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Norma's Weekly Snapshot 
Summer can be an ideal time to relax, but adventurous opportunities lie around the corner for those looking for a bit of a challenge. You don't have to go far to test your boundaries, try something new, and experience a real adrenaline rush. This week's Special Feature includes some activities in and out of the city.
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...  Various Participating Locations
Visit lower Manhattan for an evening of dining, shopping and exploring. 60 partners, including noteworthy restaurants, retailers and museums will participate in this enjoyable weekly event.
The Yacht Kingston, the newest addition to the Classic Harbor Line fleet, is offering an amazing Manhattan Architectural Tour. As you circumnavigate our city, you'll uncover nooks and crannies of the waters surrounding our island and learn about its many hidden secrets. Various dates available.
August 16 Summer Streets
From the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park, along Park Avenue and connecting streets
7 miles of NYC's streets are opened for people to play, run, walk and bike from 7am to 1pm. Activities include arts and crafts workshops, live musical performances, dance workshops, a 25-foot climbing wall, and a 160-foot zipline.
August 17 Shape Up NYCHudson River Park (14th Street and West Street) From 6:30-7:30pm, free class features Dance Xross Fitness, a combination of dance, kickboxing, strength training, and soul line dancing.  ON THE RADAR:
USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (Flushing, NY)
Tickets are now on sale for matches at this year's Open. I plan on purchasing mine, as I do each year and will be on the lookout for one of my favorites, Rafael Nadal, who is on track to play despite a wrist injury.
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Cultural Pursuits... ANTON KERN GALLERY (532 West 20th Street)
DisplayedI enjoyed their current exhibition curated by Mathew Higgs, featuring works by 18 artists. Through August 22nd.
CHRISTIE'S (20 Rockefeller Plaza)
Don't Quit Your DaydreamThe iconic NYC institution is currently featuring this exhibit which showcases works of Christie's staff members. Through August 21st.
THE CLOISTERS (Fort Tryon Park) They're celebrating their 75th anniversary! The Cloisters has the most amazing collection of art and architecture of medieval Europe, presented by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, along with an exquisite garden. Visit the website for all that is offered for your next visit.
DISCOVERY TIMES SQUARE MUSEUM (226 West 44th Street) The Art of the Brick
A collection of intriguing and inspiring works of art made from one of the most recognized toys in the world... Legos. Perfect for everyone in your family. CNN names this exhibit in their top 10 must see global exhibitions! Through September 7th. DOMINIQUE LEVY GALLERY
Materials of post-war art and contemporary art. Visit their two current exhibits: Hypothesis for an Exhibition (909 Madison Avenue) and Gino De Dominicis (30 East 74th Street). Both exhibits through August 16th.  THE FORBES GALLERIES (62 5th Avenue) Titian Meets West Side Story: The Work of Edward MelcarthAlthough Abstract Expressionism was the style of choice throughout the 1950's, except for his early career, Melcarth worked as a figurative painter until the end of his life. Melcarth found inspiration in Venice and you can see some of his works on display through November 1st. THE FRICK COLLECTION (1 East 70th Street)
Summer Nights at the Frick
Enjoy summer nights on August 15th... free evenings inspired by special exhibitions. Visit the website for more information. Also, make sure to view their current exhibit by French artists, Enlightenment and Beauty: Sculptures by Houdon and Clodiun through April 5th, 2015.
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.
INTERNATIONAL CENTER OF PHOTOGRAPHY (1133 Avenue of the Americas) Caio Reisewitz The ICP is exhibiting large scale, colorful photographs by Caio Reiswitz, Brazil's leading contemporary photographer. Through September 7th.
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. Through September 21st.
 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. NYC MakersWhile at MAD, visit this sweeping cross section of productions invented by artists living in NYC. Through October 12th. 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. Conceptions of Space Also at MoMA, Twenty projects by contemporary artists. Through October 19th.
Le Corbusier: An Atlas of Modern Landscapes
Le Corbusier, a celebrated artist of three dimensions... a breathtaking exhibit through September 23rd. The Paris of Toulouse-Lautrec Prints and posters by this renowned artist will be on display through March 22nd, 2015.
