New Broadway League Website, App Offer One-Stop Shopping for Theater Tickets in NYC and Across North America

The Broadway League has launched BROADWAY.ORG, a comprehensive resource dedicated to providing theatre-goers around the world with information about all Broadway shows—both in New York and across North America © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The Broadway League has launched BROADWAY.ORG, a comprehensive resource dedicated to providing theatre-goers around the world with information about all Broadway shows—both in New York and across North America.

BROADWAY.ORG combines two previously existing sites: ilovenytheater.com, specifically targeted to Broadway shows in New York, and touringbroadway.com, which was the League’s official website for Touring Broadway productions in nearly 200 markets throughout the U.S. and Canada. With improved functionality, the new site continues to be the official source of information and provider of direct access to all things Broadway.

“BROADWAY.ORG furthers the notion that Broadway is a state of mind rather than a set geographical location. Our ultimate goal is to provide a premier one-stop consumer site for show information and official ticketing links, combining Broadway and Touring Broadway in a central location and under a single site identity,” says Charlotte St. Martin, Executive Director of The Broadway League. “If you want to see a Broadway show, regardless if you are home or out-of-town, you can go to BROADWAY.ORG to find out where and when it’s playing and easily buy your tickets from the authorized source.”

The new site features a deep integration between the New York City and touring shows. Site users can locate theatres across North America where Broadway shows are playing, and link to their official sites for more information. If they are on the page for a Broadway show, they will also be able to easily view its upcoming tour stops; and when on the page for a show on tour, will be able to see that it is also playing in New York and get information on that production.

The new site provides up-to-date show and theatre information in six languages, a guide to hotel and dining options in Manhattan’s Theatre District, and general information about Broadway theatre-going. It provides access to show tickets at all price points to current and upcoming shows, direct from the theatres’ official ticketing offices in real time, without broker markups.

The thoroughness and simplicity of the new site can be demonstrated with numerous features that are easy to navigate including: Google Maps and social media integration, the ability to search by location, an interactive map of the NYC theatre district and multi-media galleries. The League will be able to communicate timely announcements such as holiday schedules, weather advisories, updates on programs such as Kids’ Night on Broadway^®, and more.

The site also features a mobile app for Broadway in New York and later this year an enhanced app to include touring data is being planned. The League’s Digital and Technology team created the new site with the aid of website design firm Lounge Lizard.

For more than a century, Broadway has been considered the pinnacle of live theatrical entertainment. Broadway is where America’s greatest playwrights, composers, lyricists, actors, singers, dancers, directors, designers, and choreographers bring great plays and musicals to life. Touring Broadway encompasses first-class, professional productions that bring these shows to fans across North America.

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Take Me Out Organizes Nightlife Tours of New York City

Take Me Out, a NYC nightlife tour company takes guests to the hottest spots around the city, handling everything from limousine transportation to reservations at each stop © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Take Me Out, a NYC nightlife tour company takes guests to the hottest spots around the city, handling everything from limousine transportation to reservations at each stop.

While it may be a nightlife tour, Take Me Out is aimed at everyone, not just tourists. The company prides itself on providing an alternative way to explore the city’s nightlife that won’t have you waiting in line outside for hours.

“Take Me Out is a great way for everyone to experience New York City and we are actually one of the only night life tours in the city, said Mor “What makes us stand out is that we take our guests to exclusive places. These are places you can’t get in without a reservation. It definitely has a VIP feel.”

One of the Take Me Out’s tours includes the popular Mixology tour. This particular tour includes two charted limos, guides who whip up great drinks for tour-goers along the way, and stops at some of the city’s trendiest bars.

If you’re the type who is looking for something a little different, try the company’s most popular tour, the Prohibition Tour. This tour transports you back to the 1920’s and takes you to secret bars and hidden speakeasies throughout the city. Along the way, sip champagne, enjoy the limo ride, and learn about the era as you visit each stop.

Other tours include their nightclub tour for those who love to dance, and a singles social tour.

