Drag365: #6- Ducky Sheaboi

Name: Ducky Sheaboi

Where can we find you out and about?: Current gigs taking place at Icon in Astoria and Flower Power Coffee House in Glendale.

Why Drag?: Why NOT drag? Drag can have every element of entertainment within a 3 minute number! It’s a fun way to network. However, the community aspect is the best reason to do drag.

What made you start drag?: I have gone to queer bars and clubs since I was 18. The biggest highlights of a night are when the shows start. Seeing a queen command a room was a feeling that really empowered me to be proud of being part of such a vibrant community. I wanted to become a reason people come to queer spaces rather than just being a spectator.

Who are you drag inspirations?: I definitely draw inspiration from my Southern roots. Southern women have perfected big hair meets going to the function, honey. They incorporate a lot of color into their wardrobe that I really enjoy. However, the biggest impact on my looks is how I listen to music and consider what type of lady Ducky could adapt elements of to best portray the look.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: The community! From the patrons, bar managers, to the other amazing queens out there it’s impossible not to find the social aspect intoxicating.

What is your number one makeup secret?: Prayer. I can’t afford plastic surgery to shave down this jawline, so prayer is going to have to work for now.

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Clean wigs and wardrobe, a vodka tonic, and good vibes.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: The ICONIC family has been essential in further developing Ducky as a personality and performer. Heidi Haux, who hosts and mentors throughout the competition, has been such an inspiration on how to constantly take drag to the next level. She’s so stunning but keeps it real - can’t get any better than that.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Honestly, spitting butter into a crowd during ICONIC Season 1. I have never felt more alive!

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: I was Paula Deen during ICONIC Season 1 and I would honestly stay true to her. I am working on a new Paula number, so we’ll see how it goes.

How can drag change the world?: I wish I had a grand answer for this, but I’m going to answer with a more simple approach. I feel like drag can change the world by offering people of all types an escape from the “normal” through entertainment. We should allow ourselves more fantasy in our lives and I think drag is such a beautiful escape into fantasy.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Queen, don’t get caught up in catching guest spots. Put your business mind to work and create your own space while still getting those guest spots and features. But more importantly, don’t be a mean queen because there’s always someone meaner and more successful that’s going to let you know what’s up - just have fun and work hard!

Social Media: Instagram @ducky_sheaboi

For more of Ducky, visit @titndrag355!

Drag365: #5- Audrey Phoenix

Name: Audrey Phoenix

Where can we find you out and about?: The Gutter (it’s a night spot). 10 points to anyone who gets that reference.

Why Drag?: I’ve always wanted to sing, dance and act and I unfortunately can’t do any of those things! Somehow drag allows me to pretend I can.

What made you start drag?: It was totally unplanned. Sutton Lee Seymour was having a debutant show at Albatross and I just decided “why not?” and entered. I didn’t expect that many people to be interested or care, but they did and here I am.

Who are you drag inspirations?: As far as actual drag queens: Shangela, Kizha Carr, Brita Filter, Jasmine Rice LaBeija and of course my drag mother Diana Dzhaketov. As far as overall performers: Judy Garland, Kritin Wiig and strangely enough Conan O’Brien.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?:  The sisterhood. I’ve met so many incredible queens this past year who I honestly consider dear friends now. I love these bitches.

What is your number one makeup secret?: If I had any I’d be MUCH prettier!

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Talent, humor, and an ability to know your words in a lip sync. 

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: JAX is pretty gold in all regards. I also love sharing the stage with my sis Pussy Willow.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Anytime I feel like an audience is really loving what I’m doing on stage. There’s nothing like hearing people laugh with you (or at you, I’ll take both).

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: The challenge with Snatch Game is making the character funny. I do a pretty good Eartha Kitt impression, but I haven’t figured out how to make her funny yet. She’s too eloquent and regal!

How can drag change the world?: As long as it can continue to inspire creativity, bring joy and be fun.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Be kind and leave your ego at the door. There’s no reason to be mean to your sisters.

Social Media: @audreyphoenixrises on Instagram

To see more of Audrey, follow @titndrag365!

Block Talk- Episode 76: Block Talk Live!

We had a blast back in August with the first ever Block Talk Live! I was joined by four incredible guests who each gave mini interviews and lots of shows! The audio quality is not my favorite, and I apologize for that, but still, give it a listen!

To listen to the episode, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave a review while you're there!

Plus visit patreon.com/theaterinthenow to become a patron today!