 THE NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN (2900 Southern Boulevard, The Bronx)
Great American Gardens and The Women Who Designed Them
This Garden-wide exhibition celebrates early 20th-century America's most influential women in landscape architecture and design as well as garden photography. Through September 7th.
NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY (170 Central Park West)
Madeline in New York: The Art of Ludwig Bemelmans
Madeline in New York is open with more than 90 original artworks from creator Ludwig Bemelmans honoring the 75th anniversary of this beloved school girl. An exhibit for all ages! Bemelmans Bar, one of my favorite bars in the city, was named in honor of Madeline's amazing illustrator. Through October 19th. ROBIN RICE GALLERY (325 West 11th Street) Summertime SalonA photographic exhibit Robin Rice herself curates to exemplify the 56 exhibited artists' strengths and aesthetics. Through September 7th.
SOHO ARTS WALK (Various Locations) One of my favorite daytime activities. Walk along the cobblestone streets of SoHo, as you follow along with a map of participating established galleries such as the Broome Street Gallery and the Martin Lawrence Gallery. Through August 21st.
 THE SKYSCRAPER MUSEUM (39 Battery Place) Times Square, 1984The exhibit captures the decisive moment and transformation of the urban renewal of Times Square... now known as the crossroads of the world. Through January 2015.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.
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Curtain Up...
MUSIC, PERFORMANCE, DANCE:
Prospect Park Bandshell (Brooklyn) Live concerts all summer long. BargemusicBrooklyn Bridge
New York's floating concert hall, moored in Brooklyn, under the Brooklyn Bridge. View their website for this week's concerts... all under the stars.
Lincoln Center
Performances through August 16th... a visionary international programming of dance, music, opera, and theater by various artists.
Governors Island Put on your flapper gown and head to Governors Island to take a step back in time enjoying the music, inventions, and dancing of the 1920s. It is a prohibition ear soiree with music by the renowned Michael Aranella band. August 16 & 17 Fabian Almazon Trio Village Vanguard (173 7th Avenue) The well regarded Cuban born jazz pianist will be playing for two nights. August 17 Aaron Neville City Winery (155 Varick Street) For those Aaron Neville fans, buy your tickets now to see him perform at City Winery (155 Varick Street). PS1 (22-25 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City) A summer staple... visit PS1 Saturdays through September 6th for live experimental music, surrounded by art. Through August 23 Mostly Mozart Lincoln Center Classical music concert festival.
THEATER & FILM:
August 18 to 22 Central Park Conservancy Film Festival Central Park (between Sheep Meadow and the 72nd Street Cross Drive) Films will screen rain or shine for five consecutive nights, beginning at 8PM. Bring a picnic and blanket and enjoy the first production of "Big"....one of the best performances by Tom Hanks.  Pier 46 (Charles & West Streets) A new seven-part, 14-hour documentary that weaves the story of Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor airs for seven consecutive nights beginning September 14 on PBS. In advance of the broadcast premiere, the film's producers have selected one episode for a special, free screening to be presented in Hudson River Park.
Front/Row Stage (Fulton & Front Streets)
Part of the international film and food series, enjoy a delicious array of free French cuisine and drinks, followed by an outdoor free screening of Amelie.
Walk over to Lincoln Center for 10 nights of outdoor entertainment as you view the operas from this past season.
The Leonard Nimoy Theater (2537 Broadway)
For Hitchcock aficionados, don't miss "Rear Window."
And I And SilenceSignature Theatre Company's Pershing Square Signature Center (480 West 42nd Street) A politically engaging production that portrays a compelling picture of friendship against the odds in a segregated America of the 1950's. Through September 14th.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
Stephen Sondheim Theatre (124 West 43rd Street)
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. The show took home 2 Tonys - Best Sound Design and Jessie Mueller won for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.
 Atlantic Theater Company (330 West 16th Street) A witty comedy about an ex-cop and his ex-con son living in NYC. The writing and acting are excellent. Through August 23rd.
Bullets Over Broadway
St. James Theatre (246 West 44th Street)
Famed Woody Allen film hits Broadway. Marin Mazzie and Zach Braff deliver outstanding performances. The musical comedy is loaded with laughs and colorful characters. Through September 28th.
