Happy Weekend all! I have been a trifle bit absent this week as it is a wee bit crazy over here. It’s spring concert time for the dance program that I direct, so there is lots of drama swirling in the air. I may be a little spotty with my presence here until the end of the month, but I will try my best. We are house hunting (yay- a backyard may be in our near future) and I just have to say that we saw the craziest, scariest trinket-filled house yesterday. I kind of loved it but know in my heart that it’s bound to be a money pit. I had visions of Shelley Long and Tom Hanks dancing in my head as we walked through the house. Not the one for us. I love a project but this one would be a life’s work, not sure I’m up to that challenge with 1 year old twins. Oh well, the search continues.
What are you all up to this weekend? We’ll be watching the Tonys and rooting for my brother in law, Terrence Mann to bring home the prize for his amazing portrayal of Charlemagne in Pippin. Woot woot- go Terry. I can’t wait to see what Charlotte wears! We have a fun little dinner planned in Virginia wine country, so hopefully I’ll capture some nice moments to share. Have a beautiful summer weekend!
A little link love:
1. This is a little big genius- Brian Williams does Snoop. Jimmy Fallon, you rock.
Currently on Broadway as Mary Wilson of The Supremes in the hit show Motown, Ariana DeBose gives us a peek into a day in the life:
Ari, take us through your day:
My Morning:
My day always starts off with a cup of joe and some morning business.
-P.S.: as an actress, watching Crimes of the Heart totally counts as business- ha.
I’m working on my website and using the black and white fishnet veil image as inspiration.
My mom sent me this write up in my local Raleigh paper- what a nice surprise.
On my way to the 2 train, I spy some sensible graffiti art.
My Afternoon:
I squeeze in a quick photo shoot as I needed some new shots, I like how this one turned out- it’s my Mary Tyler Moore moment.
I head to the Genius Bar on the Upper West Side which I love because you don’t need an appointment.
I arrive at my dressing room to find my gown from Hilton Hollis- yay- for opening night, a huge perk of being on Broadway.
My latest obsession- Chimes Ginger Chews, they’re delicious and good for the vocal chords.
My fabulous dresser helps me restyle a dress I’ve already worn for another event.
I always pop in to stage management to say hello, we have an amazing and hardworking team.
That gooey gold lame is courtesy of the design talents of one Emilio Sosa- our costume designer. I’m the understudy for Diana Ross and I cannot wait to get into that gown.
My Evening:
A quick backstage photo op before curtain and then off to drinks with the legendary Martha Reeves and the Andantes (lucky me- another huge perk).
That’s a photo of my personal guru and master set designer, David Korins and I- he’s totally a genius.
And that’s a wrap- back uptown I go to start all over again tomorrow.
I’ve know Ari since she was a wee student of 18. Now she’s all of 22 strutting down the step and repeat with two Broadway shows and a stint on So You Think You Can Dance under her belt. Geez Louise, these young whipper snappers move fast today. She’s all abuzz on the New York theater scene and she took a few minutes out of her fun filled day to talk with us.
Did you always know you wanted to be on Broadway?
I always knew I wanted to perform. I figured out that Broadway was the place for me around age 12. The first musical I saw was Rent and there was something about that girl in the leopard coat (Mimi) that made me think I could do what she was doing.
What is your favorite thing about being on Broadway?
There are too many to count; but I just adore all the amazing people I get to meet.
What’s it like playing Mary Wilson?
It’s fabulous to play an icon every night! And Mary had so many dynamic qualities that make it so fun to play. She was a ball of sex appeal and utter joy.
How much do you love your costumes, and Emilio Sosa- what is he like to work with?
Emilio is so wonderful! He has such an eye for a woman’s body and how to capture the essence if each client or character. We had such a good time together with both the Mary track and my Diana understudy costumes. He worked to tailor the styles to my body and personality- makes a girl feel special!
Tell me about your training.
I trained at CC & Company Dance Complex in Raleigh, NC. I am Studio raised and grew up competing and taking class at conventions. I started taking private vocal lessons my junior year of high school and spent a short time at Western Carolina University where I took a very helpful acting class. But I am still training as we speak. I treat every job as a chance to learn something new, I’m constantly in dance class and training with my vocal coach.
What was it like being on So You Think?
SYTYCD was such a whirlwind. It was my first real audition experience and I learned a lot about myself and how to function in an audition. The show itself was just icing on the cake! I mean what 18 year old doesn’t enjoy being on TV?!
With an 8 show a week schedule and working 6 days a week, what is your perfect day off?
A day at the spa! I love to lounge in a pool with my best girls and a mimosa, throw in a full body massage and I’m set.
Sounds pretty great Ari. In your next life, you’re a…
Fashion Designer
Who or what inspires you?
PEOPLE inspire me. Every day I see something- an act of kindness, or something as small as a smile will inspire me.