“The goal with launching this company is that I wanted to create something that guests could enjoy and that stood out from the typical nightlife experience in the city,” continued Mor. “Everyone enjoys the tours, both locals and tourists. They are also perfect for events like birthday parties, and with wedding season right around the corner, it’s the perfect idea for a bachelor or bachelorette party!”

Take Me Out Tours currently offers five tours, but also offers custom events. Attendees can expect on average three stops per tour and each starts from $100-$150 per person. Tours run most nights of the week, starting as early as 5pm, with most starting around 9pm.

For more information on Take Me Out, visit http://www.takemeoutnyc.com.

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NYC ‘Hidden Harbor’ Summer Tours Go Behind Scenes by Luxury Yacht; New Tour Focuses on ‘Beyond Sandy’

Hidden Harbor summer tours take visitors behind the scenes to see the inner workings of New York City’s famous harbor © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Every Tuesday through September you can experience a true adventure, “Hidden Harbor Tours,” – cruising aboard the luxury yacht Zephyr behind the scenes to discover the inner workings of the bustling New York Harbor.

New for the 2013 summer season is the tour series: “Beyond Sandy, Keeping The Conversation Alive” featuring three different areas of interest each week with noted speakers and charities onboard (see website for full list). The exciting and educational tours are presented by the Working Harbor Committee (non-profit) in partnership with the New York Water Taxi/Circle Line Downtown by the Working Harbor Committee (nonprofit) in partnership with the New York Water Taxi/Circle Line Downtown. Tuesday sailings depart at 6:30pm from Pier 16 South Street Seaport, New York, New York (Fulton Street and South Street).

“Beyond Sandy” tours provide three themed sailings:

Tour 1: High Seas on the Inner Harbor: From Wall Street to Snug Harbor

Tour 2: Fire, Floods and Floating Containers: East River – Hell Gate to Governors Island

Tour 3: Protecting Our Ports: From Red Hook to Newark Bay.

Additionally, Hidden Harbor Tours will feature its popular Newark Bay Tour and North River Tour on select Tuesday sailings.

The tours cost: Adults $39, Seniors $32, Children ages 3-12 $25, Under age 3 are free. For ticket information and full tour schedule visit: https://www.circlelinedowntown.com/tours/hidden-harbors, 212-742-1969 by phone or www.workingharbor.org.

Zephyr, a luxury yacht, features two fully enclosed decks, plusan open-air roof deck – all decks boast panoramic views. A portion of the ticket price goes to the Working Harbor Committee to support its programming.

Featured Speakers include: Captain John Doswell, Working Harbor Committee; Chris Ward, Executive Vice President, Dragados USA; formerly with The Port Authority New York & New Jersey; Helena Durst, President, New York Water Taxi; Lucy Ambrosino, Outreach Manager of Port Commerce, The Port Authority New York & New Jersey; Dr. Philip Orton, legendary research scientist, Stevens Institute of Technology, New Jersey; and Jill Eisenhard, Executive Director, Red Hook Initiative.

The Mission of the Working Harbor Committee is to strengthen awareness of the working harbor’s history and vitality today, and its opportunities for the future by: Involving people in learning how the harbor works and what it does; Educating people in the rich and challenging history of the harbor; Making people aware of the need to build and sustain the working harbor. Visit www.workingharbor.org for more information.

New York Water Taxi (NYWT), an affiliate company of The Durst Organization, Inc., has been a New York fixture since 2002. Beginning with a spunky fleet of five distinctive black and yellow-checkered vessels, today the iconic 12-vessel fleet also includes the vessels of NYWT’s sister organization Circle Line Downtown, the speedboat thrill ride Shark, and the luxury yacht Zephyr. Sought after for weddings, special events and corporate occasions, the newly refurbished Zephyr boasts three decks, two full bars, plush climate controlled interior, an expansive dance floor and spectacular views. NYWT’s mission is to provide entertaining, stimulating, and enlightening ways to see New York City’s dazzling skyline, celebrated bridges, lush waterfront parks and enjoy the City, while maintaining a community-conscious fleet that honors cherished waterways. For more information, visit www.nywatertaxi.com