Drag365: Show #65- Clarice Explains It All at ICON

Clarice DuBois // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, March 6th     

Show: Clarice Explains It All

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Clarice DuBois (@claricedubois), Nicole Onoscopi (@nicoleonoscopi)

Nicole Onoscopi // photo by Michael Block

Each month at ICON, Clarice DuBois takes the stage for a variety show and her attempt to explain something. And this month, Clarice delivered on both accounts. The monthly variety show, Clarice Explains It All, is a celebration of the talent pool in New York City through the lens of a drag show. For her March show, Clarice welcomed emerging drag queen Nicole Onoscopi and comedian Cameron Jefts. Clarice, a self-proclaimed Broadway queen, dazzled the crowd with her tribute to Liza with "New York, New York" and "Journey to the Past," but it was her new French mix, which featured Mika, that had me tickled pink. Nicole made herself known to the crowd as she handed out business cards with her information to "Call Me Maybe" and then shocked and awed with her colonoscopy mix. Who doesn't love watching a drag queen try to fist themselves? Cameron decided to share with the audience what a potential live action Pokemon movie might look like as a created some hybrid celebrity pocket creatures. When it came down to the portion of the show where Clarice had to explain something, it was up to her to explain public transit. Perhaps her improv skills were in play but she sold us a story about the dreadful MTA that I think must people were buying.
Every month at ICON, Clarice DuBois explains it all. What "it" is? Well, you'll just have to show up and see! It's always a pleasure to see the variety of talent that NYC has to offer.

Drag365: Show #64- Magical Mondays at ICON

Boudoir LeFleur // photo by Michael Block

Day: Monday, March 5th     

Show: Magical Mondays

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Boudoir LeFleur (@drag.witchbitch), Jessie James (@jessiejamesnyc), Amelia Reasons (@ameliareaons92), Sherry Poppins (@its.sherrypoppins)

Amelia Reasons // photo by Michael Block

Every Monday night at ICON, the witchy one, Boudoir hosts Magical Mondays. Bringing dark magic and hair whips with her giant 80s curls, Boudoir dances the house down until she can no longer stand. Spoiler alert, she's on the floor seconds into the night. As the official Roombo of Drag, Boudoir provides a night of endless entertainment as she performs some non-typical genres for a drag show including a Heart medley and a Prince mix. Joining in on the fun on this magical evening, Boudoir welcomed a wickedly talented cast of characters. Visiting all the way from Orlando, Jenny Reverent got the crowd going with two burlesque numbers, one of which was a Winnifred Sanderson strip. If you ever wondered what Winnie wore underneath all those layers, Jenny broke the surprise. Jessie James, bowler gap and all, dazzled the crowd with her Pokemon mix that reveals her name. The true darling of the night was Amelia Reasons, who made her second appearance in drag ever. She dazzled the crowd with her Gaga dance mix. The other star of the show was drunk Mary Kerry, as Boudoir labeled her. She was a drunk straight woman who couldn't keep her hands off the hostess and loved to stop the show dead in its tracks. It's likely that Boudoir's Gypsy mix, which featured an indragneto cameo from Sherry Poppins, cast a spell on her as Mary Kerry was never heard from again.
While the energy may be low in between songs as Boudoir attempts to catch her breath on the floor, the energy is supreme as she makes every nook and cranny of the venue hers. If she hasn't thrown herself up against it, she hasn't found it yet. If you're looking for a home cleaning service, I suggest you call Boudoir, put on some music, and watch her clean your home as she sweeps the floor to the beat of the music.

Block Talk- Episode 42: Clarice DuBois

She's here! It's Clarice DuBois! We talk about musicals, her drag inspirations, and her fabulous variety show Clarice Explains It All at ICON!

To listen to the episode, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave us that review while you're there!

And visit patreon.com/theaterinthenow to learn about becoming a patron of the website today.

Drag365: Show #49- Turn Back Time at ICON

Misty Mountains // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, February 20th           

Show: Turn Back Time 

Location: Icon

Queens Seen: Misty Mountains (@mistymountainsnyc), Whendy Whaxwood (@whendywhaxwood)

Whendy Whaxwood // photo by Michael Block

The 70s were in high gear at Turn Back Time. Hosted by Misty Mountains with special guest Whendy Whaxwood, it was all 70s inspired numbers from the duo with a little trivia and guess the tune thrown in. After starting the night off with a high energy rendition of “Knock On Wood,” the disco era played a big part in the set list, though a little Fleetwood Mac was thrown in to balance everything out. Misty proved she was “The Boss” when she took on Diana Ross. Whendy leaned into the world of 70s inspired showtunes with “I Gotcha” as not performed by Liza Minelli and “What I Did for Love” from A Chorus Line. The crowd may have been a little subdued but it didn’t stop Misty and Whendy from having a good time. When it did come to the game, this crowd was perhaps not the smartest and failed pretty miserably. As Misty herself said, “I’m the problem, usually I’m the solution.”
Turn Back Time is a fun way to celebrate a moment in our history. Incorporating a theme ensures that each show you attend will be unique and different, and sometimes in the world of drag, that can be rare. But know that if you don’t have cash on hand to tip Misty or Whendy in the future, they willingly will accept fries and Nutella.

