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Norma Knows New York City
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Send to other savvy New Yorkers and hip visitors, so they can subscribe too!
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General Events... 
 January 14 through February 14 Beauty at the BarreRouge (130 Thompson Street) Make an appointment at Rouge for a Total Polish and Lashes and you'll receive a 2-class card to Physique 57! Take a 6pm class at the Physique 57 location on Spring Street (161 Avenue of the Americas) on January 14th and Rouge will be onsite to give you a post-workout refresh.
Grand Central Terminal
The world's largest spectator squash event with international stars.Through February 22 13th Annual Holiday Train Show
Grand Central - NY Transit Museum Gallery Annex
Metro-North, New York Central, and subway trains depart from a miniature Grand Central Terminal in this exhibit.
Through March 1 Bank of America Winter VillageBryant Park Skate, shop, and dine throughout the winter.
 | | Winter Jam |
ON THE RADAR: January 24 Winter JamCentral Park Bandshell Area ( Enter at 72nd Street)
Mark your calendars for the ultimate snow day. An annual event in NYC, Gore Mountain blows fresh snow for the day. There will be snowshoeing, a winter market, and the opportunity to learn to ski and snowboard. Equipment is free.
 January 30 Apres Ski Winter PartyAstor House (130 East 80th Street) The New York Junior League's 4th Annual Après-Ski Winter Party. Wear mountain ski attire and enjoy hors d'oeuvres and warm beverages. Bring a ski lift ticket to attend an exclusive after-party. January 30 & 31 Winter Carnival Bryant Park A two-day celebration of ice golf, curling, and other winter activities... topped off by food samplings from local chefs, as well as a NYC brewhouse . February 6 & 7 Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show
Metropolitan Pavilion (125 West 18th Street)
New York's greatest collection of vintage clothing and textiles from the 18th, 19th, and 20th century.
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Picasso & Jacqueline: The Evolution of Style
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Cultural Pursuits...
CLOSING THIS WEEK:
BARD GRADUATE CENTER GALLERY (18 West 86th Street)
Through January 11
A trendy gallery that explores new ways of thinking about decorative arts and design. The exhibit visualizes 19th century New York through prints and photographs. PACE GALLERY (32 East 57th Street) Picasso & Jacqueline: The Evolution of StyleThrough January 10 The iconic artist's devotion to Jacqueline and his homage to Matisse. | A Shared Legacy:
Folk Art in America |
ONGOING EXHIBITS:
AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (Central Park West at 79th Street)
Through August 9
Exhibit uncovers the causes of nature's forces.
An exhibition that is the first devoted to this subject presented in any gallery or museum in America.
BROOKLYN MUSEUM (200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn)  | Jasper Johns:
Sculptures and Related Paintings |
Through February 15 Explores the fashion world's most coveted accessory. I especially like the shoes by Manolo Blahnik, Chanel, and Ferragamo. CRAIG F. STARR GALLERY (5 East 73rd Street)
Through January 23 Incredible exhibit of sculptures and paintings from 1957-1970. (535 West 22nd Street) Robert Kushner: BaroqueThrough February 14 In this exhibition of new paintings, Kushner fuses plant forms with references to the global history of ornament. THE DRAWING CENTER (35 Wooster Street) Tomi Ungerer: All in OneJanuary 16 through March 22 Tomi Ungerer is best known as the award winning author and illustrator of children's classics like The Three Robbers and Moon Man. But he also made a name for himself with witty advertising campaigns for the New York Times and the Village Voice. Attend the Opening Reception on January 15th. ELLIS ISLAND
Unframed - Ellis IslandOngoing Life-size historic photographs of Ellis Island immigrants are displayed on the south side of Ellis Island.THE FRICK COLLECTION (1 East 70th Street) Through April 5
Jean-Antoine Houdon and Claude Michel were two of the foremost sculptors in France during the late 18th century. Their sculptures are shown together for the first time, highlighting the artists' expressive ranges.
INTREPID SEA, AIR, & SPACE MUSEUM (Pier 86 - 46th Street & 12th Avenue)
Hubble@25
Through September 15, 2015 Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the launch of the Hubble Space Telescope, the exhibition showcases the history of this project and its scientific achievements. View artifacts, photographs, and Hubble-produced images .