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Stars of ‘Chicago’ to meet Broadway Fantasy Campers During ‘All-Day Broadway: Chicago Session,’ April 13

 

Have an urge to see your name in lights on Broadway? Broadway Fantasy Camp is the ultimate experience for any adult looking to savor the spotlight down center or in the chorus, despite talent or experience level. At Broadway Fantasy Camp, theater lovers will experience the “Razzle Dazzle” as they spend a day immersed in the world of the Broadway musical © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Broadway favorite Amra-Faye Wright, now starring as “Velma Kelly” in CHICAGO at the Ambassador Theatre, will meet with Broadway Fantasy Camp participants during their All-Day Broadway: Chicago Session on Saturday, April 13, 2013 in Manhattan.

 

Joining Wright is Gabriela Garcia, who has played “Hunyak” on Broadway. The Musical Director is Howard Levitsky, Associate Conductor for CHICAGO in North America and abroad.

 

Broadway Fantasy Camp is the ultimate experience for any adult looking to savor the spotlight down center or in the chorus, despite talent or experience level. At Broadway Fantasy Camp, theater lovers will experience the “Razzle Dazzle” as they spend a day immersed in the world of this infectious musical.

 

From the moment Broadway Fantasy Camp begins, the authenticity is apparent. Participants meet in a Broadway rehearsal studio just like they’ve seen on Smash!   Broadway Fantasy Camp‘s staff of Broadway professionals works with participants to create a customized presentation, to be presented for family and friends. As a bonus, professional headshots will be taken.

 

To understand the full breadth of the Broadway experience, participants will visit with Amra-Faye Wright, Gabriela Garcia, and additional behind-the-scenes talent who help stage Broadway musicals.

 

After the Broadway Fantasy Camp presentation is complete, participants will enjoy CHICAGO from their VIP seats, and the celebration continues at Broadway Fantasy Camp’s very own post-show champagne reception at Sardi’s.

 

Information regarding upcoming 2013 sessions, gift certificates, and booking information may be found at www.BroadwayFanCamp.com, by emailing joinus@broadwayfancamp.com, or calling 212-713-0366.

 

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East River State Park to Become Weekend Home of Brooklyn Flea and Smorgasburg

Starting April 6 and 7, East River State Park will become the new Williamsburg weekend home of Brooklyn Flea and Smorgasburg for the 2013 season. This popular market will activate the former warehouse foundation slab in the park’s southeast corner near Kent Avenue and North 7th Street, adding to a lively mix of new and continuing park programming for 2013.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Flea to East River State Park.  Already fast becoming a centerpiece of the community, this addition will draw even more people and add to what we fully expect will be a spring and summer full of exciting, community-oriented events and programs at this park,” said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey.

“Moving the Flea and Smorgasburg to East River State Park feels like a perfect fit,” said Jonathan Butler, co-founder of the markets with Eric Demby. “Staying on the Williamsburg waterfront in this vibrant community is a big priority for us, and we love that the markets will now support one of New York’s truly great parks. And who can argue with that view!”

Founded in April 2008, Brooklyn Flea has grown into one of New York City’s top attractions, operating flea markets every weekend of the year that feature hundreds of top vendors of antique and repurposed furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, as well as a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, and crafts by local artisans and designers, plus delicious fresh food.

East River State Park continues to plan for additional park improvements, amenities and programs.  At a recent community meeting with park friends and partners, Commissioner Harvey discussed preparations for the 2013 spring/summer season and ideas for the future of the park’s community partners, including the Friends of East River State Park, the Open Space Alliance of North Brooklyn Parks and Neighbors Allied for Good Growth, outlining the community’s role in the creation of ERSP and the goals for the park’s development that include expanding access to the waterfront, highlighting the industrial past and the creation of open space that was environmentally sensitive.

