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Norma's Weekly Snapshot
Norma Knows New York City
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Send to other savvy New Yorkers and hip visitors, so they can
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General Events... 
May 9 to 11 Brooklyn Designs
Brooklyn's annual exhibit of local designers is back at St. Ann's Warehouse in DUMBO. Contemporary furnishings, lighting... all made or designed in Brooklyn!
Through May 10 Madison Avenue Watch Week
While strolling along Madison Avenue from 55th Street to 70th, you'll see the latest trends in watches... from Asprey and Chanel to David Yurman and Montblanc.
May 10 & 11 Upper West Side Annual Spring Crafts On Columbus Fair
Head to Columbus Avenue from 77th to 81st Street - Still time to find a last minute Mother's Day gift!
A celebration of the Meatpacking District at Highline Stages (440 West 15th). Co-chairs Diane Von Furstenberg and André Balazs will be joined by a host committee of the who's-who of the Meatpacking District and beyond. Shop sample sales from the best designers, eat and drink the greatest food, and play at local hot spots. Purchase tickets.
Through May 13 Manhattan Cocktail Classic An annual celebration of cocktails and culture. Almost 100 events spread throughout four boroughs and a two-day trade conference. Events at some of the best spots in NYC... The Dead Rabbit, Employees Only, and The Delancey to name a few. Many events are already sold out, so make sure to purchase tickets.
EARLY EVENT ALERT:
May 21 Fleet Week Celebration and a Makeover Honor 4 deserving military heroines while enjoying cocktails, appetizers, and skin consultations.
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Cultural Pursuits...
May 10 Lygia Clark: The Abandonment of Art, 1948-1988Over 300 of her drawings, paintings and sculptures from the 1940s till the 90s will be on display at MoMA (11 West 53rd Street). Through August 24th. Through May 11 Downtown Fair Modern and contemporary art fair at the Downtown Armory (68 Lexington Avenue). Through May 11 PULSE New York
Contemporary Art Fair at the Metropolitan Pavilion (125 West 18th Street). Thoughtfully curated exhibitions for your viewing pleasure. May 11 Spring 2014 OpeningSpring opening at Socrates Sculpture Park in Long Island City. Take a stroll throughout the park and view the new solo presentations. The perfect outdoor outing for a weekend afternoon. Through August 3rd. Through May 12 Frieze Art Fair An all day annual event at Randall's Island that features art from over 190 local galleries. May 13 Multiple Exposures: Jewelry and Photography
The exhibit at The Museum of Art and Design (2 Columbus Circle) showcases how contemporary jewelry artists transform images in this digital age. Through September 14th. May 13 Everything: Part I First solo exhibit by the famed cartoonist, Lynda Barry, premiers at the Adam Baumgold Gallery (60 East 66th Street). Through July 11th. May 13 Self-Taught Genius: Treasures from the American Folk Art Museum A compilation of 100 of the museum's treasured works (2 Lincoln Square). Through August 17th. Through May 17 Warhol: Jackie Stop by the Blain/DiDonna gallery on the Upper East Side (The Carlyle Hotel, Second Floor - 981 Madison Avenue) to view Andy Warhol's exhibit of the iconic Jackie O! Warhol's prints of the former first lady are on exhibit together for the first time. Through May 25 Whitney Biennial 2014 View an impressive lineup of outside curators at the Whitney Museum of American Art (945 Madison Avenue). Through May 31 ar*chi*tec*ton*ic The curated exhibition at Site109 (109 Norfolk Street) features the works of British artists, Painter Andy Burgess, and Photographer Tom Leighton. The artists use strong architectural lines and vibrant colors in their work to create compelling compositions. Jean-Michel Basquiat Drawing22 works on paper and two paintings from the collection of Herbert and Lenore Schorr, who were the artist's devoted collectors, supporters, and friends. At the Acquavella Galleries (18 East 79th Street). Through June 13th. Bill Cunningham: Facades One of my top NYC photographers, the legendary Bill Cunningham previews "Fashion as Cultural History" in one of my favorite museums, the New-York Historical Society (170 Central Park West). You're in for a treat as you view the architectural riches and fashion history of our city. Through June 15th. Pierre SoulagesFrench painter, engraver, and sculptor, Pierre Soulage's exhibit is on exhibition at the Dominique Levy Gallery on the Upper East Side (909 Madison Avenue). Through June 27th. Charles James: Beyond Fashion At The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 5th Avenue); an exquisite exhibition showcasing James' sculptural and scientific approach to the creation of his ball gowns. Through August 10th.
Palaces for the People
Spanish immigrant Guastavinos' contribution in tile is seen in some of America's greatest public spaces. View his works at the Museum of the City of New York (1220 Fifth Avenue). Through September 7th.
