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Norma's Weekly Snapshot 
Make the most of your final carefree days this Labor Day Weekend with my suggestions for in and out of the city. Visit last week's Snapshot for many outdoor ideas for the weekend... This week's Special Feature includes the best way to close out the summer with beaches, boat cruises, BBQs, and bazaars!
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...   September 4 Beauty & Blazers
Rouge NY (130 Thompson Street)
Learn how to pull together a polished look for in and out of the office during Fashion Week from 6 to 8pm.
September 5 to 7 Glamour's Street GlamChelsea Market (410 West 16th Street)
Hosted by Glamour Magazine, stop by for free makeup applications, eyebrow styling, and skin care treatments.
USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (Flushing, NY)Tickets are on sale for matches at this year's Open. I already have my tickets in hand for a couple of the matches. If you can't score a ticket, the next best thing is watching it on a jumbo screen at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Bryant Park will also have outdoor Watch Parties using a 55" TV to display the matches.September 4 - 11 Mercedez-Benz Fashion WeekOne of my favorite weeks of the year, Fashion Week showcases spectacular spring/summer 2015 collections for the fashion forward set.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. STREET CHIC:
Windowswear Walking Tours An in-depth journey into New York City's fashion industry, the most famous stores and how they design windows. A perfect walking tour to kick off Fashion Week.
ON THE RADAR:  September 6 Run for HerPier 84 (West 44th Street & West Street) Register now and lace up for the annual 5K Run and Friendship Walk to support ovarian cancer research and awareness.
September 17 Central Perk
199 Lafayette Street
The famous Friends coffee shop will be opening through October 18th. Now in London, Warner Brothers is bringing the pop-up replica to NYC in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the adored series.
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Cultural Pursuits...
Last chance to visit these three exhibits, closing on September 1st: 
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.
15th and 16th century drawings of the Italian Renaissance from Central and Southern Italy. A special emphasis is placed on drawings of Florentine masters, such as Leonardo Da Vinci.
THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART (11 West 53rd Street)
Jasper Johns: Regrets
As one of the most influential artists of our time, he is still creating at 83 years of age! The exhibition highlights works of the past year and a half.
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.  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) Jean-Antoine Houdon and Claude Michel were two of the foremost sculptors in France during the late eighteenth century. Their sculptures will be shown together for the first time, highlighting the artists' expressive ranges. Through April 5, 2015.
 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.
THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART (1000 Fifth Avenue)
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 MORGAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM
(225 Madison Avenue)
Gatsby to Garp: Modern Masterpieces from the Carter Burden Collection
Modern masterpieces from celebrated 20th century writers such as Faulkner, Fitzgerald, and James. I was in awe viewing these first edition manuscripts. Visit on Fridays for Free Friday Evenings, concerts and lectures. Through September 7th. 
Multiple Exposures: Jewelry and Photography
The exhibit 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) Conceptions of Space 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 at MoMA through September 23rd. The Paris of Toulouse-Lautrec Prints and posters by this renowned artist will be on display at MoMA through March 22, 2015.
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.
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. ON THE RADAR:  METROPOLITAN PAVILION (125 West 18th Street) All pieces range from $100-$10,000. THE MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK (1220 Fifth Avenue) Mac Conner: A New York LifeSeptember 10 Opening
New York's saga of the original Mad Men! Hand-painted illustrations for advertising campaigns and women's magazines during the years after World War II.
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Curtain Up...
MUSIC, PERFORMANCE, DANCE:
Brooklyn 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.  August 29 & 30 Paulo Szot54 Below (254 West 54th Street)
One of my favorite performers, I hope he'll sing a few tunes from his starring performance in South Pacific! August 31 NYC Cabaret Festival54 Below (254 West 54th Street) The festival salutes some of the finest talents in the NYC cabaret community. Works range from original compositions to standards by the greats. September 3 A Tribute to Duke EllingtonThe Alvin Ailey Studio (405 West 55th Street)
Order your tickets for an UNDER THE RAINBOW event, honoring Duke Ellington and his daughter, Mercedes, with special dance performances from former dancers from the Bolshoi and Dance Theatre of Harlem and featuring the young ladies from the International Ballet training program. Great raffle prizes will be awarded (including 7 nights at The Saint James Club in Antigua). The individual ticket price is now $50. Please spread the word as this will be a wonderful program and the young women are truly special.