Events and projects discussed for 2013 include art installations, farmers markets, additional equipment for the playground, areas for pets, theater performances, and shade structures. State Parks also plans to organize a lively line up of community events, permitted ventures and park improvements to enhance last year’s offerings that included ‘I Love My Park Day,’ the Children’s Fall Festival, movie nights and OSA organized events ranging from yoga classes to chamber music. This year’s ‘I Love My Park Day’ is set for May 4^th and the Friends of ERSP are already organizing volunteer activities.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 179 state parks and 35 historic sites. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visitors can call 518.474.0456, visit nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.

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Kids’ Night on Broadway 2013 Features Free Fan Festival at Discovery Times Square, Feb 26

For the first time, The Broadway League’s KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY pre-theatre Fan Fest will take place at Discovery Times Square (226 West 44^th Street) on Tuesday, February 26 from 3 to 6 pm.

The annual Fan Fest is free for all parents and children who have purchased a KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY ticket. Aiming to enhance the experience of live theatre, the Fan Fest allows kids to participate in special activities created by Broadway shows. The Fan Fest will include show-themed games and activities, makeup demonstrations, Autograph Alley with Broadway performers, a dance workshop with Revolución Latina, Broadway Karaoke, and much more, including a free theatre activity guide. The Broadway Green Alliance will also collect plastic bottle caps (plastic and metal) to incorporate in to the set for the new production of Peter and the Starcatcher Off-Broadway. For every handful of caps brought, a prize will be given.

During the entire week of KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY, (February 25 – March 3), the purchase of one Discovery Times Square adult ticket will admit one child for free to either Harry Potter: The Exhibition or Spy: The Exhibit. This offer will also apply during the Fan Fest. Proof of KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY ticket will be required to redeem this offer. Please note that only one child ticket is granted per adult ticket purchase. Exhibit Purchase is not required in order to attend the Fan Fest.

“Everyone at The Broadway League is excited to have this year’s Fan Fest at Discovery Times Square. The annual event is a great way for kids to interact with Broadway talent and to meet other kids who also enjoy theatre,” said Charlotte St. Martin, Executive Director of The Broadway League. “Like Broadway, the Discovery Times Square exhibits are creative, imaginative, and educational.”

KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY is when kids ages 6 to 18 can see Broadway shows for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. A KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY ticket includes free pre-theatre parties, restaurant discounts, parking discounts, educational programs, and more.

Kids’ Night on Broadway tickets available for participating shows on:

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2013

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2013

FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 2013

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2013

SUNDAY, MARCH 3, 2013

Participating shows (to date) include:

BROADWAY: Ann, Annie, Chicago, Hands on a Hardbody, Jersey Boys, The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, Mary Poppins, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Newsies, Once, The Phantom of the Opera, Rock of Ages, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark, Wicked.

OFF-BROADWAY: Avenue Q, Forever Dusty, The Gazillion Bubble Show, Stomp

Many Times Square-area eateries will offer specials for Kids’ Night on Broadway ticket-holders. Restaurant updates: www.kidsnightonbroadway.com/restaurants.php

Participating restaurants (to date) include:

Angus McIndoe, B. Smith’s, Blue Fin, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Casa Nonna, Ceci Italian Restaurant, Cock & Bull, Connolly’s Pub and Restaurant, db Bistro Moderne, Glass House Tavern, Guy’s American Kitchen & Bar, Heartland Brewery & Chophouse, Hurley’s Saloon, Little Town Restaurant Row, Matt’s Grill, Playwright Tavern, Ruby Foo’s, Ruby Tuesday, Schnipper’s, Tasti-D-Lite, Toloache, Tony’s DiNapoli, Trattoria Trecolori, and Virgil’s Real BBQ.

KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY®, a program of The Broadway League, is generously presented by The New York Times. Official sponsor is Discovery Times Square. Official media partners are WABC-TV, Fresh 102.7, WCBS-FM 101, Metro-North Railroad, Telemundo Nueva York, and La Mega.