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Curtain Up...
May 9
Dancing in the Grand Ballrooms: Michael Arenella and His Dreamland OrchestraCole Porter and Frank Sinatra come to life at the Peter Jay Sharp Theater (155 West 65th Street). Join Michael Aranella and His Dreamland Orchestra as they present a period of music, dance and fashion from the 20s through the 50s...paying tribute to the golden age of big bands, jazz, and swing in NYC. Through May 10
This annual event at Carnegie Hall (881 7th Avenue) will feature a world renowned orchestra each evening. May 12 American Ballet TheatreThe Spring Season at the Metropolitan Opera House (Lincoln Center) begins! From Cinderella to Don Quixote... Performances through July 5th. May 12 Piano in the ParkBryant Park concerts return! Listen to ragtime and Dixieland jazz during your lunch hour on the upper tier from 12:30-2:30. Performances continue daily until October 10th. Through May 17 Steve TyrellOne of my favorite performers will entertain audiences at Café Carlyle (35 East 76th Street). 
New York City BalletThe spring season opened on April 29th at the David H. Koch Theater (Lincoln Center). Through June 8th. Lady DayTony award winner, Audra McDonald, takes on the role of legendary Billie Holiday in a fantastic performance at the Emerson Bar and Grill in Circle in the Square (1633 Broadway). Through August 10th.
THEATER & FILM: Through May 11 Irma La DouceThe Classic play premiers at the New York City Center (131 West 55th Street). It is a delightful tale of a Parisian lady "of the evening" and the law student who falls in love with her. Get your tickets early since there are only 7 performances.
Starring two performers you will recognize... Megan Mullally (Will and Grace) and her real life husband, Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation) star in a show about a couple separated and reunited - their reunion, charged by rage and compassion, brings back the worst and best of their former bond. At The Acorn Theatre (410 West 42nd Street) through June 1st.
Here Lies Love This musical retraces the journey of Filipina First Lady Imelda Marcos from her rise to power to her descent into infamy. The show at The Public Theater (425 Lafayette Street) blends the passion of politics with heart-pounding dance beats. Through June 21st.
The Realistic Joneses Marisa Tomei, Toni Collette, and Michael C. Hall star in this comical show which asks the question, "what do you really know about your neighbors?" At the Lyceum Theatre (149 West 45th Street) through July 6th, it has been getting rave reviews.
Cabaret
I experienced the most amazing New York evening the other night seeing Cabaret at Studio 54 (254 West 54th Street). Both Alan Cumming and Michelle Williams are show-stoppers, and the Kit-Cat band is superb! A magnificent revival with performances through July 11th.

Of Mice and Men
A limited engagement of the revived literary Steinbeck classic. Actors James Franco, Chris O'Dowd, and Leighton Meester make their Broadway debuts in this emotional American Depression-era tale. At the Longacre Theater (220 West 48th Street) through July 27th.
Bullets Over Broadway
Famed Woody Allen film hits Broadway at the St. James Theatre (246 West 44th Street). Marin Mazzie and Zach Braff knocked it out of the park! The musical comedy is loaded with laughs and colorful characters. Through September 28th.
Visit previous snapshots for more favorites in theater.
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For the Foodie...
Outdoor culinary festival orchestrated by tops chefs of TriBeCa. Proceeds will benefit the arts education program of the local public primary schools.
Annual event in Madison Square Park (5th Avenue between 24th & 25th Streets) featuring some of NYC's most popular restaurants and
food vendors including Momofuku Milkbar, Roberta's Pizza, and Red Hook Lobster Pound.
EARLY EVENT ALERT:
May 27 to 31 New Taste of the Upper West Side
A 7th annual celebration of prominent chefs of the UWS, supporting the maintenance of Theodore Roosevelt Park (Columbus Avenue and West 79 Street). This year, it will be hosted by Alex Guarnaschelli of Butter Restaurant!
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CREATE MEMORIES: Marisa Erin Photography Love. Wonder. Curiosity. Joy. Create a special jewel-like moment to tell the story of you and mom.
BAUBLES & BANGLES:
Jennifer Fisher 270 Lafayette Street, Suite 904 (Prince & Jersey St) From a collection of over 4,000 charms and initial-engraved disks, to elaborate crests and pave diamond skulls, all pieces are made to order by jewelry designer, Jennifer Fisher. Schedule an appointment to visit her SoHo showroom. Check out her recently launched new color MOMMA in honor of Mother's Day. Jennifer creates a "casual edge" for her clients. Her collection will accessorize both uptown and downtown moms! Gilded Lace Check website for retail locations
Antique vintage lace brought back to life by Monika Knutson! Imagine wearing a piece of a Parisian lace undergarment from 1920 on your wrist! Modern, graphic jewelry pieces of old and forgotten lace dipped in sterling silver or 24K gold. Monika combines her passion for antique vintage clothing and jewelry. Her pieces are feminine but compliment all types of clothing.