Where is your favorite spot on the planet?
Austria. I sound like Maria Von Trapp, but I have never been more at peace then when I was there, the air is so clean.
What’s on your Bucket List?
So many things! I want to visit the rock of Gibraltar, climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge, ski the Alps and I definitely want to perform at the Kennedy Center.
What is something you really don’t need to do again?
No. More. Reality. Shows. It was fabulous while it lasted but I don’t need to do it again.
What are you reading and/or listening to?
I just bought Then Again by Diane Keaton. I really admire her and I’m enjoying her insight thus far and I’m currently listening to Morgan James Live: A Celebration of Nina Simone. This fierce white woman is singing for the gods!
What is your favorite personal possession:
I have a string of red beads from the 50′s my great grandmother gave me before she passed. I wear them whenever I want to feel fancy.
Favorite style or beauty trend of the season?
I’m living for this Aqua Fresh vibe this summer spotted via Marie Claire’s UK site.
Any show savvy tips for looking fabulous (preferably in 10 min. or less for us moms out here with zero beauty time on our hands)?
I love this tinted moisturizer from Laura Mercier. It’s lightweight and so easy to apply- I use it as my base- it’s FLAWLESS and sets your face up for the day.
What’s on your perfect menu?
I”m obsessed with grilled shrimp, sautéed asparagus &almonds, and Mediterranean couscous paired with a Kermit Lynch La Viarte Pinot Grigio…. Now I’m hungry!
Where do you want to be in 10 years?
That’s a hard question…. part of me would love to have transitioned into television while still living life in the city. I’m legitimately hoping that I will have gone back to school by then and earned a degree of some sort.
And last, what advice would you give to a young performer with stars in his or her eyes?
Don’t let anyone tell you no. Go after what you want and get creative to make things happen for yourself. I didn’t grow up with money but I worked, got scholarships, and talked to as many people as I could. Don’t ever forget the power of communication. You only get what you ask for, so put positive energy out into the world and you’ll get it back!
I’m starting a new series called “According to Jess” where my Southern, sassy and opinionated (in the best way) pal, Jess Hartman shares her lifestyle and travel tips. She’s a New Orleans native who splits her time between NYC and Baltimore, where she, her hubby Jason, and soon to be little girl dwell in a cute little row house. Jess and I did our first Broadway show together, The Boy From Oz- you really bond with someone when you originate a show together, not to mention sharing a tiny dressing room on the 4th floor of the Imperial Theater- ahh, those were the days!
We recently met for brunch in this historic and ridiculously cute waterfront Baltimore neighborhood and I fell in love with Fells. Fells Point- According to Jess:
PLAY:
One of the highlights of the year in Fells is the Films on the Pier series. Watch classic movies outside on the dock- how swoonful is that photo!
Our day in Fells:
The pier is so pretty and those big beautiful boats make want to jump onboard and yell Ahoy Matey! Jess does her best bevel in front of the Bond St. building- once a showgirl, always a showgirl. These pirate guys were killing me- they absolutely live for these weekends. That cute baby bump- can’t wait to meet the little Miss.
Jess’ Cabo Citrus Punch Mocktail direct from this dreamy place:
Don’t you just want to jump into that picture and order yourself a cocktail (or mocktail)? Calgon- take me to Cabo.
Just a little lookie loo today- great images to take in- I spied this clever post by EDW Lynch on Laughing Squid. Nine frames of classic films- here are 3 of my favorites.
We served up a killer signature cocktail at our wedding back in ’08- wow it’s going to be 5 years this year. We had our mixologist (aka the caterer’s bartender) create a lavender & lemon twist martini. We named it “The Contender” after our favorite scene from On the Waterfront. Watch the scene here- acting at its finest before Brando got bored with it. My bridesmaids all carried lavender in their bouquets and I used lavender, rosemary, some wild herbs and citrus (for my home state of Florida) throughout the ceremony and reception.
Our Contender was a big hit and I recently saw a similar cocktail recipe on A Beautiful Mess via Rue here. This recipe is almost identical to ours minus the limoncello- we just used the shaved lemon zest and a twist to infuse the lemon flavor. The zesty sugar rim really makes the drink and the lavender simple syrup recipe is the same. It was a beautiful light lavender color and a perfect summertime cocktail.
A Beautiful Mess’ similar Lavender & Lemon Martini:
Lavender and Lemon Drop Martini via A Beautiful Mess, makes 2.
4 oz. vodka* 2 oz. limoncello 2 oz. lavender simple syrup (recipe below) 1 oz. fresh lemon juice
To make a citrus sugar rim mash together 1/4 cup sugar and the zest from one lemon. Dip your martini glass on to a shallow plate filled with water and then into the citrus sugar. Shake off any excess sugar. In a martini shaker filled with ice add the ingredients. Shake well and stain into two prepared glasses. Garnish with a lemon slice.