Harry Potter the Exhibition: After a widely successful international tour, the iconic exhibition is back in NYC and better than ever! Experience firsthand the magic of Hogwarts™! Marvel at over 200 authentic props and costumes from the Harry Potter™ films, including some newly added never-before-seen artifacts from the epic series finale! Step inside the famous wizard’s magical world as you make your way through the dramatic displays inspired by the films’ sets – including the Great Hall, Hagrid’s hut and the Gryffindor^™ common room. While touring through the exhibition space, discover iconic items such as Harry’s original wand and eyeglasses, the Marauder’s Map, Gryffindor school uniforms as well as costumes worn at the Yule Ball. Enter the Quidditch^™ area and toss a Quaffle, pull your own Mandrake in the Herbology vignette, encounter Buckbeak^™ the Hippogriff and even a giant Acromantula spider. Showcasing the supreme artistry and amazing craftsmanship that went into the making of the ever popular film series, Harry Potter: The Exhibition is sure to spark curious minds and foster an excitement of discovery among guests of all ages. There’s no place like Hogwarts!

Spy: The Exhibit: Forget what you think you know about spies from movies and novels. This interactive new family friendly exhibit will take you beyond the Hollywood fiction and put you face to face with the secret truth that goes on behind the scenes. Encounter real declassified gadgets revealed for the first time ever from the world’s leading intelligence agencies. Experience what it’s like to be a spy firsthand – test your spy skills by navigating your way through an actual laser field. Create your own disguise and alter your voice – even your family and friends won’t recognize you! Experience the evolution of spy technology with over 200 historical artifacts, including a collapsible motorbike from WW2, a robotic flying dragonfly, a German ENIGMA machine, and the ice axe that killed Trotsky.

The Broadway League, founded in 1930, is the national trade association for the Broadway industry. The League’s 700-plus members include theatre owners and operators, producers, presenters, and general managers who present in nearly 200 markets in North America, as well as suppliers of goods and services to the theatre industry. Each year, League members bring Broadway to nearly 30 million people in New York and on tour across the U.S. and Canada.

For more information, visit BroadwayLeague.com, or follow The Broadway League on Twitter @TheBwayLeague or on Facebook at facebook.com/BroadwayLeague. Download the free ILoveNYTheater app and free IBDB app for iPhone, iPad, and iTouch on iTunes.

New-York Historical Society Celebrates Presidents’ Day with Week of Family Programs at new DiMenna Children’s History Museum

The Presidents will be in residence  at the New-York Historical Society’s DiMenna Children’s History Museum, a new museum-within-a-museum  © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The Presidents are in residence starting Saturday, February 16 at the New-York Historical Society’s DiMenna Children’s History Museum, a new museum-within-a-museum. Families explore, learn, and compete together with Presidents’ Day-themed programs, including scavenger hunts, an Abraham Lincoln quiz, chocolate-making from the colonial era, storytelling, writing workshops, and more, taking place through Tuesday, February 19.

PRESIDENTS SCAVENGER HUNT

Saturday, February 16 through Tuesday, February 19, 10 am – 6pm

Ages 6 and up; Free with Museum admission.

Families will search high and low throughout the galleries for presidential objects in this scavenger hunt. These hunts combine clues, images, and facts that help you locate these amazing president-related pieces. Scavenger hunts can be picked up any time in the DiMenna Children’s History Museum on the Lower Level.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN FAMILY QUIZ

Saturday, February 16 through Tuesday, February 19, 2 pm

Ages 7 and up; Free with Museum admission.

Who in your family knows the most about Abraham Lincoln? Test your knowledge about Honest Abe with multiple choice questions for kids and adults. As each question pops up on our big screen, families confer and write down their best guess. Each answer also highlights an object from the New-York Historical Society’s collection, so participants learn as they compete! A grand prize will be awarded to the family (or families) with the most correct answers, but every contestant receives a prize for participation as well.

PRESIDENTIAL ART PROJECTS

Saturday, February 16 through Tuesday, February 19, 1 – 4 pm

Ages 4 and up; Free with Museum admission.

Vote for me! Choose a slogan and create an election button to wear home. Or create a funny-faced president by shuffling up some New-York Historical Society portraits. Drop-in throughout the afternoon and create the project of your choice!