THEATER & FILM:
What's the best way to get tickets? Try the Broadway Ticket Lottery. This is one of the best finds for securing tickets to Broadway shows. The website lists the simple process for both Broadway Rush and Lottery tickets. On each day of the week, the featured Broadway shows offer discounted tickets via rush tickets and lotteries. A bit of patience and an early arrival will often score you excellent seats at the best price.
September 1 to 14 Broadway Week
Enjoy two-for-one Broadway tickets at participating theaters; many of my favorite shows are participating.
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.
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.
Metropolitan Opera Summer HD Festival
Walk over to Lincoln Center for outdoor entertainment as you view the operas from this past season. Through September 1st.
 The Money Shot
Lucile Lortel Theater (121 Christopher Street)
One of my top playwrights, Neil LaBute, will open his latest production of "The Money Shot" on September 4th. Heather Graham stars in an insightful comedy about ambitions, art and status in an era where very little is taboo.
The Irene Diamond Stage at The Pershing Square Signature Center
(480 West 42nd Street)
1960s songwriter Bert Berns will have the audience "twist and shout", as he performs any of his 51 hits. The story is told through the eyes of his daughter Jamie. A great untold story of rock-n-roll; through September 14th.
Cort Theater (138 West 48th Street)
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.
You Can't Take It With You
L ongacre Theatre (220 West 48th Street) James Earl Jones and Rose Byrne star in this touching comedy by Moss Hart that portrays the relationship between two families when their children become engaged. Now in previews, opens September 28th. Through January 4th.
Visit previous snapshots for more theater favorites.
ON THE RADAR:
 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. September 8 & 9 Amy Grant City Winery (155 Varick Street)
After 10 years since her last full studio album, Amy Grant will perform at the City Winery for 2 nights only. Meet & Greet tickets available as well. September 8 Works and Process Guggenheim Museum - Peter B. Lewis Theater (1071 Fifth Avenue) Celebrating 30 years of performing arts, discussions and world premieres. See and hear acclaimed artists in an intimate setting. Through December 15th. September 9 BAM 2014 Next Wave Festival Brooklyn Academy of Music (30 Lafayette Avenue - Brooklyn)
Avant-garde music, theater, opera, and dance. Two performances I will be attending are the revival of Tony Kushner's Angels in America and Shakespeare's Sonnets with a score by Rufus Wainwright. Through December 20th.  September 11 to 14 Romeo & Juliet The Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College (East 68th Street between Park & Lexington Avenues) A dramatic dance ensemble, celebrating Shakespeare's 450 birthday! September 16 & 17 New York Philharmonic Lincoln Center - Avery Fisher Hall (10 Lincoln Center Plaza) The Opening Gala Concert and the following evening will showcase music of Italian Cinema..."La Dolce Vita!" September 18 Love Letters Brooks Atkinson Theatre (256 West 47th Street) No one forgets their first love! A.G. Gurney 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, Brian Dennehy, Martin Sheen, and Carol Burnett are on the list. Opening September 18th through February 1, 2015.
October 7 to 11 Betty Buckley The Public Theater (425 Lafayette Street) Betty Buckley, known as "the voice of Broadway," will celebrate her new "Ghostlight" recording. October 2 Billy & Ray Vineyard Theatre (108 East 15th Street)  Director Garry Marshall of Pretty Woman fame, will direct this true story that portrays the life of these two artists (Billy Wilder & Raymond Chandler) and how they battled the Hollywood censors and each other.
October 20 A Delicate BalanceJohn Golden Theater (252 West 45th Street)
Glenn Close returns to Broadway with John Lithgow in Edward Albee's "A Delicate Balance." A moving play about a married couple struggling to maintain equilibrium when they open up their home to friends and family in need.
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For the Foodie...
 August 31 Left Bank117 Perry Street
The Left Bank restaurant, part of the Red Cat and Harrison family, is showing the movie Casablanca at 8pm. This West Village American tavern specializes in delicious Italian food.
September 4 Eataly's 4th Birthday
La Birreria at Eataly (200 5th Avenue)
The best of Eataly's Italian offerings... all-you-can-eat menu for $150 per person.