To make your own lavender simple syrup combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a small pot. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring the water to a simmer. Stir in 1/2 tablespoon dried lavender buds or fresh lavender. Allow that to steep and reduce for 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and strain out the lavender. If you want your simple syrup to be more purple in color add a little food dye.
Enjoy and Cin Cin!
{Images: Columbia Pictures, Twin Lens Photography, Elsie + Emma of A Beautiful Mess}
I’m currently attempting a pseudo detox/cleanse. I’m drinking green smoothies in the morning and evening. My version is pretty low maintenance. It’s basically just Greek yogurt, a few frozen berries, 1/2 of a banana, a spoonful of almond butter, some water, a splash of apple cider vinegar -because Dr. Oz said I should- sometimes an apple, a few Puffins and this green powder. This is probably a better and more delicious recipe but I can’t be bothered to mince. So far so good, except for the fact that I’m constantly hungry. I’m hoping to clean my system out a bit and maybe lose some water weight, we’ll see. I’m allowing myself a regular low carb lunch so I feel like a normal person for most of the day. No dark chocolate though at night- ay yi yi- that is tough. The kicker though is that I’m still having my glass of wine every night, I mean come on- I can’t give it all up. Nothing like a glass of bright, dry and slightly bitter in the best way Vernaccia with my detox smoothie. Hmmm, something’s not quite right there, but I like it.
What are you up to this weekend? We’re watching the Derby and then going bowling with some friends on Sunday. I’m so looking forward to bowling- it’s been a long time, too long. Bowling is one of those happy places for me. A beer and a bowl with good pals- now that’s good stuff. I love those bowling shoes too, I really do.
A little link love:
This is the coolest! A GREAT idea for a Mother’s Day gift- are you reading this, honey? I love the chalkboard box, perfect for writing down the delicious herbs growing in your window. I love how it doubles as a menu/centerpiece for dinner parties as well. Seriously inspired and perfect for city dwellers who long to garden and for the gift of a green thumb. This is black thumb proof. L.O.V.E.! You actually order through their kickstarter website here as they are using crowd funding to finance the product. If you back the company, Modern Sprout, you will receive 30% off retail. Pretty cool.
San Pellegrino lists the top 50 restaurants in the world. This is a drool worthy list.
Wow- a moment in true friendship. This conversation with Marc Maron and Louis CK on Maron’s WTF podcast via Fresh Air. Uncomfortable and kind of awesome. Start listening at 16:27.
A fresh take on the Mint Julep for this weekend’s Derby.
If you’re headed to the Derby this weekend, check out this art lover’s Louisville hotel.
A beautiful passage from Anne Lamott’s Operating Instructions on parenting.
A few scenes from the Pippin opening on Broadway last night. Holy Smokes people, this is one smokin’ hot show. I rarely like a Broadway show, I mean rarely (even though I am a Broadway peep myself), and this one is just downright great theater. I say this as unbiased as I can possibly be as both of my in-laws star in the show. Both are amazing, of course. Charlotte is sexy, saucy and manipulating as Fastrada. She skillfully tears up the stage with her isolated movement, kicks her face and pulls off 3 quick changes practically right in front of our faces. Terry is layered, hilarious and winning as the usually unlikeable Charlemagne. I’ve never really seen Terry do his “thing”. I’ve seen him perform but never in a role so tailor made for him. My favorite line from the reviews is this one from the Chicago Tribune:
I expected nothing less of these two but the show itself… the show is awesome. Diane Paulus has found a way to masterfully marry Fosse’s iconic movement with the circus. It’s a marriage made in heaven if you think about it. Fosse himself was hugely influenced by Fellini and all of those wacky over the top carnie/circus types. It not only makes sense, but it is seamless and heaven to watch. She provides a big top to serve as the background for this coming of age tale. The medieval traveling players are now flip flopping carnies and they truly wow and amaze. The book itself has never been great but the show is so much clearer under Paulus’ guidance. You actually understand Pippin’s plight and root for him. The real star turn of the night is Andrea Martin’s “In Just No Time At All”. I was literally on the edge of my seat with my mouth open. I don’t want to spoil it but it is honestly one of the most moving, heartfelt and thrilling moments I have ever witnessed on a Broadway stage. Just see it for yourself. It is not to be missed.
I’m still humming Stephen Schwartz’s tunes. I didn’t know how they would translate in this new version or if they would feel relevant today. If my incessant humming of “Corner In The Sky” is any indication, they’ve held up just fine. Pretty much every high school or middle school has put on a production of Pippin at some point in time so you’re bound to have seen it. While there were iconic moments of brilliance in the 1972 production, namely Fosse’s Manson Trio (watch from 3:45), most of it is confusing and forgettable. Paulus and team have really figured out how to make it new and interesting. I highly recommend.
