“CROSSING BOROUGHS” WRITE-UP by VINNIE NAUHEIMER

“CROSSING BOROUGHS”

by VINNIE NAUHEIMER

The audience at the Artists Without Walls’ presentation of “Crossing Boroughs” was treated to a scrumptious mix of singing, dancing, music, and history last Sunday afternoon at the Museum of the City of New York. Weaving together the intricate blend of the music, dance, history and culture that defined each of New York City’s boroughs, “Crossing Boroughs” showcased the magnificent tapestry that defines New York City. Combining a superb narrative, slideshows, singing, dancing and monologues, the show transported the older members in the audience back to the days of their youth, while giving the younger folk a glimpse into New York City’s past.

Vocalists David Raleigh and Niamh Hyland

The opening slideshow presented visual snippets of New York City, which provided the backdrop for Niamh Hyland who sang “Midnight in Harlem” with enough soul to rock a congregation. Charles R. Hale picked up from there, narrating a brief history of Manhattan and its past, his words accenting and explaining the slides flashing across the screen. This background material led to a duet, “Manhattan,” a song written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart and performed by Niamh and David Raleigh.

Jack O’Connell, while holding a Spalding, known as a “spaldeen,” recounted Brooklyn born Pete Hamill’s description of “stickball” as he knew it growing up in Brooklyn, including the fact that Spaldings were not manufactured during WWII because of the rubber shortage caused by the war effort. Growing up in the Bronx, I can attest to the fact that stickball was played with the same rules across boroughs.

“Crossing Boroughs” creator Charles R. Hale

Stickball transitioned to baseball when Charles shared a personal story…his father taking him to his first baseball game at Ebbets Field. It was his first chance to see the Dodgers and Charles recounted the game and the chance meeting with Jackie Robinson at a stoplight as Charles and his dad drove home from the game. This personal touch, acknowledging the importance of the father-son bonds that were formed over the game of baseball, drew the audience in as they reflected on their ties to baseball. To add to the realism of the baseball moment, midway through Charles’ story, Jack O’Connell, to the sounds of a ballpark crowd, walked down the aisles dressed as a ballpark vendor: “Peanuts, popcorn, cracker-jacks….getcha cold beer…cold beer here….soodaaa, soodaa.”

Actor Jack O’Connell

From Brooklyn’s Ebbets Field, we were transported to Coney Island when Jack O’Connell (Man of a Thousand Faces) appeared as a carnival barker from the Midway where he pitched the various sideshows that were flashing on the screen behind him. This seamlessly transitioned into the story of another carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, from the 1945 Broadway show “Carousel.” Niamh Hyland once again wowed the audience with her rendition of “If I loved You,” Julie Jordan’s thoughts on her relationship with Billie

Moving from Brooklyn to Queens, Charles took the audience to the 1939 World’s Fair and the introduction of nylon stockings, which led to the opening dance number, “Nylon Stockings.”  David Raleigh sang the song, which featured  the very talented young dance duo, Laura Neese and Johnathan Matthews.

Dancers Laura Neese and Jonathan Matthews

Continuing through Queens, Charles once again brought the audience into his early life as he recounted his fond memories of Saturdays at one of the five New York Metro “Loew’s Wonder Theaters.” A short video depicted the grandeur of those theaters, which struck a solid chord with all who had the opportunity to spend time at those theaters, regardless of which borough they hailed from.

From Queens, the show moved over to the Bronx where once again, Laura and Johnathan traversed the floor in magnificent style, dancing the Lindy Hop to Dion and the Belmonts, “I Wonder Why.” The dance scene was followed by a fascinating narrative in which Charles combined the opening of the Triborough Bridge with the concurrent history of the Randall’s Island stadium, located beneath the Triborough, and the part it played in selecting the runners who represented the United States at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin.

Every show has its highlight: This shows highlight was Niamh Hyland’s performance of the Etta James’ song “I’d Rather Go Blind.” Niamh nailed it, boxed it and delivered it to an audience that devoured every note. At the end of her song, thunderous applause spontaneously erupted as several members audience jumped to their feet paying tribute to the superb performance they had just witnessed.

Vocalist and music director Niamh Hyland, guitarist Shu Nakamura and bassist Mary Ann McSweeney

Once again, back in Manhattan at McHale’s Bar, Jack O’Connell took the stage to give us a sobering portrayal of a bartender speaking to an invisible customer (or the audience?) while reciting Bob Dylan’s “Desolation Row.” A poem that perfectly describes the seedier side of life–desolation–in New York.