MACY’S SUNDAY STORY TIME: PRESIDENTS’ DAY

Sunday, February 17, 11:30 am

When Mrs. Madoff’s class decides to hold an assembly about Presidents’ Day, everyone in class helps set up and perform a grand play. Families are invited to a reading of Presidents’ Day by Anne Rockwell to discover why we celebrate the holiday. Then, kids can re-enact George Washington’s Oath of Office in the DiMenna Children’s History Museum!

THE HISTORY OF CHOCOLATE WITH AMERICAN HERITAGE CHOCOLATE®

Monday, February 18, 12 – 4pm

All Ages; Free with Museum admission.

Chocolate was not always sold as a candy bar! See, smell, and taste colonial hot chocolate — watch as American Heritage Chocolate® educators grinds cocoa beans, add spices like red pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon, and heat up hot chocolate to taste.

 

TWO-DAY WWII WRITING WORKSHOP FOR KIDS AND TEENS

Monday-Tuesday, February 18-19, 10am-3pm

Recommended for ages 10 and up; Payment required ($395).

Spend your Presidents’ Day holiday in a special workshop taking advantage of the incredible stories from the WWII era. In collaboration with Writopia Lab, writing and history educators will lead age-based groups through this fascinating time period and exhibition, inspiring their short fiction, poetry and other forms of writing. Each day will combine time in the galleries, up close investigation of objects and documents, and time writing and critiquing.

The DiMenna Children’s History Museum is a new museum-within-a-museum and occupies the New-York Historical Society’s entire lower level. It covers 350 years of New York and American history and includes character-based pavilions, interactive exhibits and digital games, and the Barbara K. Lipman Children’s History Library. Families explore and learn together, through visiting the museum and through participating in our intergenerational family learning programs. All ages can enjoy and learn in the DiMenna Children’s History Museum, but the exhibits are targeted at age 8-13.

New-York Historical Society is recognized for engaging the public with deeply researched and far-ranging exhibitions, such as Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made Modern America; Slavery in New York; Nature and the American Vision: The Hudson River School at the New-York Historical Society; Grant and Lee in War and Peace; and the 2009 exhibition Lincoln and New York. Supporting these exhibitions and related educational programs is one of the world’s greatest collections of historical artifacts, works of American art, and other materials documenting the history of the United States and New York.

From October 5, 2012 through May 27, 2013, New-York Historical Society is presenting WWII & NYC, a major new exhibition on the most widespread, destructive, and consequential conflict in history. WWII & NYC restores to memory New York’s crucial and multifaceted role in winning the war, and commemorates the 900,000 New Yorkers who served in the military while also exploring the many ways in which those who remained on the home front contributed to the national war effort.

The New York Historical-Society is open Tuesday- Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm; Friday: 10 am – 8 pm (pay-as-you-wish from 6 pm – 8 pm); Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm

Museum Admission is Adults/$15, Teachers and Seniors/$12, Students/$10, Children (5-13)/$5, Children (4 and under)/free.

The New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, (212) 873-3400, www.nyhistory.org.

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Kelly Ripa, Michael Strahan named Ambassadors for KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY; tickets now on sale

Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan, hosts of “LIVE with Kelly and Michael” named National Ambassadors of Kids’ Night on Broadway. The event was a celebration of Kids Night on Broadway, which allows children to get free Broadway tickets from February 25th-March 3rd when accompanied by a full-paying adult. Cast members from Annie, The Lion King, Mary Poppins and Newsies were in attendance to promote their shows as participants (photo by Kristina Bumphrey/Startraksphoto.com)

The Broadway League announced that Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan, co-hosts of Emmy Award-winning talk show “LIVE with Kelly and Michael,” will serve as the 2013 KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY® National Ambassadors.

KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY is when kids ages 6 to 18 can see Broadway shows for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. A KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY ticket includes free pre-theatre parties, restaurant discounts, parking discounts, educational programs, and more.

