masterfully balances sharp wit with profound insights, finding surprising humour in the collision between centuries-old prejudice and modern cultural sensitivities – “a blend of introspective gravitas and humour,” Sesaya Arts.

The creatives are: Set & Costume Design by Shawn Kerwin. Lighting Design by Jason Hand.

Performances at Polonsky Shakespeare Center, home of Theatre for a New Audience in Brooklen. This theatrical production begins performances on October 16, with Opening Night set for October 23, and runs through December 7, 2025.

THE FIRST 3 MINUTES OF 17 SHOWS a new solo show written by and starring comedian Abby Wambaugh.

Directed by Lara Ricote.

After waking up in the hospital following a late miscarriage, Abby Wambaugh — still high on anesthesia — made an unexpected decision: to become a comedian. Now, in her uniquely goofy and heartfelt hour, Abby shares her 17 best ideas for her first show. The First 3 Minutes of 17 Shows sees Wambaugh playfully exploring her talent for a wide range of comedy styles in this one-person variety show, presenting the best ideas for her debut hour including potential hits like “Old Man Learns Parkour” and a very long impression of the number nine - a setup that explores gender, pregnancy, loss and creativity and uncovers a deeper story about the value of beginnings that don't necessarily have a middle or an end.

Performances at Dixon Place in New York City through October 25, 2025.

E-Book

Soft back Book

This is not your typical, totally boring textbook.

In the pages of How To Earn A Living As A Freelance Writer (the first to be lied to and the last to be paid) you'll find sex, celebrities, violence, threats, unethical editors, scummy managers and lawyers, treacherous press agents, sex discrimination; as well as a how-to for earning money by writing down words.

FINAL OVATION

DIANE KEATON the Academy Award winning actress died October 11, 2025 in Los Angeles. She was 79.

Keaton's career began on stage when she appeared in the original 1968 Broadway production of the musical Hair. The next year she was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her performance in Woody Allen's comic play Play It Again, Sam.

She then made her screen debut in a small role in Lovers and Other Strangers (1970), before rising to prominence with her first major film role as Kay Adams-Corleone in Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather (1972), a role she reprised in its sequels Part II (1974) and Part III (1990). She frequently collaborated with Woody Allen, beginning with the film adaptation of Play It Again, Sam (1972). Her next two films with him, Sleeper (1973) and Love and Death (1975), established her as a comic actress, while her fourth, Annie Hall (1977), won her the Academy Award for Best Actress.

She was featured in 1972’s "The Godfather" and its sequels, and co-starred in the 1991 comedy "Father of the Bride." In 2003, she earned her fourth Oscar nomination for "Something's Gotta Give."

When her health suddenly declined she put her dream home up for sale. Never married, she is survived by her two adopted children, daughter Dexter and son Duke.

PAUL NEWMAN'S DAUGHTER SUSAN KENDALL died on August 2, 2025 from complications from chronic health conditions. She was 72.

Kendall worked in entertainment and philanthropy, advocating for "education, juvenile justice, conservation, and healthcare," per her obituary.

The daughter of actor Paul Newman and Jackie Witte, Kendall was an actress, producer and philanthropist Her work earned a Golden Globe Award, plus Emmy and Grammy nominations and more.

The daughter of the late Paul Newman and his first wife Jackie Witte, Kendall was a prolific television producer, earning a Golden Globe and Humanitas Award, plus nominations for the Emmy, Peabody and Grammy Awards, for her work on the Newman-directed 1980 ABC Theatre production of Michael Cristopfer's play The Shadow Box starring Joanne Woodward and Christopher Plummer.

She also produced a family-friendly audiobook series of classical literature for Simon & Schuster, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Spoken Word Album for Children.

As an actress, Kendall made her Broadway debut in the short-lived 1975 play "We Interrupt This Program…" She collaborated with her father onscreen in 1977’s Slap Shot, and played a teen fan in Robert Zemeckis’ 1978 Beatles movie I Wanna Hold Your Hand. She also appeared in the 1978 Robert Altman movie A Wedding.

As a philanthropist, Kendall served in multiple leadership roles with the Scott Newman Foundation, becoming an expert in drug abuse prevention. The foundation was founded by Kendall’s father following the death of her brother Scott due to a drug overdose.

Later in life, she expanded "her advocacy on education, juvenile justice, conservation, and healthcare," per the obituary.

"She was instrumental in shaping the philanthropic strategies of a private foundation and took pride in helping identify impactful grassroots organizations, support at-risk communities often overlooked by mainstream philanthropy, and develop innovative approaches to disaster relief through local endowments," it concludes. "Susan Kendall Newman will be remembered for her sharp wit and tongue, generosity and love, and her devotion to family and friends."

Next Column: October 19, 2025
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Laura Deni