As we headed out to the final borough, Staten Island, footage from the Staten Island Ferry with the Manhattan skyline in the background filled the screen. Accompanying the visual, David and Niamh sang “Leaving New York.” The entire experience was made complete by the accomplished musicians who provided the musical accompaniment led by renowned guitarist Shu Nakamura, drummer Shirazette Tinnin, keyboardist Steve Okonski and bassist Mary Ann McSweeney.

The Band for Crossing Boroughs

For this Bronx boy, who has lived and worked in New York City most of his life, this was a terrific afternoon. It is not very often you see a show that skillfully combines New York City nostalgia, song, dance, music, and fun into one package. Kudos to Charles Hale Productions and everyone that contributed to making “Crossing Boroughs” a most enjoyable show.

Crossing Boroughs was created and written by Charles R. Hale. Charmaine Broad directs the show and Niamh Hyland, in addition to being the show’s lead vocalist, is its musical director.

Photos by Mitch Traphagen

ARTISTS WITHOUT WALLS PRESENTS “CROSSING BOROUGHS” at THE MUSEUM of the CITY of NEW YORK

Artists Without Walls is pleased to announce that it will once again have a show in Origin Theatre’s First Irish Theatre Festival titled “Crossing Boroughs.”

The show will be performed at the Museum of the City of New York, January 28, 3pm.

“Crossing Boroughs” was written by Charles R. Hale and stars Niamh Hyland along with Maya Kronfeld, Jonathan Matthews, Mary Ann McSweeney, Shu Nakamura, Laura Neese, Jack O’Connell, David J Raleigh, and Shirazette Tinnin. 

Charles R. Hale/Narrator. Niamh Hyland/Music Director. Charmaine Broad/Director. Mitch Traphagen/Graphics and Images. Christopher Hale/Multi Media and Sound Effect.  

For tix, which are $15, and info CLICK HERE

 

 

 

“BRAVI to ALL”: ARTISTS WITHOUT WALLS’ NOVEMBER SHOWCASE at THE CELL THEATRE

Comments heard after Artists Without Walls’ Showcase at The Cell this past Tuesday.
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 “The AWoW showcases are always full of creative, surprising and inspiring performances. I was moved by the personal, touching and very clever songs/stories. From the legendary Americana and Irish folklore to the poignant and funny accounts of family legacy and furry members. Bravi to all!!”  Theresa Sareo
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“Mick Mcauley’ s performance was  absolutely mesmerizing. I loved it.” Marie Mularcyzk O’Connell
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“Last night’s Artists Without Walls’ Showcase was absolutely amazing. Glad to have shared the experience.  The artists including, Eddie Brill, Candice Baranello, Lorraine Berger, Marie Mularczyk O’Connell, Michelle Macau, Dave Keener, Niamh Hyland, Michael Brunnock, and his surprise guest Mick Mcauley, were fantastic.  Thanks Charles and Niamh for once again putting together such a great “Showcase” of talented artists.” Marty Plevel
  
“The song Niamh and Michael Brunnock wrote and performed…I MUST hear it again!” Tom Myles
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“Michelle’s story was such a touching tale and one that needed to be shared. Thank you, Michelle.” Niamh Hyland
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Photos by Vera Maura
Lorraine Berger, Candice Baranello and Marie Mularcyzk

 

Michelle Macau
Michael Brunnock and Niamh Hyland
Charles R. Hale
Eddie Brill
Dave Keener
Michael Brunnock and Mick Mcauley
Mountain Maidens with Michael Brunnock: Lorraine Berger, Candice Baranello and Marie Mularcyzk O’Connell
Mick Mcauley
 
 
 
 
 

Vera Hoar’s Photos from the April Showcase

It had been two months since we had an AWoW showcase, and the line-up from our April night just reminded us why we do this every month. On a rainy evening, folks trickled in slower than usual and as they said their hello’s, grabbed a beverage and took to their seats, they switched off the day that had passed and enjoyed 90 minutes of entertainment. From comedy, to poetry, to music and word, we moved through seven performers, closing out the night with our usual buzzing after chat, excited performers, and some new members to add to the fold.
 

Grateful we continue to have outstanding talent from month to month. Our next showcase is May 23rd.

Marci Geller
Chris Carter and Roger Bartlett
Amira Mustapha
Eddie Brill
Rosaleen Crowley
Kuni Mikami
Carlton Smith and Puma Perl
Niamh Hyland
Charles R. Hale
The Artists Without Walls April 2017 Showcase!

