May 26
My Fabulous First Year At The Pierre
This month, I am celebrating one year of my dream job. And what a year it has been!
From producing special events to managing TV and magazine photo shoots, I’ve had the opportunity to work on some of the most exciting projects of my career, with colleagues who represent the best of both hospitality and humanity. It takes a lot to deliver five-star service every day. And that’s exactly what The Pierre does.
With my boss Ernesto and General Manager Francois at The Pierre’s 70s-themed holiday party
Following the great example set by our leadership team, everyone at The Pierre is guided by the dual principles of doing what’s right and what is true to the DNA and 90-year history of the hotel. One year later, I am still in awe of the kindness, dedication and excellence of my coworkers. Going above and beyond is the rule here rather than the exception. Often when I’m speaking with guests, they express gratitude for the genuine warmth and caring of The Pierre team. I feel the same way. In these turbulent times, it is such a blessing to spend my days in a place that brings out the best in people.
Valentine’s Day selfie with colleagues (from left) Kim, Deb, Jackie and Vanessa
Of course, it’s no surprise that a hotel of this caliber attracts quite an extraordinary clientele. And it has given me the chance to meet iconic figures from so many different fields. I’ve had afternoon tea and talked about “Downton Abbey” with handsome, witty UK actor David Robb (Dr. Clarkson). I coordinated segments for two national morning shows, including one with legendary anchor Jane Pauley and the utterly charming, hilarious Bill Murray. Fun fact: an ex-boyfriend of mine went on an archeological dig in Cyprus with Bill. Laughing with him about this and sharing our experiences of working Down Under in Sydney with Jane was sublimely surreal.
In the hotel’s iconic Rotunda with Jane Pauley & Bill Murray
Perhaps closest to my heart, I’ve had the privilege to launch Broadway At The Pierre, a cabaret series that revisits the hotel’s long tradition of showcasing musical theater’s brightest stars (The Pierre hosted a similar program back in the 1940s and 50s!). Broadway was a big part of growing up in the Big Apple so working with its extraordinarily talented and equally gracious performers means a great deal to me.
Broadway At The Pierre: Kicking off the series with WICKED alums Hayley Podschun (Glinda), Jennifer DiNoia (Elphaba) and Musical Director Benjamin Rauhala
Just a few weeks into year two, the momentum continues. I have managed photography of celebrity departures for the prestigious MET Costume Gala — including the exits of Uma Thurman, Anne Hathaway, Kris Jenner and Shawn Mendes.
Uma Thurman exiting the hotel on her way to the MET Gala
I coordinated a TODAY Show segment filmed in The Pierre’s beloved Two E lounge. I had the pleasure of listening to Michelle Obama speak about balancing motherhood with life in the White House. And I witnessed an epic Mother’s Day performance by the three incredible leads from The Phantom of The Opera. As I shared with them that night, it was the first time since losing my mom almost 20 years ago that I actually looked forward to the holiday. Words can’t describe what a turning point this is for me.
All smiles on Mother’s Day (!) after PHANTOM’s epic performance
An acquaintance observed that my face always lights up when I talk about this extraordinary hotel. My dear friend Sara’s mom says I have finally found my home. I couldn’t agree more. The Pierre anchors me every day, continually inspiring me to evolve and grow.
Dream job? Job of a lifetime!
Feb 6
A Celebration of Whitney
One of the most fun and rewarding parts of my job at The Pierre continues to be working with the Broadway community. Their talent, generosity and grace never cease to amaze me–as it did last Monday at Kevin Smith Kirkwood’s Classic Whitney: Alive!
The evening at Joe’s Pub began with a delightful dinner at signature restaurant The Library. Though I’ve been to Joe’s Pub many times over the years, this was my first visit to The Library and it didn’t disappoint. Good friend Lori and I loved the cozy, inviting vibe. I chose from the three-course $42 Winter Restaurant Week menu (cleverly described as Acts I, II and III). The salmon tartar, cauliflower cassoulet & gala apple crumble with vanilla ice cream and caramel were all excellent. Restaurant Week runs through February 9th and The Library is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
Whitney as channeled by Kevin!
Our satisfying meal was the perfect preamble to Kevin’s dazzling show. From the moment the lights go down and he enters the room wearing angel wings and declaring, “Whitney is in the building!” you are transported to another time. A time when Whitney was deservedly the queen of pop.
After opening with a rousing rendition of “Joy To The World” (from the movie, The Preacher’s Wife), Kevin dons a patriotic track suit as he belts out “One Moment in Time,” Whitney’s majestic anthem for the 1988 Summer Olympics. Then, slipping into a sparkly one-piece jumpsuit, he raises the roof with classic hits like “Saving All My Love For You,” “I Have Nothing,” “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay” and “Exhale (Shoop, Shoop).”