MEMORABLE GIFTS:
Diptyque
377 Bleecker Street (Charles & Perry Street)
Pick up one of their recently launched fragrances in celebration of Mother's Day - "Eau de Lavande" and "Geranium Odorata."
Eataly 200 5th Avenue (at 24th Street)
Order mom the "Eataliana Gift Box..." including some Italian eats to make her smile.

MoMA Store11 West 53rd Street (5th & 6th Avenues) I always love to step into this shop... although sometimes I can never pry myself out! All types of unique gifts for not only the art lover, but anyone that likes an interesting item. Pasanella & Son Vintners 115 South Street Pick up a wine basket for her...And as a great way to support the still-recovering Seaport, bring mom by the store on Mother's Day for a 20% discount. Provisions by Food 52 Great gifts for the home, both inside and outside.  I LOVE NEW YORK for Mothers Perfect for mom, a fragrance specifically for her from Bond No. 9 (9 Bond Street). Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder Arianna Huffington's book is a great gift to motivate and inspire mom to redefine what it means to be successful in today's world. SAY IT WITH FLOWERS: Emily Thompson Flowers
142 Beekman Street
Exquisite floral in the still-recovering Seaport District. Custom designs for any occasion... they even do custom party favors and calligraphy for special events.
Jane Packer Flowers
328 East 59th Street
Following the success of their stores and schools in London, Japan, and Korea... New York had to be next. Their store is beautiful and their contemporary arrangements are sure to please mom. I plan to take one of their upcoming flower making classes (another great gift for mom).
SWEET TREATS:

L'Aduree
864 Madison Avenue Macarons to die for... the original French ones. Many try to imitate but nothing matches Ladurée!
La Maison du Chocolat 1018 Madison Avenue With boutiques in Paris, Cannes, London, Tokyo, and Hong Kong, you can't miss this authentic spot. They have 4 locations in Manhattan, but the UES is my favorite.
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Spend the Day with Mom
Aire Spa88 Franklin Street This spanish bath house's first US location has 3 stories of relaxation where only 25 visitors are allowed every 2 hours. Candlelit atmosphere, 350-jet jacuzzi, and a warm salt pool a la Dead Sea. Take a trip to zen with mom. Visit my recent Snapshot for more Day Spa recommendations. Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar1 Seventh Avenue What better way to celebrate the day than at a spot where wine and chocolates are at the forefront! A true gem in the West Village... try their chocolate martinis, or savory cheese and chocolate truffles. May 10 Easy Entertaining: Mother's Day Brunch
Take a class at Haven's Kitchen ( 109 West 17th Street) to learn how to host like a pro... a menu as well as techniques and tips to host the perfect brunch.
May 10 Flower School with Franki ElizabethOr, why not learn how to make the perfect bouquet... also at Haven's Kitchen (109 West 17th Street).
May 10 & 11 Mother's Day Weekend Garden Party
Visit the New York Botanical Garden for live music, games, tours, and casual picnicking surrounded by the most beautiful spring landscape. May 11 Mother's Day Celebration Cooking ClassWhat better way to celebrate Mother's Day than by taking a cooking class together. Team up at the Institute of Culinary Education (50 West 23rd Street) to prepare dishes that are more fun made together. Dishes include Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Pommes Anna, and Crème Brûlée. May 11 New York Mother's Day Brunch Cruise
Treat mom to a luxury cruise aboard the Bateaux. Live music... and of course champagne. This is probably the best boat in the city! May 11 Special Mother's Day Klezmer Brunch - Metropolitan Klezmer Live music and food in a fresh, cultural environment, City Winery (155 Varick Street) pairs some of the greatest musicians in the world with a fabulous brunch. And, they are offering 20% off 3+ bottles of wine. Use code MOM at checkout. May 11 Second Sunday Family Tour
Family-oriented tours at the Guggenheim Museum (1071 5th Avenue) that incorporate conversation and creative hands-on gallery activities. Mother's Day brunch and movie for $75 per person at The Crosby Street Hotel (79 Crosby Street). Enjoy brunch and cocktails in The Crosby Bar, then at 2:30pm, the movie screening.
May 12 Joan Osborne's First Annual Mother's Day Benefit Concert
Special guests Ollabelle & Elizabeth Mitchell join famed singer Joan Osborne at City Winery (155 Varick Street) to help benefit Somaly Mam Foundation and Save the Children.
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| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
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