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John Waters: Beverly Hills John
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MARIANNE BOESKY GALLERY (509 West 24th Street) John Waters: Beverly Hills JohnThrough February 14 Vivid photographs on display. THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART (1000 Fifth Avenue) Thomas Hart Benton's America Today Mural RediscoveredThrough April 19 A captivating exhibit of 1920s America in New York City.Cubism: The Leonard A. Lauder CollectionThrough February 16 Experience the most important exhibition of the essential Cubists (such as Pablo Picasso) in more than thirty years. THE MORGAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM (225 Madison Avenue) The Untamed Landscape:Theodore Rousseau and the Path to Barbizon Through January 18
70 works of Theodore Rousseau's approach to open-air oil sketches.
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Henri Matisse: The Cut-Outs
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THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART (11 West 53rd Street)
Through February 10
The exhibit includes painted sheets cut into various shapes and sizes, thus creating compositions of contrasting colors.
Modern Photographs from the Thomas Walther Collection, 1909-1949
Through April 26
This collection captures the time period between the First and Second World Wars, where creative possibilities of photography were heightened.
The Forever Now: Contemporary Painting in an Atemporal World
Through April 5
The work of 17 artists with 17 different approaches to painting, the exhibit centers on the timelessness of painting today, exploring the issues of originality and subjectivity.
 | | Public Eye: 175 Years of Sharing Photography |
NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY (5th Avenue at 42nd Street)
Public Eye: 175 Years of Sharing Photography
Through September 4
The first-ever retrospective survey of photography organized by the Public Library. How have we been engaged over time? Are we risking our privacy in pursuit of a more public photography? The exhibit explores these and other questions.
RACHEL UFFNER GALLERY (170 Suffolk Street)
Gianna Commito
January 11 through February 22
New paintings by Gianna Commito, displaying rigorous geometric stripes and planes, shifts in palette, and interlocking bands of varying girth.
ROBIN RICE GALLERY (325 West 11th Street)
Micheal McLaughlin: Your Nearest Exit May Be Behind You
January 14 through February 22
A photographic exhibit referencing traditional pre-flight instructions... features sights discovered on his travels.
THE RUBIN MUSEUM OF ART (150 West 17th Street)
Through March 23 French photographer Marc Riboud's photographic journals through Asia in the 50s and 60s...a time of both political and cultural transition.
SEAN KELLY GALLERY (475 Tenth Avenue) The Time Vivarium
Through January 24
Exhibit presented in two stages by Chinese artist, Sun Xun. The artist and his assistants will create new works in both drawings and paintings. THE SKYSCRAPER MUSEUM (39 Battery Place) Times Square, 1984Through January 18 The exhibit captures the decisive moment and transformation of the urban renewal of Times Square, the crossroads of the world. VENUS OVER MANHATTAN (930 Madison Avenue) Calder ShadowsThrough February 1 Renowned sculptor, painter, and illustrator, Alexander Calder, was also a master engineer of dancing shadows. ON THE RADAR:
 | | New York Ceramics and Glass Fair |
BOHEMIAN NATIONAL HALL (321 East 73rd Street) January 21 through 25 New York Ceramics and Glass FairBrings together a carefully selected and distinguished international group of about 36 galleries. Porcelain, pottery, glass, and enamels. PARK AVENUE ARMORY (Park Avenue at 67th Street) January 23 Winter Antiques ShowAn extensive collection for museum dealers and those intrigued by antiques. Through February 1st. January 24 through 31 Master Drawings New YorkVarious Locations Masterpieces will be displayed, showcasing a mix of pen and ink, charcoal, and watercolors of iconic artists from the 16th century onward.ASIA SOCIETY (725 Park Avenue) January 27 Takahiro Iwasaki: In Focus
Takahiro Iwasaki creates detailed miniature landscapes using towels, toothbrushes, used clothing, and other found and recycled materials.
ROBERT MANN GALLERY (525 West 26th Street) February 5 Paulette Tavormina BodegónStill life photography on display. Through March 21st. GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM (1071 5th Avenue) February 6 On Kawara-Silence
Kawara's works are known for the rise in Conceptual art. Through May 3rd.
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Curtain Up...
FILM:
Through January 16 The Contenders 2014
The Museum of Modern Art (11 West 53rd Street)
The Museum's selection of influential, innovative films made in the past 12 months that they believe will stand the test of time. Screenings include The Normal Heart and A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night.