Kevin rocked this one-piece Whitney-esque jumpsuit
That Kevin not only loved the late, great Miss Houston but has studied her most memorable performances is apparent throughout his 90-minute set. He infuses his soulful singing with Whitney’s distinctive mannerisms and on-stage banter telling her story. Having had the great good fortune of seeing Whitney at the height of her career in 1993, I can honestly say that Kevin becomes the very essence of her during the show. With his powerful pipes and glamorous fits-like-a-glove costume changes—and brilliant support from Musical Director Drew Wutke– Kevin transcends impersonation and makes you forget you’re not actually watching Whitney.
Some of the night’s best numbers are when Kevin is paired with backup singers playing key people in Whitney’s life (including mother Cissy and brother Gary). One showstopping duet—“When You Believe,” as performed by Whitney and Mariah Carey at the 1999 Grammys. The gal portraying Mariah nailed the diva’s vocal trills and melodramatic gestures.
Encore, Encore! The grand finale (photo credit: Neal Bennington).
The evening ended with “I Will Always Love You” and an encore of “I’m Every Woman.” Kevin pulled out all the stops for both songs, garnering a well-deserved standing ovation.
Afterward, Lori and I had the pleasure of congratulating Kevin and Drew. They both spoke of how Classic Whitney: Alive! was created with love to be a joyful celebration of the beautiful music and memories she gave us.
Mission accomplished.
For more info about Kevin’s upcoming shows, visit his website. Future Whitney dates are in the works!
Oct 28
Bringing Broadway To The Pierre
The transporting power of live theater is something I’ve been fortunate to experience many times—going back to my childhood days of seeing Broadway musicals with my late, beloved parents. I’ve always felt that theater not only takes you out of your world while immersing you in another, it is a reminder of our shared humanity and common experiences—something that’s never felt more important or comforting given these turbulent times.
When I joined The Pierre six months ago, I had a vision of bringing the magic of Broadway to this iconic five-star hotel. That vision recently came true—and it was even more exciting than I imagined.
My first experience of working with the theater community happened at Starwood Hotels. I loved every minute of it, impressed by those in front of and behind the scenes. Unlike other entertainment fields, the theater world is primarily populated with down to earth, accommodating people who make collaborating a true pleasure. There is no greater example of this than the team over at WICKED.
Me and Marissa, a member of WICKED’s marketing dream team
Having partnered with the acclaimed musical on an activation a few years ago at the Westin Times Square, I thought of it immediately for The Pierre. When I reached out via email, the show’s gracious company manager got right back to me even though she was on vacation. And so began our second partnership, with several fun elements including a costume display, show-themed cocktails and the WICKED Witch Hat Trick– a theatrical dessert dreamed up by our award-winning Executive Pastry Chef Michael Mignano, complete with smoke from dry ice and a melting chocolate hat.
The WICKED Witch Hat Trick: Available at Perrine on Halloween!
Of course, the main event of this great collaboration was a cabaret-style performance in The Pierre’s swanky Two E Lounge. Reuniting for the occasion–WICKED alums Jenny DiNoia (Elphaba) and Hayley Podschun (Glinda), who became best friends while performing in the show’s national tour.
Hayley Podschun (left) and Jenny DiNoia brought the house down at The Pierre’s Two E Lounge
Their 60-minute set was incredible from start to finish. In addition to singing beloved songs from the show including Popular and Defying Gravity, Hayley and Jenny shared stories of life on the road and delivered pitch perfect renditions of several pop hits. The highlight for me came when they sang the epic ballad For Good. They became visibly emotional and, as I have both times I’ve seen WICKED, I found myself getting tearful as well. The song always hits me at my core and this time was no exception.
As I listened to the words, I couldn’t help thinking about the song’s message–that the impact people have on our lives can be a lasting one even if their presence is not. I thought of friendships past, family members who have passed and long ago loves. And, of course, the many amazing people who fill my life today. How profoundly blessed I have been by all of them.
Encore, encore: All smiles with (from left) Hayley, Jenny and Musical Director/Pianist Benjamin Rauhala
After the show, I had the pleasure of chatting with Hayley and Jenny, both as beautiful and gracious as they are talented. I got a little emotional as I thanked them for turning my vision into a reality and they gave me a big hug.
We already have three more musicals confirmed for The Pierre series. Sometimes, just like Dorothy sang in The Wizard of Oz, the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true.