ARTISTS WITHOUT WALLS’ JANUARY SHOWCASE AT THE CELL

Join Artists Without Walls for its January Showcase at The Cell, 338 West 23rd Street, Manhattan, Tuesday, January 24th. Presenters include jazz fiddler Michi Fuji, author and lecturer Suzanne Bernier,  singer/songwriter Martina Fiserova, artist and singer Maia Nero, writers Billy Barrett and Mike DeLucia, playwright Brendan Connellan and actor Faye Franzini. Charles R. Hale and Niamh J. Hyland are the evenings hosts and emcees. 

The doors and the bar open at 6:45. Performances begin at 7:30. This is a free event. 

ARTISTS WITHOUT WALLS PRESENTS: A NIGHT of SUPERIOR TALENTS, JULY 26th at THE CELL THEATRE

Great line up on tap for Tuesday’s Artists Without Walls’ Showcase at The Cell Theatre.

 

Walter Parks
Walter Parks

Over the past three decades, Walter Parks has forged a distinctive international career as the lead guitarist for Woodstock legend Richie Havens, half of the folk-duo The Nudes, and guitarist and leader of the swamp/blues-outfit Swamp Cabbage. His original music is inspired by the swampy gospel blues that wails from storefront churches and roadhouses in and around the southeast Georgia low country. We’re looking forward to Walter’s return to an Artists Without Walls’ Showcase. 

 

Playwright Derek Murphy and actors Karin de la Penha and Kimberly Kelly Adams will be making their Artists Without Walls’ debut when they present a scene from a new play Derek is currently writing, a dark comedy set in NY and Dublin, titled “Dyin’ For It.”

 

Derek Murphy, Kimberly Kelly Adams and Karin de la Penha
Derek Murphy, Kimberly Kelly Adams and Karin de la Penha

 

Jenna Nicholls
Jenna Nicholls

Would you like to hear a great singer who has performed all over the world and has toured and performed with artists such as Oscar winner Glen Hansard, Amanda Palmer,  Angela McClusky (Telepop), Rob Moose, Thomas Bartlett (BonIver /Doveman), Nouvelle Vague and many others? Then you’ll want to come and hear Jenna Nicholls on Tuesday evening. Jenna’s music has been featured in film and television. She’s toured and released two full albums: “Curled Up Toes in Red Mary Janes” and “The Blooming Hour” Her third release is scheduled for 2016.

 

Richard Deane
Richard Deane

Richard Deane’s last appearance on an Artists Without Walls’ stage featured an emotionally provocative reading of the opening scene from his novel in progress, “When Yesterday Comes.” His use of poignant atmospherics and straight to the heart exposition pulled the audience into the midst of the dramatic conflict between his vividly constructed characters. Richard’s unabashed exploration into an uncomfortable subject was both captivating and moving.

 

Annette Homann and Alexaner A. Wu
Annette Homann and Alexaner A. Wu

Pianist and arranger Alexander A. Wu and violinist and composer Annette Homann recently presented “Strings n Keys – Three Centuries of Global Music,” celebrating the popular collaborative tradition of piano and violin. Alexander and Annette will be performing a variety of musical styles from their show including works of  Ástor Piazzolla, Leonard Bernstein and more. 

 

Kathleen Bennett Bastis
Kathleen Bennett Bastis

Kathleen Bennett Bastis has written prose and poetry all her life and, as a former producer for talk radio, she wrote hundreds of short descriptive “rip and read” segments about neighborhoods, restaurants, product alerts or shopping experiences in the New York tri-state area. She’s had two observations published in The New York Times Metropolitan Diary, and last year she performed her piece on Cyber Dating at an Artists Without Walls’ Showcase.  Kathleen is also an accomplished artist whose work is inspired by the hue, shape and texture of salvaged materials she finds on the river, street and scrap yards. She reinterprets the history of these “found objects” by constructing them into a contemporary visual narrative.

 

The Cell Theatre is located at 338 W23rd St in Manhattan. The show will be hosted by Artists Without Walls’ artistic directors Niamh J. Hyland and Charles R. Hale. The doors and the bar open at 6:45. Presentations begin at 7:30. 

 

 

 

 

FREE EVENT: ARTISTS WITHOUT WALLS' JUNE SHOWCASE at THE CELL THEATRE

Niamh Hyland
Niamh Hyland

Join Artists Without Walls’ artistic directors and cohosts, Niamh Hyland and Charles R. Hale for its June Showcase at The Cell Theatre, Tuesday, June 28th. The doors and the bar open at 6:45 and presentations begin at 7:30.  The Cell Theatre is located at 338 W23rd St. NYC.