MUSIC, PERFORMANCE, DANCE:
Mondays Sessions
The Lounge at The Wayfarer (Quin Hotel - 101 West 57th Street) Jazz nights every Monday.
January 9 & 10 Bar Car Nights at the Holiday Train Show
The New York Botanical Gardens (The Bronx) The setting transforms into a wintry landscape after dark with lively jazz performances.
January 9 & 10 NYC Winter Jazzfest Marathon
(le) poisson rouge (158 Bleecker Street) Over 100 groups perform at multiple locations.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 Fifth Avenue) Spiritual performance of a renowned Indian dance ensemble. 
Through January 11 Monterey Jazz Festival
The Blue Note (131 West 3rd Street)
The longest continuously-running jazz festival in the world. Featuring critically-acclaimed, GRAMMY®-winning jazz artists like Terence Blanchard, Ravi Coltrane, and Joe Sanders.
January 13 Mad Rush: Lisa Moore Plays Philip Glass
(le) poisson rouge (158 Bleecker Street)
Pianist Lisa Moore plays Philip Glass as part of The LPR Classical Series.
January 13 through 18 The Royal Danish Ballet: Principals and Soloists
The Joyce Theater (175 Eighth Avenue)
The acclaimed 19th century Royal Danish Ballet choreographer and ballet master who created more than fifty works for the company.
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Shen Yung Performing Arts
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Through January 17 Prototype
HERE (145 Sixth Avenue)
Festival of opera and theater productions.
Through January 18 Shen Yun Performing Arts
David H. Koch Theater (20 Lincoln Center Plaza)
Showcasing 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.
Through January 24 La Bohème and La Traviata
The Metropolitan Opera House (Lincoln Center Plaza)
Puccini's immortal tale of tragic young love set amidst the rooftops of bohemian Paris. Or purchase tickets for Verdi's timeless classic.
THEATER:
UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS:
January 14 Women of LettersJoe's Pub (425 Lafayette Street) A celebration of a diverse group of strong female talent, bringing together New York's best writers and performers.
Through January 18 Under the Radar FestivalThe Public Theater (425 Lafayette Street) Premiering new talent from around the world.
Through January 18 Women are from Venus, Men are from UranusCorner Office (300 West 43rd Street) Experimental subjects embark on a journey of discovery that's both witty and a little wistful as they learn to connect with one another without instructions.
ONGOING PRODUCTIONS:
 | | Constellations |
Glenn Close and John Lithgow start in Edward Albee's story. A moving play about a married couple struggling to maintain equilibrium when they open up their home to friends and family.
Samuel J. Friedman Theatre (261 West 47th Street)
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, a mysterious and witty play about the potential of a first encounter. In previews, opens January 13th through March 15th.
The Elephant Man
Booth Theatre (222 West 45th Street)
Bradley Cooper and Patricia Clarkson star in the Tony Award-winning classic based on the life of Joseph Merrick, a 19th century British man who was a star of a traveling freak show.
Through May 24
Stephen Sondheim Theatre (124 West 43rd Street)
This musical follows the legendary songwriter from her early days as a Brooklyn teenager to well-known hits as a top recording artist. Jessie Mueller took home a Tony for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.
Through March 29
Studio 54 (254 West 54th Street)
I experienced the most amazing NYC evening with Cabaret. Emma Stone has taken on the role of Sally Bowles to replace Michelle Williams. Emma, as well as the incomparable Alan Cumming are show-stoppers; the Kit Kat Band is superb.
The show brought everyone to a standing ovation. The lead actor, a recent graduate of Julliard, is brilliant. The story unfolds with a mathematical precocious adolescent with behavioral problems uncovering truths and hidden secrets.
Through March 1
Lyceum Theatre (149 West 45th Street)
Critically acclaimed play starring Gretchen Mol. The cast shares the stories, secrets, and lies we tell our friends, family, and ourselves in finding the American Dream.
Through March 22
Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street)
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. I'm Gonna Pray For You So HardThrough February 8 Atlantic Theater Company (330 West 16th Street) Pulls the audience into the middle of a complicated relationship, shedding light on the struggles of parents and children trying to find a common ground.
Through March 22
The Laura Pels Theatre (111 West 46th Street)
Roundabout Theater Company presents a Sondheim masterpiece, inviting us back into the world created by the Grimm brothers. Now in previews, opens January 22nd, closes March 22nd.