Aug 17
Pure Joy: U2 & Disney’s Aladdin
One of my favorite things about living in NYC is being able to experience the world’s best entertainment. My dear friend Sara and I recently enjoyed two memorable nights of music and theater.
We joined a sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden for one of U2’s eight shows there. The beloved Irish rockers delivered on the Innocence + Experience theme of their current tour, taking the audience on a powerful journey during their 2.5 hour set.
U2 rocked Madison Square Garden
U2 played on two stages and a suspended cage that served as both another stage and projector. Throughout the show, a series of images flashed–from a rendering of teenage Bono writing a song for his future wife to family photos and shooting stars in “Iris,” a moving tribute to his late mom. The setlist covered tracks from their current album Songs of Innocence alongside classic hits including “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” “Desire,” “Pride (In the Name of Love)” and “Beautiful Day.”
Sprinkled throughout were messages of social activism, filtered through the lens of the heartfelt reflection that comes with getting older. Bono spoke with gratitude for fan support of U2’s Red campaign against AIDS, also expressing thanks for the band’s longevity.
For the encore, they ended with “Where The Streets Have No Name” and a version of “One” that had everyone happily obliging Bono’s request to–
“Sing yourselves home.”
No doubt about it—U2 is still one of the greatest rock bands of our time.
Just a few days after being wowed by U2, Sara and I headed to the New Amsterdam Theater to see Aladdin. The stage version of Disney’s beloved 1994 animated film delivers plenty of laughs, heart and romance.
Dazzling choreography, colorful sets and rapid fire costume changes (337 costumes in total!) vividly bring the classic story to life. Aladdin features new songs penned for the show in addition to iconic numbers from the movie. Aladdin and Jasmin’s magic carpet ride to “A Whole New World” is spectacularly recreated.
James Monroe Iglehart dazzles as the genie (Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann/AladdinTheMusical.com)
Adam Jacobs is easy to like as Aladdin, Courtney Reed less so—her portrayal of Jasmine comes off as more bratty than spunky. Jonathan Freeman, who voiced villainous Jafar in the movie, reprises his role with panache. He’s almost upstaged by Don Darryl Rivera, a fireball of wicked energy as snarky sidekick Iago. But Aladdin’s biggest star is Tony Award winner James Monroe Iglehart. With his infectiously charming portrayal of the genie, Iglehart brings down the house, truly making this iconic role his own.
Aladdin is pure joy – an Arabian Night that’s enjoyable from start to final curtain call.
Apr 18
An Evening In Times Square
When it comes to Times Square, I’m one of those rare New Yorkers who actually likes it. Between working in the Crossroads of the World and being a Broadway aficionado, I appreciate it as an apex of hustle and bustle — and great dining if you know where to go.
During a recent girls night out with my work BFF Lisa, we headed to two of my favorite Times Square spots. First stop —The Lambs Club, a cozy bar and restaurant at the Chatwal Hotel that is equal parts swanky and boutique-style charm.
The Lambs Club’s upstairs bar. Love the NYC-themed light fixtures! (photo courtesy: Facebook.com/TheLambsClub)
Over cocktails and a tasty plate of hot mixed nuts, we talked about old friends, new beginnings and taking chances. Then, it was off to Café Un Deux Trois, a delightful French bistro that never disappoints. I departed from my usual picks here, enjoying the pâté starter and a perfectly cooked salmon burger.
It was a short stroll from dinner to the Sondheim Theater for Beautiful: the Carole King musical. Beautiful is a richly entertaining journey through King’s life and work. Packed with 25 pop hits like “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” “So Far Away” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” it’s also a fascinating look at the stories behind these classic songs, soulfully performed by the cast. Catch Beautiful before it closes in September.
Mar 31
A Trio Of Must-See Shows
One of my favorite parts of living in the Big Apple is having access to amazing theater. This weekend, I had the pleasure and good fortune of enjoying this cherished form of entertainment not once, but three times.
Friday’s Broadway experience took place at The Westin New York At Times Square, a first class hotel that makes every workday I spend there a thoroughly delightful and exciting one.
All smiles with my colleagues Ali (center) and Chris
Through Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) partner Audience Rewards, the Westin has teamed up with the beloved blockbuster musical WICKED for a two-month activation featuring exclusive packages and a lobby display of show costumes and memorabilia. Friday afternoon, we welcomed cast members to perform three songs from the show.
#WICKEDAtWestin: Wonderful!
As I stood there newly smitten with this beloved musical (which I saw in London years ago), I felt blessed all over again to have a job that makes such incredible moments possible. And to work with such a smart, fun and dedicated group of people.