Studio 54 (254 West 54th Street) I experienced the most amazing New York evening when I saw Cabaret. Both Alan Cumming and Michelle Williams are show-stoppers, and the Kit-Cat band is superb! A magnificent revival, extended through January 4th. 
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. Through October 12th.
The Law of Return 4th Street Theater (84 East 4th Street)
Nominated by the Washington Theater festival as the Best Outstanding New Play, "The Law of Return" is now playing through August 24th. Get ready for 85 minutes of espionage, a suspenseful spy thriller by Martin Blank. Bryant Park (42nd Street at 6th Avenue) Free showings of the Shakespeare play is being shown in Bryant Park through August 30th on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. Grab a spot on the lawn to take in this ideal summer comedy in a perfect setting.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre (256 West 47th Street) No one forgets their first love! A.G. Gurney, one of my favorite playwrights, has created a funny and emotional play about the powerful connection of love. Choose from a star studded cast that will perform for a series of performances. Candice Bergen, Martin Sheen and Angelica Houston are on the list. Opening September 18th through February 1, 2015.
The Maids
The Sydney Theater Company - Lincoln Center
Long-awaited play starring Cate Blanchett. A story about the rituals of the infamous French Papin sisters. Although I normally preview a play first, with Cate Blanchett staring in the leading role, a preview isn't needed! Through August 16th.
Mother The Celebration of Whimsy (21-A Clinton Street) A play by Broadway performer Melinda Buckley will debut at the Fringe Festival. It portrays a tale of two women who are thrust in the painful moments of the sandwich generation. August 16, 17, 19, 22, 23.
Rocky Winter Garden Theatre (1634 Broadway) We all know the story of Rocky Balboa, and I have to say that I was skeptical about how this could transfer from screen to Broadway... but I was taken by surprise. Rocky knocks it out of the park with the scenic showplace, the sound and lighting, and a terrific cast. Through August 17th. Shakespeare in the Park: King Lear The Delacorte Theater (81 Central Park West)
It's worth standing in line for the free performances of Shakespeare's classic tale, starring Annette Bening and John Lithgow. Through August 17th.  This is Our YouthCort Theater (138 West 48th Street) Starting on August 18th, it is a living snapshot of moments when the three young characters venture out into a world on their own, armed only with ideas they have developed as teenagers. Starring Michael Cera and Kieran Culkin. Through January 4th.
Visit previous snapshots for more theater favorites.
ON THE RADAR:
August 23 & 24 Charlie Parker Jazz Festival
Various Locations
Then the week later, enjoy the music of Charlie Parker.
August 29 & 30 Paulo Szot54 Below (254 West 54th Street)
One of my favorite performers, tickets go fast, so if you're as captivated by this Brazilian opera star as I am, I suggest you buy your tickets now. I hope he'll sing a few tunes from his starring performance in South Pacific!
Lucile Lortel Theater (121 Christopher Street)
One of my top playwrights, Neil LaBute, will open his latest production of "The Money Shot." Heather Graham stars in an insightful comedy about ambitions, art and status in an era where very little is taboo.  September 6 Gipsy Kings The Beacon Theatre (2124 Broadway)
The GRAMMY winning band will be returning to the United States to continue the group's 25th Anniversary Tour.
Governors Island
A terrific ticketed event. Enjoy a tribute to Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffet, while walking along the grounds, viewing our city's skyline, and enjoying great seafood such as lobster rolls and oysters.
September 7 Mike Birbiglia: Thank God for JokesBAM's Howard Gilman Opera House (Brooklyn)
One of my favorite comedians, star of Sleepwalk With Me is coming to BAM. There is a special performance for BAM members on September 5th.
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Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal (42nd Street @ Park)
Take a break from the city pace and cool down at picnic tables covered in red & white checkered cloths. While sampling food from staples such as Murray's Cheese, Two Boots Pizza and Magnolia Bakery, you'll be entertained by Broadway performers from Motown and Chicago.
August 21 Taste of Tennis
W New York (541 Lexington Avenue)
The world's greatest tennis players and NYC's top chefs showcase their culinary skills at this annual event. Mingle with the pros, sip signature cocktails and enjoy the tastings of small plates.