Tickets are now on sale at KidsNightonBroadway.com

Actress and popular television personality Kelly Ripa and legendary NFL star and sports broadcaster Michael Strahan are both huge Broadway fans and excited to be the National Ambassadors for this year’s KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY. KIDS’ NIGHT ON BROADWAY will also take place in multiple cities around the country, with different shows and venues putting their own spin on the event, on numerous dates throughout the year. Check kidsnightonbroadway.com for specific dates and locations.

“Broadway has always been magical to me, and it was a joy to share that magic with my own kids,” said Kelly Ripa. “I’m thrilled to be part of a program that exposes children to all of the things that I love about the theatre.”

“I’m honored to serve with Kelly as this year’s Ambassadors for Kids’ Night on Broadway. I have huge respect for Broadway performers. In the theater, as in sports, the hard work, discipline and focus it takes to be a success are important fundamentals for kids to learn, and these actors and dancers are great role models for kids,” said Michael Strahan.

Kids’ Night on Broadway tickets available for participating shows on:

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2013

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2013

FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 2013

SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2013

SUNDAY, MARCH 3, 2013

Participating shows  (to date) include:

BROADWAY: Ann, Annie, Chicago, Hands on a Hardbody, Jersey Boys, The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, Mary Poppins, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Newsies, Once, The Phantom of the Opera, Rock of Ages, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark, Wicked.

OFF-BROADWAY: Avenue Q, Forever Dusty, The Gazillion Bubble Show, Stomp

(The list is subject to change and some shows are not available for all performances.)

Many Times Square-area eateries will offer specials for Kids’ Night on Broadway ticket-holders. Restaurant updates: www.kidsnightonbroadway.com/restaurants.php

Participating restaurants (to date) include:

Angus McIndoe, B. Smith’s, Blue Fin, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Casa Nonna, Ҫa Va Brasserie, Ceci Italian Restaurant, Cock & Bull, Connolly’s Pub and Restaurant, db Bistro Moderne, Glass House Tavern, Guy’s American Kitchen & Bar, Heartland Brewery & Chophouse, Little Town Restaurant Row, Matt’s Grill, Playwright Tavern, Ruby Foo’s, Ruby Tuesday, Schnipper’s, Tasti-D-Lite, Toloache, Tony’s DiNapoli, Trattoria Trecolori, and Virgil’s Real BBQ.

Kids Night on Broadway is presented by The Broadway League. Founded in 1930, The Broadway League is the national trade association for the Broadway industry. The League’s 700-plus members include theatre owners and operators, producers, presenters, and general managers who present in nearly 200 markets in North America, as well as suppliers of goods and services to the theatre industry. Each year, League members bring Broadway to nearly 30 million people in New York and on tour across the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit BroadwayLeague.com, or follow The Broadway League on Twitter @TheBwayLeague or on Facebook at facebook.com/BroadwayLeague. Download the free ILoveNYTheater app and free IBDB app for iPhone, iPad, and iTouch on iTunes.

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Ellis Island Immigration Museum Remains Closed after Superstorm Sandy; Collection Moved to a Stable Environment

Ellis Island Immigration Museum in happier times: a visitor stands in front of the flags of all peoples. The museum has had to close, and the collection moved to safer ground, after Superstorm Sandy © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Ellis Island Immigration Museum remains closed due to severe damage to infrastructure on the island from Hurricane Sandy. “Though the Museum collection was not harmed during or after the storm, we are unable to maintain a climate-controlled environment critical to protecting the many significant historical artifacts in the collection. To protect these items and facilitate work toward repairing damaged infrastructure on Ellis Island, we have decided to temporarily move the Ellis Island Immigration Museum collection to an offsite National Park Service facility,” said Superintendent Dave Luchsinger.

Over the past few weeks staff at Ellis Island, with support of the NPS Museum Emergency Response Team, carefully wrapped and boxed museum items to be transported for temporary storage at the NPS Museum Resources Center in Landover, Maryland. The Museum Resources Center is run by the NPS and already holds the collection for a variety of NPS sites in the Washington, D.C. area, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

The Museum Emergency Response Team consists of NPS curatorial specialists from around the country who have moved large museum collections in the past. Since there is no electrical power at Ellis Island, items are being moved by hand down three flights of stairs.

