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Norma's Weekly Snapshot 
Can you believe 4th of July is just around the corner?
Celebrate our nation's birthday in style with all that's going on to commemorate Independence Day in NYC. My categorized event picks from Friday to Friday will having you saluting the holiday in the most patriotic way including viewing one of the world's greatest firework displays.
Visit past Weekly Snapshots for all of my Summer Features:
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... 
June 30 Central Park Sunset TourThis is not only perfect for the visitor, but also for the New Yorker like myself. Besides touring the historic spots such as Strawberry Fields and Tavern on the Green (and of course movie locations), the expert guides showed us hidden gems and told us facts that I never knew about my favorite city in the world! Various dates available through July 13th.
Lenox Hill Hospital presents this special event at the Residences at W New York - Downtown (123 Washington Street).
Through July 13 FIFA World Cup  Here are 2 more spots to go watch the games: Visit last week's Snapshot for a few more... Refinery Rooftop
Refinery Hotel - 63 West 38th Street
The astro turf and stadium décor at the Heineken pop-up bar and lounge at the hip Refinery Hotel is perfect for watching World Cup games. Large flat-screens, skyline views and cold cocktails in the fresh air... what could be more perfect?
The Butterfly225 West Broadway
Tribeca "supper club" has a secret pull-out flat screen to watch the games. Snack on bratwurst sliders while enjoying a signature cocktail.
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Cultural Pursuits... 
OPENING & CLOSING SOON:
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 5th Avenue)
June 27 Garry Winogrand Retrospective
Gary Winogrand, renowned NYC street photographer, will exhibit over 175 of his iconic images and unseen prints at The Met. This is his first exhibit in twenty five years.
The Whitney Museum (945 Madison Avenue)
The Whitney presents this exhibit by the most controversial artist of the post war period. This is his first major museum presentation in NYC. Through October 19th. Also visit Rockefeller Center for Koons' Split-Rocker plant, soaring 37 feet above the public square... the half-pony, half-dinosaur sculpture is grown from 50,000 flowering plants.
Through June 29 American Legends: From Calder to O'Keefe
There's still time to see this exhibit featuring exquisite art from masters from the first half of the century. Paintings from one of my other favorite artists, Jasper Jons, will also be on view at The Whitney. 
New-York Historical Society (170 Central Park West)
July 4 Madeline in New York: The Art of Ludwig Bemelmans Madeline in New York opens! More than 90 original artworks from creator Ludwig Bemelmans will honor the 75th anniversary of this beloved school girl. An exhibit for all ages! Bemelmans Bar, one of my favorite bar and lounges in the city, was named in honor of Madeline's amazing illustrator. Through October 19th. Domino Sugar Factory
(Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
Kara Walker says goodbye to one of the last remaining warehouses in Brooklyn, the Domino Sugar Factory, through an installation of magnificent sculptures. Through July 6th.
ONGOING EXHIBITS:  | | Caio Reisewitz |
The International Center of Photography (1133 Avenue of the Americas)
Caio Reisewitz The ICP is exhibiting large scale, colorful photographs of Caio Reiswitz, Brazil's leading contemporary photographer. Through September 7th. The Gagosian Gallery (821 Park Avenue)
Harmony Korine: Shooters
Visit the Gagosian Gallery for this collection of paintings. The latest addition to the galleries is their compact 1,000 square foot storefront space. Through July 11th. The Guggenheim Museum (1071 Fifth Avenue) Italian Futurism, 1909-1944: Reconstructing the Universe A truly amazing exhibit that I was fortunate to view during its installation - Italian futurism from its inception to its demise in World War II. Through September 1st. 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.
The Museum of Art and Design (2 Columbus Circle)
Multiple Exposures: Jewelry and Photography
The exhibit at The Museum of Art and Design showcases how contemporary jewelry artists transform images in this digital age. Through September 14th. The Museum of Modern Art (11 West 53rd Street) Lygia Clark: The Abandonment of Art, 1948-1988 Over 300 of her drawings, paintings and sculptures from the 1940s through the 1990s on display at MoMA through August 24th.  The Rubin Museum of Art (150 West 17th Street) Bodies in Balance: The Art of Tibetan Medicine The Rubin Museum, which features collections of art from the Himalayas, is currently showcasing this fascinating exhibit on Tibetan healing. Through September 8th. Stux Gallery (24 West 57th Street)
ON THE RADAR:
July 23 to 26 Limited Runs Marilyn Monroe Photographs
Limited Runs is hosting a traveling exhibition of rare, never before published Marilyn Monroe photographs. The show recently launched in LA and will travel to San Francisco before wrapping up here in NYC this summer at SUMO Contemporary Art Gallery (37 Walker Street). The show includes photographs by Thomas "Doc" Kaminski, Allan "Whitey" Snyder, Milton Greene, Lani Carlson, and Mischa Pelz.
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Curtain Up... 