Front/Row Stage (Fulton & Front Streets)
Part of the international film and food series, enjoy a delicious array of free French cuisine and drinks, followed by an outdoor free screening of Amelie.
August 23 Blues BBQ Festival
Pier 84 (West 44th Street & West Street)
Back for its 15th year anniversary, America's best blues and roots musicians entertain, while you sample food from three of the city's best barbecue restaurants...Mighty Quinn, Delaney's and Dinosaur BBQ. A rain or shine event in Hudson River Park.
As the summer begins to sadly wind down, many readers have been asking me to gather together my top finds in the city for a fall feature... Norma's Best of the Best. I've decided to take on the challenge! So stay tuned. In the meantime, below are three of my top specialized food shops, all new on the scene, tested and vetted by Norma.
The Egg Shop
Nolita
151 Elizabeth Street (Kenmare & Broome Streets)
How many times have you searched for a great egg dish, not just during the breakfast and brunch hours? Well look no further... founded by two egg addicts and the former chef of Smith and Mills. The eggs are organic and local and are transformed into many savory and sweet concoctions.
Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream
Lower East Side
2 Rivington Street (Freeman Alley & Bowery)
It's a daunting task since the city has many fabulous ice cream shops, but I have found one that I think stands out from the others. Morgenstern's is a new American ice cream parlor, offering texture-driven ice cream with all natural ingredients. So far my favorites are green tea pistachio and bitter chocolate.
Obica Mozzarella Bar Pizza e Cucina
Flatiron
928 Broadway (22nd & 23rd Streets)
The world's first mozzarella bar has recently debuted its flagship restaurant in the Flatiron district. Offering four types of mozzarella (burrata being my pick) and the freshest and most delectable pizzas in the city!
ON THE RADAR:  September 6 Governor's Island Music and Seafood Beach Party
Enjoy a tribute to Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffet, while walking along the grounds, viewing our city's skyline, and enjoying great seafood such as lobster rolls and oysters.
September 14 & 21 Mario Batali Family Dinners
Enjoy family dinners with Mario Batali chefs. Spend an exceptional day and evening visiting Mario's kitchen gardens of vegetable and herbs and picking up some of his special recipes. A garden-to-table meal is prepared by chefs of Batali's hospitality group.
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Special Feature... NY Adventure
Hop on a bike, hang onto a trapeze next to the city skyscrapers, or zip-line through lush landscape to connect with nature while keeping active. Here are my picks for creative activities that truly challenge, with options for all levels.
IN THE CITY:
Alley Pond Adventure Course
Oakland Gardens - Queens
The course include a zip-line, a climbing and bouldering wall, swings, nets, leaps and balance platforms. This is the first challenge course in New York City and the largest challenge course in the metropolitan region.
Boulder in Central Park
3 locations in Central Park - Rat Rock, Cat Rock, Worthless Boulder
An offshoot of rock climbing, bouldering concentrates on climbing challenges under 10 feet in height. Rat Rock is best for beginners.
Horseback Ride on the Beach
Jamaica Bay - Brooklyn
Take a guided instructional ride on the beach.
Pier 40 - at Houston & West Streets
Fly through the air with the greatest of ease... experts teach you the basics on top of the roof in Hudson River Park. Classes available through October. The school also offers classes in trampoline and silk rope climbing.
Play Kayak Polo
Pier 66 - at 26th & West Streets
Basic swimming ability is needed, but beginners are welcome to play and compete.
Mountain Bike in 5 Boroughs
The New York City Mountain Bike Association builds and maintains trails in all five boroughs of New York City, so grab your bike and visit the website for trail options.
OUT OF THE CITY:
Discover Outdoors
Adventure company that picks you up in the city for various activities such as hiking, paddling, beaches, vineyards, bike tours throughout NY, NJ, PA and CT. Hunter Mountain Zip Line Hunter, NY The largest zip line in the United States. North Fork Bicycle TourPour & Pedal offers tours of the Long Island Wine Country on bike. Schedule a ride on Saturdays and Sundays through October. Also available for the Hamptons.
Outdoor Connections
Guided adventure tours leaving from NYC and offering various adventures...from hiking and kayaking to white water rafting and camping.
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| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
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August 17 