 

 

David Raleigh
David Raleigh

Pianist/vocalist David J Raleigh was last scene at The Cell in April when he and his quartet performed in Charles R. Hale’s “Jazz and the City: The New York Connection.” David, whose heartfelt music crosses musical boundaries and transport listeners to a timeless era of music and passion, will be returning to The Cell Tuesday night, 6/28 to perform a few songs from the show. Lauded by Time Out Magazine as the ‘Nat King Cole’ for a new generation, David has the ‘old soul’ songwriting sensibilities of some of the greatest performers of our time.

 

 

Sam Adelman
Sam Adelman

Film editor Sam Adelman has worked on over 70 feature films and documentaries including “Easy Money,” “Desperately Seeking Susan,” “Donnie Branco ” “Pollock,” “Sweet Lorraine,” “Changing Lanes,” “Screen Door Jesus,” and the soon to be released “Hometown Hero” with Eric Roberts. Partially inspired by the recent passing of Muhammad Ali, Sam will be reading a piece from his coming-up-on-retirement project “Getting Out of Show Business.”

 

 

Almeria Campbell
Almeria Campbell

Making her debut appearance at an Artists Without Walls’ Showcase  will be actor/singer Yvonne Almeria Campbell. Almeria, from Tyler, TX is a Resident Artist at The Cell Theatre. She attended Texas Christian University ( receiving her B.F.A.) and then Rutgers University, Mason Gross school of the arts (receiving her M.F.A.). Her TV acting credits include “Law and Order,” “Person of Interest” and “Guiding Light.” Her theatre credits include the lead role of Nelly in “Hard Times” at The Cell, as well as Yolanda in “10 Minutes Deep,” also at The Cell.  Almeria will be performing a scene about love, loss and winning. You can check out her upcoming webisodes at almeriacampbell.com.

 

 

Mark Donnelly
Mark Donnelly

Come meet and hear Artists Without Wall’s charter member Mark Donnelly, who will be performing “Cowboy Time,” a short, humorous monologue based on his boyhood dream of becoming a cowboy. Mark is a playwright, poet and short story writer, who teaches English at St. Francis College and Borough of Manhattan Community College. 

 

 

 

Joel Cruz
Joel Cruz

Joel Cruz, a regular AWoW attendee, will be making his initial performance appearance at Tuesday’s Showcase. Joel is a saxophonist, artist instructor, and writer, who music incorporates all genres. His team is most important to him and each show features a different instrumentation and the use of different styles according to the team on-hand. Every event in his life goes into his writing. Every emotion in the stories goes into his performance. Every moment on stage goes his teaching.

 

 

Charles R. Hale
Charles R. Hale

Charles R. Hale, one of Artists Without Walls’ cofounders and a Resident Artist at The Cell Theatre, will be premiering his short film “Jazz and the City: The New York Connection,” at this Tuesday’s Showcase. The film is a companion piece to his show of the same name, which debuted at The Cell in April.

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From the best of times to the worst of times, songwriters have captured every corner of New York City through music. Weaving story, sidebars, images and the music of the Gershwins, Jerome Kern, Johnny Mercer, Billy Strayhorn and others, Charles connects New York City through the songs of the composers and performers who lived in the city, through the venues in which the songs were popularized and through his own recollection of New York and song.

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERA HOAR'S PHOTOS from ARTISTS WITHOUT WALLS' ANNIVERSARY SHOWCASE at THE CELL THEATRE

Vera Hoar’s photos from Artists Without Walls’ Showcase at The Cell Theatre, Tuesday, February 23rd. 

 

Paul Bevan
Paul Bevan
Annette Homann and Neil Kairen
Annette Homann and Neil Kairen
Niamh J. Hyland, Margaret Hyland and Charles R. Hale
Niamh J. Hyland, Margaret Hyland and Charles R. Hale
Deni Bonet and Manav Sachdeva Maasoom
Deni Bonet and Manav Sachdeva Maasoom
Michael Brunnock, Niamh Hyland, Vera Hoar, Margaret Hoar and Deni Bonet
Michael Brunnock, Niamh Hyland, Vera Hoar, Margaret Hoar and Deni Bonet
Liv Mammone
Liv Mammone
Darrah Carr, Jonathan Matthews, Laura Neese, Mary Kate Sheehan
Darrah Carr, Jonathan Matthews, Laura Neese, Mary Kate Sheehan
Alessia Sushkov and Sedly Bloomfield
Alessia Sushkov and Sedly Bloomfield
Deni Bonet with her band.
Deni Bonet with her band