The fun continued on Saturday, with a matinee preview performance of Something Rotten. Set during the 1590s, Something Rotten is the infectious tale of two writers desperate to create a hit play as Shakespeare continues to steal the limelight. When a fortune teller suggests they create the first-ever musical, hilarity ensues. Something Rotten playfully pokes fun at musicals while also showcasing what makes them so irresistible when they’re done so well.
After the show and cocktails/appetizers at Sardi’s, I met up with my cousin Carla and Titi Lydia for part two of my Saturday double header — the Radio City Spring Spectacular.
Derek Hough and Laura Benanti are magical together (photo courtesy: Gannett-cdn.com)
The dazzling 90 minute production is a love letter to NYC. Starring Tony Award winner Laura Benanti of TV’S Nashville and Dancing With The Stars‘ Derek Hough, it takes you on a journey through NYC’s iconic places, with majestic staging and beautiful choreography featuring the Rockettes.
My face almost hurt from smiling so much — that’s how much I loved the Spring Spectacular and Something Rotten. Both are must see entertainment now that spring is slowly, finally arriving!
Oct 19
A Wonderful Week To Remember
It’s been an amazing, action-packed week – one that has reminded me yet again how fortunate I am to reside in the Big Apple.
The fun kicked off last weekend, when I met Beth, a longtime, Massachusetts-based reader of my first blog, Single Gal In The City.
Beth and me at Blue Bar
I joined Beth and her husband for drinks at the iconic Algonquin Hotel’s Blue Bar. Beth shared how they connected through a dating service more than 25 years ago. I could sense immediately what a great fit they have been and continue to be for each other.
It meant so much to finally meet Beth face to face, and thank her for all of her support over the years. When you blog about your dating life, it inevitably often invites feedback of the critical variety. Beth continually reached out with encouraging emails like this–
“I am getting so impatient for you to meet the right guy!”
The next exciting day was Tuesday. Katie, a business colleague, invited me to join her for a performance of the new musical, The Last Ship, featuring an exhilarating score and songs penned by Sting. After drinks and appetizers at Victor’s Café 52, we headed over to the Neil Simon Theater for what was one of the best nights I’ve ever experienced on Broadway.
Soaring Entertainment: The Last Ship (photo courtesy: ThelastShip.com)
The Last Ship is fantastic—a compelling tale of love, regret, family and life in a shipbuilding town. It takes you on an entertaining, satisfying emotional ride. And, of course, the music is pitch perfect, with two of my favorite Sting tunes featured — “All This Time” and “When We Dance.”
Katie, who works in the building, arranged for us to get a backstage tour after the show. Much to our great surprise and delight, Sting himself was standing on stage as one of The Last Ship’s understudies walked us around.
The one and only Sting! *swoon*
Katie and I immediately looked at each other and both swooned. Sting is not only agelessly handsome in person, but truly gracious. He happily shook our hands and signed our programs. Wow.
Thursday, I headed over to the Beacon Theater for Fresh Fall Fest, hosted by my favorite local radio station, 102.7 FM. The two-hour plus concert featured Nico & Vinz, Matt Nathanson, Bleachers, Neon Trees and Ingrid Michaelson.
The artists who rocked Fresh Fall Fest (photo courtesy: fresh1027.cbslocal.com)
It was so much fun dancing the night away to pop hits like “Am I Wrong,” “Headphones,” and “Girls Chase Boys.”
In addition to all of the above, it’s also been an amazing week on the work front, with new adventures coming up that I look forward to sharing soon. I’ve never felt the rightness of being in New York more than I do right now.
As one of my dear friends is fond of saying, life is good!
Sep 10
Girls Night Out: Times Square
Friday, I enjoyed a girls night out in Times Square with my dear friend Lisa.
The evening’s main event – Rock of Ages. As an 80’s child and diehard fan of music from that era, I’ve been wanting to see this show for years. It didn’t disappoint.
Constantine Maroulis and the cast of Rock of Ages (photo credit: Joan Marcus/Playbill.com)
American Idol alum and original cast member Constantine Maroulis anchors Rock of Ages’ lively cast in the story of a city boy and small town girl seeking love and stardom in L.A. The show offers plenty of sing a long moments, weaving in about 80’s hits from, among others, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, REO Speedwagon, Twisted Sister and Whitesnake. It strikes the pitch perfect balance of kitschy, nostalgic fun and cheeky humor. Constantine is back through October 26 only, don’t miss your chance to see him.
After the show, Lisa and I briefly braved the Times Square crowds to walk over to Blue Fin nearby for a late dinner. I enjoyed bronzino with squash salad and cinnamon ice cream–all delicious with a capital D.
As I headed home, I thought about two things: good friends and my good fortune to live in NYC.
I heart my hometown.