Through January 24
Neil Simon Theater (250 West 52nd Street)
Directed by Joe Mantilla, the play portrays the hope and heartache of a working class Englishman who leaves his life behind to travel the world.
Through September 2
Lyric Theatre (213 West 42nd Street)
The feel good play that everyone should see. Broadway's largest orchestra and cast make us fall in love with New York again. It is a story of three sailors on a whirlwind tour in the city that doesn't sleep  The River Through February 8 Circle In The Square Theatre (1633 Broadway) Starring Hugh Jackman, this is the story about a man and woman in a remote cliff side cabin on a moonless night.
Winners and Losers
Through February 1
Soho Rep. Theatre (46 Walker Street)
A fierce and funny off-Broadway epic about what true friendship can endure.
Through February 22
Longacre Theatre (220 West 48th Street)
James Earl Jones and Rose Byrne star - a touching comedy portraying the relationship between two families when their children become engaged.
ON THE RADAR IN CURTAIN UP:  | | Christine Ebersole |
January 18 Distinguished Concerts Singers InternationalCarnegie Hall (881 7th Avenue) Passionate and electrifying Argentinian Tango concert. January 20 NYC Ballet Winter Seasons
David H. Koch Theater (20 Lincoln Center Plaza)
Winter season kicks off with Balanchine's classic combination. Through March 1st. January 21 through 31 Christine Ebersole: Big Noise from Winnetka54 Below (254 West 54th Street) Buy tickets early to hear Christine Ebersole, one of my favorite Broadway performers!
January 26 The Scheherazade InitiativeCarnegie hall (881 7th Avenue) Benefit for UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women.  February 4 through 8 Lady, Be GoodNew York City Center (131 West 55th Street) Tommy Tune's performance will send you back in time to the Roaring Twenties. George and Ira Gershwin's first collaboration that ushered in the birth of musical comedies.February 13 through 22 Romeo & JulietDavid H. Koch Theater (20 Lincoln Center Plaza) Immortal tale of tragic love performed by the NYC Ballet. February 20 through 28 Twelve Angry JurorsCorner Office (300 West 43rd Street) A courtroom drama adapted from the Emmy Award-winning Twelve Angry Men.
March 16 SkylightGolden Theatre (252 West 45th Street) Carey Mulligan stars in the sold out London engagement of a sentimental love story. In previews starting March 16th, opens April 2nd, through June 21st.
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For the Foodie...
 | | Dirty French |
Each week, I plan to feature restaurants that I've experienced for the first time, or that I often frequent. Some will be New on the Scene, others Notable... all featuring unique menus, ambiance, and talented chefs.
This week, I've highlighted three newly-opened downtown spots.
Dirty French
The Ludlow Hotel - 180 Ludlow Street
Lower East Side, French Cuisine
A new addition from the team from the Torrisi group; it is a welcome addition to the Lower East Side. A French bistro with hip NYC décor... even authentic subway tiles adorn the restaurant! The first non-Italian venture for two of my top NYC chefs. My guest and I shared the Tuna Tartare, Chevre Kale Salad, and Duck a l'Orange. Magnifique!
345 Park Avenue
Flatiron District, American Cuisine
Cal-Italian Brasserie with an open kitchen in the back of the dining room enhances the inviting atmosphere. Named after a town in California, Upland touts its West Coast inspired cuisine.Try the Burrata, Cacio e Pepe, and the Upland Cioppino of clams and mussels.
 | | Via Carota |
Via Carota51 Grove Street West Village, Italian Cuisine You know that you'll have a winning combination when you pair two of the top chefs in the city! Chefs/owners from I Sodi and Buvette excel in serving outstanding Italian cuisine in their rustic spot in the West Village. Terrific service and attention to detail. The Gnocchi, Cannelloni Beans and Orata are superb selections!
City Winery (155 Varick Street)
Part of a series of dinners showcasing the wine and food of a specific region. This event focuses on France.
February 20 7th Annual New York City Beer WeekVarious Locations Celebrate an entire city of Craft Beer... Over 300 beer destinations in all 5 boroughs participate over 10 days.
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Special Feature... Winter Retreats
IN THE CITY:
If you can't completely escape the concrete jungle, here are my five recommendations for relaxation without leaving the city! Since most are housed in exquisite hotels, you'll feel like you have been transported.
