Day: December 29, 2007

happiness, New York, theatre

The Apple Sisters

Christa Avampato

A few weeks agao, I wrote about meeting Bob McClure as he was selling his homemade pickles (http://www.mcclurespickles.com/) at a charity event I attended. Last night, Bob invited me to see a variety show he was in at the People’s Improv Theatre (PIT) on West 29th Street. Bob was a part of The Apple Sisters variety show. And for those of you who missed the show, I would suggest logging in to their myspace page, www.myspace.com/theapplesisters so you are sure to catch their next act. I was laughing for a full hour at the comedy act these women put together.

I spent about 5 years working if profesisonal theatre management for Broadway shows and national tours. I left the business largely because I felt uninspired, though I have continued to attend shows whenever I can. The Apple Sisters is one of the best acts I have seen in a very long time. To be sure the show is not without its glitches, though the energy and spontaneity these gals have makes the glitches part of the fun. You won’t find polished choreography or perfect pitch in the songs – you’ll find something much better. Humor, warmth, and a very talented trio of writers. Their creativity will make you wonder why we haven’t yet heard more about these women – I have no doubt that large-scale success is on the way.

Also, if there’s an inspiring improv comic inside of you just waiting to get in on the act, The PIT offers classes, workshops, and tons of events. Most of the shows cost $5 – $8 per ticket – so much laugh for the buck that you can’t afford to pass it by. http://www.thepit-nyc.com/

New York, retail

Bringing home the goods

Christa Avampato

When you have a tiny apartment, there’s a need to make every square inch of it sparkle. I’ve been in the market for a few furniture pieces that fit perfectly in my pint-size place. I’ve had some trouble finding items that fit properly, are designed well, and are reasonably priced.

I was relating this to my friend, Diane, at work and she suggested I stop in at a store called Home Goods, a TJX company. On my lunhc break I toddled over there, expecting to not find too much and found so much that I loved that I had to make sure to not get a cart so all I could buy is what my own hands could carry.

I found the perfect powerd blue metal three tier shelf that will fold up flat should I ever need to store it away, or, heaven forbid, move. It looks so perfect in my studio apartment that you’d think it’s been there all along. The store is chock full of every item you could imagine in the home decor category. The company is very much on trend with the “Make It Yourself” look as well as new items that have a retro feel. The store is well organized, easy to navigate, and the merchandise is fairly priced. The company even has a blog that I recommend you check for the latest tips and ideas on decorating. http://openhouse.homegoods.com/

You’ll have to go to Jersey to experience a Home Goods, though I promise it is worth the effort!