Drag365: Show #43- Wabbit Hole Wednesdays at ICON

Gilda Wabbit // photo by Michael Block

Day: Wednesday, February 14th         

Show: Wabbit Hole Wednesdays

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Gilda Wabbit (@gildawabbit), Aria Derci (@ariadercibaby)

Aria Derci // photo by Michael Block

If you don’t have a Valentine, don’t worry, spend Valentine’s Day with your Palentines! Wednesdays at Icon is Wabbit Hole Wednesdays with the illustrious Gilda Wabbit. Looking pretty in pink, Gilda celebrated the holiday of love with an intimate crowd of lovers and singles alike. The night was an exhilarating blend of genres, spanning love and fun. Gilda showcased her pipes with live sung “Sweet Transvestite” and a parody of “Defying Gravity” about double penetration. When it came to lip syncs, she gave us a little “Into You” by Paramore and a mix that included Dolly Parton’s classic “Baby I’m Burning.” As a theater lover herself, Gilda paid homage to the recently passed theater icon Jan Maxwell, a dear friend of mine, with a tribute to her Follies performance. The DJ of the night was the enchanting Aria Derci. Aria delivered a fabulous rendition of “Somebody to Love” by Queen, featuring a wig reveal and a rose petal reveal from her gloves. Sasha Velour is a true trendsetter! My palentines, David and Cole, played a round of Shots for Thots with the hostess, and boy was that fun to watch! Toward the end of the night, Gilda and Aria engaged in quite possibly the most tragic drag suicide ever, with a setlist of songs neither of them knew. The twist here was Gilda took a shot when she didn’t know a number. Let’s just say she was feeling good when the curtain closed.
Gilda Wabbit is quickly becoming one of the most prominent staples of the Astoria nightlife scene. And her stock is rising in the Manhattan drag scene as well. Just watch her take over, it’s bound to happen.

Drag365: Show #42- Good Judy at ICON

Gloria Swansong // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, February 13th         

Show: Good Judy 

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Gloria Swansong (@gloria_swansong)

She has two degrees so she can cross dress on the fly! Gloria Swansong returned to ICON for her monthly show Good Judy. With Valentine’s Day just a day away, she made the night “Love on Top” themed, with that song of course being a part of the set list. Since she is a vintage queen, of course she gets an overture. And from there, it’s off to the races. The evening includes two pretty long pauses to create a three-act night, where she took the time to talk to the crowd. Face time is important! Gloria showcased a new look for each act. If you’re coming to Good Judy expecting all Judy, all the time, you’ll be disappointed. While she is known for her impeccable Judy illusion, this is a bar show so she has to deliver to the masses. But don’t fret, a night with Judy Garland is in the cards. Gloria Swansong has the versatility most queens strive to find. She gives you classics, pop, showtunes, and all that jazz. Good Judy is a nice night to socialize with your good Judy, Gloria Swansong.

Drag365- Show #35: Clarice Explains It All at ICON

Clarice DuBois // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, February 6th      

Show: Clarice Explains It All

Location: Icon 

Queens Seen: Clarice DuBois (@claricedubois), Izzy Uncut (@izzyuncut)

Izzy Uncut // photo by Michael Block

Once a month, Clarice DuBois takes over Tuesday night at ICON in Astoria for Clarice Explains It All. Joined by a handful of variety acts, Clarice and her friends put on a show to entertain the masses. With a set list of Broadway and Broadway and more Broadway, Clarice does what she does best. She brings a ditzy dumb (blonde) demeanor to the stage, which is a great contrast to her drag guest Izzy Uncut, who is the most dangerous performer there is. Now with padding, Izzy, who I jokingly called Miss Fit, throws herself around without care. Where there’s fear, there is entertainment! Between the leaps and splits and the leap from the top of the bar, Izzy stunned the audience. To fill the variety quota of the show, Clarice welcomed dancer Angela Joy, who did a wonderful routine to “The Bare Necessities,” and singer-songwriter Juliana Carr, who offered an original acoustic number of her own. Clarice invited some willing participants up from the audience to play an exciting game of Truth or Dare wheel where the winner would get tickets to Bright Colors And Bold Patterns. One of the players happened to be indragnito Instagram artist Jazzment, who sang a rousing verse of “The Circle of Life.” Later on in the night, the crowd got to ask Clarice anything. And this was her chance to honor the title of her show and explain something. In this episode, Clarice explained Bitcoin. And honestly, I still couldn’t tell you what it is. 
Clarice Explains It All is a fun night out in Astoria. For those seeking a little shake up in the drag viewing, Clarice gives you the variety you may be looking for.