88 Franklin Street (Tribeca)
A truly hidden gem in a subterranean cavern... all lit by candlelight. Aire offers the ultimate relaxation thermal experience, as well as a way to enhance your senses. Move throughout four pools ranging from fiery hot to icy cool temperatures. Your body and mind will come together as you reach a calming equilibrium. I've visited a number of times and always leave feeling relaxed and invigorated. Enjoy a unique experience by combining the relaxing environment of Aire with a 60 minute yoga class.
Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa
The Plaza Hotel - 1 West 58th Street (Midtown West) A European spa setting in a timeless classic, The Plaza Hotel. Vino therapists lavish guests with treatments based on the combined benefits of wine and the grape. The first Caudalie Spa to open in an urban setting, rather than in a European vineyard. Relax in their French Paradox Wine Lounge. Wine and Massage... what a perfect pairing!
The Greenwich Hotel - 377 Greenwich Street (Tribeca)
Shibui means low key, grounded beauty... a fitting description for this Asian sanctuary in Robert De Niro's downtown Greenwich Hotel. Try their Oxygen Awakening Facial and the Drunken Lotus Massage.
The Peninsula Spa by ESPA
The Peninsula Hotel - 700 5th Avenue (Midtown West)
A mixture of Asian and Ayurvedic philosophies, the technicians strive for holistic restoration. This winter, try out one of their Spaliday packages (valid for purchase through January 31st) including the 12 Days of Spa (A series of 12 60-minute Holistic Massages and complimentary day use of the fitness center, pool, sun terrace and group classes). Retreat to their Aromatherapy Steam Room after your treatment.
 | | The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental - Oriental Tea Lounge |
Mandarin Oriental Hotel - 80 Columbus Circle (Upper West Side)
Ancient and contemporary techniques, designed to bring balance to meet each individual's needs. The healing Thai Yoga Experience will make you feel renewed or enjoy three or four hours of bliss with a Couple's Escape Spa Suite. Start in their oriental tea lounge as you start your Zen-like experience and end with a one-on-one yoga class.
OUT OF THE CITY:
Looking for a weekend away? Below are year round destinations for overall enjoyment and wellness.  | |
Canyon Ranch
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Canyon Ranch
Lenox, MA
A world renowned all-inclusive luxury health resort in a classic New England setting. Their northeast spa location is centered in a historic mansion in Lenox, MA, just under 3 hours from the city. The only problem you'll have after checking in is narrowing down your selections of what to do during your stay. Choose from over 40 fitness classes, nutritional seminars and consider signing up for in-depth health packages. Their holistic integrative health center is among the top in the world. Visit January 30th through February 1st for a Pilates-focused weekend.
The Emerson Resort
Mt Tremper, NY
Located in the Catskills just over 2 hours from NYC. Features an award-winning Spa, delicious dining options, shopping, nearby hiking, skiing, The World's Largest Kaleidoscope, and local attractions. One of the best features is the outdoor jacuzzi - nothing like getting into hot water while the air is brisk. Visit the website for seasonal specials, including Stay & Ski.
 | | The Lodge at Woodloch |
The Lodge at Woodloch
Hawley, PA
Poconos retreat located on 75 acres in the Pennsylvania lake region. A true respite for mind, body and spirit, their farm-to-table culinary experience is outstanding, along with their spa experiences. Special Offers include a Girls Getaway and Mancation. When visiting the spa, try their seasonal Winter Warm Up Body Polish, which includes a thorough exfoliation with fair trade organic sugar, dark chocolate and vanilla. Finish off with a mug of hot cocoa.
The Mayflower Grace
Washington, CT
Nestled in the idyllic town of Washington, CT (2-hours from the city), this Relais & Châteaux resort offers five star accommodations and gourmet dining. Their exceptional spa will make a weekend retreat feel like a week-long vacation. Relax in their library, explore their American Poets maze and gardens, or stroll through the nearby Steep Rock Nature Preserve.
 | | Mohonk Mountain House |
Mohonk Mountain House
New Paltz, NY
Mohonk Mountain House is a grand 265-room Victorian Castle in upstate New York situated on 2,200 acres of wilderness. Visit their website to view this winter's vacation packages including Spa Packages and a Taste of New York State Escape. Offering 85 miles of hiking trails, ice skating, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. I've frequented the resort during the summer and winter months... and was amazed at the variety of activities that were offered for singles, couples and families no matter what season.
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| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
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