LABOR DAY DINING:
Labor Day weekend allows New Yorkers staying in the city to score reservations at many sought-after dining spots that are normally reserved well in advance. Below are my picks for downtown dining. For uptown dining, some of my favorite spots will be open such as Casimir (103 Avenue B - French Cuisine), The East Pole (133 East 65th Street - New American Cuisine), Vespa Uno (1625 Second Avenue - Italian Cuisine), and The Simone (151 East 82nd Street - French Cuisine).
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Blenheim
283 West 12th Street - West Village
New American Cuisine
Farm to table cuisine. This weekend will conclude their $38 3-course Chef's Tasting Menu at 6pm seatings.
403 East 12th Street - East Village
New American Cuisine
Celebrating the near end of summer with a lobster boil dinner on August 31st.
298 Bedford Avenue - Brooklyn
French Cuisine
Doors open at noon for a Labor Day event on September 1st. Includes an assortment of premier oysters and chilled seafood, a full bar, and live music. Feel like you're on a holiday retreat when you walk out onto their patio or garden.
The return of their three martini lunch... only on Fridays, beginning tonight. $30 per person lunch served from 12-3pm, with a Bluegrass performance at 2pm.
ON THE RADAR:
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September 6 Governor's Island Music and Seafood Beach Party
Governor's Island
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 Champagne Brunch at Beauty & Essex
146 Essex Street
Returns Sundays from 1-6pm. A 4-course brunch with two glasses of champagne will be offered for $45pp.
September 11 to 21 88th Annual Feast of San Gennaro
Little Italy
An annual tradition in NYC, food vendors and a spirited crowd throughout Little Italy celebrating Italian culture.
September 14 & 21 Mario Batali Family Dinners
New York Botanical Garden
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.
City Winery (155 Varick Street)
City Winery teams up with partner American Airlines once again for the 5th annual food and wine pairing dinners. Each event features remarks by a leading regional expert, a three-course dinner, and three flights of wine highlighting the traditional styles of the region, this one focuses on California. I go each year and this year I plan to attend the Italian-focused dinner on October 28th.
September 30 Dine Around Downtown
One Chase Manhattan Plaza
Up to 50 restaurants come together at one food fair. New eateries are opening all the time and this is the place to sample it all. Check back for a full list of participants in the coming weeks.
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Special Feature... Labor Day Weekend in the City
This weekend (August 30th to September 1st), visit Washington Square Park for the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit - A sidewalk show featuring fine arts and crafts, photography and sculpture. Then, mark your calendars for September 6th... The NYC Labor Day Parade begins at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street and continues up Fifth Avenue to 64th Street. BEACHES
Brighton BeachBrooklyn A hidden treasure among New Yorkers. Right next to Coney Island, take the B or Q to the Brighton Beach stop. Mom-and-pop shops with Russian eateries on the boardwalk. Long BeachLong Island Hop on the Long Island Railroad and get off at the Long Beach stop (the last stop). It's just a 5-minute walk to get you right on the sand. There is a fee to get onto the beach, but it's worth it to be away from larger crowds and have a pleasant day. Ocean BeachFire Island Appreciate a laid back town with bicycles, stunning sunsets and easy access to the beach. It's a longer trek to get there, but you can take the Long Island Railroad to Bayshore, then take the ferry to Fire Island. BOAT CRUISES
 Classic Harbor Line
Offers many options including Architecture Tours, private charters, Sunset Sails, and Day Sails.
Dinner cruises, Sunday brunch sails, and my favorite... Sights & Sips Cruise.
BBQs
354 Metropolitan Avenue - Brooklyn
Touted as as the king of New York's barbecue scene. Mighty Quinn's103 Second Avenue - East Village The second-generation meat connoisseurs offer their take on classic, locally sourced "Texalina" barbeque. SmokeLine - Delaney BarbecueThe High Line between 15th & 16th Streets - Chelsea Great for grab-n-go as you walk along the High Line... try "The Mess," chopped brisket, pulled beef rib meat, a bright pink onion relish, chili sauce, and a slice of cheese.
BAZAARS Brooklyn Night Bazaar 165 Banker Street - Brooklyn Every Friday and Saturday, this night market brings together independent vendors, musicians, chefs, and artists. 
Equal parts food and flea market on the Lower East Side, it offers the best of both worlds. Spend the afternoon browsing indie fashion, furniture, and food.
Saturdays in Williamsburg at East River State Park
Sundays at Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 5
An eclectic mix of Mexican, Japanese, and American food with stunning views of NYC. Mark your calendar for Central Park
on September 19th.
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| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
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