Block Talk- Episode 29: Gilda Wabbit

In today's episode, I'm joined by meme queen Gilda Wabbit as we discuss her upcoming debut performance at The Duplex Open Season, and so much more!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud. And leave us that 5 star review after you subscribe!

And consider becoming a patron of the website today by visiting patreon.com/theaterinthenow

Drag365: Show #23- Turn Back Time at ICON

Vanna Deux, Misty Mountains // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, January 23rd  

Show: Turn Back Time

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Misty Mountains (@mistymountainsnyc), Vanna Deux (@vannadeux)

Misty Mountains // photo by Michael Block

In the second edition of Turn Back Time, hostess Misty Mountains goes back to the, well, past, as she and guest host Vanna Deux celebrat the 1980s. With mixes, games, and looks pulled straight from the decade, the night’s theme was confidently girls just wanna have fun. Misty is unbashful when she takes the stage. She brings a vision and goes full out. With the 80s in mind, Misty delivers some classics including “Let’s Hear it For the Boy” and “How Will I Know” to get the party started. Guest host Vanna Deux epitomized the 80s in her look. Big hair and big color was all she needed to sell it. Vanna’s ode to the 80s included Blondie’s hit “Call Me” and a live sung version of “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go.” Misty and Vanna had a great chemistry with one another, as they had a strong ability to keep the conversation flowing and the recurring “horse” bit going. To continue the 80s celebration, Misty incorporated two 80s inspired games including a quite impossible trivia and a much easier name that tune.
What makes a show like this exciting is that each time you come to Turn Back Time, it will be completely different. The theme allows not only for variety, but a true homage to the period. Misty has a deep repertoire already, so giving herself challenges like this makes her book even bigger. Expect to see some of these 80s numbers at future gigs. The 80s were truly a decade ripe for drag queen performances.

Block Talk- Episode 23: Misty Mountains

She's a queen on the scene! I was joined by NYC drag rising star Misty Mountains to discuss everything from her GLAM award nomination to her show at Icon, Turn Back Time! 

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or Soundcloud! And make sure you subscribe and leave a 5 star review! 

And be sure to visit our Patreon page at patreon.com/theaterinthenow to learn about the perks of becoming a patron! 

Drag365: Show #4- Wabbit Hole Wednesdays at ICON

Day: Wednesday, January 3rd  

Show: Wabbit Hole Wednesdays 

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Whendy Whaxwood (@whendywhaxwood), Aria Derci (@ariadercibaby)








Following a viewing party of “The Amazing Race 30”, it was time for Wabbit Hole Wednesdays. The twist of the night? Regular host Gilda Wabbit was out, with guest host Whendy Whaxwood filling in. Simply for alliteration, could there be a better substitute guest host? With a little help from DJ and fellow queen Aria Derci, Wabbit Hole Wednesdays was in good hands. Whendy brings theater to her shows, usually with a twist. Just take her “The Stuff” mix. She intersperses the song from “Reefer Madness” with ridiculous 9-1-1 clips from callers on the stuff. It’s a riot of a number, just ask incognito Thorgy Thor, who stuck around after watching friends Chris and Trevor on “The Amazing Race 30!” She even got #TeamWellStrung’s Chris to dance and lip sync alongside her during the Shoshana Bean number. The set is broken up with an intermission and costume change, as well as some numbers from the DJ. This was my first time seeing Aria Derci. She’s something refreshing to say the least. Aria Derci’s numbers included a fabulous Gilda Radner number and a brilliant rendition of “Carousel” from Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris. Who does Jacques Brel?! Aria Derci that’s who! It’s always fun to see a drag queen rib the crowd. It’s especially funny when a queen roasts you. And Whendy easily roasted me! Whendy Whaxwood’s quick wit makes her quite the queen.
Whendy Whaxwood was a wonderful fill in for Gilda. Follow her on social media to find out where else you can see her. And be sure to visit ICON next week for the return of Gilda Wabbit.