MUSIC & DANCE:
Celebrate BrooklynLive concerts at the Prospect Park Bandshell all summer long. Wednesdays Madison Square Park Oval Lawn SeriesHead to Madison Square Park for free live music through August 6th. Thursdays Summer in the Square Free music through August 7th in Union Square. June 27 Sunset on the HudsonFree live music on the Hudson (Pier 45 - at Christopher St) by local artists. June 27 Central Park SummerStage I know it's summer when SummerStage begins in Central Park! Free outdoor concerts all summer. I will highlight my favorites as the season continues. Through August 23rd. June 28 Bloody Mary Bossa Nova BrunchThe Lambs Club at The Chatwal Hotel (132 West 44th Street) pairs bloody marys, brunch, and jazz for the perfect weekend experience (Saturdays).  June 28 MoMA PS1: Warm Up 2014A summer staple... visit PS1 (22-25 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City) Saturdays through September 6th for live experimental music, surrounded by art. June 28 & 29 Saratoga Jazz FestivalTravel just a few hours north for this annual festival of music... names like Earth Wine & Fire and Patti Austin will be making appearances.
Through June 29 BAMcinemaFest
In its sixth year, BAMcinemaFest introduces New York audiences to an eclectic lineup of top Indie American and world cinema.
Through June 29 River to River Festival
The festival collaborates with the Night of the Museum in extending hours to all of the city's downtown museums on the 21st. Check the schedule for events.Through June 30 Blue Note Jazz Festival In its fourth year, showcasing over 150 premier artists at more than 15 venues throughout the city. Visit their website to find your favorite artist. July 2 to 6 Summertime ClassicsExperience the New York Philharmonic with a distinct summertime flair and colorful commentary of conductor and host Bramwell Tovey.  July 3 & 5 54 Sings 1776
A special tribute at 54 Below (254 West 54th Street). Show your patriotism during the holiday week, listening to a showcase of American tunes.
Through July 5 American Ballet TheatreThe Spring Season at the Metropolitan Opera House (Lincoln Center) has begun! From Cinderella to Don Quixote... Performances through July 5th. Through July 12 Midsummer Nights Swing This Lincoln Center event is one of my favorites of the summer. New York City's best dance party under the stars. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or novice, you'll sample salsa, swing and an array of other dances.
THEATER:
Below are my ongoing picks for on and off Broadway until the fall lineup begins. Through June 29 The Old Woman At Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), you won't recognize the chameleons portraying the two staring roles. Oscar nominated William Dafoe and international ballet superstar, Mikhail Baryshnikov, are a dapper odd couple in comedic roles.  Through June 29 All the WayYour last change to see the Tony Award Winner for Best Play! Bryan Cranston has Golden Globes and Emmy awards for "Breaking Bad," now he adds a Tony to the list for Best Performance by a Lead Actor. Cranston's expert performance portrays one of the most controversial presidents of the 20th century...LBJ. At the Neil Simon Theater (250 West 52nd Street).
Through July 6 Shakespeare in the Park: Much Ado About Nothing
It's worth standing in line at The Delacorte Theater (81 Central Park West) for the free performances of Shakespeare's classic tale. You may recognize Hamish Linklater as Benedick. Through July 6th. King Lear starts on July 22nd, starring Annette Bening and John Lithgow!  After MidnightBroadway's Cotton Club musical and Tony Award Winner for Best Choreography! I was fortunate to see Patti LaBelle in a featured role. Get ready for Gladys Knight who will be performing from July 8th to August 3rd. The show is a combination of the big hits from Duke Ellington's band and the best dancing on Broadway. Through August 31st at Brooks Atkinson Theatre (256 West 47th Street). Beautiful: The Carole King Musical If you enjoyed Jersey Boys as much as I did, you'll be equally entertained watching this musical that follows the legendary songwriter from her early days as a Brooklyn teenager to those well-known hits as a top recording artist. Through November 16th at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre (124 West 43rd Street). The show took home 2 Tonys - Best Sound Design and Jessie Mueller won for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.Brits Off BroadwayAnnual festival of British theater in NYC. Check the website for a play that will pique your interest. Through June 29th at the 59 East 59 Theater.  Buyer & Cellar
At the Barrow Street Theater (27 Barrow Street) through August 31st. An outrageous comedy about the price of fame as an LA actor goes to work in Barbra Streisand's basement. You'll soon see why this is the longest running off-Broadway comedy.
Cabaret I experienced the most amazing New York evening recently when I saw 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. If/Then The Musical A favorite performer of mine, Idina Menzel of Wicked, stars in this musical about a woman that returns to life in NYC discovering endless possibilities where chance and choice collide. At the Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street). Through October 12th.
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.
 Under My Skin
For those of you that have enjoyed movies like Working Girl and Big, you'll enjoy this uproarious comedy. Through a twist of fate, a successful yet arrogant business man and a single mother switch bodies thanks to the help of an angel...seeing things from the "other side." Through July 6th at the Little Shubert Theatre (422 West 42nd Street).
ON THE RADAR:
Performances to wow and delight through August 16th... music, dance, art.