Brother and sis. So cute.
My niece perched up in the box waving to us in the orchestra. One of the cutest things ever. I loved seeing my nieces expressions as they watched their parents perform. A grand and magic-ful night indeed.
We’re off to see my fabulous in-laws razzle dazzle ‘em in the Broadway revival of Pippin. Tonight is opening night on the Great White Way. Charlotte d’Amboise and Terrence Mann play husband and wife, Fastrada and Charles in the revival. They haven’t shared the stage since Jerome Robbins Broadway in 1989 when Terry came in to replace Jason Alexander who was leaving to do a little show called Seinfeld. Charlotte and Terry united during that run, got married and had two fabulous daughters, my nieces Josephine and Shelby. Both will of course be in attendance tonight donning their finest duds. It should be a blast and Broadway is already abuzz about the show.
Diane Paulus directs. Paulus has made a name for herself as the go-to revival director as she effortlessly finds new and innovative ways to breathe new life into shows that have already been around the block, making them newly relevant. She is Tony nominated for her revivals of both Hair and Porgy and Bess. She also directed me in my first New York show, the Broadway workshop of Dirty Dancing. Big fan. Merde to the cast, can’t wait to see the show! Here is a preview.
My May issue of Sunset Magazine arrived yesterday in the mail (yes, I still subscribe the old fashioned way) and I opened it to find my dream backyard- although the Ten/Houston family garden seen here is actually their front yard. A classic movie lover’s retreat- modern, efficient, comfortable, beautiful and so fun. Perfect for a Tuesday night viewing of North by Northwest on a summer’s eve (mom- you’ll have to be in town for that one!) or great as a backdrop for a blowout bash.
I had visions of scenes from our favorite films projected on the outside of the hacienda wall at our wedding in Taos. A torrential downpour interrupted that dream although we did manage to project those scenes inside, which was actually pretty cool. One of our all time favorite movie moments, that great subtitled scene from Annie Hall, below and my maid of honor Molly perfectly lit in the archway. I love this picture.
Back to the movie-lover’s yard at hand. I love how these guys made such great use of their space creating a comfy outdoor living room with clever storage and beautiful accents. The kids play their PlayStation on the outdoor screen as well. Hey, at least they’re playing outside. The family’s Friday night movie nights have made them lots of new friends in the neighborhood.
For those of us not ready to break ground on our movie gardens (let’s face it, I’m still an urban apartment dweller with no backyard to speak of), we can rent projectors, speakers and all the goods necessary to set up shop indoors or outdoors. If you’ve got a large wall and a dvd player you’re good to go, you can rent the rest at funflicks.com. Read the full story on Sunset Mag here.
After a fantastic weekend at the ranch with my family and friends (post is in the works), my travel weary mind is a mixed bag of thoughts for this springy April Monday.
Mad Men. Oh Joan, I’m so happy to see you. Season 6 started out with Don appropriately tight lipped for the first 5 minutes. Something (as always) is a-brewing in that head of his. For starters, he’s reading Dante’s Inferno on Waikiki Beach… it can’t be good. I thought it was a great episode that did not disappoint. Happy to see that Megan is still in the mix, Betty is still tortured (and newly brunette) and I loved Don’s provocative pitch. Yay- they’re back.
R.I.P. Roger Ebert. Without him, we wouldn’t have Errol Morris and without him, we wouldn’t have The Fog of War,- possibly one of the best and most revealing documentaries on the Vietnam War ever- if you have not seen this documentary, please do yourself a favor and login to your Netflix account immediately. Ebert put Morris on the map with his first documentary, Gates of Heaven, in 1978. Big fan of Morris and a big fan of Ebert, I always loved the thumbs up routine. He will be missed.
Two words: GO BLUE. My Wolverines are in the NCAA finals tonight. This is the stuff of dreams, folks. I will be rooting hard for the Maize and Blue- beer in hand, just like the good old days. My good friend Molly got so tired at yelling at the tv during the games, she booked herself a flight to Atlanta so she could yell for her team in person. I wish I could join her!
I’m loving these vintage illustrations by Margaret Bloy Graham from the 1956 book, Really Spring. How appropriate as today is the first day I feel like it is really spring. This is one for the bebes.
And finally, the Iron Lady sleeps. Love her or hate her, you have to admire her tenacity. My favorite Margaret Thatcher quote, “Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren’t.”
{Images: AMC, Getty, David J. Phillip, The Telegraph}
Former showgirl, forever travel junkie, sometime sommelier, and mom to twin bebes. This little blog is a mixed bag of tasting notes, travels, tales of motherhood, and current musings. Thank you for stopping by. Cin Cin! (photo by Amy Dickerson for Anthology Magazine)
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