Review: Making and Breaking an Icon

By Michael Block

What makes an icon iconic? History plays an important role in the legacy of an icon. In Sebastian Michael and Jonathan Kaldor's Icon, the mystery of a fallen princess takes center stage in this Art Deco era musical.
With book by Sebastian Michael and score by Jonathan Kaldor, Icon begins with a young man searching for the person he must share his inheritance with. When he locates the woman, he's lead down a trail of memories and truths about the iconic Princess Constance, the debutante turned royalty who's death changed a nation. Icon is an old-fashioned story reminiscent of the Golden Age that manages to have modern sensibility. The theme of celebrity is something very current that allows this sort of show to work. Icon has shining moments, many of which come through Kaldor’s score. But there are some major roadblocks that make the libretto falter. First and foremost, as brilliant as the opening number is, the musical needed to start with the memory. It establishes the entire production. With the interaction between Marcello and Miss Vine occurring after the opening, it makes the worth of the opening hollow. This is the rare occurrence where a musical can, and should, start without a musical number. Adjust some lines, let the story of Princess Constance start and then lead in with “Perfect”. Michael sets his piece as an engaging mystery. Why was Constance picked to save this country? What is the significance of Princess Constance’s death? Who is Miss Vine? The intrigue of Icon is the mystery but the moment you figure it out, which is quite quickly, the air is let out and it’s hard to care about much moving forward. If the text is going to get some re-exploring, there is some material ripe for the cutting, making Icon a single act. Though exploring the royal family a bit more is important.

Getting butts into seats is crucial. Icon stacked the show with Donna McKechnie and Tony Sheldon. And rightly so. But don’t expect to see them as frequently as you’d think. McKechnie plays Miss Vine. The character is a bit frazzled to meet this stranger under the circumstances but McKechnie finds a way to give her substance beyond teller of tales. Sheldon’s Gualtieri was an astute butler that had little to do. Perhaps if Sheldon should continue in another iteration, it may be time to amp up the character. Charlotte Maltby is elegance personified. A real-life Disney princess. The look of Taylor Swift with the stage presence and sound of Sutton Foster, Maltby has charisma and a bright future. Her Princess Constance was an icon. Opposite Maltby was Sam Simahk in as career-defining role as Alvaro. Simahk has a classical approach that fit this piece well. Even though height did play a factor, Maltby and Simahk were a strong pair.
The flapper inspired feel was alive and well in Icon. Director and choreographer Paul Stancato tried to infuse as much excitement into the production. And his staging was strong. But there were some major factors that worked against him. The pacing was excruciatingly slow and needed to be picked up. This would allow the sentimental moments to be properly earned. As mentioned earlier, the idea of starting the story through memory is important. But once the story is established, Stancato needed to keep the story present at all times. It would have been far more interesting to have Miss Vine and Marcello watch the action unfold before them. The costumes from Liene Dobraja were sensational, especially anything placed on Maltby’s Princess Constance. There was a mostly pleasant surprise with Kevan Loney’s projection design. It was unexpected but it did aid the production greatly, despite some corny images.
Icon was a completely realized production. It’s a musical that certainly has commercial appeal. Once Jonathan Kaldor and Sebastian Michael make some much needed changes, Icon will be ready for the spotlight.

Spotlight On...Sam Simahk

Name: Sam Simahk

Hometown: Ashburnham, MA

Education: BFA Musical Theatre, Emerson College

Select Credits: Lyric Opera Chicago (The King and I), Huntington Theatre Company (A Little Night Music), Speakeasy Stage Company (Big Fish), Lyric Stage Company of Boston (Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, Sondheim on Sondheim, Spelling Bee)

Why theater?: I love storytelling, and I think that theatre's the best medium for an actor to move through a story--you start at the beginning and finish at the end, which doesn't happen when putting something on film.  And you can't beat the connection between performer and audience.  There's an energy you draw from the audience, whether they're laughing, crying, or sitting in silent attention; it all helps provide purpose to the action onstage.

Who do you play in Icon?: I play Alvaro Vigna, Princess Constance's music tutor and lover.  He's passionate and fun-loving, but serious about his music and his desire to earn his place in the world.

Tell us about Icon: Icon is the story of Princess Constance of Centoluci, a fictional country in central Europe.  The daughter of a wealthy American tycoon, she marries into the royal family of Centoluci, so that the economically-strained royals can take advantage of her family's money.  Trying to prove her worth, and having been named the patron of the symphony, she decides to take music lessons.  She meets Alvaro, who teaches her not only about music, but also how to follow her own dreams, instead of simply repeating what others have told her to say.  I'd say more, but I don't want to spoil anything...