As a part of the Lincoln Center Festival, adventurous performances at Lincoln Center from one of the world's most esteemed ballet production companies. Three full-length ballets will be performed with intense drama and emotion. This is our city's first opportunity to experience the combined talents of the Bolshoi Ballet along with opera and a symphonic orchestral accompaniment.
July 14 & 15 The Bacon Brothers with Cindy Alexander
Purchase tickets for this City Winery concert (155 Varick Street); you can even get a ticket to the pre-show meet & greet!
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For the Foodie... 
Each week I'll feature my picks for both New and Notable dining spots
Each week, in addition to the upcoming food-related events, I will feature my picks for both New and Notable dining spots.
FOODIE EVENTS:
Through Jun 28 Rose Week
Isola Trattoria, one of the most picturesque restaurants in the city (housed in SoHo's Mondrian hotel - 9 Crosby Street), is featuring Rose Week. Sample Italian-inspired food pairings as you sip premium Rose wines. There will even be an Italian brunch that I plan to attend.
June 26 Andaz Wall Street Farmers Market
A sure sign of summer is the return of the Andaz Wall Street Farmers Market. Shop fresh produce and sample food from the hotel's restaurant every Thursday.
 Through June 30 Sud de France FestivalFor New York Foodies... with some diverse events for learning, and others for sheer enjoyment. Concerts, wine tasting, seminars and local restaurant events. Through June 30th. Discover Italy: A Summer Regional Wine Series Discover the flavors and wines of Italy without leaving the city! A summer wine series is being presented by Abboccato Restaurant (136 West 55th Street), showcasing wines and savory bites from Sicily in June. Then in July, they will feature Tuscany and the Piedmont region in August. NEW:  Claudette French Cuisine 24 5th Avenue (at 9th Street) Another winner from the Bobo and Rosemary's team! A lovely Provençal spot reminiscent of a French farmhouse setting, complete with traditional banquettes. Shareable salads, seafood plates, and the Hangar Steak are my recommendations for a wonderful dining experience. Congratulations Carlos on another hit! Tutto Al Giorno Italian Cuisine 114 Franklin Street (West Broadway & Church Street) Gabby Karan de Felice brings my favorite Sag Harbor restaurant to Tribeca. Set in the former Theater Bar space, Gabby and her team designed a breathtaking venue! Modern Neapolitan cuisine is served and their selections are amazing. My friends and I are still raving over the Buratta, Papparedelle, and Branzino. NOTABLE:  Betony American Cuisine 41 West 57th Street (5th & 6th Avenues) Named after an herb in the mint family known for healing. One of my go-to places to eat before or after seeing a performance at Carnegie Hall. Soaring ceilings, contemporary photos of NYC, and a 35-seat bar create an inviting atmosphere. Favorites include the Fava Salad, Roast Chicken, and their summertime Lobster Roll. Caffee Grazie Italian Cuisine 26 East 84th Street (at Madison Avenue)
A long-standing favorite located steps from Madison Avenue and a block from the MET. The cozy townhouse setting complements the exquisite architecture of this neighborhood. Serving both northern and southern Italian cuisine. Try their Bento Box (two savories and a sweet) for a quick lunch, or linger over their fresh pasta dishes such as homemade gnocchi, or organic Chicken Parmesan. If you save room for dessert, the S'mores with Nutella is a must!
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SPECIAL FEATURE... Independence Day 
Staying in the city? Here are some festive things to do on the 4th...
What better day to visit the statue than on Independence day... it is reopening on the 4th after damages from Super Storm Sandy.
Of course! The 38th Annual Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will start at 8pm back on the East River! More than 2 miles of viewing space along the river, or you can watch the event from home, this year hosted by Nick Cannon; entertainment includes Enrique Iglesias and Lionel Richie.
A great place to spend the day... while there, watch Nathan's Famous 98th annual Hot Dog Eating Contest. You can watch the fireworks aboard a beautiful yacht on the Hudson. Check out their 4th of July Independence Day cruises. GO ON A REVOLUTIONARY WALKING TOUR Big Onion Walking Tours offers a special Lower Manhattan tour on the 9th. Visit sites associated with the US War of Independence and New York's role in the early Republic. Or the Fraunces Tavern Museum has an Annual Revolutionary War New York Nighttime Walking Tour, starting at 3am!
 GO TO A JULY 4TH THEMED CONCERTJuly 3 & 5 54 Below Sings 1776 A special tribute at 54 Below (254 West 54th Street). Show your patriotism during the holiday week, listening to a showcase of American tunes.
July 4, 5, 6 Star-Spangled CelebrationAs part of the NY Philharmonic's Summertime Classics, purchase tickets to experience a concert combining the NY Philharmonic and "The Commandant's Own" as they celebrate America's birthday with this spectacular display of musical fireworks.
HEAD TO THE HAMPTONS
Stay at Gurney's in Montauk (now undergoing a multi-year renovation!), learn to surf, grab a bite at Gosman's Dock, then watch their annual 4th of July fireworks display on Umbrella Beach. End with a nightcap at Navy Beach.
Stay tuned all summer...
I'll be highlighting upcoming events and new on the scene
restaurants and shops throughout the Hamptons!
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| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
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