The Ellis Island Museum Collection complements the history of one of America’s iconic treasures. The collection holds over one million items, including both archival documents and historic artifacts. The collection will be available to researchers on a limited basis at its temporary location.

The Mudder Museum collection, located in the Ferry Building at Ellis Island, has already been moved to Harpers Ferry Conservation Center for assessment and treatment by the NPS.

At this time, Ellis Island and State of Liberty remain closed to visitors while NPS staff and contractors stabilize conditions on the two islands. The historic collection will remain offsite until utilities have been restored and items can be stored in a stable, climate-controlled environment, as they were in the past.

See also: Ellis Island Immigration Museum: Where Everyman is Hero

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‘Rush’ Registration for NYC’s 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour Begins Jan. 22; Sell Out in 24 Hours Predicted

Held annually the first Sunday in May, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour is America’s largest cycling event with a 40 mile, blissfully car-free ride through all five boroughs for 32,000 cyclists © 2012 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour regular registration will be a “rush” registration system, on January 22, beginning at noon.

The 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour regular registration is similar to 2011, where the Tour’s first-come, first-serve registration system – 32,000 places – sold out in less than 24 hours. Bike New York anticipates a similar sellout for the 2013 Tour, which will take place on Sunday, May 5.

Those interested in participating in the TD Five Boro Bike Tour will have the opportunity to register starting on January 22 at noon EST. Adults must register themselves individually. Youth registration will take place in conjunction with an individual adult registration. All youth registrations must maintain a one child to one adult ratio. Participants hoping to ride with friends and family will have the opportunity to link their registrations together after the event sells out.  Visit the registration page for additional details.

Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia New York City Registration

Bike New York, in partnership with the Giro d’Italia, is adding a new way to ride the TD Five Boro Bike Tour. This new VIP registration option will give riders the chance to test their limits, with a timed climb up the Verrazano Bridge. In addition, all Giro riders receive an exclusive Italian-made Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia New York City jersey to wear during the event. Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia New York City registration opens on January 22 at 12:00 p.m. EST. It is only available for riders 18 years of age and older.  Visit our registration page for additional details.

Bike Expo New York

All 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour participants will pick up their rider packet and Tour vest at Bike Expo New York (BE NY). Located at Basketball City on Pier 36 (along South St. at Montgomery St., Manhattan, NYC), BE NY will take place the two days before the Tour, Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4. Free and open to the public, the BE NY provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to celebrate all things bicycling against the backdrop of New York.

Drawing more than 43,000 attendees, BE NY 2012 was the most attended inaugural consumer bike expo in the country.( Companies interested in exhibiting at BE NY can email exposales@bikenewyork.org.  Visit the Bike Expo New York webpage for more information.)

“Ride for a Reason” Charity Program

Regular registration and the Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia New York City are not the only ways to ride in the 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour. Prospective riders can also “Ride for a Reason” and champion one of Bike New York’s 43 charity partners.

Last year’s ‘Ride for a Reason’ charity program raised more than $1.1 million for partner charities! Visit the Ride for a Reason webpage for additional information and a list of charity partners!

Volunteer Opportunities

Those who do not get into the 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour can guarantee an entry spot into the 2014 Tour by volunteering this year during Tour weekend or Bike Expo New York. Bike New York volunteer applications will be online in January.  Visit the volunteer page for more information.

Held annually the first Sunday in May, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour is America’s largest cycling event with a 40 mile, car-free ride through all five boroughs for 32,000 cyclists. The Tour is co-produced by Bike New York, the city’s premiere bicycling not-for-profit organization, and the New York City Department of Transportation, in association with multiple City of New York departments. Proceeds from the event fund Bike New York’s education programs.

For more information, e-mail info@bikenewyork.org, phone 212-870-2080 or visit http://www.bikenewyork.org.

See also:

TD Five Boro Bike Tour draws 32,000 to NYC for ‘biggest cycling event’ in US and slideshow

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