What is it like being a part of Icon?: It's always fun to work on new material, and this is no exception.  The music is beautiful, the cast is brilliantly talented, and our director, Paul Stancato, makes sure that we're not only telling the story to the best of our ability, but also that we're having a good time.  So it's a constantly fun, collaborative environment, and you can feel that energy when you walk into the rehearsal room.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I'm a big fan of no-frills, pyrotechnic-free, drama-based theatre.  I love musical theatre, and think there's a delicate line between underwhelming and overly spectacular--but if a production is able to toe that line, it's always something special.  The people who inspire me most are the actors who approach musical theatre from an acting standpoint; Raúl Esparza is pretty incredible.  I saw him in a bathroom once and couldn't help but geek out for a second.  Sorry, Raúl.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: I'd love to play Sweeney Todd, but that's at least another decade down the road (so I'm just biding my time).  Bobby in Company and the Baker in Into the Woods are a little closer...I guess I just want to play every Sondheim character that I haven't yet aged out of.  The non-Sondheim dream roles are Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls and Billy Bigelow in Carousel--both are really cool roles in classic shows, and I'd love to try my hand at them.

What’s your favorite showtune?: Oh man, hard one.  Okay, I really like "Now You Know" from Merrily We Roll Along.  Also, "Not While I'm Around" from Sweeney Todd.  Then there's "Soliloquy" from Carousel, which is one of the greatest musical theatre songs of all time.  I don't know if I actually have a favorite--there are too many to choose one.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: President Obama. I'm pitching my two-man stage version of Thelma and Louise, but he hasn't written back yet.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself, and what would it be called?: I'd go with John Cho, but Hollywood would probably go with somebody less ethnic and claim that it's in the interest of recouping at the box office and appealing to foreign markets.  So...Joseph Gordon Levitt?  I'd want it to be called something like "Simahk: The Boy Who Became a Boy", or "Who Ate the Last Eggo Waffles? (I Was Saving Those for an Ice Cream Sandwich.)"

If you could go back in time and see any play or musical you missed, what would it be?: I'd probably see Hamilton, back when it was at the Public and you could still get tickets.

What show have you recommended to your friends?: When it was still on Broadway, I recommended Hand to God to everybody I knew--my parents ended up coming down from Massachusetts just to see it (and maybe to visit me, as well).  That play was so funny, and the cast was incredible. I'll also always recommend "Breaking Bad" to anybody who hasn't seen it in its entirety--it's a perfect piece of drama.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Late night chopped cheeses.  For those who don't live in Harlem, a chopped cheese is a cheeseburger that's been chopped on the grill and served on a hero (the pizza places back home would call it a cheeseburger sub, but "chopped cheese" is so much more satisfying to say).  I got one yesterday--with onions and jalapeños chopped with the patty, topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, and mayo.  I highly suggest giving that combo a try.

What’s up next?: I'm very excited for the next project!  I'll be singing in the ensemble for a site-specific concert of select songs from Ragtime, taking place on Ellis Island at the beginning of August.

For more on Icon, visit nymf.org

Preview: New York Musical Festival 2016!

Are you ready for some musicals?! NYMF is back (and this year with out the "theatre") with 18 full productions ready to take the musical world by storm. With an eclectic array of offerings, here is a preview! For more information, visit nymf.org! And now, the preview!

Top 5 Exciters

A Scythe of Time
Book by Alan Harris; Music and Lyrics by Mark Alan Swanson

This one is for all those Edgar Allan Poe fanatics out there. And those Lesli Margherita fans! A Scythe of Time looks like a dark, campy musical set in 1881 London where the public has a fascination with the Blackwood Articles where writers take their own lives and, in the process of dying, record their experience with death. It's billed as a bizarre tale of power and love, poetic justic, and bloody revenge. Could this our next Sweeney Todd? Just don't try this at home, kids

June Havoc Theatre
7/21 @ 8, 7/23 @ 1, 7/23 @ 5, 7/24 @ 1, 7/24 @ 5, 7/26 @9
http://www.ascytheoftime.com/

Icon
Book by Sebastian Michael; Music and Lyrics by Jonathan Kaldor

Let's just take a second to remind ourselves that this show will be led by the uber talented Donna McKechnie and Tony Sheldon. That's reason itself to go! The plot sounds a bit tricky to put into words but an American debutante marries into one of Europe's ancient Royal Families. An affair with her music teacher leads to uproar and her tragic death turns her from living legend into timeless icon. 40 years later, a young man in search of his grandfather's past finds more than he's bargained for. Something tells me that the grandfather may be linked to the debutante!

The Duke
7/20 @ 8, 7/23 @ 1, 7/23 @ 5, 7/24 @ 9, 7/26 @ 4
http://iconthemusical.com/

Ludo’s Broken Bride
Concept, Music, and Lyrics by LUDO; Adaptaion by Stacey Weingarten; Additional Story and Arrangements by Dana Levinson

Something tells me Ludo's Broken Bride wins the award for most unique. This rock opera has everything from time-travel, dinos, and zombies! Oh and love. The musical is an expansion on the original concept album from alternative rock band LUDO about one man's epic time-traveling journey to save his one true love. How far would you go to save your true love? Personally? Pretty damn far!

The Duke
8/2 @ 8, 8/4 @ 8, 8/5 @ 5, 8/6 @ 5, 8/6 @ 9
http://www.brokenbride.rocks/

Newton’s Cradle
Music and Lyrics by Heath Saunders; Book and Additional yrics by Kim Sauners

Well this one is certainly a family affair! Written by mother-son writing team Kim and Heath Saunders and featuring brother Trent in the cast, Newton's Cradle is a play about family. Evan's journey takes us into his unique world of autism, where events aren't sequential, labels get in the way, and well-defined family relationships are anything but constant. The score is exciting and is guided by the great Victoria Clarke in the director's chair.

The Duke
8/3 @ 8, 8/4 @ 4, 8/5 @9, 8/6 @ 1, 8/7 @ 12, 8/7 @ 4
http://www.newtonscradlemusical.com/

Tink!
Book by Anthony Marino; Music by Lena Gabrielle; Lyrics by Greg Kerestan & Lena Gabrielle

You may think you know the story of Peter Pan but it's about to get turned on it's head! This time, through the lens of the fairy herself, Tinker Bell. A story of star-crossed love when one young fairy and one young pirate crossed paths. Tink! is one of those shows that is comprised of a young, talented cast of future superstars including Max Sheldon and Elly Noble in the titular role.

The Pearl Theatre
7/25 @ 8, 7/28 @ 1, 7/28 @ 5, 7/30 @ 5, 7/30 @ 9, 7/31 @ 5
http://tinkmusical.com/

The Rest of the Fest

Camp Rolling Hills
Book and Lyrics by Stacy Davidowitz & David Spiegel; Music and Lyrics by Adam Spiegel

With a cast that includes 12 "tweens", Camp Rolling Hills is a musical adventure filled with campfires, bunk beds, and treasure hunts. These kids will deal with real issues as they learn the valuable lessons of true friendship. As one of the youth offerings of the festival, this one is like a pint size Disney musical with an energetic Broadway pop score.

The Pearl Theatre
8/3 @ 8, 8/4 @ 5, 8/5 @ 5, 8/5 @ 9, 8/6 @ 1

Children of Salt
Music by Jaime Lozano; Book and Lyrics by Lauren Epsenhart

With a Latin infused score, Children of Salt focuses on Raul who learns of his estranged grandmother's illness. He returns home to the beach in hopes of leaving as quickly as possible. The day brings a series of unexpected metings, unleashing an array of memories. The plot is a bit heavy but it is a timeless tale of love, loss, and hope.

The Pearl Theatre
7/20 @ 8, 7/21 @ 9, 7/22 @ 1, 7/23 @ 5, 7/24 @ 9

Dust Can’t Kill Me
Book by Abigail Carney; Music and Lyrics by Elliah Heifetz

Dust Can't Kill Me is one of those unique journies from FringeNYC to NYMF. Drought, desperation, and a prophet's prmise of Paradise set a ragtag group of wayward souls on a Dust Bowl journey into the desert. The musical boasts a spirited band of actor-muscians with a folk score.

June Havoc Theatre
8/1 @ 8, 8/2 @ 5, 8/3 @ 9, 8/4 @ 9, 8/6 @ 1, 8/7 @ 12

Eh Dah?- Questions for My Father
Book, Music and Lyrics by Aya Aziz

Written and performed by Aya Aziz, Eh Day? - Questions for My Father is one of the more unique offerings of the festival. "Ghetto-Hippie-Arab-Cmmie-China Doll" Aya was shaped by the eclectic community of NYC but her Egyptian-American world-traveler father remained a mystery, as did her Muslim family. Aya enacts the world she came from and the family she went in search of.

June Havoc Theatre
7/19 @ 8, 7/20 @ 1, 7/23 @ 9, 7/24 @ 9, 7/25 @ 8, 7/28 @ 9
hypokritnyc.org

Forest Boy
Book and Lyrics by Scott Gilmour; Music by Claire McKenzie

On September 5th, 2011, a boy appeared in Berlin claiming to have lived in the forest with his father for the psat five years. He had no memory of his past, only that his name was Ray and he travelled to Berlin following the death of his father. What followed were months of speculation, police inquiry, and a global media frenzy as teh mystery of the Forest Boy slowly unravelled.

The Pearl Theatre
7/27 @ 8, 7/28 @ 9, 7/29 @ 9, 7/30 @ 1, 8/2 @ 5
forestboy.co.uk

Lisa and Leonardo
Music by Donya Lane; Lyrics by Ed McNamee; Book by Ed McNamee, Donya Lane & Michael Unger

In Lisa and Leonardo, Leonardo da Vinci's intimate sketches of Lisa derail both her marriage and his relationship with his boy lover and protege bringing both their lives to the brink of disaster. Inspired by the true story of political intrigue, love and passion, this old fashioned musical answers the question "Who is she?"

The Duke
7/21 @ 8, 7/23 @ 9, 7/25 @ 12, 7/26 @ 12, 7/28 @ 4, 7/28 @ 8
lisaandleonardo.com

Nickel Mines
Book by Andrew Palermo & Shannon Stoeke; Music and Lyrics by Dan Dyer

Throw this one into the heavy material category, Nickel Mines interprets the 2006 Lancaster, PA Amish schoolhouse shooting in which a lone gunman shot 10 girls, 5 fatally, before taking his own life. This unique piece influses movement, music, and text to explore the various viewpoints of what the Amish call "The Happening".

The Duke
7/27 @ 8, 7/29 @ 1, 7/30 @ 9, 7/31 @ 5, 7/31 @ 9
nickelminesmusical.com

Normativity
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jaime Jarrett

Normativity tells the story of Taylor, a teenage lesbian, who's sick of seeing LGBTQ+ people killed off in media with tragic endings. When Taylor meets Emily, a book character who's willed herself to life in order to confront the author who wrote her story, they force him to rewrite Emily's story, giving her a happy ending and proving why positive LGBTQ+ storytelling is so important.

The Pearl Theatre
7/18 @ 7, 7/21 @ 5, 7/22 @ 9, 7/23 @ 1, 7/24 @ 5
normativitymusical.com

Single
Book by Nat Bennett & Karen Bishko; Music and Lyrics by Karen Bishko

In Single, Leah seriously needs to get over her ex! At 20, Leah had a career in pop music and a huge hit song, but her record company didn't want her singing her own material, so she quit, now 36 and a successful divorce attorney. Between her experience with the music industry, her ex-boyfriend, and shepherding women through contentious divorces, she has become more and more suspicious of men.

June Havoc Theatre
7/29 @ 8, 8/3 @ 1, 8/4 @ 5, 8/5 @ 1, 8/6 @ 5

The First Church of Mary, the Repentant Prostitute’s Fifth Annual Benefit Concert, Revival, and Pot Luck Dinner
Book Music, and Lyrics by Geoff Davin, Additional Music and Lyrics by Nicole Boggs * KellyAnn Hocter; Additional Music by David Mescon

And the winner of the longest title is The First Church of Mary...And if ever there was a title that spelled out the plot for ya, it's this one. Come get yourself saved with the best band in town with some killer new songs. And of course the always popular pot luck dinner.

June Havoc Theatre
7/18 @ 7; 7/20 @ 5; 7/20 @ 9; 7/22 @ 5; 7/22 @ 9
repentantprostitute.com

The Gold
Book by Philip Yosowitz & Andrea Lepcio; Music & Lyrics by Philip Yosowitz

Rocky meets Golden Boy. Jospeh Cohen, a Jewish-German boxer, finds his 1936 Olympic ambitions curshed as the Nazis rise to power. Set against the backdrop of the Holocaust and the creation of Israel, The Gold is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the journey of self-discovery that we take as we search for purpose in our lives.

The Pearl Theatre
8/1 @ 8, 8/2 @ 1, 8/4 @ 9, 8/6 @ 5, 8/6 @ 9
thegoldmusical.com



The Last Word
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Brett Sullivan; Additional Lyrics by Ryan Cunningham

In East Cleveland 1976, Jay is a charaismatic slacker living above Paradise, the restaurant his fatehr left him. But Jay has accumulated a trail of debt which includes Earlene Floyd, a local parking lot mogul who wants to bulldoze Paradise and put up a parking (sounds like a Joni Mitchell lyric to me!). Jay enlists his old school gang of misfits with plans to raise cash by hustling across America, one game of Scrabble at a time.

The Duke
7/22 @ 8, 7/24 @ 5, 7/26 @ 8, 7/29 @ 5, 7/29 @ 9
thelastwordmusical.com

Ultimate Man!
Book by Jane Wilson & Charles Abbott; Music by Alastair William King; Lyrics by Paul Gambaccini, Alastair William King, & Jane Edith Wilson; Conceived by Paul Gambaccini

With the biggest creative team of the festival, Joe, the artist who draws the politically savvy Ultimate Man has lost control of his characters and himself. Ultimate Man confronts the cartoonist in the real world. For Joe, his worlds collide in this comic adventure.

Pearl Theatre
7/18 @ 8, 7/21 @ 1, 7/22 @ 5, 7/23 @ 9, 7/26 @ 9